Finding relics takes more than a detector that simply reacts to metal. The best choice balances target identification, depth, recovery speed, ground handling, and practical features such as waterproofing and comfortable controls.
This roundup compares 10 metal detectors for relic hunting across beginner, all-terrain, and advanced-use categories, so you can match your budget and search locations to the right equipment.
Best 10 Metal Detectors for Relic Hunting Picks for 2026
Proven All-Terrain Choice
- Waterproof to 10 feet
- 40 levels of iron discrimination
- Proportional audio and MS-2 headphones
Best For: Relic hunters prioritizing audio detail and iron filtering
Accessible Waterproof Starter
- Waterproof to 16 feet
- Lightweight carbon-fiber shaft
- Includes digger, bag, and finds pouch
Best For: Beginners wanting a portable, ready-to-use kit
Ready-to-Hunt Bundle
- Waterproof to 16 feet
- Quick recovery and accurate target ID
- Includes tools, protective gear, and headphones
Best For: Hunters wanting a complete land-and-water package
Advanced Multi-Frequency Package
Minelab X-TERRA ELITE Expedition
- Multi-IQ multi-frequency operation
- 119 ferrous and non-ferrous target IDs
- Two coils, wireless headphones, and pinpointer included
Best For: Serious users seeking detailed target analysis across terrain
Precision Relic Finder
- 0-99 Digital Target ID
- Iron Audio helps flag iron trash
- Bag and searchcoil cover included
Best For: Relic hunters wanting target ID and pinpointing features
Simple All-Terrain Starter
- Three detection modes
- Waterproof 8-inch search coil
- Lightweight design with five-year warranty
Best For: Beginners and families hunting relics in varied terrain
Submersible Pro-Mode Kit
- Submersible to 10 feet
- Pro Mode audio with target detail
- Waterproof pinpointer and headphones included
Best For: Experienced hunters working wet ground or shallow water
Best Lightweight Option
Foldable Waterproof Relic Detector
- 2.7-pound foldable design adjusts from 26 to 47 inches
- 11-inch IP68 waterproof DD coil for wet locations
- Includes headphones, shovel, and carrying backpack
Best For: Beginners and casual beach or relic hunters
Best Complete Accessory Kit
Professional Detector with Pinpointer
- Five modes include Memory and Pinpoint settings
- 10-inch IP68 water-resistant coil
- Includes pinpointer, digger, headphones, bag, and batteries
Best For: Users wanting an all-in-one recovery kit
Best Ergonomic Starter Kit
12-Inch Deep-Detection Detector
- Four modes with sensitivity and LCD depth display
- 10-inch waterproof coil for beaches and wet ground
- Includes headphones, shovel, trowel, and carrying bag
Best For: Beginners wanting a balanced ready-to-use kit
Proven All-Terrain Choice – Garrett AT Pro
The Garrett AT Pro is a strong option for metal detectors for relic hunting when you need detailed target feedback across varied ground. Its fast recovery, proportional audio, and adjustable iron discrimination help you assess targets in areas with significant iron debris.
Best For: Relic hunters who want all-terrain capability, precise iron filtering, and shallow-water use.
Pros:
- Waterproof to 10 feet for wet environments and shallow-water hunting.
- Proportional Audio and Tone Roll provide more detailed target responses.
- Offers 40 levels of iron discrimination for separating desirable targets from iron.
- Includes MS-2 headphones for focused listening and weak-signal detection.
Cons:
- Its 10-foot waterproof rating is lower than some newer models in this roundup.
- The supplied notes do not mention rechargeable battery operation or wireless audio.
The AT Pro emphasizes hands-on audio interpretation and iron control rather than a broad accessory package. It is a practical fit for experienced users working relic sites where target separation matters.
Accessible Waterproof Starter – Nokta Simplex Ultra Kit
The Nokta Simplex Ultra is a practical entry point among metal detectors for relic hunting, combining a lightweight carbon-fiber shaft with an 11-inch coil and a color LCD. Its waterproof construction and included accessories make it ready for varied outdoor searches.
Best For: Beginners and traveling detectorists who want a lightweight, waterproof kit with useful starter accessories.
Pros:
- Fully waterproof to 16 feet for land, beach, and underwater detection.
- Lightweight 2.6-pound design and retractable shaft support longer hunts and transport.
- Vivid color LCD displays essential settings and target information.
- Includes a premium digger, carrying bag, and finds pouch.
Cons:
- The supplied notes do not specify dedicated relic-focused audio features or iron-discrimination levels.
- It uses battery power, with no rechargeable battery detail provided in the notes.
The Simplex Ultra favors ease of use and portability. For newcomers building a relic-hunting setup, the waterproof detector and included digging accessories reduce the need for immediate add-on purchases.
Ready-to-Hunt Bundle – Garrett Vortex VX5
The Garrett Vortex VX5 bundle suits metal detectors for relic hunting when convenience and shallow-water versatility are priorities. It combines quick recovery and target ID with a collection of protective gear, digging tools, and headphones.
Best For: Relic hunters who want a complete package for land, wet-sand, river, and lake searches.
Pros:
- Waterproof to 16 feet for shallow-water and wet-weather detecting.
- Provides accurate target ID, strong depth, and quick recovery for relics and other targets.
- Includes an Edge Digger, knee pads, gloves, brush, and ClearSound headphones.
- Uses a rechargeable battery and includes a limited manufacturer’s warranty.
Cons:
- The supplied notes do not provide specific iron-discrimination settings or target-ID range.
- The bundle includes several accessories, which may be unnecessary if you already own hunting gear.
The VX5 bundle is compelling for shoppers who want to start hunting without assembling accessories separately. Its waterproof rating and included comfort gear make it especially adaptable to longer outdoor sessions.
Advanced Multi-Frequency Package – Minelab X-TERRA ELITE Expedition
The Minelab X-TERRA ELITE Expedition is a feature-rich choice among metal detectors for relic hunting, using Multi-IQ multi-frequency technology and advanced iron control to distinguish targets across different terrain. The package also includes two coils, wireless headphones, and a pinpointer.
Best For: Serious relic hunters who want broad target identification, multi-frequency operation, and a complete accessory set.
Pros:
- Multi-IQ multi-frequency technology supports detection across varied terrain.
- Offers 119 target IDs with ferrous and non-ferrous identification.
- Fully waterproof and submersible to 16 feet for beach and underwater searches.
- Includes V8X and V12X coils, ML85 headphones, and a waterproof PRO-FIND 40 pinpointer.
Cons:
- The advanced feature set may be more than a casual beginner needs.
- The supplied notes do not state the detector’s exact operating weight with all accessories attached.
This Expedition package is built for users who want extensive target information and a broad hunting setup out of the box. Its multiple coils and interference-reducing pinpointer add flexibility when moving between fields, beaches, and shallow water.
Precision Relic Finder – Garrett ACE 400 Bundle
For metal detectors for relic hunting, the Garrett ACE 400 offers useful target-identification and recovery features in a portable bundle. Its 0-99 Digital Target ID, 10 kHz operating frequency, Iron Audio, and electronic pinpointing help you assess targets before digging, while the included bag and searchcoil cover support transport and equipment protection.
Best For: Relic hunters who want numeric target identification, iron-alert audio, and pinpointing in a lightweight detector package.
Pros:
- 0-99 Digital Target ID helps indicate target conductivity.
- Iron Audio can reveal iron trash before recovery.
- Non-motion All-Metal Mode supports electronic pinpointing.
- Carry bag and searchcoil cover are included.
Cons:
- The supplied notes do not identify the detector as fully submersible.
- The plastic construction may be less rugged than metal-bodied alternatives.
The ACE 400 is a practical choice when target information and recovery tools matter more than specialized underwater capability. Its included accessories also make it convenient to carry and store between hunts.
Simple All-Terrain Starter – Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV
The Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV is a straightforward option among metal detectors for relic hunting, especially for beginners and family use. Its three detection modes, adjustable sensitivity, and 8-inch waterproof coil support searches across backyards, forests, beaches, damp soil, and shallow water.
Best For: Beginners, adults, and kids seeking an easy-to-use detector for coins, gold, and relics across varied terrain.
Pros:
- All-metal, tone, and discrimination modes provide flexible searching.
- Waterproof 8-inch coil is suited to shallow water and damp ground.
- Lightweight 2-pound design is portable and accessible for multiple ages.
- Includes a five-year limited manufacturer warranty.
Cons:
- Analog controls may offer less target detail than numeric-ID models.
- The supplied notes specify a waterproof coil, not full-detector submersion.
The TK4 emphasizes simple controls and broad usability rather than advanced target analysis. It is a sensible starting point for casual relic hunting in parks, gardens, beaches, and other mixed environments.
Submersible Pro-Mode Kit – Garrett A.T. Pro Bundle
For demanding metal detectors for relic hunting, the Garrett A.T. Pro bundle combines all-terrain detection with detailed Pro Mode audio and a dedicated waterproof pinpointer. The detector is submersible to 10 feet, while the included Pro-Pointer AT is waterproof to 20 feet, making this kit useful for wet environments and shallow-water recovery.
Best For: Experienced relic hunters who want fast recovery, target separation, detailed audio, and water-ready accessories.
Pros:
- All-terrain design offers fast recovery speed, target separation, and deep detection.
- Detector is fully submersible up to 10 feet.
- Pro Mode audio helps assess target response, depth, and conductivity.
- Waterproof Pro-Pointer AT and MS-2 headphones are included.
Cons:
- Its advanced features may be more than a beginner needs.
- The supplied notes do not provide a detector weight or searchcoil size.
The A.T. Pro bundle is the most water-capable and recovery-focused option here. Its included pinpointer and headphones create a more complete setup for hunters who prioritize efficient target retrieval and detailed audio feedback.
Best Lightweight Option – Foldable Waterproof Relic Detector
For shoppers comparing metal detectors for relic hunting, this model stands out for its low 2.7-pound weight, foldable design, and 11-inch IP68 waterproof DD coil. It offers four search modes, a backlit LCD target ID, and a claimed detection depth of up to 12.8 inches under suitable conditions, making it versatile for parks, beaches, riverbanks, and general outdoor searches.
Best For: Beginners and casual hunters who want a portable detector for relics, coins, jewelry, and beach searches.
Pros:
- Lightweight, foldable shaft adjusts from 26 to 47 inches.
- 11-inch IP68 waterproof DD coil suits wet sand and shallow-water searching.
- Four modes, target ID, and DISC filtering help simplify identification.
- Includes headphones, digging shovel, and carrying backpack.
Cons:
- Its advertised 12.8-inch depth depends on suitable conditions.
- The supplied details do not specify battery runtime.
Choose this detector if portability and wet-location flexibility matter most. Its included accessories also make it a practical ready-to-use option for newcomers to relic hunting.
Best Complete Accessory Kit – Professional Detector with Pinpointer
This RipTic model is a strong consideration among metal detectors for relic hunting when a broad accessory package is a priority. Its five modes include All-Metal, Disc, Memory, Jewelry, and Pinpoint, while the 10-inch IP68 water-resistant coil is designed for woodland, field, riverbank, and beach use.
Best For: Hunters who want a bundled setup with a separate pinpointer, digging tool, headphones, batteries, and backpack.
Pros:
- Five search modes provide options for relics, jewelry, and general treasure hunting.
- Includes a pinpointer with holster for more precise recovery.
- Adjustable shaft extends from 19 to 50 inches for different users.
- Package includes headphones, dagger-like digger, backpack, and three batteries.
Cons:
- At 6.4 pounds, it is heavier than the other listed options.
- The supplied notes describe the coil as water-resistant rather than specifying full detector submersion.
- Advertised maximum detection depth is 10 inches.
The main appeal here is convenience: the included pinpointer and recovery accessories reduce the need for additional purchases. Consider it if a complete field kit outweighs concerns about carrying more weight.
Best Ergonomic Starter Kit – 12-Inch Deep-Detection Detector
For newcomers evaluating metal detectors for relic hunting, this kit combines straightforward controls with useful recovery tools. It provides All Metal, DISC, Notch, and Pinpoint modes, adjustable sensitivity, an LCD depth display, and a 10-inch waterproof coil for beaches, rivers, and wet ground.
Best For: Beginners seeking a balanced detector kit with adjustable controls and basic digging accessories.
Pros:
- Four modes support general detection, discrimination, notching, and pinpointing.
- Fourth-generation DSP processing is intended to improve stability and reduce false alerts.
- Adjustable 26-to-47-inch stem and 4-pound weight support longer searches.
- Includes headphones, bag, sifting shovel, and trowel.
Cons:
- The 10-inch coil is smaller than the 11-inch coil in the first option.
- Battery life is listed at about 10 hours, so extended outings may require planning.
This is a sensible starter choice for users who want easy-to-understand search modes, an LCD display, and a complete set of recovery tools. Its one-year manufacturer warranty is an additional consideration for first-time buyers.
How We Picked the Best Metal Detectors for Relic Hunting
We focused on detectors suited to the demands of relic sites, including iron-contaminated ground, changing soil conditions, wooded areas, fields, and shallow-water searches. The selection considers target identification, discrimination controls, recovery speed, search-coil design, waterproof construction, included accessories, portability, and ease of use.
We also included a range of price points and experience levels. Some models emphasize straightforward operation for newcomers, while others offer stronger separation, more detailed audio, or multi-frequency technology for users who spend more time in the field.
Quick Comparison
| Best For | What to Prioritize | Ideal Features |
|---|---|---|
| Beginners | Simple controls and useful presets | Target ID, discrimination, included accessories |
| Old fields and wooded sites | Depth and target separation | Fast recovery, adjustable sensitivity, iron audio |
| Wet ground and shallow water | Water resistance and stability | Submersible coil or waterproof control housing |
| Frequent relic hunters | Versatility across soil types | Multi-frequency operation, multiple modes, interchangeable coils |
Key Buying Factors for Metal Detectors for Relic Hunting
Target Identification and Discrimination
Relic sites often contain nails, scraps, and other iron debris alongside valuable targets. Adjustable discrimination and a readable target-ID display can reduce unnecessary digging, while iron-audio features help you hear rejected or adjacent iron instead of treating every signal as identical.
Recovery Speed and Separation
A detector with fast recovery can identify nearby targets more effectively, which matters in previously searched areas and heavily littered ground. A smaller accessory coil may improve separation around dense debris, while a larger coil can cover open ground more quickly.
Frequency and Ground Handling
Single-frequency detectors can be excellent values, but multi-frequency technology may provide more consistent performance across mineralized soil and wet conditions. Adjustable sensitivity and ground-balance controls are especially useful when soil conditions change.
Waterproofing, Comfort, and Accessories
Confirm what “waterproof” means before buying: some detectors protect only the search coil, while others allow the entire unit to be submerged to a stated depth. Weight, shaft adjustability, display visibility, battery life, headphones, pinpointers, and carrying cases also affect how enjoyable long searches will be.
Who Should Buy Which Metal Detectors for Relic Hunting?
New detectorists: Choose a straightforward kit with preset modes, a clear display, and useful accessories. A bundled pinpointer and carry bag can reduce the cost of getting started.
Relic hunters working around iron: Favor models with fast recovery, adjustable discrimination, proportional audio, or iron-audio controls. These features provide more information than a basic tone-only detector.
Searchers near wet ground: Select a model with waterproofing appropriate to your intended depth. For beaches, streams, and wet fields, stronger water protection and stable operation are worth prioritizing.
Experienced all-terrain users: A versatile multi-frequency detector or a model with multiple search modes and coil options is the better long-term investment. It can adapt as you move from dry land to mineralized soil or shallow water.