Metal detecting can be a fun hobby that just about anyone can do. But if you plan on going hunting or searching for hidden gems with your kids, then the type of metal detector you purchase is essential. When you buy metal detectors for kids, you have to consider the size, where you’ll be using the detector, and how often you think your kids will use the machine.
The detector you buy should also be age-appropriate, making sure it’s not big or going to be overwhelming or tedious for your child. Metal detecting could turn into an excellent hobby and a great way to spend quality time outside with your kid, so keep reading to discover the best metal detectors for kids according to their age.
Best Metal Detectors for Kids Ages 4-7
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On average, metal detectors for kids in this age group will cost you, at most, $100. Most of these detectors have all the features needed for children to enjoy metal detecting and are great for beginners.
The three best metal detectors for kids ages 4-7:
Bounty Hunter BHJS Junior Metal Detector
Typical Cost: $39.99
The BHJS Junior is a junior-sized metal detector featuring easy-to-use controls. It’s not hard for kids in this age group to carry and swing around. It’s also the most affordable detector for kids.
It has a strength meter to help children discriminate objects while searching, pinpoint capability, and adjustable sensitivity.
There are only two search modes on the BHJS: All Metal and Discrimination. The Discrimination mode helps eliminate trash targets, and moving it in a clockwise position helps discriminate iron, nickel, zinc, and gold.
It only weighs about 1.5 pounds and can be expanded from 20.5″ to 31.5″.
The only drawback of this detector is that it doesn’t include a headphone jack and only the external speaker produces sound.
Bounty Hunter Tracker IV Metal Detector with PinPointer
Typical Cost: $104.04
The Bounty Hunter Tracker IV is another excellent option. Like the Body Hunter Junior, this comes with a Discrimination mode and features an All-Metal Motion mode and a Two-Tone audio mode.
This machine has a preset ground balance feature, which neutralizes the detector’s response to mineral content in the ground. It also includes a pinpointer to use after the digging begins.
This metal detector weighs 3.7 pounds and is not too heavy for most kids to carry around. Because of its features and price point, this is an excellent detector for children 4-7 and provides the best value.
Bounty Hunter Quicksilver Metal Detector
Typical Cost: $91.90
If you’re searching for a detector with the most features, then the Bounty Hunter Quicksilver is your best choice. It has All-Metal Motion mode, Progressive Discrimination, and Notch modes.
The four-segment digital target identification and 3-tone audio feedback provide accurate identification of buried objects. It’s easy to use and also designed for beginners.
Best Metal Detectors for Kids Ages 8-12
There’s a slight price difference when buying detectors for children in this age group. Metal Detectors for kids in the 4-7 range tend to cost you around $100, but metal detectors for kids 8-12 are going to cost you approximately $200 or more.
But with kids in this age group, you’ll be able to find something a bit more professional and with more advanced features.
The three best metal detectors for kids ages 8-12:
Fisher F22 Weatherproof Metal Detector with Submersible Search Coil
Typical Cost: $220
The Fisher F22 is an all-purpose metal detector, meaning you can take this out in the rain, snow, or on a sunny day. It only needs two AA batteries and can last 25-30 hours.
It weighs a little over four pounds, perfect for a child in this age group. It has multiple discrimination settings and is ideal for hunting in shallow water for gold and silver.
One helpful feature is the iron audio function. This function allows the user to adjust the volume of the detector to help pinpoint targets containing iron. The louder the audio, the more likely you would be in the area of targets containing iron.
Garrett Ace 200 Metal Detector
Typical Cost: $169.95
The Garrett Ace 200 is straightforward to use, but it doesn’t come with many features. It’s a solid choice for beginners and kids who are looking to get into metal detecting. It’s lightweight and easy to carry around for children in this age group.
There are three search modes on the Ace 200:
- Zero disc
- Jewelry
- Coins
Zero disc mode is an all-metal mode that doesn’t have a discrimination mode. Jewelry and coin mode have preset discrimination modes for finding these specific types of targets. This feature also helps ignore trash objects, like tabs and foil.
Bounty Hunter Discovery 3300
Typical Cost: $184.99
The Bounty Hunter Discovery 3300 is a great mid-level metal detector for kids that is good for beginners or intermediate users. This detector comes with a lot of great features, including the motion and no motion mode. With the no-motion mode, users can find a specific location and narrow their search to particular objects.
Another feature of the detector is its four different detection modes:
- All Metal
- Discrimination
- Notch
- Pinpoint
The All Metal feature picks up all types of metal, while discrimination allows increasing and decreasing the level of discrimination to identify ferrous metals or objects. Pinpoint will enable you to stop motion to detect where an object’s exact location is.
3 More Metal Detectors For Kids Ages 12+
National Geographic Pro Series Metal Detector
Typical Cost: $159.99
RM RICOMAX Professional Metal Detector
Typical Cost: $159.99
Gold Digger Metal Detector
Typical Cost: $62.71
How to Help Kids Enjoy Metal Detecting
- Create a scavenger hunt and create safe areas for kids to metal detect around your neighborhood.
- Go on adventures to beaches, parks, and private land (with the owner’s permission).
- Search for objects with your children in your backyard using their metal detectors.
For more advice, visit our post for The Best 8 Metal Detecting For Kids Success Tips.
Keep It Fun When Metal Detecting With Kids
One of the allures of metal detecting for kids is its adventure and the chance to find something new. The thrill of discovering an incredible piece of metal or a hidden treasure will for sure make it a fun time.
Be sure to always look for ways to make treasure hunting with your kids exciting and engaging, just like the first time you started treasure hunting. And, select the best metal detectors for kids to experience success with this hobby!
For more gold and metal detecting help and tips, check out some of the other popular posts:
The Top 3 Metal Detecting Course Options For Best Training
9 Gold Detecting Tips For Finding More Gold With A Metal Detector