1. Invest in a metal detector that is best suited for the objects that you want to find. Learn how to use it properly for maximum results. Adjust the settings for different situations (beach, high metal, parks, etc.).  2. Do research at your local library or historical association. Find old maps that may have clues to early settlements. Ask “old timers” in the area about the location. Locate older “high-traffic” areas, which could potentially yield more items. 3. Plowed fields are often great metal detecting sites. Items which are normally out of reach of your detector can be brought to the top through plowing. 4.   Study the landscape and try to figure out where people or buildings may have been. Different plants may indicate that an old homestead occupied an area, even though no building or foundation remains. Look for lilacs, day lilies, myrtle, apple trees, wild rose, barberry bushes or two very large trees planted side-by-side (which could signal the entrance to an old house). 5. Study up on poisonous plants you may encounter while metal detecting. 6. Bring a cell phone or partner with you when you are metal detecting. You never know when an emergency may arise. 7. Wear proper clothing. Check the weather for temperature, precipitation, etc. on the day you are metal detecting. When metal detecting in the woods during hunting season, wear bright orange apparel. 8. Always bring spare batteries with you so you’re not left with a dead machine, cell phone or flashlight. 9. Carry bug spray for the deep forest and swamps. 10. Bring spare water for drinking, or for washing your hands and finds.

11. Metal detect in your own back yard! You never know who may have been passing through there in previous centuries. 12. When metal detecting on private property (always get permission), be considerate and careful not to tear up their lawn. Give them something you’ve found on the property as a goodwill gesture. 13. Wear headphones, especially in populated areas, as to minimize the amount of noise you are making while metal detecting. 14. Be aware of underground wiring, which could cause injury or disrupt electrical service if cut accidentally by your trowel. 15. Sweep your site properly for best results. Canvass small areas horizontally, vertically and diagonally. Make sure your sweeps overlap each other to avoid missing targets. Vary the speed of your sweeps. Dig both good tones and questionable tones. 16. Be careful when you dig. A trowel mark on a coin or artifact can seriously affect its value. 17. Always “clear the hole” after you’ve found something. Coins and artifacts have often been found under rusty nails. Also, people occasionally lose several coins at one time. 18. Be very careful cleaning your coins with silver and copper polishers, tumbling, SOS pads, etc., if you are interested in selling your coins, or if you have an especially valuable coin. Dealers and collectors like a patina or “antique” look to their coins, not unnaturally shiny ones. 19. Join a metal detecting club. Meet new friends and gain access to monthly sites and hunts.This is the best way to learn about the hobby and share stories.