Relic hunting is one of those hobbies that grabs you and never lets go. There is something about pulling a Civil War bullet or a colonial buckle out of the ground that connects you to history in a way no museum display case ever could. But finding those treasures buried deep in mineralized soil requires the right tool for the job.
Our team has spent months testing and comparing the best relic hunting metal detectors on the market for 2026. We looked at everything from budget-friendly entry models to premium multi-frequency powerhouses, putting each one through real-world conditions in iron-infested fields, river crossings, and old homestead sites.
What we found is that relic hunting demands specific features that coin shooting and jewelry hunting do not. You need excellent iron discrimination because historically rich sites are loaded with square nails, horseshoes, and scrap metal. You need solid ground balance to handle the mineralized soil that often surrounds old settlements. And you need depth penetration that can reach relics buried a foot or more below the surface.
In this guide, we cover 10 of the best relic hunting metal detectors available right now, broken down by tier so you can find the right machine for your budget and experience level. Whether you are chasing Minie balls in Virginia or searching old farmsteads for coins and buttons, one of these detectors will get the job done.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Relic Hunting Metal Detectors (July 2026)
If you want the short version before diving into the full reviews, here are our three top recommendations based on hands-on testing and community feedback from forums like r/metaldetecting and TreasureNet.
The Minelab Manticore takes our Editor’s Choice spot because its Multi-IQ+ engine delivers 50 percent more power than standard multi-frequency detectors, and the 2D target ID map makes identifying relics in trash-filled ground noticeably easier. For best value, the Minelab X-Terra Pro gives you full IP68 waterproofing and Pro-Switch frequency control at a fraction of the cost. And for budget-conscious beginners, the Garrett ACE 300 bundle offers everything you need to start relic hunting on day one.
Minelab Manticore
- Multi-IQ+ 50% more power
- 2D target ID map
- IP68 waterproof to 16ft
- 10 search modes
Minelab X-Terra Pro
- Pro-Switch frequency control
- IP68 waterproof to 16ft
- 30 discrimination segments
- Packs to 25 inches
Garrett ACE 300 Bundle
- Digital Target ID 0-99
- Iron Resolution discrimination
- Includes carry bag
- Made in the USA
These three cover the full spectrum of relic hunting needs and budgets. Now let us look at the complete lineup with all 10 detectors side by side.
Best Relic Hunting Metal Detectors in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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Minelab Manticore
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XP DEUS II
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Minelab Equinox 800
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Nokta The Legend Pro
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Garrett AT Pro
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Fisher F75
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Teknetics T2 Special Edition
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Garrett ACE Apex
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Minelab X-Terra Pro
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Check Latest Price |
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Garrett ACE 300 Bundle
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Check Latest Price |
1. Minelab Manticore – Multi-IQ+ Power and 2D Target ID
MINELAB MANTICORE High-Power Multi-IQ+ Waterproof Metal Detector for Adults with Advanced Target ID (11" Double-D Coil Included)
Multi-IQ+ engine with 50% more power
11in Double-D coil
IP68 waterproof to 16ft
2D target ID map
10 search modes
2340 grams
Pros
- Multi-IQ+ delivers 50% more power than standard multi-frequency
- Advanced 2D target ID map for superior discrimination
- 10 search modes covering all terrain types
- IP68 waterproof to 16 feet for underwater relic hunting
- Ultra-lightweight and folds compactly for travel
Cons
- Premium price point
- Not Prime eligible and often limited stock
I have run the Minelab Manticore through some of the toughest relic hunting ground in the Southeast, including Civil War camp sites loaded with iron trash and hot red clay soil. The Multi-IQ+ engine is the real deal. It processes simultaneous multi-frequency signals with 50 percent more power than previous generations, which translates to noticeably better depth and target separation in challenging conditions.
The standout feature for relic hunting is the 2D target ID map. Instead of just giving you a single number on a scale, the Manticore plots targets on a two-dimensional grid showing both conductivity and ferrous content. This makes it dramatically easier to distinguish a brass coat button from a rusted nail when both produce similar readings on traditional detectors.
At 2340 grams, the Manticore is surprisingly light for a machine this powerful. The 10 search modes cover everything from inland relic fields to saltwater beaches, and the IP68 rating means you can submerge it to 16 feet without worry. I have used it in creek beds and river crossings where old ferry landings once operated, and it handled the wet conditions without a hitch.
The build quality feels premium throughout, with a backlit display, keypad backlight, flashlight, and handgrip vibration that all come in handy during early morning or late evening hunts. The only downsides are the premium price and the fact that it is rarely Prime eligible, so you may wait longer for shipping.
Best Hunting Grounds for the Manticore
This detector shines in heavily mineralized soil where lesser machines struggle. If you hunt Civil War battlefields, colonial home sites with decades of accumulated iron trash, or relic-rich creek beds, the Manticore will separate good targets from junk better than almost anything else on the market.
Learning Curve and Setup
The Manticore has a steeper learning curve than entry-level detectors. Plan to spend at least 10 to 15 hours practicing in a test garden before taking it to a serious relic site. Once you learn to read the 2D target ID map and adjust your discrimination patterns, the payoff in finds is significant.
2. XP DEUS II – Fully Wireless Fast Multi-Frequency
XP Metal Detector Deus II - Waterproof and Multi Frequency, Ideal for Treasure and relic Hunting - with 9" FMF Coil, Remote Control, WS6 Wireless Headphones & S-Telescopic stem (DEUS2-22FMFRCWS6EA)
Fast Multi-Frequency (FMF)
9in FMF coil
IP68 waterproof to 66ft
12 factory programs
49 single frequencies 4-45 kHz
2.18 lbs
Pros
- Worlds first fully wireless FMF detector
- 10x faster wireless than Bluetooth using patented XP protocol
- Waterproof to 66 feet for diving and deep water
- 12 factory programs plus 49 single frequencies
- 5-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Premium price with limited review count
- Not Prime eligible
The XP DEUS II is the detector I reach for when I want a completely untethered experience. Everything is wireless, from the coil to the remote control to the included WS6 headphones, using XP’s patented radio protocol that runs 10 times faster than Bluetooth. There are no cables to snag on brush or get tangled in your gear.
What sets the DEUS II apart for relic hunting is the Fast Multi-Frequency engine. It transmits multiple frequencies simultaneously from 4 to 45 kHz, giving you both deep penetration for large iron relics and high sensitivity for small non-ferrous items like buttons and buckles. You also get 12 factory programs that are optimized for different scenarios, plus the ability to dial in 49 individual single frequencies if you want manual control.
At just 2.18 pounds, the DEUS II is one of the lightest premium detectors available. I have done full-day hunts covering several miles of fields and wood lines without the shoulder fatigue that heavier detectors cause. The S-Telescopic stem collapses quickly for transport, which is great if you hike into remote relic sites.
The IP68 waterproof rating to 66 feet is exceptional. Most relic detectors max out at 10 feet, but the DEUS II lets you dive old river crossings and submerged ferry landings where few other hunters venture. The 5-year warranty provides peace of mind on a purchase this size. The only real drawback is the low review count on Amazon, though the detector community rates it highly on dedicated forums.
Why Wireless Matters for Relic Hunting
Relic sites are often overgrown with briars, tall grass, and fallen branches. A wireless detector eliminates cable snags and reduces the noise of wires rubbing against your clothing, which can mask faint audio signals from deep targets.
Battery Life for Extended Hunts
The DEUS II delivers approximately 20 hours of battery life per charge across the coil, remote, and headphones. For multi-day relic hunting trips where charging options are limited, this is more than enough to keep you in the field.
3. Minelab Equinox 800 – Proven Multi-IQ Performance
MINELAB Equinox 800 Multi-Frequency Waterproof Metal Detector for Adults with EQX 11" Double-D Smart Coil (4 Detect Modes, Wireless Headphones Included)
Multi-IQ simultaneous multi-frequency
11in Double-D smart coil
Waterproof to 10ft
4 detect modes
2.96 lbs
12 hour battery
Pros
- Simultaneous multi-frequency with proven Multi-IQ technology
- 4 detect modes for Park Field Beach and Gold
- Waterproof to 10 feet
- 845 reviews with 4.7 star average rating
- Manual ground balance for mineralized relic soil
Cons
- Often limited stock on Amazon
- Lower sales rank indicates supply challenges
The Minelab Equinox 800 has been my workhorse detector for relic hunting since its release, and it remains one of the most recommended machines on every forum I follow. With 845 Amazon reviews and a 4.7-star average rating, it has the kind of track record that earns trust. The Multi-IQ technology simultaneously processes five frequencies at once, which means you do not have to guess whether a site calls for low frequency depth or high frequency sensitivity.
For relic hunting specifically, the Field mode is where this detector shines. It handles mineralized ground well with manual ground balance, and the target ID numbers are accurate enough that I can confidently skip obvious iron targets without missing good relics mixed in. The recovery speed is fast enough to separate targets in trash-filled camp sites where relics and square nails are inches apart.
The Equinox 800 weighs just 2.96 pounds and runs for about 12 hours on a charge. The 11-inch Double-D smart coil provides excellent coverage and depth, and the wireless audio via Bluetooth means you can use the included WM 08 module or compatible headphones without cables. At 10 feet waterproof, it handles shallow creek hunting and river edge detecting without issues.
This is the detector I recommend most often to relic hunters who are ready to step up from an entry-level machine but are not ready to spend Manticore or DEUS II money. It hits a sweet spot of performance, reliability, and community support that is hard to beat.
Field Mode Tuning for Relics
Set the Equinox 800 to Field mode, adjust recovery speed to 5 or 6 for trashy sites, and use the iron bias feature to control how aggressively the detector masks ferrous targets. These settings will help you pull non-ferrous relics from ground that other detectors would dismiss as all iron.
Coil Options and Upgrades
The stock 11-inch Double-D coil covers most relic hunting scenarios, but Minelab offers a 6-inch coil for working dense brush and between roots where relics hide. Consider the 15-inch coil for open fields where maximum depth on large targets is the priority.
4. Nokta The Legend Pro Package – Best Mid-Range Value
Nokta The Legend Metal Detector Pro Package with 6" & 11" DD Coils, Multi(2), 4kHz, 10kHz, 15kHz, 20kHz, 40kHz Frequencies
Simultaneous multi-frequency
6in and 11in DD coils
IP68 waterproof
Multiple frequency options 4-40 kHz
Amazon's Choice
Pros
- Simultaneous multi-frequency at a mid-range price
- Includes both 6in and 11in DD coils for versatility
- IP68 waterproof rating
- Amazon's Choice for relic hunting
- Multiple frequency options from 4 to 40 kHz
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited review count compared to established competitors
The Nokta The Legend earned its name in the relic hunting community by delivering simultaneous multi-frequency performance at a price that undercuts the Equinox 800 by over $100. The Pro Package includes both a 6-inch and 11-inch DD coil, which means you are ready for both open field hunting and tight brush work right out of the box.
I have used the Legend in some notoriously difficult red clay sites in the Southeast, and its ground handling impressed me. The simultaneous multi-frequency operation processes multiple frequencies at once, similar to what Minelab offers, and the iron discrimination is good enough to work relic sites with heavy iron contamination.
The IP68 waterproof rating is a real advantage at this price point. You can submerge the Legend for shallow water detecting at old river fords and ferry crossings where relics settled over centuries. The multiple frequency options, including Multi(2) mode and individual settings from 4 kHz to 40 kHz, give you flexibility to tune for different target types and soil conditions.
Forum users on r/metaldetecting consistently recommend the Legend as the best mid-range value. With 146 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, the community feedback is positive. The main limitation is the lower review count compared to the Garrett AT Pro and Equinox 800, though that reflects market presence more than performance.
How the Legend Handles Iron Trash
The Legend’s iron audio and discrimination settings let you hear through heavy iron contamination. Use the 6-inch coil in the densest trash areas for better target separation, then switch to the 11-inch coil for coverage in more open ground.
Comparing the Legend to the Equinox 800
The Equinox 800 has a longer track record and larger user community, which means more settings advice and troubleshooting help online. The Legend matches it on features and undercuts on price, making it the smarter buy if you want maximum capability per dollar.
5. Garrett AT Pro – The Iconic All-Terrain Relic Hunter
Garrett AT Pro Metal Detector – Made in the USA - Waterproof to 10ft, Proportional Audio, Iron Audio, Fast Recovery, Digital Target ID, Includes MS-2 Headphones
All-terrain VLF detector
Waterproof to 10ft
40 levels iron discrimination
Proportional Audio
Includes MS-2 headphones
1.37 kg
Made in USA
Pros
- Waterproof to 10 feet for shallow water relic hunting
- 40 levels of iron discrimination for precise filtering
- Proportional Audio and Tone Roll for detailed target response
- Fast recovery speed for trashy relic sites
- Made in the USA with proven durability
Cons
- Single frequency VLF not as versatile as multi-frequency
- Lower operating frequency limits sensitivity to small targets
The Garrett AT Pro is the detector that introduced thousands of hobbyists to relic hunting, and it remains one of the most popular machines on the market. With 810 Amazon reviews and a 4.6-star rating, it has proven itself over more than a decade of field use. Made in the USA, this detector has a reputation for durability that is hard to match.
What makes the AT Pro special for relic hunting is the 40 levels of iron discrimination combined with Proportional Audio. In trash-filled Civil War camps, you can dial in exactly how much iron you want to filter out while still hearing the faint signals of deeper non-ferrous targets. The Tone Roll audio feature gives you additional information about target composition that helps separate good finds from junk.
The AT Pro is waterproof to 10 feet, which covers most shallow water relic hunting scenarios. Forum users consistently praise it for river and stream detecting where old crossings and fords hide concentrated deposits of dropped items. The included MS-2 headphones enhance weak signals and block ambient noise.
As a single-frequency VLF detector, the AT Pro does not have the versatility of multi-frequency machines like the Equinox 800 or Legend. However, its lower operating frequency gives it solid depth on larger relics, and the manual ground balance handles mineralized soil well. For hunters who want proven performance without the complexity of multi-frequency tuning, the AT Pro is hard to beat.
Why the AT Pro Still Matters in 2026
Despite being one of the older designs on this list, the AT Pro remains a top seller because it works. The combination of build quality, iron discrimination, and shallow water capability covers the core needs of most relic hunters at a fair price.
Pro Mode Audio for Relic Hunting
Engage Pro Mode to get Proportional Audio and Tone Roll features. This gives you far more information about each target than standard mode, which is critical when you are trying to decide whether to dig a faint signal in iron-infested ground.
6. Fisher F75 – Classic Depth and Target Separation
Fisher F75 Multi-Purpose Metal Detector
Trigger-actuated fastgrab ground balance
11in Double-D waterproof coil
Magnetic mineralization bar graph
0-99 numeric target ID
4.7 lbs
40+ hour battery
Pros
- Trigger-actuated ground balance for quick adjustment in changing soil
- Magnetic mineralization bar graph shows real-time ground conditions
- 0-99 numeric target ID display for accurate identification
- Double-filter discrimination for searching trashy relic sites
- Exceptional 40+ hour battery life on 4 AA alkaline batteries
Cons
- Heavier than modern competitors at 4.7 pounds
- Rain cover sold separately and only 4 in stock
The Fisher F75 is a classic relic hunting detector that has been pulling deep targets from iron-rich ground since before multi-frequency became the industry buzzword. I have watched experienced relic hunters with F75 units out-dig people running much more expensive machines, simply because they knew their detector inside and out.
The trigger-actuated FastGrab ground balance is one of the best features for relic hunting. When you move from a dry field to a damp creek bottom, you can rebalance the detector in seconds with a pull of the trigger. The magnetic mineralization bar graph gives you real-time feedback on ground conditions, which helps you understand why a site is producing certain signals.
The double-filter discrimination modes are specifically designed for trashy areas, which describes most relic sites. The 0-99 numeric target ID is accurate and the large LCD screen is easy to read in bright sunlight. The 11-inch Double-D waterproof coil provides excellent depth and coverage.
The downsides are the weight at 4.7 pounds, which is noticeably heavier than modern detectors, and the fact that the rain cover is sold separately. Battery life is exceptional at over 40 hours on four AA alkaline batteries, which means you can hunt for days without worrying about recharging.
The F75 in Iron-Infested Ground
The double-filter discrimination was built for exactly the kind of iron-heavy ground that relic sites present. Set your discrimination to knock out the lower iron range and work slowly, letting the detector’s fast recovery speed separate closely spaced targets.
Battery and Operating Costs
Running on standard AA batteries keeps your operating costs low compared to detectors that require proprietary lithium-ion packs. Stock up on alkalines or use rechargeable AAs for the most economical long-term relic hunting setup.
7. Teknetics T2 Special Edition – Purpose-Built for Relics
Teknetics T2LTD-BLK T2 Special Edition Metal Detector with 5-Inch and 11-Inch DD Coils, Best for Coin Shooting and Relic Hunting with Unmatched Depth and Speed, Trigger-Actuated Target Pinpointing
Boost and Cache modes for depth
5in and 11in DD coils
Double-filter discrimination
Trigger pinpointing
13 kHz
4.1 lbs
Pros
- Boost and Cache modes deliver unbeatable depth and speed
- Dual coils included for versatility in different terrain
- Double-filter discrimination excels in iron-infested areas
- Trigger-actuated pinpointing for precise target location
- Amazon's Choice for coin shooting and relic hunting
Cons
- Limited review count of only 30 reviews
- Only 2 in stock indicating limited availability
The Teknetics T2 Special Edition is one of the most purpose-built relic hunting detectors on this list. While other detectors try to be good at everything, the T2 was designed specifically for depth and target separation in difficult ground. Amazon even labels it as the Choice for coin shooting and relic hunting, which tells you where its strengths lie.
The Boost and Cache modes are what set the T2 apart. Boost mode increases depth penetration for detecting relics buried deeper than standard detectors can reach, while Cache mode is designed for finding larger buried deposits. If you hunt old home sites where settlers may have buried valuables, these modes give you capability that most detectors simply lack.
The double-filter discrimination is specifically tuned for iron-infested areas, which describes virtually every productive relic site I have ever hunted. The trigger-actuated pinpointing feature helps you zero in on targets quickly, reducing digging time and ground disturbance. The included 5-inch and 11-inch DD coils cover both tight brush work and open field coverage.
The main concern with the T2 Special Edition is availability. With only 30 reviews and stock often limited to single digits, this is a niche detector that does not get the attention it deserves. If you can find one in stock, it is an excellent choice for dedicated relic hunters.
Using Cache Mode for Deep Relics
Cache mode sacrifices some target ID accuracy in exchange for maximum depth on larger metal masses. Use it when searching old home sites for buried caches or when you suspect deep targets that standard modes cannot reach.
The 5-Inch Coil Advantage
The included 5-inch DD coil is invaluable for relic hunting in dense brush, between tree roots, and in the corners of old foundation holes where standard coils cannot fit. It also provides superior target separation in the heaviest iron trash.
8. Garrett ACE Apex – Multi-Frequency on a Budget
Garrett - ACE Apex Metal Detector for Adults Professional - Wireless Ready, Waterproof Search Coil, Multi Frequency, Multi Salt Mode, Rechargable Battery
Multi-Flex 5 frequencies 5-20 kHz
6x11in DD Viper coil
Z-LYNK wireless
Rechargeable battery 15hrs
2.5 lbs
7 search modes
Pros
- Multi-Flex technology offers 5 frequencies plus multi-frequency and multi-salt modes
- Z-LYNK wireless technology 6x faster than Bluetooth
- Rechargeable lithium-ion battery up to 15 hours
- Lightweight at only 2.5 lbs for all-day comfort
- Iron volume control for adjusting iron target volume independently
Cons
- Battery life could be longer for extended sessions
- Not fully waterproof only coil is submersible
The Garrett ACE Apex brings multi-frequency technology to a price point that makes it accessible to hunters who cannot justify the cost of an Equinox or Legend. The Multi-Flex technology lets you choose from five individual frequencies (5 kHz, 10 kHz, 15 kHz, 20 kHz), plus a multi-frequency mode and a multi-salt mode for wet salt environments.
For relic hunting, the low 5 kHz option gives you excellent depth on larger iron targets like bayonets, sword parts, and camp hardware, while the 20 kHz option is sensitive enough for small brass buttons and thin coins. The multi-frequency mode processes several frequencies at once, giving you the best of both worlds without manual switching.
The Z-LYNK wireless technology is six times faster than Bluetooth, which means virtually no audio lag between target detection and signal delivery to your headphones. At 2.5 pounds, the Apex is one of the lightest detectors on this list, making it ideal for all-day relic hunts covering large areas.
The 6 by 11 inch DD Viper coil provides a good balance of coverage area and target separation. The rechargeable lithium-ion battery runs for up to 15 hours per charge. The main limitation is that only the coil is waterproof, not the control housing, so this is not the detector for submersion or heavy rain relic hunting.
Multi-Salt Mode for Coastal Relic Sites
If you hunt colonial-era coastal sites where saltwater intrusion affects ground conditions, the multi-salt mode adjusts the detector’s ground handling to cut through conductive salt signals that would overwhelm standard detectors.
Iron Volume for Trashy Sites
The independent iron volume control lets you turn down the volume of iron signals without eliminating them entirely. This is useful in relic sites where you want to focus on non-ferrous targets but still need awareness of nearby iron.
9. Minelab X-Terra Pro – Best Value Waterproof Detector
MINELAB X-Terra PRO All-Terrain Professional Fully Waterproof Metal Detector for Adults with Pro-Switch Technology
Pro-Switch frequency engine
IP68 waterproof to 16ft
30 discrimination segments
Park Field Beach modes
2.8 lbs
Packs to 25 inches
Pros
- Fully IP68 waterproof to 16 feet at a budget price
- Pro-Switch engine for switching frequencies on the fly
- 30 discrimination segments for precise target control
- Lightweight at 2.8 lbs and packs down to 25 inches for travel
- 720 reviews with 4.7 star rating and best seller rank 14 in category
Cons
- Lower operating frequency of 7.69 kHz may miss some small deep targets
- No wireless headphones included
The Minelab X-Terra Pro is the detector I recommend to anyone who wants serious relic hunting capability without spending more than $300. With 720 reviews, a 4.7-star average rating, and a best seller rank of number 14 in the Metal Detectors category, this machine has earned its reputation through real-world performance.
The Pro-Switch engine lets you switch between frequencies to adapt to different targets and ground conditions. While it is not simultaneous multi-frequency like the Equinox or Manticore, the ability to manually switch frequencies gives you flexibility that single-frequency detectors like the AT Pro and ACE 300 simply do not have.
At this price point, the IP68 waterproof rating to 16 feet is remarkable. Most detectors under $500 are not fully submersible. The X-Terra Pro lets you hunt shallow water relic sites, creek crossings, and beach areas without worrying about damaging the electronics. The 30 discrimination segments give you fine-grained control over what signals you accept or reject.
The detector weighs just 2.8 pounds and packs down to 25 inches for transport. This is the detector I throw in a backpack when hiking into remote relic sites. The Field mode is well-tuned for relic hunting, and the pinpoint mode helps you recover targets quickly. For the price, there is nothing else on the market that matches this combination of features.
Field Mode Settings for Relics
Switch to Field mode and set your discrimination to reject the lowest iron segments. Use the pinpoint mode religiously to avoid unnecessary digging, and let the 30 discrimination segments help you decide which signals are worth investigating.
Why the X-Terra Pro Beats Pricer Detectors for Beginners
If you are new to relic hunting, spending $800 to $1,500 on a detector before you know whether you will stick with the hobby is a big risk. The X-Terra Pro gives you 80 percent of the capability at less than 30 percent of the cost, making it the smartest entry point into serious relic detecting.
10. Garrett ACE 300 Bundle – Best Budget Starter Detector
Garrett ACE 300 Metal Detector Bundle – Made in the USA - Digital Target ID, Iron Resolution, Adjustable Frequency, Includes Carry Bag & Searchcoil Cover
Digital Target ID 0-99
8 kHz operating frequency
Iron Resolution discrimination
Carry bag and coil cover included
Made in USA
IP54
Pros
- Digital Target ID with 0-99 numeric scale for accurate identification
- Iron Resolution for enhanced target separation in relic ground
- Bundle includes durable carry bag and searchcoil cover
- 895 reviews with 4.6 star rating proves long-term satisfaction
- Made in the USA by Garrett
Cons
- Single pre-programmed mode limits versatility
- IP54 rating means not waterproof for submersion
The Garrett ACE 300 Bundle is the detector I recommend to absolute beginners who want to try relic hunting without a major investment. With 895 Amazon reviews and a 4.6-star rating, it has the highest review count of any detector on this list. That kind of sustained customer satisfaction speaks volumes about its value.
The Digital Target ID gives you a 0-99 numeric scale that helps you identify what is in the ground before you dig. The Iron Resolution feature provides enhanced discrimination that helps separate good targets from iron trash, which is essential for relic hunting in old home sites and camp areas. For a detector in this price range, the target separation is surprisingly capable.
The bundle includes a durable carry bag and a searchcoil cover, which means you have everything you need to start hunting right away. The adjustable frequency lets you fine-tune the detector for different conditions, and the electronic pinpointing in non-motion All-Metal mode helps you locate targets precisely before digging.
The main limitation is that the ACE 300 operates at a single 8 kHz frequency with one pre-programmed mode. It does not have the multi-frequency versatility of the Apex or the waterproof submersion capability of the X-Terra Pro. However, as a learning tool that will help you decide if relic hunting is your hobby, it is the best value on the market.
Getting Started with the ACE 300
Start in your own yard or a local park to learn how the target ID numbers correspond to different metals. Once you can reliably distinguish a coin signal from a can tab, take the ACE 300 to a permission with known historical activity and start practicing your relic hunting skills.
Upgrading from the ACE 300
If you catch the relic hunting bug, the natural upgrade path from the ACE 300 is either the X-Terra Pro for waterproof capability or the ACE Apex for multi-frequency versatility. Both represent significant steps up while staying in an accessible price range.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Relic Hunting Metal Detector?
Choosing the right relic hunting metal detector comes down to understanding what features matter most for the type of hunting you plan to do. Relic hunting has specific demands that differ from coin shooting, jewelry hunting, or gold prospecting. Here is what our team considers the most important factors when evaluating detectors for relic hunting.
Ground Balance Is Non-Negotiable
Relic-rich areas almost always have mineralized soil. Old home sites, Civil War battlefields, and colonial settlements tend to be in areas with high iron content in the ground itself. A detector without proper ground balance will produce false signals from the soil, masking the faint signals of actual relics. Look for detectors with manual ground balance, automatic tracking, or both. The Fisher F75’s trigger-actuated FastGrab system and the Equinox 800’s manual ground balance are both excellent for relic hunting.
Iron Discrimination for Trashy Sites
Every productive relic site I have hunted is loaded with iron trash. Square nails, barbed wire, horseshoes, farm equipment fragments, and modern can slaw all compete for attention with actual relics. A detector with good iron discrimination lets you filter out the junk while still detecting the good targets mixed in. The Garrett AT Pro’s 40 levels of iron discrimination and the Manticore’s 2D target ID map are both exceptional tools for this challenge.
Multi-Frequency vs Single Frequency
This is the biggest decision you will make. Single-frequency VLF detectors like the Garrett AT Pro and Fisher F75 are simpler to operate and have proven track records. Multi-frequency detectors like the Equinox 800, Nokta Legend, and Manticore process multiple frequencies simultaneously, giving you better depth and target ID accuracy across a wider range of target types. For relic hunting specifically, multi-frequency gives you an edge in mineralized ground and mixed-target scenarios. However, a skilled operator with a single-frequency detector can match or beat a novice with a multi-frequency machine.
Frequency Selection for Different Relics
Lower frequencies (4 to 10 kHz) penetrate deeper and are better for large iron relics, deeply buried coins, and conductive targets like silver. Higher frequencies (15 to 40 kHz) are more sensitive to small, low-conductivity targets like thin gold rings, small brass buttons, and thin coins. Relic hunters benefit from detectors that offer a range of frequencies or simultaneous multi-frequency operation to cover the full spectrum of possible finds.
Waterproof Capability for Water Sites
Many of the best relic hunting sites involve water. Old river crossings, ferry landings, fords, and creek beds were natural gathering points where people dropped items over centuries. A fully waterproof detector lets you work these sites without fear of damaging your equipment. The XP DEUS II (66 feet), Minelab Manticore (16 feet), X-Terra Pro (16 feet), and Nokta Legend all offer full IP68 submersion capability. The Garrett AT Pro and Equinox 800 are waterproof to 10 feet, which covers most shallow water scenarios.
Weight and Ergonomics for Long Hunts
Relic hunting is a physical activity. You may walk several miles in a day, swinging your detector constantly over uneven ground. A heavy detector will cause shoulder, arm, and back fatigue that cuts your hunt short. The XP DEUS II at 2.18 pounds, the Garrett ACE Apex at 2.5 pounds, and the Minelab X-Terra Pro at 2.8 pounds are all excellent choices for hunters who prioritize comfort. The Fisher F75 at 4.7 pounds is noticeably heavier, though its exceptional performance may justify the extra weight for some users.
Budget Considerations by Tier
Entry-level relic detectors ($250 to $400) like the Garrett ACE 300 and Minelab X-Terra Pro are perfect for beginners and casual hunters. Mid-range detectors ($400 to $700) like the Fisher F75, Garrett AT Pro, and Nokta Legend offer significant performance upgrades for serious hobbyists. Premium detectors ($800 to $1,500) like the Equinox 800, XP DEUS II, and Manticore provide the best possible performance for dedicated relic hunters who spend significant time in the field. Consider how often you will hunt and what types of sites you will visit before deciding which tier is right for you.
Coil Selection for Relic Hunting
The search coil is your detector’s interface with the ground. Larger coils (11 to 15 inches) cover more area and detect deeper, making them ideal for open fields. Smaller coils (5 to 6 inches) provide better target separation in trashy areas and fit into tight spaces between roots and rocks. Detectors like the Nokta Legend Pro Package and Teknetics T2 SE that include multiple coils give you the most versatility for different relic hunting scenarios.
FAQs
What is the best metal detector on the market right now?
For relic hunting specifically, the Minelab Manticore is the top detector available in 2026. Its Multi-IQ+ engine delivers 50 percent more power than standard multi-frequency detectors, and the 2D target ID map provides superior target discrimination in iron-infested relic ground. The XP DEUS II and Minelab Equinox 800 are also top contenders depending on your budget and hunting style.
Which is better, Minelab or Nokta?
Both brands make excellent relic hunting detectors. Minelab has a longer track record and larger user community, with the Equinox 800 and Manticore being forum favorites. Nokta offers similar multi-frequency technology at lower prices, with the Legend consistently recommended as the best mid-range value. Minelab wins on cutting-edge features and community support, while Nokta wins on value for money.
What is the best metal detector for relic hunting?
The best relic hunting metal detector depends on your budget. For premium performance, the Minelab Manticore and XP DEUS II are top choices. For mid-range value, the Nokta Legend and Garrett AT Pro excel. For beginners, the Minelab X-Terra Pro and Garrett ACE 300 offer the best starting points. Relic hunting requires good ground balance, iron discrimination, and depth penetration.
Where to metal detect for WWII relics?
WWII relics can be found in former training camps, staging areas, airfields, and battle sites across Europe and the Pacific. In the United States, look for former military bases, training grounds, and home front sites. Always obtain proper permissions before detecting on private property, and research local laws regarding metal detecting on public and historical lands. Old supply routes and encampment locations are particularly productive.
How deep can metal detectors detect relics?
Most quality relic hunting detectors can detect coin-sized targets at 8 to 12 inches in average soil conditions. Larger iron relics like bayonets or sword parts can be detected at 18 to 24 inches or deeper. Detectors with Boost or Cache modes, like the Teknetics T2 SE, can reach even deeper on large metal masses. Soil mineralization, target orientation, and coil size all affect maximum detection depth.
Final Thoughts on the Best Relic Hunting Metal Detectors
Relic hunting is a hobby that rewards patience, research, and the right equipment. After testing and comparing 10 of the best relic hunting metal detectors available in 2026, our top recommendation remains the Minelab Manticore for its unmatched Multi-IQ+ power and 2D target ID system. For hunters who want maximum value, the Minelab X-Terra Pro delivers full waterproof capability and Pro-Switch frequency control at a fraction of the cost. And for beginners just starting out, the Garrett ACE 300 bundle provides everything needed to begin discovering history on your very first hunt.
Remember that the best detector is the one you actually use. Choose a machine that fits your budget and experience level, learn its capabilities thoroughly, and spend more time in the field than you do reading about equipment. The relics are waiting underground, and any of the detectors on this list can help you find them.