The Truth About Trash: Why You Should Dig Everything (Yes, Even That Nail)
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They say experience makes you better at spotting real targets — and it does. But even the pros will tell you: the #1 rule that never goes out of style is simple — dig everything.
In the rush to cover ground or the temptation to chase only “clean” signals, many detectorists ignore what could be a gold-bearing patch, simply because the initial tones sounded like junk. Here's why slowing down and trusting the shovel can still give you the edge:
1. Trash Zones Are Clue Zones
If you’re finding old nails, bits of foil, or iron rubbish, you’re likely in a place where someone has been before.
And wherever people were — whether 150 years ago or last summer — gold and relics often followed.
Don’t walk away from noisy or messy patches. Instead, grid it slowly. Clean it out. You might just find a hidden pocket worth the noise.
2. Mixed Signals Hide Treasure
Not all targets come in clean. Mineralised soil, overlapping metals, or deep targets can distort signals.
Gold can sound off like iron. Coins might bounce between IDs. Even the best detectors aren’t immune to deception.
We’ve seen plenty of 5+ gram nuggets recovered from signals that were originally written off as "junk tones."
3. Confidence Comes from Repetition
You only truly get better at target recognition by digging. Learning what different signals actually are builds pattern memory — far more reliable than guessing.
Every hole you dig sharpens your understanding of your detector’s response in different soils, angles, and depths. It’s how you train your ears and instincts to notice the subtle differences — and separate rubbish from riches.
Final Word: Dig Now, Thank Yourself Later
Some of the best finds we’ve seen came from signals no one expected. A coin just under a rusty nail. A small nugget tucked beside a bit of old wire. A belt buckle tangled in fencing.
If it beeps — dig it. Worst case? You toss a bottle cap. Best case? You rewrite your detecting story.
Need tools to make all that digging easier?
Check out our range of scoops, pinpointers, and dig pouches — designed to keep your gear efficient and your finds organised.
