What Should You Look For In A Kids Metal Detector?

Kids Metal Detector

Have an aspiring treasure hunter on your hands? Want to get your kids involved in your hobby? Or do you just want a fun way to keep them busy and playing outside? A kids metal detector fulfills all three! But do you need to go out ant find the latest and greatest metal detector on the market, or will a toy model do? In this article, you’ll discover what you should look for before you buy a kids metal detector.

First, think about how often your kids are actually going to use the metal detector. If they are going to play with it for fun up at the cottage or on beach vacations, then do not go out and drop a huge wad of money. If they are younger, then a toy-type kids metal detector is likely more than enough to keep them happy and occupied while you sip daiquiris and relax in the sun.

If, however, your child is a little older, or wants to come along with you to enjoy your hobby, you will want to avoid the toy models and go with something a little more upscale. An inexpensive beginner model, with basic functions, should do the trick. Even a hand-held metal detector would work, and may be easier for them to operate and tote around. Plus, then they can hunt around the house for your keys when you misplace them!

Whereabouts will your kids be using their metal detector? If they will be anywhere near the water, say on a beach, then you want to be sure that you get a kids metal detector that is at least water resistant, if not waterproof. Waterproof metal detectors will let them wade in the surf, and they usually come with waterproof headphones as well. Some water resistant models can be partially submerged, but make sure you check the instructions carefully.

If more than one family member wants to use it, then you can get a metal detector that adjusts to fit different heights and sizes of person. Make sure that the pole can be lengthened or shortened, and the arm up can be lowered or raised. Some metal detectors have even further levels of adjustment, such as allowing the box that holds the electronic board and controls to be removed from the pole and carried in a pouch.

Of course, you also want to be mindful of how much you spend. For a basic toy type kids metal detector, you can usually find a decent model for around $30-$50. For older children, or for more serious treasure hunting, expect to spend between $100-$200, depending on the features and the type of metal detector it is. If you are going to use it as well as your kids, then naturally you will spend more, because you will want more features that you can use. But for most children, high end features are lost on them, and not needed.

The most important thing to keep in mind before you buy a kids metal detector is that kids have notoriously short attention spans…and unless they are serious about treasure hunting, the detector is likely to end up sitting unused in a corner of the shed after awhile. It’s easy to get excited when you’re  shopping and want to get the best, but unless you want to use it too, settle for something that performs well, and is relatively inexpensive.