Getting a gift for a treasure hunter who’s really into metal detectors and metal detecting is challenging. There’s so much you likely aren’t really aware of about the hobby that makes shopping for it a nightmare. So I’m going to try and make it a little easier for you.
Here are some of the gifts I think might be perfect for any treasure hunter to receive from a friend or family member. There are no metal detectors included on this list. Unless you’ve got an aspiring treasure hunter on your hands, they’re likely already got their own metal detector!
Okay, let’s not waste any more time. Let’s dig in.
Gloves
Metal detecting involves using your hands a lot, so you’ll need some sturdy gloves to keep your hands protected. The best part about gloves is that a treasure hunter can never have too many. This isn’t a joke. I’m being dead serious.
Gloves fade, break, and get worn out all the time. You’re digging around in the compact, rugged dirt or out there digging in the cold. Imagine what that’s going to do to the gloves. It’s best to have gloves to ensure your hands are protected from the rocks, roots, and general hand use that comes with metal detecting. That’s why these are a perfect gift for any treasure hunter. I have a full list of gloves here.
Books
There’s so much to metal detecting. Whether it’s the basics of the hobby or the treasures you might find, there’s a lot of information a beginner and intermediate needs to know to effectively hunt for treasure. So gift your treasure hunter friend, partner, or family member with a great book on the topic that means they’ll be one foot forward when out there searching.
There are books on metal detectors, treasure hunting, where to search, how to get permission, and general things you might find like coins. Knowledge can be such an asset for a treasure hunter to have to get them in the game effectively. Here are some of my top book recommendations.
Pinpointer
If your metal detecting friend or family member is really into the hobby and takes it seriously, consider getting them a pinpointer. Pinpointers are a must-have for metal detecting. These devices help find treasures below the surface easier by focusing on the exact area where the treasure can be found.
Most of them are waterproof, which means you can use them in shallow waters to find treasures other people might not be able to see! Make sure to do your research before just making a purchase, there are so many options, and it would be good to find helpful resources or get help from someone in the know.
Metal Detector Carry Bag
There are a lot of items that go into a metal detector kit. Get your treasure hunter a bag that means they can carry everything conveniently all in one place. Now bear in mind that metal detectors already come with their own bags. However, these bags aren’t always great, and depending on how long they’ve had the metal detector, the bag might be a bit worse for wear.
A new, and improved metal detector carry bag is a great gift to keep everything together in a well-crafted, sturdy unit.
Snake Guards
Sometimes a metal detector takes you into the thick of it, and there are some things hidden in the grass that can potentially harm you, like snakes. So snake guards are a great way to protect your legs from potential bites. The typical snake guard will go up to your knee offering ample protection behind a thick, ultra-light, padding that still allows for proper circulation, and mobility.
Harness
Metal detectors aren’t necessarily incredibly heavy, but imagine lugging around one the entire day, swinging it around as you search the ground for treasure. So naturally, you’re likely going to get a little tired, which is totally understandable.
Metal detector harnesses are great gifts because what they do is they evenly distribute the weight and make the experience far more comfortable for treasure hunters. This means you’re less susceptible to fatigue from occurring, and you can keep hunting uninterrupted.
It’s important to note that if you’re going to get a harness for someone with a metal detector, try to find out which metal detector they have. There are universal harnesses, and then there are harnesses that only work with specific brands or metal detectors.
Diggin Tools
Metal detecting means digging, so why use your hands when you can use a digging tool kit? There are actually a lot of options when it comes to digging tools. My personal favorite is the serrated digger. It usually features a metal or plastic handle, a handguard, and a sheath that clips into your belt.
Other options include a stainless steel D spade, and extended digging shovels (some are retractable for convenience), among others. There are a lot of options, so you’re never without a potential tool at the ready to help you dig up your important finds.
Log Book
Not every treasure hunter is going to appreciate this, but it is a great gift idea. To be able to have one place where you can keep track of all your treasure hunts. This is not just great for keeping track of important finds and great days. It’s also a great way to keep a record of the best places to hunt for treasure. It’s field research that you’re able to review when considering where to go next.
Coin Display Case
Unless you know someone who likes to get rid of the treasure as soon as they find it, coin display cases are great for the avid hunter. Why? Because coins are the most common thing, you’ll find when you’re metal detecting out there in the real world.
Some collectors might prefer a coin binder, but some will enjoy having these nifty display cases. The best size for a coin display case is 17″ x 14″ x 1 3/4″. They are often equipped with six to seven rows and a mahogany finish. This obviously can vary, but you can expect something along these lines.
Coin displays are just for coins, so if you’re wanting to get other kinds of displays for different types of treasure, then definitely consider jewelry displays, precious stone displays, etc.
Power Pack
Imagine you’re going out for a long day of treasure hunting. Or, maybe you’re going away to a slightly remote place. A power pack is a great way to extend the life of your metal detector, and everyone should have one of their own to make sure they never face the nightmare of a low battery.
While most metal detectors have excellent battery life, that doesn’t mean they’re infinite. So having a backup is essential if you want to keep the treasure hunt going long after your detectors’ original battery life is depleted. Best of all, having multiple power packs is excellent, so if you’re worried they might have one, don’t fret yourself. Power packs are lightweight, compact, and ready to rumble!
Treasure Chest
Is this a useful gift? No. Is this an awesome gift? Absolutely. A treasure chest is a fun gift idea for a treasure hunter because it really makes their finds a little more important and gives them a temporary space to put them until they decide what to do with them. Maybe they’re going to use a coin display case in the end, but for now, treasure chest it is!
There are a lot of awesome options for treasure chests that range from normal to absurd. You’ve got the ability to shop around and see what you can find. The great news is that there are no parameters when it comes to a treasure chest. As long as it holds stuff, you’re good!
Hiking Boots
Treasure hunting means hiking, so hiking equipment is needed to make that journey easier. Getting a treasure hunter some hiking boots is a great way to support their hobby without having to do intense research on metal detectors, which can likely result in a mistaken purchase.
New hiking boots are always welcome for the treasure hunters who truly go exploring when they’re out hunting. You want to get books that last long, can handle rugged terrain, and are comfortable, considering how long the hunter will be in them. Timberland boots are perfect for this kind of gift, but make sure you get the treasure hunters’ foot size so they’re not disappointed when they don’t fit! Check out this boot list!
Metal Detector Headphones
Any serious treasure hunter needs a set of powerful, comfortable headphones for their treasure-hunting escapades. Most manufacturers make metal detecting headphones for their metal detectors, or there are more generic options that work for most metal detectors. Make sure to do your research to ensure you don’t get headphones that won’t work for the machine in question.
The main thing is making sure the headphones are large, comfortable, and equipped with a 1/4 inch jack plug. This makes treasure hunting a little more private instead of having that beeping noise alerting everyone to your endeavors.
Relic Cleaning & Preservation Tools
Finding treasure is one thing, but now you’ve got to delicately clean it up, and preserve these important finds. There are kits out there specifically designed to clean coins and relics without damaging the relic itself. From relic cleaning pencils, renaissance wax polish, and more. Using the right tools for relic cleaning is essential so that you don’t damage your important finds. So make sure you’re well aware of the correct methods for cleaning coins and jewelry and other finds while treasure hunting.
Conclusion
There you have it, some great ideas for you to consider when buying a gift for a treasure hunter. Don’t be afraid to get in-depth on all the things you might be able to get your friend, partner, or family member. There are so many great options for gifts.
Beyond this list, there’s quirky metal detector merch, fun apparel, and maybe some hiking gear. This is a multi-faceted experience that requires a lot of items to make it whole. So, while any treasure can work with the bare essentials, why would you want them too?
