Keeping a Metal Detecting Log |
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| I'd be willing to bet that 99% of treasure hunters/metal detector users do not keep a record of their hunts. Most
of us can remember where we found a certain item, but what of the other factors? Why would I want to keep records you say? I can't even balance a checkbook let alone keep records of all the places I hunt. I'm a treasure hunter, not a recordkeeper. But what if I told you keeping a record of your hunts can show you things? Patterns in your finds, soil conditions, detector settings, productive sites etc. Now I'm not saying to go as far as getting the wind direction and speed, but recording some basic hunt items can tell you things. |
| These records do not have to be fancy, a simple handwritten log will do just fine. But if you have a computer,
you can create a database of your hunts. Or just use a word processor to keep your hunt notes on file. Another
way is to use a small pocket tape recorder. Record your site details in the field as your go. Then put them into
paper or electronic form when you get time. |
| If you really want to archive your hunt, you can take a camera or a video tape recorder with you. Taking photos or video of a hunt site might reveal something you did not notice while there. These photos also can be a great addition if you display any of your finds. I use those disposable camera's. If I lose or drop it, no big loss. |
| I have a sample SiteLog that you can print for your
own use here. Here is a Sample SiteLog filled in. |
SAMPLE ENTRY Hunt Date: September 12 2000 10:00 AM Overcast temp: mid 60's Length of Hunt: App 2 hours Location: Abandoned home site Clarion County (You can go into more detail here) See attached USGS topo map Equipment Used: Garrett GTAX 750 Relic mode -- low descrimation Coin mode -- basement area |
Items Found: 2 mining tags, 2 Indian cents, misc rifle brass |
Comments: est. site from the 1920's, lots of coal cinders in ground required turning sensitivy down. Some thick brush still in area required spot hunting. Site covers app 2 acres. Go back in late fall to hunt brush areas and small stream at back of home site. |
| You can be as detailed as you want. I find myself making quick handwritten notes after the hunt, and in the winter as time permits, entering them into the computer. You do not have to use a computer, it works for me, as I can't read my own handwriting. How you do it does not matter. It is all a matter of taste. But I feel once you start doing it, you will continue and wonder why you never did it before. |
| Please email me any comments about this article. |
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