All Kinds of questions

[ynpto804]

Hi All,
So I have been reading T-net post for a while now and I decided to join in. I am very new to all this and have many questions. To start I know very little about metal detecting other than I have always wanted to give it a go. Questions to start I am looking for a detector, I'm very interested in a Mine lab Safari as a beginner would I be well suited to this machine? I understand that there is a learning curve but how steep? Also I live near lots of old mining areas but they are all in National Forrest. Is it ok to detect there? I feel like there would be lots of good finds. And lastly I have access to a large area of fields in VA that have had Civil War activity but the farmer has said that there might be graves in the fields and there are no head stones. As I would not want to disturb them how could I find their location? Has anyone run across this? This a great forum and I hope maybe show off some finds one day.

 

[gleaner1]

I think the most important thing for beginners is to have an experienced friend show you the ropes. Buy a cheaper used machine first, then, after a year, decide if you want to upgrade.

 

[Sandman]

I think the most important thing for beginners is to have an experienced friend show you the ropes. Buy a cheaper used machine first, then, after a year, decide if you want to upgrade.

This is very good advice. First you need to learn all you can about metal detecting. Two good magazines are Western & Eastern Treasures and Lost Treasures There are many fine books out by Charles Garrett too that will help you get started.

The Minelab Safari is not good for a beginner to start on as you may get frustrated and let it sit in a closet. Something used like a Tesoro cibola or Silver Umax and used to boot so your not out a lot of money if you give it up. Later you can buy a more advanced one if you wish. Notice I didn't say a "better one."

 

[DGDancer]

A less expensive machine may be a good idea~ all machine's have a fair amount of learning to get thru till your comfortable.
Most important is having the persistance to keep swinging rather than how expensive a set up you invest in. My thought.
Use the local parks first and if possible join a club and find a buddy. I've found this to be most benificial for the learning curve.

National Forests~ no detecting unless its for prospecting reasons. State parks are a no go as well in most cases~ and that can include
beaches. Best bet is to do your research first and read the posted signs.

That field sounds neat but about the only way you can find the grave~ if one exists~ is to look for evidence of it while
walking thru and hunting it. Depending on the age there are maps that show where these things are. Talk to the
local historic society as they probly know someone who's doing geneologies. These people often have done the
research and have collected the maps as they look for ancestors. My mother does this in my area SC.
Otherwise I would not worry about disturbing the graves~ you probly wont be digging that deep. And if you do find one
you can help by locating it, gps, and reporting it to the farmer and local historic society. Be helpful

Most of all have fun. Luck to ya.

 

[Mackaydon]

ynpto:
First: Welcome to Treasure Net!!
You might consider joining a local MD club.
No doubt some club members would be glad to walk you through the learning curve.
It may be frustrating at first, but hang in there; it will soon be quite rewarding.
Don.........

 

[Toby1858]

You'll definetly need determination and a whole butt load of PATIENCE!