Compact, hand-held pinpointers can sure save a lot of wasted time & effort digging for and locating targets such as coins, jewellery, relics, and gold nuggets/specimens, upon both land, and also underwater. I know so, from decades of experience of digging (and backfilling) thousands of holes on land throughout our awesome Continent.
The way I look at it – the more time I save from digging, the more time I then have to detect more targets, especially when I am sometimes time-poor on my detecting adventures at the beach, parks or out bush.
The more expensive pinpointers feature adjustable sensitivity settings - which is very handy in challenging ground conditions e.g. when using it upon/in mineralised ground or upon/in saltwater-saturated/conductive ground. They also feature audio/tactile alert options of vibration mode, with or without target-proximity audio indication.
In late 2023, Minelab released a new hand-held pinpointer – the PRO-FIND 40.
The Minelab PRO-FIND 40 pinpointer has a 2-YEARS Minelab Warranty, with a nominal 9-Volt battery life of about 20 hours, and costs $269.
I did some simple, in-store testing using the new Minelab PRO-FIND 40 pinpointer – to determine the maximum air-depth range of detection of an Aussie $2 coin, and also a flat (7x4mm) 0.43 gram gold nugget (and compared to using the similar costing, orange-coloured Garrett Pro-Pointer AT - commonly called “The Garrett Carrot”). Both of these pinpointers contained new/same batteries, and were set on Maximum Sensitivity.
The results were as follows:
$2 coin - Minelab PRO-FIND 40 = 7cm range (Garrett Pro-Pointer AT = 6cm range, and Minelab Pro-Find 15 = 3.5cm range)
0.43 gram gold nugget – both the Minelab PRO-FIND 40 and the Garrett Pro-Pointer AT pinpointers = about 2cm range.
The new Minelab PRO-FIND 40 pinpointer has the following features:
• 10% more Depth than the Minelab PRO-FIND 35
• A Rapid Re-tune function - making it quick and easy to compensate for ground conditions
• Improved Stability - for more accurate pinpointing
• Adjustable Sensitivity - with 5 levels of adjustment
• A Lost Alarm - that sounds after a period of inactivity & combined with a bright red body - makes the PRO-FIND 40 easy to locate
• A Ferrous Tone ID - that helps to sort trash from treasure
The new Minelab PRO-FIND 40 pinpointer kit includes:
• PRO-FIND 40 pinpointer - with speaker and LED flashlight
• Holster
• Lanyard
• 9V PP3 battery
• Multi-language instructions
Garrett Pro-Pointer AT (commonly called “The Garrett Carrot”)
In early September 2023, 'Gold Rat Metal Detectors' received a few of the 2 new coils for the Minelab MANTICORE detector. These coils are also of Double-D (DD) wiring configuration, and they are elliptical-shaped. These new coils are only compatible for use with the MANTICORE detector (and likewise the Equinox range of coils are not compatible with the MANTICORE detector).
The two new Minelab MANTICORE coils are:
M8 (8x5.5" size or 21x15cm) - weighs about 390 grams (AU$379)
M15 (15x12" size or 38x30.5cm) - weighs about 640 grams (AU$499)
Now, you were probably thinking that the new M15 coil will be significantly heavier than the M11 coil. NOT SO ! Rather surprisingly ..... the M15 coil is only 70 grams heavier than the M11 coil.
The MANTICORE detector and all 3 Minelab MANTICORE coils are rated as FULLY-WATERPROOF to a depth of 5 metres. They also each have a 3-Year Minelab Warranty.
All new coils (made by Minelab, and also made by the 2 Aussie businesses of Coiltek & NuggetFinder, for the extensive range of Minelab detectors) include a skid plate attached to the coil.
Initial Indicative Testing "in-house"
Preliminary testing of the small M8 coil with the MANTICORE set on the 'Goldfield' search mode, and also set on a moderate Sensitivity setting of only 20 (since this prelim. testing was only inside of our EMI-prone retail store) - achieved the following maximum air-depths (and Target ID numbers - TID) on two different-sized/shaped Aussie gold nuggets:
> a flat, sub-gram (0.38gram) gold nugget = 7.5cm / 3" (with a TID range of 8 to 10); and
> > a "jelly bean-shaped" (ellipsoid), gold nugget - weighing ten (10) grams = 17.5cm / 7" (with a TID range of 13 to 15).
Additionally, preliminary testing of the large M15 coil with the MANTICORE set on the 'All-Terrain General' search mode, and also set on a moderate Sensitivity setting - achieved the following maximum air-depth (and Target ID numbers) on an Aussie $2 decimal coin:
> > > $2 coin = 22cm / 9" (with a TID range of 62 to 65).
With increased ground coverage, in conjunction with greater depth capability, I can hardly wait to unleash the M15 coil soon at my favourite detecting beaches near Brisbane.
The MANTICORE with the M11 coil already punches deep, particularly in dry sand, so it will be very interesting to see what deeper finds are unearthed using the larger M15 coil (which has a footprint area about 50% larger than the M11 coil).
I am also very keen to use the M8 coil (that I have dubbed the "Mate" coil) at an abandoned, trash-riddled, old town site in the bush in SE Qld - where I have detected many British & Aussie pre-decimal coins using the M11 coil on my MANTICORE.
I have been impressed by the immunity of the MANTICORE against electrical interference when running the M11 coil, so I will be keen to see how the larger M15 coil performs when high levels of EMI/RFI are present.
Early Customer Feedback
One of our customers who has now used a MANTICORE detector on Queensland beaches to find many items of jewellery & coins, recently purchased the M15 coil from Gold Rat. After only 2 hours of use, he rang us to tell us how impressed he is with this larger coil in terms of it's balance, and weight, and also depth performance. He also said that he was very happy to find a gold bracelet on his first use of the M15 coil. What an awesome way to start with this coil !
The same customer subsequently purchased the new M8 coil. After only about one hours use upon wet sand at a beach, the customer detected a 14K gold chain. This customer has now found many items of jewellery on wet sand, and also under shallow sea water. The M8 coil is his preferred coil to use in shallow water and saturated sand.
My Initial Use of the M15 Coil on Qld Beaches
I recently had the opportunity (and pleasure) to swing the M15 coil on several beaches (both north & south of Brisbane) for 8 days (about 55 hours of use). WOW !
My MANTICORE was set on "Beach - Deep" search mode, and Sensitivity of between 21 and 25, with a Recovery Speed of between 4 to 6. I was very impressed with how deep some of my finds were (i.e. old/corroded 5 cent coins at significant depths in wet sand). I also easily detected an empty aluminium soft drink can at a depth of about 0.7 metres ! I also detected several rings, a pendent, a necklace, a bracelet, a bangle, and five single earrings (gold, and silver), and surprisingly, an Aussie Penny dated 1962, in dry sand.
On one of those days, I was accompanied by another experienced detectorist - who also (and very regularly) uses a MANTICORE detector + M15 coil. He easily detected a few silver rings, earrings, a chain, and coins, in both wet sands, and dry sands.
On most days I used the M15 coil I found both coins & jewellery. I was surprised at how sensitive the M15 coil is at detecting small silver jewellery like very small earrings. Using the M15 coil on the beach I find that I can generally cover nearly double the area of beach in a day - compared to when I used the M11 coil. I am also detecting targets significantly deeper than when I used the M11 coil. The weight difference between the M15 coil and the M11 coil is barely noticeable to me (on average I swing the M15 coil for between 6 to 8 hours per detecting day).
WHAT A BEAST OF A DETECTOR & COIL !
I was also impressed by the weight of this coil, and how well balanced it is. It was also easy to use the "Pinpointing" mode with accuracy. So far, I am impressed by the M15 coil. The only thing I could possibly fault (which is only a very minor issue for me) - is that I found that there was a slight build-up of super fine sand between the skid plate and the coil. I rectified this by removing the skid plate, and then using a soft bristle 2" painting brush to remove the sand.
A HOARD OF SILVER COINS DETECTED IN QUEENSLAND
In late Nov. 2023 one of our customers used his MANTICORE detector + M15 coil to recover a hoard of more than 100 silver coins buried in a yard near the Gold Coast. He was impressed by the performance of the MANTICORE combined with the M15 coil, stating:
UPDATE
As of late November 2023 - Gold Rat have replacement skid plates in stock for the three different-sized Minelab 'Manticore' coils.
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Vintage “fly fisherman” watch fob found beside an old oak tree.
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The Mythical Beast and the Harvest |
Story by John Feeland |
Chicago, IL (March 13, 2023) - A manticore is a mythical creature that features the head of a human, the body of a lion, and a tail of a scorpion and was first mentioned around 400 B.C. However, there is another, contemporary beast amongst us – Minelab’s new metal detector of the same name. With confidence, I can say that the MANTICORE is a beast, and with its new metal-detecting technology – especially Multi-IQ+ - the modern machine provides an edge in finding both more and deeper targets. |
I’ve retrieved a lot of coins and vintage items in the last several weeks with my new MANTICORE. Finding targets as deep as 10-inches gives me an edge where other machines and detectorists have either missed or could not hear the targets well enough to dig them. The MANTICORE makes me feel like I am detecting an area that has never been hunted before. Lately, I have been detecting an old school lot in the lovely Sunshine State, and more specifically, Pensacola, Florida. I’m retired from the United States military, affording me time to spend hours metal detecting, and I’ve been on a run with Lincoln Wheat pennies and silver coins. The new MANTICORE is a “silver slayer”. |
Silver coins found with the MANTICORE. |
Although I mainly like to detect vintage coins, I sometimes detect relics or even rings. For example, I was detecting near an old tree at a recently torn-down school and heard that distinctive high-pitched tone. If you’ve ever swung a Minelab machine you understand what I mean. After careful digging, I recovered a vintage “fly fisherman” watch fob of what appears to be of bronze composition. When uncovered, it was crusty and unrecognizable, but quick use of my electrolysis machine cleaned it up nicely. Among other treasures, I found two foreign coins: a 1949 República De Honduras coin as well as a 1967 British penny with the recently deceased Queen Elizabeth II displayed on the front. Young children amaze me with the things they bring to school...and often lose. |
Foreign coins were found in a trashy area with the 11" stock coil. |
While learning this new machine, I have found over 130 Wheat cents. And my site being an old school from the 1940’s, one can assume that milk must have cost one or two pennies back in the day by the huge amount of Wheaties on the grounds. I enjoy finding Lincoln cents because it helps provide dates of activity in an area from the past. I have uncovered coins with dates ranging from the early teens up through the 1950’s; however, most are from the 1940’s. Originally from the farmlands of Ohio, this reminded of harvests from my teenage years. More specifically, a wheat harvest. As if finding coins weren't enough at my now new favorite area to detect, I have found other mentionable items. |
Over 130 Lincoln Wheat pennies were retrieved from one lot. |
Pensacola dates to the 16th century and was first established by Spanish explorers. This town and its surrounding area is rich in military history. It is not uncommon to retrieve a Civil War Minié or round ball anywhere in town, as well as the occasional military uniform button. Pensacola was also prominent during World War II, with a large Navy Base just west of downtown that remains in use today. I enjoy detecting a local city park because it is situated along Pensacola Bay with miles of beautiful scenery and near the base. Detecting here is intriguing because it not only surrenders bullets from the War Between the States, but buttons from the Second World War. |
Civil War Minié balls and WWII-era buttons. |
Although Minelab’s newest detector, the MANTICORE, has been recently released, it’s an instant beast and worth the cost. Having such a technologically advanced detector gives you an edge over other machines, which is important if you want to dig older and deeper items that others have missed. Happy hunting! |
Franklin half dollar, Wartime, Buffalo, and 1940s-era Nickels. |
#minelab |
WHERE CAN I GO DETECTING GOLD IN QUEENSLAND ?
Now that’s a great question ! …. that we often get asked by customers/visitors to our store.
To lawfully go detecting gold nuggets (and gold specimens) in Queensland you require a Queensland ‘Fossicking Licence’.
You can purchase your Qld Fossicking Licence online using a credit card payment. Costs vary from about $10 for 1 month, up to about $60 for 1 year for an individual fossicker (A one-year Fossicking Licence for a family costs about $80). Your licence is e-mailed to you once payment is confirmed.
Fossicking Laws/Responsibilities
The Queensland Fossicking Act 1994 and it’s associated Regulations contain requirements for fossickers to maintain safety, hygiene and a high standard of behaviour. Infringement notices (on-the-spot fines) and prosecutions may be used to enforce the provisions of the legislation. Breaches may also result in cancellation of licences.
When fossicking in Queensland, some of the general responsibilities include that a person MUST NOT:
• destroy or injure any trees
• clear any vegetation except above an actual excavation
• pollute any watercourse, dam or the like
• create areas likely to erode
• interfere with any livestock, wildlife or property infrastructure (e.g. windmills, bores, pumps, tanks, fences)
• interfere with any heritage or cultural site
• undermine any banks or dig pits to create any tunnels or overhanging sections.
There are also other requirements a person must follow when fossicking near watercourses, and also upon designated fossicking lands and areas.
When fossicking upon private property in Queensland, a person should also have written permission from the land owner/s.
A Qld Fossicking Licence allows you to search for, and collect fossicking materials using hand tools and for recreational, tourist and educational purposes only.
“Hand tools such as picks, shovels, hammers, sieves, shakers, electronic detectors (metal detectors) and other similar tools can be used.
No machinery is permitted. This includes water sluices with electronic pumps and dredges of any kind.
You can collect from the surface or by digging, but you are not permitted to dig below 2m of the natural ground surface of land or below 0.5m in streams. Overhangs and tunnels are not allowed.”
Also - “You can collect gemstones, ornamental stones, mineral specimens, alluvial gold (including nuggets) and some fossil specimens, but not meteorites and fossils of vertebrate animals. (The finding/ownership of meteorites in Australia will be considered in a future BLOG article).
You don’t need a fossicking licence to search for ‘treasure’ such as lost jewellery and coins on a beach.”
In other words – you can go detecting on public beaches in Queensland in search of coins and jewellery (including those made from gold or platinum or silver) without holding a Qld Fossicking Licence.
However, if you find any item of value, including jewellery – that does not belong to you - then you are required by law to hand such property in to the police. Accordingly, you are entitled to receive an official receipt from the police for the found property you hand in to them. If the police can not locate the lawful owner of that found property within a few months, then you can lawfully lodge a claim to the police for that property you found. Otherwise, if you keep valuable property that you find - that does not belong to you – you may be liable to prosecution for “Stealing by Finding”.
The Qld Police Service website contains a List of Found Property (including items of jewellery) reported during the past month. This information may also be useful to someone who has lost an item and not reported it to police.
General Permission Areas (GPA's) for Fossicking in Qld
It was recently publicly reported that: "Queensland currently has 11 fossicking areas, 9 designated fossicking lands, and 21 General Permission Areas (GPA's) for fossicking - totaling more than 20,000 hectares"
There are 11 separate General Permission Areas (GPA's) in the Clermont area where landholders have given general permission for fossicking. Seven of these are in the Clermont State Forest. More than 11,000 Hectares (> 110 square kilometres) of General Permission Areas (GPA's) are available for fossicking near Clermont (about 950km NNW of Brisbane).
A total of about 50 square kilometres of General Permission Areas (GPA's) are available for fossicking at Durikai State Forest, about 30km west of Warwick (about 200km SW of Brisbane).
Also near Warwick (about 30km NW), approximately 5 square kilometres of General Permission Areas (GPA's) are available for fossicking at Talgai State Forest.
We regularly receive feedback (including photos) from customers, and other detectorists/prospectors, about gold nuggets being detected in the above GPA's - mostly found using Minelab Pulse-Induction (PI) technology detectors (e.g. GPZ 7000, GPX 6000, GPX 5000/4500, and SDC 2300).
New GPA's Sought
In late 2022 it was reported that "the Rockhampton Regional Council said it had written to the Department of Resources to try to create GPA's in three locations in Mount Morgan."
Like the 'Amalgamated Prospectors & Leaseholders Association' (APLA) of Western Australia, and also the 'Prospectors and Miners Association of Victoria' (PMAV) - perhaps what is required in Queensland is a similar membership-based body created to protect the rights and opportunities of those who wish to fossick and prospect in Queensland. Furthermore, such an Association could lobby the Queensland Government on behalf of it's members to create more opportunities for fossicking & prospecting throughout Queensland, including far more General Permission Areas.
In other States like Western Australia and Victoria there is far more total areas of ground available for fossicking and prospecting with a Miners Right - than there is currently available via GPA's in Queensland.
Perhaps the following online information with respect to fossicking areas in Queensland, and Qld Prospecting Permits, may also be of interest to you:
Queensland 'Globe'
Queensland Globe is a free online interactive website tool that you can use to identify property names (and their boundaries) including pastoral properties.
e.g. you can select following options: All Layers > Location > Property Names
Queensland ‘GeoResGlobe’
Queensland ‘GeoResGlobe’ is another free online interactive website tool that you can use to obtain information on Queensland's mining and exploration data, including:
1. Identify property names (and their boundaries) including pastoral properties; and
2. Identify ‘Exploration Permits - Minerals’ (EPM’s) – either “Granted” (current) or “Application” (pending assessment); and
3. Identify 'Mining Leases' (ML's) -
covering areas/properties of interest to you. Additional available information includes the “Authorised Holder Name” of the EPM’s / ML's, as well as the “Grant Date” and “Expiry Date’ of them.
Upon accessing this interactive website tool, you can use the menu system on the left hand side.
Click on “Layers” > “Add Layers” > “All Layers”
Then you can choose from a list of different Layers, and also the sub-layers within each Layer (e.g. “Cadastre” > “Properties”).
Example 1 of available information - a simple search via the Qld ‘GeoResGlobe’ database revealed that: in early May 2023 an Application was lodged for a Minerals Exploration Permit (EPM 28787) covering 230 square kilometres to the west & north-west of Durikai State Forest. Interestingly, in April & May 2023 the same Applicant also lodged EPM Applications for other areas within and around Durikai State Forest.
Example 2 of available information - a simple search via the Qld ‘GeoResGlobe’ database - using the menu system on the left hand side, by Clicking on “Production permits” > “Mining lease” > “ML granted”, and then selecting the letter "i" Information tool and then clicking this tool within the marked area of ML 1870 on the map, provides further information at the bottom of the screen - which revealed that within the Blair Athol State Forest, Mining Lease ML 1870 (re: "Au" - gold) was granted in 1980 and is current until June 2026, including the name of the leaseholder.
Contacting Exploration Permit Holders/Mining Companies
During my recent several years of full-time prospecting, I contacted several gold exploration and mining companies, and after voluntarily submitting written details (via e-mail) about my prospecting experience, vehicle/s, prospecting techniques & gear (including safety equipment), my Prospecting Licence/Miner's Right, and public liability insurance etc., and my intentions – I was very fortunate to be granted written conditional permission to prospect on their leases. As a result, I provided details (photos & GPS co-ordinates) of all my finds of gold nuggets to the leaseholders, who then permitted me to explore additional ground held via their leases.
Properties Allowing Prospecting & Camping
There are several properties (including large stations) throughout Queensland that permit recreational prospecting/camping for a fee. These include locations near: Georgetown/Forsythe in North Qld, and Warwick ('Glendon Camping Ground' – which is beside Durikai State Forest) in South-East Qld, and Clermont & Mount Morgan in Central Qld, and Palmerville Station in Cape York Peninsula, etc
https://www.facebook.com/flatcreekstation/
https://www.facebook.com/people/Western-Creek-Gold/100066532061530/
https://www.gilbertongold.com/
https://glendoncamping.com.au/
https://www.facebook.com/people/Fig-Tree-Camp/100066735554908/
https://goldenprospectingtours.com.au
https://www.facebook.com/people/Palmerville-Gold/100065218831323/
The website 'Hipcamp' also features several properties that permit camping & fossicking in Queensland, including in southern Qld.
To lawfully go detecting gold nuggets (and gold specimens) on such properties - a Qld Fossicking Licence is also required.
Unallocated State Land
The Qld Government webpage for "Fossicking Rules and Responsibilities" states: "If the land is "Unallocated State Land", you don't need permission to fossick unless:
"Unallocated state land (USL) refers to land above and below the high-water mark (HWM) that is not freehold land or land contracted to be granted in fee simple by the state; is not a road or reserve; and is not subject to a lease, licence or permit issued by the state."
The Qld Dept of Natural Resources & Mines previously reported that:
"There is a sometimes a misapprehension that there is a lot of unallocated state land or vacant crown land across the state. While there are a large number of parcels of unallocated state land, most are small in size and in odd locations. Other than a few occasional large parcels of land, the majority of land across Queensland is allocated either as freehold, leasehold, road, reserve or other tenure such as national park or state forest. Unallocated state land makes up less than 1% of Queensland land."
In June 2023 it was reported that there were "over 16,000 Unallocated State Land parcels" in Queensland.
The Qld Govt. Department of Resources (Lands Services) have recently advised that: "As there is no list or register of available Unallocated State Land (USL) in Queensland - it is recommended that the departments FREE interactive online mapping service, Queensland Globe is accessed to allow you to search an area of interest and view all parcels of land with a tenure type of USL or SL in Queensland. This can be sourced in layers under "Planning Cadastre", by ticking "Land parcel tenure".
Brisbane Metal Detecting Club (BMDC)
The following information is published on the BMDC website:
“The Brisbane Metal Detecting Club (BMDC) is a non-profit organisation for metal detecting enthusiasts in Brisbane and surrounding areas. The club supports detectorists who specialise in the search for coins, jewellery and relics, as well as the infamous Australian gold nugget.
Together, the members have many years of experience in varying conditions in Australia and overseas, and are eager to share their knowledge and experience about detectors and detecting with anyone. BMDC members have access to the club's collection of helpful and educational library materials, including books, videos, maps, magazines, CDs and DVDs. Organised group trips to national goldfields and local areas of general detecting interest occur on a regular basis.”
Books, Atlases, Online, etc.
'Gold Prospecting’ by Doug Stone – reprinted in 2022, (192 pages) contains a section (26 pages) on goldfields in Queensland, including locations and old maps. Doug Stone has been writing prospecting books for decades, and has also authored a great range of 'Gold Atlas's' for several Australian states, including excellent maps.
‘A Prospectors guide to metal detecting in Australia - Gold & Ghosts’ - 2 Volumes for Qld (Volume 3 & Volume 4) by Mr. D.W. de Havelland (There are also 2 other volumes for Western Australia). These excellent/detailed books (containing numerous maps) have been out-of-print for decades, and are highly sought after.
Historical maps of various goldfields throughout Queensland - can be viewed online via the TROVE website. This excellent website also contains digitized historical newspapers - including reports on gold discoveries, prospecting & mining throughout Australia since the mid-1800's.
The archived website of the former Brisbane-based business of 'Treasure Enterprises of Australia' contained some excellent information on the locations and details of gold occurrences in Queensland.
The free online database Mindat.org contains detailed information on minerals and their localities, deposits, and mines worldwide, including gold in Queensland. Mindat.org has been collecting, and sharing such mineral information for the past two decades.
Queensland Gold Mining Leases - Historical records held at the Qld State Archives commencing from 1871. This includes bound volumes of gold leases, including names of leaseholders and areas of leases. "Each lease in a volume includes the date of lease, name of the applicant, period of the lease and amount of rent, as well as a sketch and description of the area of the lease, and any transfers of the lease." Digital copies can also be requested.
'The Goldfields of Queensland - Charters Towers Goldfield' - a historical report published in 1899 (which has been digitized, and can be viewed online via the TROVE website) contains detailed information about the numerous gold mines that were operating around Charters Towers over 124 years ago, including old photographic images, and also details of the extent of workings and gold production results.
The 'Outdoors Queensland' website also contains some tips & resources for fossicking in Queensland.
The online ‘Prospecting Australia’ Forum contains valuable information, and has many helpful/experienced members.
Based on my experiences with hunting gold throughout the mainland of Australia - the importance of doing extensive research on likely areas of potential for finding gold can not be under-stated. Sometimes the best areas to find gold are the hardest to get to, often away from any vehicular tracks, sometimes in/nearby rugged, undulating/hilly terrain. Besides using a modern pulse-induction Minelab detector - preparation, patience & perseverance are all a must-have to find gold.
Are you up for a challenge ?
Large Nugget Detected in North Queensland
It was reported in 2017 that a prospector, using a Minelab Pulse-Induction (PI) detector, found a 1.17kg (37.7 Ounce) gold nugget in a field near Charters Towers. The nugget was 15cm (6 inches) below the ground. The prospector stated:
“It was beneath some vegetation so it was a bit of a challenge to get to, but now I’m thinking maybe those roots are keeping some other big nuggets safe ready to be found another time.”
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The Minelab GPX 6000 Pulse-Induction detector has now been available in Australia for about 2 years. In that time some awesome nuggets have been unearthed throughout Australia. Some of these significant finds have been publicised, and not surprisingly, many fantastic finds have not been publicised for various reasons.
Several big chunks of gold have been recently found in Western Australia.
Below are some of the Minelab GPX 6000 finds that have been shared online:
The big nugget shown in the two photos above reportedly weighs about 13 Ounces (about 0.4 kg). My "guesstimation" is that the total weight of all of the above nuggets would be at least 30 Ounces !
Below are some more finds using the GPX 6000:
“Here are two of the nicest bits for the season, biggest is 5.5 oz (171.2g) and the other is just over an ounce (35.5g). Both found with a 6000 while pushing. Interestingly the big bit was laying flat, in a crevice in a rock bar, about 60 cm down I suppose (from the bottom of the push) but it was not an inverted signal, and I have no idea why.
Every other solid bit I've got from a gram or so up has been an inverted signal. It started off as a normal up down signal, sounded very OK like a few gram specie 10 inches or so down, good but not outstanding. It just got louder and louder the deeper I got. By about 40-50 cm down I knew it was going to be a better bit, maybe an ounce or two even, and I was convinced that it had to be a specie as the signal wasn't inverted.
The pinpointer was going crazy over a red rock stuck in the crack and I couldn't see any gold yet so I was convinced it was under the rock, got the biggest shock when I got that rock out and felt the weight. It was flat and heavy and clearly a nugget but even after giving it a wash I still couldn't see any gold.
Took a couple of days in alibright for the red coating to dissolve. It has about 6 g of rock in it based on an SG test so it's technically a specie but I'm happy to call it a nugget. The smaller bit was in a different spot, in old wash, probably 70 cm or so down from the surface. I had pushed it though so I only had to dig a few inches. Before I dug it I tried detecting it from the surface level and got no response. Had to be down another 6 inches or so before any signal but it was inverted all the way. The bit was in a small crack but standing upright on it's side and it looked bright and shiny like it does now when it was still stuck in the hole.”
An old Aussie gold prospector (who has used all of Minelab’s other pulse-induction detectors over the past decade (e.g. SDC 2300, GPX 5000 & GPZ 7000) has also used the GPX 6000 in Western Australia for 118 days (about 1,000hrs of swinging) and on 100 of those days, his GPX 6000 detected 854 gold nuggets in highly mineralised ground. He mostly used the large Minelab GPX17x13” elliptical Mono coil for excellent ground coverage (“patch hunting”) and depth capability. In fact, the GPX17 coil easily detected two spherical-shaped nuggets (a 5-grammer, and a 6 grammer) at depths of between 40cm and 45cm in highly mineralised ground north of Kalgoorlie. The GPX17 coil also picks up the small bits too – using the proven “Low & Slow” technique. He also found the GPX14 DD coil excellent for use in salty/conductive ground (where it was almost impossible to run a Mono coil), as well as in areas within/nearby high electromagnetic interference (EMI).
Liz Pickthall spends her spare time detecting in the central goldfields of Victoria.
"I finally had seen and heard enough, and at the age of 28 I decided to go out and invest in my first detector. Only then did I realise my true love for it, and I’ve been addicted ever since. As the years went by and my love for detecting grew, I started to work less and detect more.
After upgrading my metal detector to the GPX 6000, I was keen to upgrade my coil as well. I waited for the release of all brands of coils, and was lucky enough to be able to try before I bought two different coils – one of which was the Coiltek 9” GOLDHAWK.
It didn’t take me long to see that it was the standout performer in all areas including weight and sensitivity – and it worked wonders on all ground types in the Victorian goldfields. I was so impressed by how quiet it ran for such a sensitive coil. The 9” coil has found gold in the most ‘flogged out’ areas, with the coil’s size making it so easy to get in tight areas under and around bushes and trees.”
Imagine how many tens-of-thousands of gold nuggets (& specimens) have been found throughout Australia over only the past 2 years using the mighty Minelab GPX 6000 detector.
Imagine how many more huge chunks of gold are still out there throughout Australia - that have never had a GPX 6000 scan over them !
To boot ..... there are now SEVEN (7) different coils available for the GPX 6000. Even better - four of these new coils are AUSSIE-MADE.
Coupled with a super-low 1.225 kHz operating frequency of the GPX 6000 - it's no wonder the GPX 6000 is a gold magnet ! (By comparison the GPX 5000 "is configured to operate at a fundamental operating frequency of 5 kHz", and the GPZ 7000 "is configured to operate at a fundamental operating frequency of 3.675 kHz”, whereas for the SDC 2300 "the transmit frequency is about 3 kHz")
With the gold price at a near all-time-ever record high (over AU$3,000 per Ounce in early September 2023) - you only need to find less than 3-ounces of gold to cover your investment cost of a new GPX 6000.
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On 8 August 2023 the Premier of Western Australia announced that the recently enacted state laws of the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act will be repealed, after only being in place for 5 weeks:
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-08-08/roger-cook-repeals-aboriginal-cultural-heritage-laws/102699678
RECENT BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
The new ‘Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act’ of Western Australia commenced on 1 July 2023. It will have some impact (i.e. it imposes responsibilities and obligations) on prospecting and mining activities in Western Australia, including upon prospectors/fossickers using metal detectors and hand tools to hunt for gold.
Unfortunately, for many concerned, there has been scare-mongering, disrespect, misinterpretation, ignorance and indifference expressed publicly with respect to the new laws.
Here is a LINK to some official facts sheets and guidelines about these new laws:
Prospecting using a metal detector and hand tools only – is considered to be a "TIER 1 Activity" under the subject legislation. Accordingly, a ‘Due Diligence Assessment’ “MUST be undertaken in accordance with the ACH Management Code”.
The ACH Management Code provides details on how to do a Due Diligence Assessment. Here is a LINK to the ACH Management Code:
https://www.wa.gov.au/system/files/2023-07/20230427-ach-management-code.pdf
A Due Diligence Assessment involves using the ‘Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Inquiry System’ (ACHIS) database to search the area you are interested in - to find out if there is any record of Aboriginal cultural heritage relating to that land area.
The ACHIS Database can be accessed via the link below:
https://www.wa.gov.au/government/document-collections/find-aboriginal-cultural-heritage-wa
When I recently used the ACHIS database (in late July 2023), unfortunately on several occasions I found that it was rather slow at “Loading” all the data prior to my search to “Zoom to an area” of a “Mining Tenement”.
‘YouTube’ contains some simple and informative videos (see the 2 links below) - presented by experienced & well-respected W.A. prospector Tony Pilkington (of ‘ Goldtalk Leonora ’) with respect to the new ACH laws, including how to undertake a Due Diligence Assessment, and also how to search the ‘Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Inquiry System’ (ACHIS) database:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BESsQ7xWoSM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dbEPPdYEBqE
Tony Pilkington has an absolute wealth of experience & knowledge on gold prospecting & mining in Western Australia (Tony's wife - Lisa - has also prospected in Alaska and New Zealand). Tony also runs prospecting training courses, and he has a gift of explaining such things to others simply, with respect, humour and patience.
APLA
Many prospectors & leaseholders are members of the Amalgamated Prospectors & Leaseholders Association of Western Australia. This Association has been around for over a century.
Two of the main reasons why I joined APLA were:
1. Financial APLA Members are covered by a $20 Million Public Liability Insurance automatically when they are lawfully prospecting as an amateur.
2. APLA fights for its members, including ALL Prospectors and ALL Leaseholders rights by representation to government departments and political bodies. APLA also makes detailed submissions/recommendations to government with respect to proposed and current laws.
Other member benefits include free access to the regular online magazine (which often contains very useful articles written by local prospectors), as well as invitations to Association events and training, and regular Branch meetings (including in Kalgoorlie). APLA members are also invited to bush camps and prospecting trips hosted by experienced and professional prospectors.
I met many APLA members (including prospectors each with many decades of local experience) during my several years of full-time gold hunting in W.A. - who were only too happy to provide advice and assistance to me as a new member. That advice & assistance saved me from so much potentially wasted time & money, that far exceeded the cost of my APLA membership. This was a great investment for me indeed.
Currently, annual APLA membership costs are $110 for a Full Member, $150 for a Family, and $110 for a Pensioner Couple.
Five years ago in 2018, APLA made a detailed (15 pages) submission to the W.A. Government with respect to the impact of the then-current 'Aboriginal Heritage Act' on prospectors and small-scale mining in Western Australia:
Submission-054-Amalgamated-Prospectors-and-Leaseholders-Association-of-Western-Australia
APLA members can also seek quality advice & assistance from the very experienced & knowledgeable officials/Executive Members of APLA (who are often out gold prospecting too ! )
I highly recommend being a member of APLA if you are considering prospecting in Western Australia.
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Generally, the lower the frequency used by the detector, the deeper it can penetrate the ground. At low frequencies however, sensitivity to small low conductive targets is reduced. The higher the frequency, the higher the sensitivity to small targets, but it will not penetrate as deeply.
For example, a Minelab GPX 6000 pulse-induction detector (which operates at a frequency of only about 1.2 kHz) and fitted with a 10x5” monoloop coil (the smallest coil currently available for the GPX 6000), will achieve significantly greater depth capabilities in terms of detecting deeper gold nuggets, particularly in highly mineralised ground, than compared to a Minelab Gold Monster 1000 detector with VLF technology (which operates at a frequency of 45 kHz) and fitted with a 10x6” Double-D coil.
Below are the nominated operating frequencies of a range of Minelab metal detectors:
GPZ 7000: “is configured to operate at a fundamental operating frequency of 3.675 kHz”
GPX 6000: “Operating Frequency of 1.225 kHz”
GPX 5000: "is configured to operate at a fundamental operating frequency of 5 kHz"
SDC 2300: "the transmit frequency is about 3 kHz"
Gold Monster 1000: "uses an intermediate 45 kHz frequency”
CTX 3030: "Simultaneous multiple frequency transmission ranging from 1.5 to 100 kHz”
MANTICORE: "Simultaneous multiple frequency transmission ranging from 5 to 40 kHz” (as well as the options of 5 selectable individual frequencies of 5, 10, 15, 20 and 40 kHz). The Minelab Instruction Manual also includes the following information: “MANTICORE does not have a 4 kHz single frequency setting. Instead, the All-Terrain High Conductors Search Mode provides a Multi IQ+ based mode that can achieve an operating frequency even lower than 4 kHz.”
EQUINOX 900: "Simultaneous multiple frequency transmission ranging from 4 to 40 kHz” (as well as the options of 6 selectable individual frequencies of 4, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 40 kHz).
EQUINOX 700: "Simultaneous multiple frequency transmission ranging from 4 to 15 kHz” (as well as the options of 4 selectable individual frequencies of 4, 5, 10, and 15 kHz).
X-TERRA PRO: "Single frequency transmission ranging from 5 to 15 kHz” (options of 4 selectable individual frequencies of 5, 8, 10, and 15 kHz).
[By comparison - Minelab's series of 'Pro-Find' pinpointers (15, 35 & 40) all have an operating frequency of about 11.6 kHz]
Different Coil Configurations
Monoloop coils (often called “Mono” coils) are a popular type of coil for Minelab detectors operating with Pulse-Induction (P.I.) technology. These coils have a winding of wire around the circumference of the coil, which is used to both transmit and receive.
The theoretical detection signal pattern of the Monoloop coil is quasi-cone-shaped, requiring more overlapping. In extremely heavily mineralised grounds they can be more difficult to ground balance, however they tend to provide slightly better depth than the ‘Double-D’ (DD) type of coils.
Many Monoloop coils are elliptical-shaped, and hence have better pinpointing capabilities on small nuggets, than compared to an equivalent sized round coil.
Alternatively, “Double-D” coils (often designated “DD” coils) are a popular type of coil for Minelab detectors operating with Very Low Frequency (VLF) technology.
A Double-D coil has two overlapping wire windings in the shape of two D’s. The benefits of a Double-D coil are stability (especially in heavily mineralised ground), good depth, sensitivity and a thorough search pattern requiring less overlap.
When used on the Minelab GPX 4000/4500/4800/5000 series of detectors, Double-D coils (unlike Monoloop coils) are able to discriminate between ferrous and non-ferrous targets when the Iron Reject function is activated.
Double-D coils are also more stable when used on wet salt beach sand, and also in electrically noisy environments.
Given the same diameter of coils, Double-D coils tend to be slightly heavier than an equivalent sized Monoloop coil.
Conventional configuration Monoloop (“Mono”) coils, and Double-D coils, would both not operate effectively with the ZVT technology used by the Minelab GPZ 7000 detector. Hence, Minelab invented the ‘Super-D’ configuration coils (sometimes referred to as a “DOD” configuration coil).
The Minelab Super-D coils consist of two symmetric D shaped receive windings (one on the left and one on the right), with a central, oval-shaped transmit winding. This Super-D coils winding geometry provides a double audio response for shallow targets, and a single audio response for deeper targets.
This configuration greatly decreases interference from magnetic soils, reducing ground noise.
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Minelab manufacture an extensive range of about 20 different models of metal detectors, including a range of Very Low Frequency (VLF) technology detectors, and also a range of detectors featuring Pulse Induction (P.I.) technology.
Nearly half of the range of Minelab metal detectors also include wireless Bluetooth headphones in the detector kit when purchased new.
‘Gold Rat’ stock a range of Minelab headphones:
Minelab Koss UR-30 (cable) headphones are compatible for the SD/GP/GPX series detectors, and also the SDC2300, GPZ 7000, CTX 3030, Safari, E-TRAC and X-TERRA series detectors.
ML 80 wireless headphones
The Minelab ML 80 Low Latency (Bluetooth aptX) wireless headphones are compatible for use with EQUINOX 600, EQUINOX 800 and Vanquish 540 detectors. The ML80 headphones will not work with the Equinox 700 and 900.
ML 85 and ML 105 wireless headphones
The Minelab ML 85 & ML105 Low Latency wireless headphones are both compatible for use with MANTICORE, EQUINOX 900, EQUINOX 700 and X-TERRA PRO detectors. The ML85 & ML105 headphones are not compatible with Minelab Equinox 600/800 detectors – that are compatible with the ML80 or ML100 Bluetooth headphones.
ML 100 headphones for the GPX 6000 detector (Bluetooth aptX Low-Latency).
The ML 100 headphones will operate for approximately 24 hours on a fully charged battery and take around 3.5 hours to charge.
The GPX 6000 can pair and connect with normal (A2DP) Bluetooth headphones and other aptX Low Latency Bluetooth headphones, including the Minelab ML 80 headphones. When connected to aptX Low Latency headphones, there will be a + symbol next to the Bluetooth icon on the detector LCD screen to indicate this.
Waterproof Headphones - compatible for use with MANTICORE, EQUINOX series and X-TERRA PRO detectors.
Minelab Pro-Sonic Universal Wireless Audio System Kit
The Pro-Sonic wireless audio system is compatible with many Minelab detectors including the SDC 2300, GPX series, Gold Monster 1000, GPZ 7000, and X-TERRA series.
‘Gold Rat’ also stock a range of other brands of headphones that are compatible with Minelab detectors:
MDX150 headphones:
The MDX150 wired (cable) headphones were designed for the Minelab GPX6000 metal detector (not waterproof). They are also compatible with the Minelab Equinox series (600/700/800/900) detectors, and also the new Minelab X-Terra Pro detector. These are an affordable, and comfortable set of reliable wired headphones, with crystal clear audio, and loud volume across the full range of tones. These headphones can not be used underwater.
SteelPhase Pro Series headphones (300 Ohm)
'Phase Technical' is an Australian business that is owned and operated by experienced detectorist and product tester, Nenad Lonic. Nenad Lonic is extremely knowledgeable about Minelab detectors. He is also a manufacturer of quality detector accessories under his own 'SteelPhase' brand name.
The 'SteelPhase' Pro Series headphones are built using high quality aviator muffs for excellent comfort and sound isolation. Highly sensitive 300 Ohm driver elements are used to deliver crisp signal responses. They have a nice bass response as well, for a punchy response on those deep signals.
Designed to be an ideal match to the SteelPhase sP01 'Audio Enhancement System', but will also work direct into detectors which have good volume output such as the GPZ7000, GPX4500/4800/5000, as well as VLF detectors.
The Pro Series features gel/foam filled ear pads and headband, a feature not previously available on prospecting headphones, which offers extreme comfort for extended periods of use.
Adaptor Leads are required for use with the SDC2300, and the GPX6000.
Gray Ghost Amphibian II Headphones
Gray Ghost Amphibian II Headphones are 100% waterproof and totally submersible to a maximum of 200 feet. They feature a convenient foldable design, and are made in the USA.
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The rechargeable Minelab Lithium-ion battery for the GPX 6000 lasts for approximately eight (8) hours. It takes about 5 to 6 hours to re-charge from flat. It is rated at a nominal 7.2Volts, with a capacity of 5833mAh (5.83 Ah) / 42Wh. It weighs about 0.3kg. All new Minleab batteries have a 12-months Warranty in Australia.
‘Gold Rat Metal Detectors’ usually have several of the GPX 6000 batteries in stock, and they cost about $240.
Here are some tips for general use, and also for pro-longing the lifetime, of a GPX 6000 battery:
1. Ideally, keep all loose/spare batteries individually isolated & protected within waterproof & dustproof, sealed plastic bags when not in use. This also prevents a potential short-circuit of the battery and possibly causing a fire. I also store my Lithium batteries within a bubble-wrap pouch – for padded protection against possible impact e.g. via dropping them etc. Broken or cracked battery cases can allow moisture and oxygen to enter the battery and oxidise the Lithium components, causing a heat reaction. This can lead to fires or explosions.
2. Keep the battery terminal contacts clean on both the detector, and also on the battery, otherwise a bad contact may cause the detector to cut off when it is turned on – since the detector control box is unable to receive a consistent & suitable electrical power input to function properly.
Minelab have issued a Product Notice guide - "showing how to effectively clean your detector terminals to prevent low battery run times and intermittent powering off when using your GPX 6000."
3. Always follow proper battery charging procedures, especially with Lithium-ion batteries i.e. if possible, fully charge the battery following each day of use, and also remove the battery from the charger as soon as practicable after it being fully charged (i.e. do not leave Lithium batteries charging & unattended on chargers for tens-of-hours or days after being fully charged). Don't charge Lithium batteries when they are hot.
4. I periodically use a digital multi-meter to check that my batteries are OK – that my GPX 6000 batteries each contain a maximum (fully-charged) voltage of between 8 and 8.2 Volts (a suitable maximum holding voltage – as recommended by Minelab Australia).
5. I have three Minelab Lithium-ion batteries for my GPX 6000 (for when I was gold prospecting in the bush for 7 to 10 days at a time on my regular trips) – which I individually numbered – and I regularly rotated battery usage so that they all were being used & charged equally – for equal longevity.
6. Most days when I am detecting - I change the battery at midday (after about 3 to 4hrs use) and then use another fully charged battery for my afternoon sessions of detecting.
7. Only use the Minelab-recommended/approved chargers for charging GPX 6000 batteries. Otherwise, you may be taking unnecessary risks that could endanger.
8. Don’t leave Lithium batteries within closed/hot vehicles e.g. upon the dashboard exposed to the sun etc.
9. Having a padded control box cover (like the Aussie-made 'Double-D' padded canvas covers) not only protects the detector control box and battery against inpact forces, but it also provides a thermal shield for the battery against direct sunlight and heat radiation.
Minelab provide the following recommendations in their GPX 6000 User Manual (Page 25) with respect to the batteries:
• “The battery pack is not waterproof — Do not immerse the battery pack in any liquid or allow water ingress.
• Only charge rechargeable batteries and accessories according to the instructions provided.
• Avoid charging rechargeable batteries and accessories in extreme temperature conditions.
• Remove battery prior to air transportation”
]]>Spring has sprung ….. and so have the “Joe Blakes” (SNAKES) !
Due to warmer and drier conditions forecast this year in Australia, it is anticipated that snakes may become more active.
Unfortunately, a man recently died in Queensland following a snake bite incident.
According to official statistics, Eastern Brown snakes are responsible for the majority of snake bite deaths in Australia. Up to 65 per cent of fatalities between 2000 and 2016 were attributed to an Eastern Brown snake, which is found across most of eastern Australia.
A total of 29 PEOPLE DIED from various snake bites between 2010 to 2019 in Australia.
About THREE THOUSAND (3,000) snake bites are reported each year in Australia.
Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) data revealed more than 800 people were bitten by snakes in Queensland each year from 2020 to 2022. In January 2023 alone, 97 people were bitten in Queensland.
Six out of 8 (three-quarters, i.e. 75%) of the fatal snake bites in Australia since January 2020 have occurred in Queensland.
A QAS spokesperson said MOST SNAKE BITES OCCUR ON THE LOWER LIMBS, and many happen when people are trying to kill or move a snake.
Fangs
An adult Coastal Taipan snake has fangs up to about 0.5 inches (12mm = 1.2cm) long. In comparison, an adult Eastern Brown snake has significantly shorter fangs of only approximately 3mm long.
A recent ABC News report included the following information about the Taipan:
"The Taipan is listed as one of the world's most dangerous and venomous snakes. Its venom works fast, attacking the heart, the blood stream and the nervous system, causing paralysis and convulsions while the patient's skin turns black."
Gold Rat sell Aussie-made gaiters (in canvas, or leather), and also snake bite first aid kits.
My tips ..... when it comes to snakes (based on my experience in the bush throughout Australia over several decades):
1. Always wear fully-enclosed shoes (preferably leather boots), thick socks, long trousers, and also high-quality gaiters - that cover the whole of the lower legs up to the knee. The other advantage of wearing gaiters (as I know from experience) - is that my high-quality gaiters also prevent the penetration of spinifex needles from harming me.
2. Never run through high grass.
3. Never immediately reach down to the ground & move objects such as sheets of iron, logs, timber, boulders etc. - without firstly assuming a snake could be concealed under/behind such objects. Use a long-handled item such as a long stick or pole (or a long-handled shovel) to initially hit-impact such an object to reveal/or rule out the presence of a snake. Also wear thick leather gloves if possible.
4. Always carry (including when walking) appropriate/quailty First-Aid equipment, and also know how to apply First Aid properly , and also carry a recently-tested Personal Locator Beacon (or EPIRB).
A question to consider .......
Do Minelab pulse-induction metal detectors, when operating, repel snakes or not ?
I wonder !
Interestingly, I read that scientists from two Queensland universities recently found that some Australian snakes such as Taipans, brown snakes & death adders can hear, as well as sense vibrations.
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The Differences between a Meteorite, and an Impactite, and a Tektite
In the simplest terms –
A Meteorite is a piece of rock or metal that has fallen to the earth's surface from outer space as a meteor. Not all meteorites consist of metals. Most meteorites (about 95%) that have been recovered on Earth are of the ‘Stony’ type.
Meteorites of high density are heavier, and strongly attracted to a magnet due to the amount of Iron and Nickel they contain. Most of the largest meteorites ever recovered on the mainland of Australia are of the Iron-Nickel Type. These are one of the least common types of meteorites found (only about 4% are of the Iron-nickel type). In fact, the largest recorded meteorite found in Australia was officially discovered in 1966 and it weighed over 12-Tonnes.
A Tektite is a terrestrial molten rock fragment ejected out of the crater during a meteor impacts.
Tektites are small, black blobs that might pass for hardened bits of asphalt but they are actually glassy stones. They commonly take on distinctive regular shapes like teardrops, jelly-beans, dumbbells, and interesting flanged buttons that look like the tops of large rivets with the stems melted off. Tektites are found strewn about on the ground in widely separated "fields" around the world, the largest of which covers most of Australia. Many prospectors find tektites throughout Central Australia and the south part of Western Australia.
An Impactite is a terrestrial rock modified by the high stresses of pressure and temperature during a meteorite impact. It is generally the rocks present in the impact crater. It can also include brecciated rock materials, and shatter cones.
XRF Testing of Metallic Specimens
Some jewellers, and gold/jewellery buyers, use a portable/handheld X-Ray Fluorescence analyser (commonly called an “XRF gun”) to non-destructively test items - in order to determine their metallic composition. XRF guns can cost in the order of tens-of-thousands of dollars to buy.
Accordingly, suspected metallic meteorites can be tested by an XRF gun to quantify the percentages of metals present.
If you have a piece of metal that does attract a magnet, and you want to know if it is an iron-nickel meteorite - then you could try and obtain an XRF analysis for the elements of: Iron (Fe), Nickel (Ni), Cobalt (Co), Chromium (Cr), and Manganese (Mn).
Iron-nickel meteorites will typically contain about: 75 to 95% Fe, 5 to 25% Ni, 0.2 to 2% Co, and less than 0.05 % each of Cr and Mn. The nickel/cobalt ratio in meteoritic metal is usually in the 10 to 25 range. If the metal contains more than 0.05% Chromium or Manganese - then it is NOT a meteorite.
Recently, a customer visited our store to seek advice about some interesting metallic specimens he had detected in Queensland. The customer suspected they may have been iron-nickel meteorites. I was informed that the specimens were very heavy, and very-strongly attracted to a magnet. I was advised that subsequent XRF analysis results indicated the following composition: Fe 97.65%, Mn 1.2%, Ni 0.68% and Cr 0.56%. Based on the absence of Cobalt, and also the Manganese & Chromium contents both significantly exceeding 0.05% - these XRF results indicated that the subject tested specimen is NOT an iron-nickel meteorite.
What is a Widmanstätten pattern ?
The Widmanstätten pattern (also known as Thomson structures) is a distinctive formation of interweaving (cross-hatched) lines that appear in some Iron-Nickel meteorites when a cut & polished cross-section of such a metallic meteorite is etched with weak acid.
The methods used to reveal the Widmanstätten pattern in iron meteorites vary. Most commonly, the meteorite is firstly faceted or cut/sliced, then an exposed face is ground and polished, then cleaned, and etched with an acidic etchant (e.g. a mixture of 1-part Hydrochloric Acid, added to 2-parts Hydrogen Peroxide in a non-metallic container). Then the prepared specimen is washed, and dried.
Can I keep a meteorite I found in Australia ?
That depends on WHEN ? HOW ? and WHERE ? you found a meteorite in Australia.
Most of the States (and Territories) in Australia have laws (since from about the 1970’s/1980’s) which deem any meteorites found in those particular States to be the property of the Crown or State.
However, those laws do not apply to other specimens like Tektites (Australites) and Impactites – that are also often formed when a meteorite impacts the ground. Sometimes Tektites and Impactites are also found near an impact crater.
Queensland’s Fossicking laws prohibit the collection of meteorites in Queensland whilst fossicking.
However, it is my understanding that if a person was in Queensland or New South Wales, AND was lawfully permitted to be upon such land AND also permitted to remove any specimens found on such land, AND if by way of chance discovery (e.g. NOT fossicking in Queensland) found a suspected/unconfirmed specimen – then they would be able to take possession of such a specimen.
Can I lawfully sell a meteorite I found/acquired in Australia ?
If you lawfully found a meteorite in Australia, or lawfully acquired a meteorite within Australia – then you are lawfully permitted to sell the subject meteorite within Australia.
In 2021, an ABC News report was published online stating that in 2016 two men, who were reportedly fossicking for gold on Western Creek Station, near Georgetown in North Queensland, detected (using a Minelab pulse-induction metal detector) a meteorite weighing 24.3 kilograms. It was also reported that they sold this Iron-nickel meteorite to ‘Geoscience Australia’ for AU$200,000 (i.e. over AU$8 per gram).
Similarly, to the above 24.3kg meteorite being detected on Western Creek Station – in April 2016 I was informed by an Australian prospector that in early 2016 he was gold prospecting using a Minelab GPX 5000 detector on the eastern part of Western Creek Station (near Georgetown) where he detected a 9.6kg metallic specimen (a suspected Iron-Nickel meteorite) at a depth of about 0.4 metres.
The sale of a meteorite in Australia to an overseas buyer is prohibited without an official export permit pursuant to Commonwealth laws.
Recent Unusual Meteor Sighting in Australia
In May 2023 it was reported that a fireball lit up the sky in Queensland between Mackay and the Gulf of Carpentaria. NASA confirmed that this meteor was the LARGEST recorded over Australia in at least 30 years.
When it exploded, the meteor had an altitude of about 30 kilometres above Blackbull, a small rural locality between the Gulf communities of Normanton and Croydon, in north-west Queensland.
The data also revealed the meteor was travelling at a velocity of almost 30 kilometres per second. Scientists estimated that the meteor had a diameter of about 3.5 metres (of equivalent size to an average caravan) and weighed about 80 tonnes.
My further enquiries with NASA obtained additional data indicating that when the meteor was detected travelling from an altitude of 100km, down to 30km altitude, it was heading approximately Westwards (with an approximate bearing of 280 degrees), whilst falling at an angle of about 40 degrees.
Due to the blue and green colours of the meteor fireball observed, it is suspected by scientists that this meteorite was a metallic (Iron-nickel) meteorite.
Will fragments of this meteorite be found in Queensland ? - including perhaps by someone using a metal detector ?
NASA data also indicates that in recent years (since 2014), there have been several significant fireball events detected in North Queensland.
Where in Australia have meteorites been found ?
The following free on-line search database contains over 700 records of various types/sizes (and photos of) meteorites that were found in Australia over the past few centuries:
https://encyclopedia-of-meteorites.com/Meteorites
In recent years a few large meteorites have been detected on Western Creek Station in North Queensland by gold prospectors using Minelab detectors featuring pulse-induction technology.
Suitable Detectors & Coils for Meteorite Hunting
Meteorites containing sufficient quantities of iron/nickel (including the 'Stony-Irons' Meteorite Types) are detectable with a metal detector. Since metallic meteorite fragments are sometimes strewn about an impact crater, often for many kilometres away from the crater, then a suitable metal detector is a lightweight detector with a large coil – which is ideal for quicker ground coverage, and also greater depth capability.
Many meteorite hunters use a lightweight, Very Low Frequency (VLF) technology detector fitted with a 15-inch DD coil.
Recently released Minelab VLF detectors – which can operate using a variety of DD coils ranging in size from 6 inch diameter up to 15 inch diameter - include the X-TERRA PRO ($499), and Equinox 700 ($1,079), and Equinox 900 ($1,499).
Both Minelab, and Coiltek, manufacture a 15-inch diameter coil for these VLF detectors – priced at about $400 to $450.
Furthermore, in about early December 2023, Coiltek released a new BIGGER coil - the Coiltek 18" NOX coil ($470). It is a DD configuration coil of 18-inches (45cm) diameter - that is also compatible with the Minelab Equinox range of detectors, and also the Minelab X-TERRA PRO detector. This coil weighs nearly 1kg, is rated as waterproof to a depth of up to 5 metres, and carries a Coiltek Warranty for 2 years.
You don’t necessarily need a more expensive & heavier Pulse Induction (P.I.) technology metal detector to detect metallic meteorites. Other than a VLF detector, some meteorite hunters also use a lightweight, telescopic walking stick – fitted with a strong, rare-earth magnet attached near the end closest to the ground.
Tektites (which are of a glassy composition) are not detectable by a metal detector. Most are found by sight – often discovered washed down to low points (“sumps”) in the terrain (e.g. gullies or clay pans or salt lakes).
Many prospectors detect so-called “Hot Rocks” throughout Australia. Often many prospectors will simply discard such metallic specimens without further examination of them.
Mostly, such “Hot Rocks” are of terrestrial origin, and sometimes they can contain minerals such as gold. I have detected several hot rocks in W.A., and upon breaking them, I found they contained gold either in the form of a nugget, or a specimen, or concentrated gold mineralisation.
If such hot rocks are very heavy (e.g. like the weight of iron steel), and also highly magnetic, and also have smooth indentations (called “regmaglypts”) on the outer surface - then perhaps the specimen may be more than just a highly-mineralised, terrestrial hot rock ? ….. possibly a meteorite ?
Meteorites containing Gold ? ?
Over the decades, I have heard many explanations/theories (including from experienced geologists and prospectors) on how gold was formed on planet Earth. Most theories relate to terrestrial formation processes. In recent years, some scientists believe that gold was deposited upon earth by meteorites. A study published in 2011 suggested that:
"A massive meteor bombardment 3.9 billion years ago provided most of the gold and other precious metals found near the Earth's surface today"
Interestingly, a United States Geological Survey report published in 1968 stated that:
"The reported gold contents of meteorites range from 0.0003 to 8.74 parts per million. Gold is siderophilic, and the greatest amounts in meteorites are in the iron phases. Estimates of the gold content of the earth's crust are in the range of 0.001 to 0.006 parts per million."
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A hearing impairment alone should not prevent a person from effectively using a metal detector. Furthermore, digging up gold nuggets, or coins, or jewellery, or relics, certainly does not require hearing.
With tactile/vibrational feedback solutions now available, there is a range of options of new Minelab detectors for people with hearing impairment.
Recently released Minelab detectors - with the optional feature of HANDLE VIBRATION - include the X-TERRA PRO ($499), and Equinox 700 ($1,079), and Equinox 900 ($1,549), and MANTICORE ($2,349).
There is also the unique Minelab SDC 2300 ($3,999) – a highly compact, robust, & waterproof detector, featuring extremely fast Pulse-Induction (PI) technology - that is especially suited for sub-gram gold nugget hunting on land and underwater – which features an LED display (above the handle) that provides a visual indication of target size & proximity. This detector has been very popular, particularly in Australia, for many good reasons.
‘LUCKY KNUCKLE’ Speaker/Target LED Light packs
The Target LED Light Pack allows you to change the audio from your detector to a visual indicator. This is ideal for those with hearing issues, or those who prefer quiet detecting. Features include:
• Adjustable between light & sound
• Sound On/Off switch
• Light sunshade & diffuser
The 3 LED Light pack is suitable for the Minelab SDC 2300 and GPZ 7000 detectors.
The 2 LED Light pack is suitable for the Minelab SDC 2300, GPX 4500/5000, and GPZ 7000 detectors.
‘Gold-Tec Australia’ “have developed and designed hearing impairment aid device using the latest Audio/ Haptic Technology to help you with your partial or profound hearing loss.” …..
“The QUAVAR-PI is design for persons with a hearing impairment, who are or desire to be Detectorists. The device offers tactile perception delivered by an haptic transducer to the operator. The detector does not require to be operated without audio. The QUAVAR-PI has the ability to discern between proper and false targets. For beginners this aid will make it easier in reducing false targets and having to do less digging.”
Another option to consider is the use of Bone Conduction Headphones, including an option of wireless connectivity via aptX Low Latency codec. Minelab detectors such as the X-Terra Pro, Equinox range, MANTICORE, and GPX 6000 are compatible with aptX Low Latency / Bluetooth headphones.
Bone conduction headphones use vibrations to transmit sound directly to your inner ear through the bones located in your upper cheek and jaw. Your cochlea, inner ear, does not realise that the sound is coming from the bones rather than the eardrum. Your brain processes the sounds vibrations in the same way as if they came via your ear-drum, meaning you can hear sound clearly.
Pin Pointers
There is also a range of waterproof, hand-held pin-pointers – that feature both vibrational & LED light functions, including:
Minelab PRO-FIND 35
Garrett Pro-Pointer AT
Garrett Pro-Pointer II
Nokta Pointer
Nokta PulseDive Pointer
Nokta PulseDive 2-in-1 Underwater Metal Detector
So please don’t let a hearing issue prevent you, or a family-member, or a friend, from pursuing a passion for metal detecting or prospecting. You may be more than surprised at what you find !
The Minelab GPX 6000 detector has now been available for nearly 2 years. Many prospectors throughout Australia have re-visited goldfields, including their “fav” patches, that they considered “flogged” and then unleashed the GPX 6000 over such areas to find even more gold, including at depth.
The popularity of the GPX 6000 is not only due to its high performance, but also because it is of relatively light weight (50% lighter than the Minelab GPZ 7000), and it is very easy to use - even for “newbie” detectorists, and budding “prospectors”. It also costs approximately 20% less (a few thousand dollars less) than the Minelab GPZ 7000.
Now, there are even more coil options available for the GPX 6000 detector. In fact, there are currently more coil options available for the GPX 6000 than for the GPZ 7000.
With Minelab’s approval, long-time Aussie coil-maker ‘COILTEK’ recently released a range of 3 different sized Monoloop (“Mono”) coils for the GPX 6000. These are named the ‘Goldhawk’ series of coils.
The Coiltek Goldhawk coils (very pale tan coloured) are rated as waterproof to 1-metre depth, have a 2-Year Warranty, and include the following sizes/weights:
9 inches round - cost $609 (weighs 700 grams)
10x5 inches - cost $579 (weighs 575 grams)
14x9 inches – cost $639 (weighs 900 grams)
Feedback so far, including from many gold hunters throughout Australia, has been impressive as to how stable (smooth & quiet) the coils run, and how sensitive they are to all sizes of gold nuggets, with great depth capabilities.
Many people also prefer the elliptical shaped coils, for not only ease of use in confined areas/less-open ground/more vegetated ground, but also for better pinpointing capability than a round coil.
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One of the newest Minelab metal detectors is the MANTICORE – which was only recently released in early 2023.
The MANTICORE is the new big brother to the also-newly-released Equinox 900.
The MANTICORE is a high-performance metal detector featuring ‘MULTI-IQ PLUS’ Simultaneous Multi-Frequency technology. It also features an advanced two-dimensional target identification (ID) mapping system on the display screen (which is different to the ‘Target Trace’ mapping system on the now decade-old-plus Minelab CTX 3030 detector).
The different Audio Themes available, and also the range of adjustability of the Target Tones (in terms of Regions, Volume & Pitch) to create customised discrimination patterns is great, especially for targeting particular targets e.g. various coins.
It is very lightweight (nearly half of the weight of a CTX 3030) - due in part to the 3-piece carbon fibre shaft that collapses down to a very compact length of about only 2-feet (63cm). It is very comfortable to use due to the ergonomic handle and a super-quick-adjustable ‘Scorpion’ armrest.
It is waterproof to 5 metres, with an IP68 rating.
It also has 10 different/specific Search Modes for the three typical detecting locations of ‘ALL-TERRAIN’ and ‘BEACH’ and ‘GOLDFIELD’.
The All-Terrain High Conductors search mode is a high-powered search mode, and it provides a MULTI-IQ PLUS based mode that can achieve an operating frequency range from even lower than 4kHZ, and up to 40kHz.
The Pinpoint Mode is also very good for quickly narrowing down the location of a buried target – with the Pinpoint Bar visualisation on the display screen being very simple to understand (A separate pinpointer device can also be very handy at times too).
Typical battery runtime varies from about 7hrs (set on All-Terrain High Conductors search mode) up to about 10hrs (set on other search modes such as All-Terrain General). Battery charging time is approximately 7hours. For extended trips away, where battery charging is difficult/unlikely, it is possible to run the MANTICORE (only in dry conditions) whilst plugged into a portable power bank (connected using the supplied USB charging cable). As an approximate guide, a fully-charged power bank of say, about 5000mAh capacity, can provide up to about an extra 8hrs of use (Caution: DO NOT run the detector underwater, or during rain, or in a wet/salty environment when connected to the power bank).
The MANTICORE kit includes a round 11” ‘Smart’ DD coil, and high-quality low-latency wireless (Bluetooth) headphones contained within a zippered storage case, type USB-A charging cable, and five spare screen protectors, and it costs AU$2,499.
Minelab also plan to release a larger coil - an elliptical 15x12” Smart DD coil (also waterproof to 5metres depth) for those seeking greater ground coverage, and also more detection depth (the release date & cost has not yet been released by Minelab).
The MANTICORE detector (similar to the CTX 3030 and the GPZ 7000 detectors) contains software that can be updated if/when Minelab releases such updates in the future.
After using both the Equinox 800 and 900 detectors (I was impressed by the capabilities of them both, including them each having a ‘GOLD’ search mode), I have subsequently used the MANTICORE in the bush (on mineralised ground littered with both ferrous & non-ferrous trash), and also on the beach in both wet and also dry sand. WOW!
Check out some of my finds (of coins & jewellery) after unleashing the MANTICORE for only several days.
Operation, and Maintenance Tips:
1. Avoid handling the detector, and touching the screen, with chemicals or solvents, including sunscreen, insect repellents etc.
2. When changing the Search Mode, or the Frequency setting, do a continuous auto noise cancel – that is, press & hold (“long push”) the auto noise cancel button until the noise cancel channel on the screen settles on a single value, and then release the button. Also use Tracking Ground Balance - as it continuously monitors the ground signal and adjusts the ground balance to ensure it is always set correctly. When ground balancing, pump the coil in an up-and-down vertical motion, and then sweep the coil horizontally and low from side-to-side – in order to obtain a better scan-read on a greater area of ground (This ground balancing technique also works well for the GPX 6000 and GPZ 7000 pulse-induction detectors).
3. Regularly inspect the coil for any damage, and very carefully/gently remove the coil skid plate to clean out any dust and soil that may possibly congregate over time.
4. Immediately after detecting at the beach or in saltwater, rinse all parts of the detector with fresh water. Avoid wiping the detector to remove sand as this may cause the sand to scratch the detector.
5. After detecting in a dusty environment, you can use a soft bristle brush to gently clean the coil and detector.
6. Ideally, fully charge the Lithium-ion battery after each day of use. If the detector battery is not used for extended periods, then ideally it should be fully charged at least every 3 to 4 months to maintain a high level of battery capacity and hence detector performance.
7. If/when transporting a power bank and/or the USB charging cable for field trips – it is always best to store it in a waterproof & dust-proof bag (I use a plastic clip-seal bag, including when it is stored within my padded carry bag).
**************************************************************************************************************************************** MANTICORE SOFTWARE UPDATE AVAILABLE
As of mid-June 2023 Minelab released a Software Upgrade for the MANTICORE detector.
https://www.minelab.com/anzea/manticore-software-upgrade
****************************************************************************************************************************************
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Gold Search Modes on the Minelab Equinox 900 & MANTICORE detectors
If you are not keen on spending several thousand dollars on a Pulse-Induction “gold-specific” metal detector, and would prefer to get an “All-Rounder” (coin/relic/gold) detector, at a fraction of the cost, that is lightweight, with discrimination & pinpointing capabilities - that you can use on beaches, and/or in parks, and/or in the bush including in gold-bearing terrain, or underwater – then Minelab have several great new options for your consideration.
Minelab recently released two new detectors - the Equinox 900 and the MANTICORE.
Both these 'VLF' detectors feature Simultaneous Multi-Frequency technology, including operating frequencies of between about 5 and 40 kHz, as well as the options of selectable single frequencies.
These two new Minelab detectors have a significant number of segments of Discrimination Scale. The Equinox 900 has 119 Target ID numbers (from -19 to 99), and the Manticore has 100 Target ID's numbers (from 0 to 99). By comparison the older Equinox 800 only has 50 Target ID numbers.
Interestingly, the Equinox 900 detector kit also includes two Double-D coils (the 11 inch, and 6 inch coils), whereas the Manticore currently only has an 11 inch Double-D coil available. Having the Equinox 6 inch Double-D coil is an advantage in terms of hunting small (sub-gram) gold nuggets, particularly in trashy areas (e.g. on old goldfields and nearby bush camps), and also in confined spaces to swing (e.g. in narrow gullies, including those highly vegetated, and areas covered in boulders or fallen timber etc.).
Both these new detectors also include excellent, low latency, wireless (Bluetooth) headphones. They also both feature a built-in Lithium-ion battery (within the handle), a built-in speaker, and LED flashlight (for nighttime use). They both only weigh about 1.3kg (The Minelab GPZ 7000 detector weighs about 3.3kg).
All new Minelab detectors have a 3 Year Warranty.
Both these detectors also have Search Modes suited for gold nugget prospecting.
The Equinox 900 has two gold search modes – designated as ‘Gold Profile 1’ (for “Normal Ground”) and ‘Gold Profile 2’ (for “Difficult Ground”), whereas the Manticore only has one gold search mode – designated as ‘Goldfield - General’ (suitable for benign to moderately mineralised ground).
Minelab explain these different Search Modes for the respective new detector as follows:
Equinox 900
“Gold Profile 1* — Normal Ground Gold 1 is suitable for searching for small gold nuggets in ‘mild’ ground. Most goldfield locations have a variable level of iron mineralisation that will require an ongoing Ground Balance adjustment, therefore Tracking Ground Balance is the default setting. The audio Threshold Level and Threshold Pitch is optimised for hunting gold nuggets. Gold 1 Multi-IQ processes a high frequency weighted multi-frequency signal, while ground balancing for mineralised soil.
Gold Profile 2* — Difficult Ground Gold 2 is best for searching for deeper gold nuggets in ‘difficult’ ground conditions. Gold 2 has a lower Recovery Speed, which will increase detection depth. However, more ground noise in more heavily mineralised grounds may result. Tracking Ground Balance is the default setting. The audio Threshold Level and Threshold Pitch is optimised for hunting gold nuggets. Gold 2 Multi-IQ processes a high frequency weighted multi-frequency signal, while ground balancing for mineralised soil.”
Minelab also state that when using the Equinox 900 in either of the two gold search modes, the user could typically expect the detection of gold nuggets to have a positive Target ID number, with a low number.
“Difficult Gold Areas — Hot Rocks ‘Hot’ rocks are commonly found in gold prospecting locations. These are rocks that are mineralised differently to the surrounding ground. A highly mineralised rock buried in mildly mineralised ground would be considered to be a hot rock. Hot rocks can easily be mistaken for gold nuggets. The Target ID can assist here, with hot rocks typically having a negative Target ID number and gold having a positive ID in the very low conductive range.”
Manticore
“Goldfield – General: suitable for small nuggets in benign to moderate soil mineralisation conditions.
Goldfield General Mode is for gold prospecting. Generally, gold nuggets are found in remote goldfields where the ground is often mineralised and targets are more sparsely distributed. For Goldfield General Mode, the default Audio Theme is set to Prospecting, providing a 'true' threshold tone which maximises sensitivity to weak target signals. When a target is detected, the signal volume and pitch vary proportionally to the strength of the target signal. Most goldfield locations have a variable level of iron mineralisation that requires constant Ground Balance adjustment, therefore Tracking Ground Balance is the default setting. Goldfield Mode is suited to finding smaller surface gold nuggets (and some larger deeper ones) in mineralised ground.”
Typical Target ID Numbers/Air-Depths for Gold Nuggets Recent air-depth testing (non-buried target) using both detectors (set on only medium Sensitivity), and with both coils used on the Equinox 900 - upon a very flat (5mm diameter) 0.27gram (sub-gram) nugget indicated air-depths of about 2 to 3 inches, with Target ID numbers in the range of about 15 to 20.
A sub-gram nugget detected using the Equinox 900 + Minelab Equinox 6-inch Double-D coil.
Equinox/Manticore Target ID numbers for gold nuggets can vary depending on several factors, including the size & shape of the nugget, and also gold purity, including the amount of any other metals present like silver & copper. Larger nuggets (more than a few grams) can indicate Target ID numbers of up to within the range of about 30 to 50.
It makes me wonder …..
(i) Will there be a future upgrade for the Manticore? to provide an additional gold search mode? i.e. similar to the ‘Gold Profile 2’ search mode on the Equinox 900 – that “is best for searching for deeper gold nuggets in difficult ground conditions”.
(ii) Will the proposed Minelab M8 elliptical Double-D coil (8’ x 5.5” size) on the Manticore detector provide increased depth capability in terms of detecting sub-gram gold? - compared to the Equinox 6 inch (‘EQX06’) DD coil on the Equinox 900 detector.
]]>The Minelab Super-D coils have also been designed to have minimal response to the impacts of scraping and knocks to the coil housing - which can cause annoying false signals during detecting e.g. some PI detector coils suffer from this.
The Minelab GPZ14 Super-D coil (which is actually 14’x13’ in size), and the bigger GPZ19 Super-D coil (actually 19’x18’ in size, and weighs 1.83kg), are also both waterproof to a rated depth of 1 metre. The GPZ 7000 detector control box & control panel are NOT rated as waterproof.
Other Features of the GPZ 7000
Unlike the GPX 5000 and GPX 6000 (and most other Minelab detectors), the GPZ 7000 features a concealed coil cable whereby the coil cable (and plug) is housed (internally routed) within the removable lower shaft.
Unlike the GPX 6000, the GPZ 7000 does not have a built-in speaker. However, the GPZ 7000 is supplied with a wireless ‘Audio Module’ speaker (WM12).
With 256 Noise Cancel channels, the GPZ 7000 has enhanced immunity against Electromagnetic Interference (EMI), and hence picks up less atmospheric noise, including from power lines, electrical equipment, and also other metal detectors operating nearby. There are two options to Noise Cancel - either via Auto Noise Cancel function (Default), or manually. Auto is the recommended setting, and may take up to about one minute.
Most people immediately notice the weight difference between the 7000 (3.22kg) and the younger Minelab sibling GPX 6000 (2.1kg) - with the 7000 being about 50% heavier than the 6000.
The use of a quality Bunji/Bungee/Bungy cord can effectively reduce the "swing arm-carried" weight of a detector by at least one-half (50%) e.g. so that the GPZ 7000's "felt weight" is comparable to the full weight of the GPX 6000.
Recommended Techniques for Achieving Optimal Performance
Like other Minelab detectors, good ground balancing techniques are crucial to getting the optimal performance capabilities out of the detector. The initial ground balancing technique for the GPZ 7000 IS DIFFERENT to the technique you should use for a Minelab Pulse Induction (P.I.) detector like the GPX series of detectors. Minelab recommend the following ground balancing technique for the GPZ 7000:
“Ground Balancing VERY IMPORTANT
The best way to ground balance initially after switch on with the Quick Trak trigger depressed, is to sweep the coil in a typical side to side search mode at the expected operating height above the soil surface, e.g. 2–3 cm or whatever the soil saturation or terrain will allow, but at the same time move forward at slightly faster than normal walking speed, so as to cover as much different ground as possible in the first 10 to 12 seconds. The idea during this initial period after turn on, is to expose the detector to as much different soil data as reasonably possible to improve the
initial calibration.
IMPORTANT! DO NOT ground balance using a coil up and down motion (like one would do using a PI detector) initially after turn-on with the Quick Trak trigger depressed. This does not give the initial calibration enough different soil information to calibrate optimally. If ground balance is required again sometime later (but without turning the detector off), ONLY THEN is the usual (PI type of) ground balancing up and down coil motion OK.”
Minelab Software Updates
There have been two software updates released by Minelab for the GPZ 7000.
The first update (released in 2015) related to a new auto ground tracking algorithm, and improved auto ground balance function.
The second update (released in 2017) featured an all-new ‘Ground Smoothing’ function as a primary enhancement. This function provided selectable noise filters that help deal with difficult ground, especially salty soils. A ‘Semi-Auto’ setting was also added to the ‘Ground Balance Mode’ to provide improved ground balance stability.
Yellow Ferrite Ring Ground Balancing
Minelab also recommended the use of their Yellow Ferrite Ring for optimal ground balancing.
Minelab stated:
“It’s very important to Ground Balance the GPZ 7000 using the yellow ferrite at the start of your detecting session. By doing this, any ferrite-like components encountered in the soil will not cause any false signal audio responses. The updated software shows the use of the yellow ferrite as part of the animated guide sequence when you follow the Quick Start/Quick-Trak process. (This is also a way to determine if a GPZ 7000 detector has the new software installed.)”
Accessories included with the Minelab GPZ 7000 detector
Accessories included in the Minelab GPZ 7000 box (in addition to the detector + Minelab GPZ14 coil) are:
Quick-Detachable Control (Guide) Arm + WM12 Wireless Audio Module + KOSS headphones + Pro-Swing 45 Harness + battery charger & charging cables.
Optional Coils
The Australian company ‘Nugget Finder’ (NF) recently released the Minelab-approved ‘Z-Search’ range of non-spoked coils, namely a 17x13" elliptical coil, and also a 12" round coil. These coils have a DOD configuration, a 3year Warranty, and are rated as water resistant to 1metre. These NF coils also include a Minelab lower shaft.
Several incredible gold nuggets have been discovered in Australia over the past 8 years using the GPZ 7000, including down to depths of about 1 metre, and no doubt yet more big nuggets will continue to be unearthed.
In Victoria a Miner's Right only costs about $30 and is valid for 10 years. In Victoria recreational prospecting is permitted under a Miner's Right across most of the state’s 3.1 Million hectares of state forests as well as other public lands. This equates to about 10% of the total land area of Victoria. The Geological Survey of Victoria estimates there may be as much as 75 Million ounces of undiscovered gold in northern Victoria – almost as much gold as has been discovered across the entire state since 1851.
In order to increase regional and remote tourism in Queensland, and in particular, encourage more recreational activities, including for families (e.g. bush exploration, camping and prospecting/metal detecting), perhaps the Qld Govt. should seriously consider designating far more new areas of land (i.e. in excess of an additional 100,000 Hectares), preferably within known gold-bearing regions, for recreational prospecting by holders of a Qld Fossicking Licence.
Over the past two centuries, many State Governments, and towns too, have been saved from financial ruin via the discovery of goldfields, and the subsequent, many benefits of exploration, prospecting and mining.
For example,
In 1866, nearly a decade after its formation, the Australian colony of Queensland was experiencing a recession, exacerbated by a prolonged drought. Queensland was on the edge of bankruptcy. The discovery of significant amounts of gold near Gympie saved Queensland from financial ruin.
With respect to Western Australia - Gold’s value had increased significantly, and between 1886 and 1900, 88% of W.A.’s export income was attributed to gold.
The gold industry in W.A. survived the challenges of the First World War, which saw mining activity and investment decline. However, the Great Depression in the 1930's brought revitalisation to the gold industry with a rise in the gold price and an increase in foreign investment.
It was the discovery of the largest-recorded gold nugget in Western Australia (1,136 Ounces = 35KG) , the ‘Golden Eagle’ (in a hole in the road in Coolgardie in 1931) that created a national interest and saw many prospectors return to W.A.
As the saying goes, "history often repeats itself", and likewise, the discoveries of significant gold nuggets will continue.
The 23.2Kg "Ausrox" nugget - discovered in W.A. in 2010
In recent decades there have been several large nuggets found in Western Australia - that have not been publicised - and such nuggets have either been hidden in safe storage or sold and/or melted down.
In recent decades there have also been many gold patches found in Western Australia, many in remote areas, producing up to hundreds of nuggets totaling tens-of-kilograms of gold, that have also not been publicised.
Over the past four decades, many different Minelab detectors have been used in the detection of such large gold nuggets & specimens within our awesome continent of Australia !
Based on my research, and also my gold prospecting experiences, I suspect there remains hundreds-of-Millions of ounces (i.e. THOUSANDS OF TONNES) of gold yet to be discovered in Western Australia.
From about 1980 until about 2005 the price of gold was roughly around AU$500 per ounce (31 grams). Over the past 17 years the price of gold has increased significantly (about SIX FOLD) to about AU$3,000 per ounce. This is a great incentive for people to get out there and hunt gold !
]]>The Minelab SDC 2300 detector was released in 2014, and it is still in production nearly a decade later in 2023. Minelab have only ever offered the 8” round monoloop coil on this pulse-induction detector. Minelab states that the SDC 2300 detector (including the Minelab 8" coil) is "Fully submersible to 10’ (3m) for detecting riverbeds and shorelines, allowing you to transition with ease from land to water."
In recent years, Minelab have offered an "upgraded" SDC 2300 which includes a Lithium-ion battery (it can also operate on 4 C-cell batteries too), and a coil joint ("knuckle") protector.
In 2020, Australian company COILTEK released a range of three larger/different sized monoloop coils – named the ‘Gold Extreme’ - for the SDC 2300 detector.
These three coils are the elliptical 14x9”, the elliptical 10x5”, and the 11’ round – priced from about $400.
It should be noted that the Coiltek Extreme coils are Water Resistant, NOT WATERPROOF !
In September 2020 Minelab issued an updated Product Notice & Warranty Statement regarding the fitment of Coiltek coils to the Minelab SDC 2300 detector. This advice from Minelab states:
“SDC’s with Coiltek aftermarket coils fitted by the user REMAIN WARRANTED by Minelab. That is, SDCs that may be experiencing issues can be repaired (under warranty if applicable) via the normal Minelab sales and support channels in your region.
If the issue is related to failure of the Coiltek Coil itself, then this is covered by Coiltek separately. Any damage which is assessed by Minelab or its Authorised Service Centres (ASC's) as having resulted from such modification will not be covered by the Minelab warranty. SDC’s should be reinstated to the original format (i.e. with original coil fitted) prior to returning to Minelab.
The aftermarket coils have been developed independently of Minelab therefore Minelab cannot provide any information or support regarding the use or performance of these coils. SDC’s with Coiltek coils experiencing issues related to the coil should contact Coiltek support.”
Fitment of a Coiltek coil also requires the use of a Coiltek Gold Extreme SDC Accessory Pack (costing approx. $90).
The Coiltek coils are simple to fit to the SDC 2300 – taking only several minutes to do so – as per this Coiltek instructional video.
The Coiltek Gold Extreme coils have a 2-Years Coiltek Warranty from the original date of purchase.
]]>Many Aussies have heard of the rarity of the well-known 1930 Australian Penny, and its investment value depending upon its condition and provenance. It is believed that only about 1,500 such 1930 Australian pennies were put into circulation during the Great Depression. In 2021, a 1930 Penny sold for nearly $200,000.
There are several other Australian coins that are rarer, and not well-known. I am sure that many such rare Australian coins are still out there, some buried in the ground, near to cities and large towns, after being lost up to a century ago.
In recent years there have been many sales of such rare/scarce Australian pre-decimal coins fetching up to hundreds of thousands of dollars per coin.
Other scarce/rare Australian coins include:
HALF PENNIES
1923 Half Penny – only about 15,000 of these coins were made at the Melbourne Mint. One sold in 2022 for about $85,000.
Other years when the Australian Half Penny were in very low mintage include the extremely rare 1916 “Mule”-type (only 5 known specimens), and 1931 (only 350,000 made).
PENNIES
After World War 1, from 1919 to 1921, seventeen (17) different Types of square-shaped “Kookaburra”-design Pennies & Halfpennies were made. A total of only about 200 of these coins were minted. Most of these “Prototype” coins were distributed to government officials, dignitaries, and VIP’s (not released into general circulation). Most of these coins contained mostly Nickel (some were mostly silver), and most weighed between about 3.8 and 4.7 grams. Most had sides about 18mm long (some had 14mm long sides), and featured a picture of a kookaburra on one side, with the coin date on the opposite side. Some of these coins have been valued at up to a few hundred thousand dollars. A 1919 square silver Penny sold in 2021 for approx. $295,000.
THREEPENCES
No Australian threepences were minted in 1913, 1929 to 1933 inclusive, 1937, 1945, 1946, and 1965.
In 1942 only 528,000 threepences were made at the Melbourne Mint. That year in 1942, many Millions of threepences were also made in the USA (at two other Mints in San Francisco and Denver).
In 1915 and 1923 only approximately 800,000 threepences were made in each of those two years.
The 1922/21 over-date threepence is extremely rare (only about 900 minted), and the 1934/33 over-date threepence is also considered quite rare.
SIXPENCES
No Australian sixpences were minted in 1913, 1915, 1929 to 1933 inclusive, 1937, 1947 and 1949.
In 1935 only approximately 392,000 sixpences were made. Other low mintage years of the sixpence include 1911, 1918M, 1924 and 1934.
SHILLINGS
In some years (i.e. 1910, 1919, 1923, 1929, 1930, 1932, 1937, 1945, 1947, 1949 and 1951) no Australian Shillings were made.
The 1933 Shilling was of extremely low mintage - with only about 220 coins minted.
Other very low-mintage years of Shillings include - 1921 (522 made), 1924 (673), 1928 (664), 1934 (480), 1935 (500) and 1940 (760 made).
FLORINS
In some years (i.e. 1920, 1929, 1930, 1937, 1948, 1949, 1950 and 1955) no Australian Florins were made.
The 1934-35 Melbourne Centenary Florin was of very low mintage - with only about 54,000 coins circulated (based on 75,000 coins being minted, and then 21,000 of those coins were melted down). A specimen sold in 2015 for about $17,500.
Other low-mintage years of Florins include:
1911 (about 1 Million made), 1912 (about 1 Million), 1914H (about 500,000), 1915L (about 500,000), 1932 (only about 188,000), 1933 (about 488,000) and 1939 (about 630,000).
Like all other pre-decimal Australian coinage, the Florin coin (which was worth Two Shillings, and commonly referred to as “Two Bob”) was based on the silver standard. The 28.5mm, 11.3gram coins were minted in sterling silver (92.5% silver, 7.5% copper) from 1910 until 1945. In 1946 the Florin coins were debased to a lower silver content, consisting of 50% silver, 40% copper, 5% nickel, and 5% zinc.
CROWNS
Australian Crown coins were only made in 2 years during the Great Depression - in 1937 (only about 1 Million Crown coins were made) and in 1938 (only about 101,000 were made). These Crown coins (which were worth 5 Shillings in their day almost a century ago) are large (38.5mm in diameter) and weigh about 28 grams each, with a composition of 92.5% silver content. A 1938 Crown in excellent condition, of ‘Uncirculated Grade”, can fetch up to about $1,000.
In my opinion (after nearly 50 years of collecting Australian pre-decimal coins), I reckon that the 1938 Australian Crown is an under-rated coin, and it should be worth more than it generally sells for – particularly given its age, general scarcity, size and silver content. I have several in my collection – which are my favourite Aussie pre-decimal coins.
MODERN, scarce Australian decimal coins to hunt include the Year 2000 $1 “Mule Error” coin, and also the Year 1992 $1 “Five Roo’s” coin – which the Royal Australian Mint claim that only 8,000 were made, however negligible have been seen in circulation (In 2012, such a 1992 $1 coin sold at auction for about $1,000).
Another rare, modern Aussie coin - that was issued under mysterious circumstances, the 1977 fifty cent coin with the coat of arms "reverse" - was minted in extremely low numbers. The exact mintage is not known, but “fewer than ten” is the often reported number. One of these coins sold at auction in 2009 for $8,600.
There are also several other modern, decimal Australian coins that are scarce or rare, some having errors caused when they were minted.
Here is a link to the NUMISTIP website - which is easy/handy to use for obtaining more information about a coin, including it's likely value.
MINELAB COIN & RELIC DETECTORS
Minelab recently released a new, lightweight, VLF-technology detector designed for hunting coins & relics. It is named the ‘X-TERRA PRO’ and it costs only $499. This detector features ‘PRO-SWITCH’ (Switchable Frequency Technology) - so that you can set it to operate on either of four single frequencies of 5kHz, 8kHz, 10kHz or 15kHz.
It has 6 pre-programmed Search Modes for three different terrains of Park, Field & Beach, with 30 segmented notches of discrimination capability (1 notch represents a range of 4 Target ID numbers). This detector also features an LED flashlight for night-use, and handle-vibration capability. It is rated as fully waterproof to 5m depth, and has a quick-collapsible length of only 63cm (2-foot) long for ease of storage & transportation. It also has an armrest that is adjustable for the length of your forearm.
I recently had the opportunity to use the new Minelab X-TERRA PRO for my first time, on an old school oval in Brisbane (with the very kind permission of the school Principal). Within half-an-hour of turning this detector on (and setting it on Parks 1 search mode + 5kHz frequency + Sensitivity 22 + Recovery Speed 3 + Auto Tracking Ground Balance) - I found my first coin. It was a tiny, old Australian threepence (92.5% silver content) dated 1910. YUP - an Aussie silver coin that is 113 years old (Australia commenced it's own currency in 1910, about 9 years after Federation).
WOW ! I am impressed by the performance of the new Minelab X-TERRA PRO detector, for a cost of only $499. Over the next few hours I proceeded to detect another 8 coins, including a modern English Twenty Pence coin dated 2016, and several $1 & $2 coins.
The complete range of Equinox-compatible coils of various sizes (made by both Minelab, and Coiltek) also fit the Minelab X-TERRA PRO detector. This detector includes the Minelab V12X coil (a 12”x9” elliptical Double-D coil – also fitted with a protective skid-plate), and a magnetic, USB charging cable (for the internal Lithium-Ion battery).
Increasing in both cost and additional capabilities, other Minelab detectors available for coin & relic hunting (apart from the Vanquish series, ranging in cost from $399 to $599), include the Equinox range – namely the older Equinox 600 ($999) and older Equinox 800 ($1,089), the new Equinox 700 ($1,079), and new Equinox 900 with 2 coils ($1,549), as well as the new MANTICORE (cost $2,499).
CAUTION - Coin Cleaning - VERY IMPORTANT
Every time I detect & unearth a dirty coin (or an old Token - Australian tokens will be the subject of a future BLOG article), I immediately (for a few seconds at least) wonder what type of coin it is ? and what year is minted upon one of its sides ?
I immediately put pure, drinking-quality water on the dirty coin to wash off any grit and dirt (a small, squeeze-squirt type bottle of water can be handy for that task).
Sometimes I use a very soft bristle toothbrush & clean, pure water to slowly/very gently remove dirt, particularly over the spot where the year is featured on the coin.
If the dirt is more stubborn, and say partly obscuring the year on the coin, I use water-dampened cotton earbuds, or soft-wood toothpicks, to very gently remove some dirt hiding the numbers of the year. Failing that, I will soak a coin in a glass of pure, drinking-quality water overnight, or for a few days if needed, to let any stubborn dirt dissolve away from the coin (by way of leaning the coin upright/near vertical against the inside of the glass).
Try to avoid rubbing the coin, especially if it has sand and gravel upon it - as this may scratch or mark the coin.
Most times, particularly with small coins like threepences & sixpences, I use my mobile phone camera to zoom in and verify the date prior to wetting it.
I always prefer to do a minimal amount of coin cleaning in order to:
1. Verify the coin date; and
2. Then, prior to any further gentle cleaning of a coin - I do subsequent research (via the internet) of the total coin mintage for that year - to establish whether the coin may be a very low (scarce), or extremely low (rare) mintage, and hence may be of significant monetary value to a collector, depending upon the condition & grading of the coin.
Expert coin collectors DO NOT LIKE scarce/rare date coins being cleaned by the use of chemicals (e.g. DO NOT soak in, or clean, using chemicals such as coke, vinegar, acids, lemon juice, metal polishes, Brasso, Silvo, toothpaste, etc) and by way of rubbing/polishing (including the use of abrasive cleaning/scouring pads, steel wool, or tools).
I prefer not to use Ultrasonic cleaning machines on my pre-decimal coins - since they can damage coins if used incorrectly. For example, using the incorrect frequency (i.e. too low) and/or running the ultrasonic cleaning process for too long can cause pitting on a coin.
Unfortunately, many people including some experienced detectorists, are not aware that cleaning a scarce/rare coin to a highly-polished/shiny finish can significantly reduce its value to a collector.
You should not do/use anything that will shine up your coins, as this will remove the natural lustre or toning off the coin. This will also decrease the value of the coin.
Over time, coins go through a natural process called ‘toning’. This is when oxygen or sulphur react with the metal but, it’s important to remember, the surface under the toning still contains the reflective quality known as ‘mint lustre’. Expert collectors prefer coins that still retain a natural patina from decades of oxidation.
The least amount of wear on a coin, including its circumferential rims, also increases its value to a collector.
If you do find a scarce or rare coin, then if you are intending to keep it indefinitely, it is also very important (in order to retain its potential market value) to consider how to store it long term so that it does not deteriorate with time. It is best to store valuable coins in a safe place where there is very little variation in temperature and humidity over time.
I use a clean, soft, white-coloured, pure cotton cloth to gently wipe my prized coins free of any dust or oils (e.g. from handling by fingers or hands).
I then use plastic tweezers to insert the coin into a special, air-tight/waterproof, clear, hard plastic, coin capsule/display case - for optimal long term storage and viewing.
Some Coin Hunting Considerations:
1. What is the likely total number of such scarce/rare Aussie pre-decimal coins most likely to have been lost ?
Possibly hundreds or thousands of coins ?
2. Where would such scarce/rare Aussie pre-decimal coins be most likely to have been lost ?
Near cities ? and large towns ?
At historical sites ? e.g. on the grounds of heritage-listed, residential estate properties ?
At old showgrounds ? and stadiums ? nearby old cricket & football ovals ?
In old parks ? nearby old/large trees ?
Given population distributions in Australia over the past century - is it more likely than not, that most of the scarce/rare Aussie pre-decimal coins lost are in the eastern States of Australia ?
3. Given the excellent coin-targeting & discrimination capabilities of modern Minelab VLF-technology detectors (unlike pulse-induction detectors) - Would the average metal detectorist in Australia, based in/near a city, be more likely to find such a scarce/rare Aussie pre-decimal coin ? and/or valuable jewellery ? - compared to the chances of finding gold nugget/s of equivalent value ?
Queensland Heritage Act 1992
It is worth knowing that the Queensland Heritage Act 1992 requires any potentially important discoveries of archaeological artefacts to be reported to the relevant Queensland Government Department - so its team of experts can assess how significant the artefacts are to Queensland’s history.
Such artefacts can include coins or monetary notes. Penalties can apply for failing to do so (The Maximum Penalty is a fine of over $15,000).
In fact, in 2017 a large cache of century-old coins was unearthed during construction work on the Toowoomba Bypass. This discovery of coins was considered one of the largest coin discoveries in Australia.
A total of 5,663 coins were found buried in a metal container. The pre-decimal coins comprised florins, shillings and threepences, dated between 1910 to 1940, and equivalent to an average Annual wage in today’s currency.
Research suggested the owner of the former farm on which the coins were found passed away in 1940, corresponding to the most recent date minted on the coins and suggesting the collection was a personal “nest egg”.
In 2018, a former work contractor was fined for failing to report the find, as they were required to do under the Queensland Heritage Act.
There have been some very interesting discoveries of ancient coins in Queensland, including an Egyptian coin dated by experts as being about 2,200 years old !
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REFERENCE BOOKS
There are many good books (and atlases) available for information on gold prospecting in Australia. I particularly like reference books that contain good maps, including locations of historical gold workings & mines. For decades in Australia, aussie prospector Doug Stone has authored several such prospecting books & atlases, including for Western Australia.
SIMPLE AIR-DEPTH CALIBRATION TEST:
At the start of every prospecting session, after turning my detector on and then doing the Noise Cancel, and Ground Balancing procedures, to get the detector running quiet & smooth, I would ALWAYS do an air-depth detection calibration test - to ensure my detector was running at near optimum performance for depth.
For this test I used a new/clean Aussie 5 cent coin (that I would always carry in my pocket), and I would confirm the maximum height (above the coin-on-the-ground) that the coil could just detect the coin.
Around Kalgoorlie, I generally obtained the following air-depth testing/calibration results (on an unburied 5 cent coin) for the respective Minelab detector & coil/s that I was using:
GPX6000 with 11" round Minelab Mono coil = 14" depth
GPZ 7000 with 14×13" Minelab Super-D coil = 16" to 18" depth
GPX 5000 with 19" round Nugget Finder Evolution Mono coil = 16" to 18"depth
GPX 5000 with 25" round Nugget Finder DD X-Search coil = about 20" depth
The above air-depths were the absolute maximum detection depths I generally achieved, and less than the detection depth of the same metal target buried in the ground, especially in highly mineralised ground.
Pulse-induction detectors will generally lose depth performance to some degree in highly to extremely mineralised ground, particularly when using highly-sensitive, flat-wound Monoloop coils, and especially as the ground surface temperature increases.
In "difficult ground" (highly mineralised and/or conductive), and sun-heated ground, a DD coil of at least the same diameter (albeit heavier than a Monoloop coil of the same diameter) may be more of an advantage.
PICKS
For extra grip for my big hands, and also for increased shock-absorbing capacity, I fitted a rubberised tennis handle wrap to my pick handle.
I always had a super-strong, round/flat, rare earth magnet mounted upon the top middle of the head of my pick. It was great for pulling out iron-based trash e.g. wire etc. It also often grabbed hot rocks. Don't just assume that all such hot rocks consist totally of iron and don't contain any gold. Over the years I found several hot rocks on my magnet that when broken up contained gold.
RECORD & SECURE YOUR NUGGETS .... & 4WD KEY
Most gold prospectors I have met (hundreds of them) use a plastic container (i.e. a used medication-type bottle) in the field to store their smaller, found gold, and most carry that container in either their shirt pocket or trouser pocket.
Over the years I was told by several local W.A. prospectors that they had found small plastic pill-type containers apparently dropped in the bush by other prospectors. Most contained gold nuggets. One bloke told me the container he found had 19 nuggets in it, totaling about an ounce. It was found on 'Pending' ground.
I store my freshly found nuggets within a plastic container, either secured:
(A) inside a zippered, deep compartment inside my backpack (together with the keys for my 4WD); or
(B) inside my trouser pocket - with a lanyard made from strong, pink coloured string that is securely connected from the bottle thread to a belt loop on my trousers.
I also use compact (pocket) digital scales to weigh, and I also photograph my significant gold nuggets in the field immediately after finding them.
That way if you then lose such a valuable nugget/s (either by accident, or it being stolen), at least you have a digital record (with a date & time stamp) of you having then had possession/ownership of it prior to it being lost or stolen.
LOOKING AFTER THE BUSINESS END OF YOUR DETECTOR
I regularly inspect my detector coils for any damage, and very carefully/gently remove the coil skid plate to clean out any dust and soil that may possibly congregate over time. In Western Australia where highly to extremely mineralised soils are common, such very fine mineralised dust can eventually find it’s way into between the coil and the skid plate.
This is even more likely to occur for large diameter spoked coils, compared to small round solid coils – mainly due to the significantly more total length of the contact faces between the coil and the skid plate.
If enough such material gets in, and also moves around whilst swinging, then this can affect the performance of highly sensitive, pulse-induction detectors.
I also wrap the circumference of all my coils with a quality adhesive tape. This acts as both a seal against any possible ingress of moisture and/or dust, and also as a protective layer on the outer vertical edge of the coil which nudges/rubs on soil, rocks, etc. I prefer Scotch heavy-duty grade ‘SUPER 88’ vinyl tape. It usually lasts me several months of swinging.
Talking about dust - which can find its way into almost all small gaps - it can pay to make sure that all the pin connections for all cables (like the coil cable plug, and also any battery cable plugs) are fully inserted, with the screw rings also done up firm.
Given the tens-of-thousands of dollars I spent buying pulse-induction metal detectors over the years, I always protected these investments from the dust, heat, and potential damage (e.g. caused by impact/scratching etc), by way of fitting quality, Aussie-made, padded canvas protective covers over the control box of each detector. Such protective covers can also protect the manufacturer’s labels of serial number/security codes – which may be useful down the track.
Furthermore, for concealment and ease of transportation of my detectors and accessories, I also use quality, Aussie-made, padded canvas carry bags for all my detectors.
When I was gold prospecting full-time in W.A. I soon learned the benefit of dusting down my detector & coil/s at the end of each day (with a soft cotton rag), prior to placing my detector & coil/s into the padded carry bag. This end-of-day ritual sure helped minimise the amount of fine dust that got caught inside the canvas carry bag. After every week of prospecting I would empty my carry bag of it's contents, and then turn it inside out to thoroughly shake out any dust that had congregated. I also kept all electrical-related accessories (like spare cables, and batteries and headphones, etc), within separate plastic clip-seal bags to minimise any dust entering the plugs or connections. This held me in good stead for years without any issues.
[Nugget image source - Facebook page of Finders Keepers Gold Prospecting - Kalgoorlie, W.A.]
]]>To prospect safely alone in W.A., particularly when I was solo free ranging (i.e. patch hunting on my own) and some days walking up to 8km away from my 4WD, I always carried a fair bit of gear on my body, for both practical & safety reasons.
Accordingly, I used a very comfortable load bearing, mesh-style vest (featuring a rear backpack and many pouches). It typically hit the scales at about 12kg (much heavier than my Minelab pulse-induction detectors + big pick). I would always carry at least 5 litres of water, 3 days of food rations, first-aid kit, LED headlamp, LED torch including strobe light, a PLB, an extra GPS device (apart from the Trilobite App on my phone), spare batteries, Gorilla tape, cable ties, cigarette lighter, a LifeStraw water filter, Leatherman tool, etc.
Another option for carrying less gear (including detecting closer to your vehicle) is to use a harness.
It pays to carry more-than-sufficient water – both on foot, and in your vehicle. Many people who perished in remote areas in recent years did so away from their vehicles and also without water. (e.g. many people forget, or simply do not consider, that the windscreen washer water reservoir within the engine bay of most 4WD vehicles can contain at least a few litres of pure water – that can possibly be drinkable, as an absolute last resort in the event of an emergency. I do not add any chemicals to my water reservoir, and regularly flush & refill it with clean and pure water, for that very reason. Who knows …. Something so simple could save a life one day).
If you are intending to prospect alone in remote areas, it is also important to consider issues like:
Reliability and maintenance of your vehicle
Carrying suitable & sufficient water, food, safety equipment, fuel, and spare parts, and allowing for potentially being stranded for many days
Communications equipment
Weather forecasts
Spare metal detector/s and batteries and cables and coils
Spare key for vehicle – not locked inside the vehicle
Charging of batteries (e.g. via deep-cycle battery and/or solar or generator)
DOUBLE-RECORD THE LOCATIONS OF YOUR VEHICLE & CAMP
In recent years, several prospectors (mostly older blokes) have gone missing in W.A. Despite extensive searches, some missing prospectors have not been found, nor any of their prospecting gear. This makes you wonder – fools play? or foul play?
One valuable lesson I learned was to double-record the co-ordinates of the locations of my parked 4WD and camp. I would record the GPS co-ordinates on both my Trilobite App, and on my back-up Garmin GPS device (just in case one of them ever failed). This method served me well, especially in terrain which was new to me, or where the vegetation was all the same, and in the absence of nearby landmarks.
PERSONAL LOCATOR BEACONS (PLB’s) / EPIRB’s
Did you know?
That some PLB/EPIRB devices have been activated unintentionally by being too close to the coil of a pulse-induction metal detector that is turned on/operating.
In 2017 a prospector in the Pilbara, Western Australia - who reportedly had possession of a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) - unknowingly had his 'KTI' brand SA2G model PLB activated - when it came within very close proximity of the operating coil of his pulse-induction metal detector.
(Also reported on the Facebook page of "Finders Keepers Gold Prospecting" – refer to posts on 5 October 2020).
I understand that due to this issue - KTI re-designed their SA2G model PLB - which is now designated as the SA2GN model.
There have also been other similar accidental activations of EPIRB/PLB's by operating pulse-induction metal detectors being placed too close.
There are in excess of fifty (50) different models of EPIRB's/PLB's available on the Australian market. 'KTI' is one of the most popular brands of PLB.
To avoid the potential for accidental activation of my PLB – I keep my PLB (inside the rear of my backpack) and stored inside a waterproof, stainless-steel canister – which acts as a ‘Faraday Shield’ – to block electromagnetic fields/radiation.
PLB/EPIRB TESTING + AMSA RECORD
Given that most of my prospecting was alone in W.A, and often in remote areas, I ALWAYS carried a PLB/EPIRB.
Not only that, I also REGULARLY tested (before every trip away or every 2 months - whichever came sooner) that my PLB was in proper working order. This included testing that the battery life was OK, and also that the transmitter function of the device also worked correctly - via the Manufacturer's recommended Test Mode functions on the device.
After this was done, I would also update my AMSA Registration record (via my online account), including information about my planned pending trip, re: my vehicle/s, planned trip route, likely camping locations & estimated travel dates.
HARD GROUND = HARD WORK BY HAND
Some of the hardest ground I have encountered during prospecting is in W.A. I soon learned the importance of using a high-quality, heavy-duty pick. In some locations I found gold within/near Calcrete (a natural, concrete-like formation). Gold is often associated with the presence of Calcrete, and also with the presence of ironstone and quartz (particularly "rotten" quartz). In some instances where I detected gold contained within Calcrete, I used a cold-chisel & steel mallet, or a heavy-duty crowbar & sledgehammer (stored within my 4WD) to free the gold nuggets from calcrete.
Quality gloves are also useful to prevent blisters, abrasions, cuts, sunburn and hot ground.
On some hot summer days, the ironstone-pebble strewn ground got so hot that I was unable to hold by bare hands upon the ground for longer than about 3 seconds before burning my palms. Knee pads (including incorporated into work trousers) can also be very useful – some days I would dig & backfill over a hundred holes – which really worked my knees & back.
POTENTIAL THREATS
After spending years living, working and prospecting in the bush throughout Australia – not too much worries me out there in the bush.
I have had many solo encounters with lone wild dogs, and they all appeared to be very cautious of my presence. During the several encounters I have had with a pack of wild dogs, I was more concerned as they seemed less scared of me and more prone to come closer to me as a pack, before I scared them off.
My advice – Be aware of your surroundings (“situational awareness”), particularly if you are alone. Accordingly, I prefer to mostly use speakers when detecting, or sometimes a sports earphone in one ear (not earmuffs-style headphones). Noise is a generally good deterrent against wild animals, including wild dogs. Interestingly, I read that scientists from two Queensland universities recently found that some Australian snakes such as Taipans, brown snakes and death adders can hear, as well as sense vibrations.
JOE BLAKES & SPINIFEX
Leg gaiters – for protection against both “Joe Blakes” (snakes), and also Spinifex needles (common throughout Western Australia’s goldfields). Over the past 7 years I have been wearing gaiters (‘SNAKEprotex’) – that were rated for protection against venomous Australian snakes (including an adult Taipan which can possess fangs up to one-half-an-inch long). I found gaiters excellent for protection against spinifex needles when I was gold prospecting in both central Australia and Western Australia. Lots of good gold country in W.A. often contains plenty of spinifex.
PROSPECTING AT NIGHT
Unless you have significant local prospecting experience, you would be taking big risks to prospect alone in W.A. at night in terrain you are not very familiar with. Many biting/stinging creep-crawlies come out at night. It is also much more challenging to judge the distance of range at night.
I only ever prospected alone at night upon pushed/scraped gold patches (well-defined areas) nearby where my vehicle was parked, with an LED strobe light operating upon the roof-rack (as a great reference point marker). A spare headlamp + spare batteries are a MUST.
PERFORMANCE ENHANCING
Be mindful of your personal performance when prospecting alone. A few things that I found affected my prospecting performance were not keeping properly hydrated, lack of regular meals & breaks, poor boot comfort, and poor ergonomics of backpack & detector.
Also be mindful of issues that may affect the performance of/interfere with your super-sensitive, pulse-induction metal detector e.g. mobile phones NOT set on Flight Mode, or wearing steel-capped boots, or UHF radios, or pin-pointers, or the digging pick head too close to your big coil,
FLIES & HEAD-WEAR
During my most recent prospecting travels over the past 7 years throughout most of our awesome continent of Australia, I had not encountered such numbers of menacing flies as I found several hundred kilometres north of Kalgoorlie. From sunrise to sunset, during my regular 8-hour-days of swinging a gold-hunting “beepstick”, the small, fast flies were absolutely relentless.
Annoyance-reduction measures that helped me somewhat included either wearing a head-net (which I generally do not like), or mostly wearing a broad-brimmed, shady hat with a Scrim mesh material curtain draped around the sides & rear (to also provide sun protection), and wrap sunglasses with large lenses. To some degree, I also found that dabbing a suitable repellent (I preferred to use a non-DEET/natural oils-based solution such as Nature’s Botanical Rosemary & Cedarwood Oils Repellent) on my face and the Scrim mesh also deterred many flies. Beware that DEET-based repellents can damage plastics - including the screens of detectors, particularly if the screens do not have a protective cover.
Unfortunately, some of the best gold country I encountered in W.A. also had the worst masses of flies.
HOT ROCKS & METEORITES
During more than 300 days of prospecting in W.A. I reckon I detected hundreds of hot rocks. Moreso with my Minelab SDC2300 than with my GPX 5000 and GPX 6000, and GPZ 7000. Having a curious mind, I always pocketed these highly mineralised/often heavy/often magnetic rocks to take home and smash up in a dolly pot. Occasionally a small bit of gold was won from such hot rocks.
Sometimes such “hot rocks” are in fact of extra-terrestrial origin e.g. meteorites, some of which contain iron, nickel and cobalt. Not all meteorites are attracted to a magnet. Iron-Nickel meteorites (with a majority content of iron, and up to about 8% nickel content) will very strongly attach to a magnet, and hence be clearly detected by a metal detector. Several different types of meteorites have been found in the goldfields of Western Australia, including near Kalgoorlie. Some of the rarest types of meteorites are worth more than gold per ounce.
TRASH
Many prospectors I met have a strong magnet attached to the outer top of their pick head. In trashy areas, a good magnet can pull out a lot of ferrous junk metals (including tiny bits of wire that can cause a lot of wasted time to find otherwise)
I heard similar stories from other prospectors, and I experienced it myself – the detection of aluminium beer/soft-drink cans down deep inside goanna holes, and concealed inside nearby logs. Talk about a frustrating waste of time. So beware of animal tunnel entrance holes, or hollow logs, nearby where you detect a target.
BIG NUGGETS RECENTLY FOUND IN W.A.
In recent years many impressive gold nuggets (and gold/quartz and gold-ironstone specimens) have been unearthed using Minelab pulse-induction-technology metal detectors in Western Australia, including near Kalgoorlie.
(Images source - Facebook page of Finders Keepers Gold Prospecting - Kalgoorlie, W.A.)
OTHER THAN GOLD
Some other interesting things found by prospectors in W.A. include:
Fulgurite (I found a 3.9kg specimen), Opal – including Moss Opal, Chrysoprase (“Australian Jade”), Devils Dice, Meteorites, Australites (Tektites), stone tools, black octahedral Hematite crystals, metallic fragments of SkyLab, gold sovereign/half-sovereign coins, etc.
Other useful tips will be discussed soon in Part 3 of this article – to be published online soon.
]]>Furthermore, many leaseholders also use drones and hidden cameras (I know from personal experiences) to record trespassers and poachers.
So, Trespassers BEWARE.
Similar to Queensland, a W.A. Miner’s Right can be obtained Online. It only costs about $30, and even better, it lasts FOR LIFE – as long as you do the right thing (much cheaper than Qld where an individual pays about $58 PER YEAR for a Qld Fossicking Licence). There is also PLENTY MORE ground available for lawful gold prospecting in W.A. compared to Qld.
WRITTEN PERMISSION
It is also wise to not only obtain verbal permission from a leaseholder/s to prospect on their lease/s, but to also get such permission in writing too (whether it be a hard copy, an e-mail or a text message) with the leaseholder/s contact details included in the “permission letter”.
It is also a requirement (and also wise for personal safety, as well as decency) that all Miner’s Right holders take all reasonable and practicable steps to notify pastoralists of their intentions prior to entering onto pastoral leases which often co-exist with prospecting & mining leases.
It is always wise to carry a copy of your Miner’s Right, and any written permission letters, either in hard copy and/or electronically on your phone.
TENGRAPH
The Western Australian Mines Department has a free online mapping system named ‘TENGRAPH’. It shows the position and status (and other details) of land under mining tenure (including lease applications – which are commonly referred to as “PENDING ground”). Pending ground is marked as a blue colour on the Tengraph database. When a lease application has been submitted on some ground (due the land becoming available for some reason), the Mines Dept. designate that land as “PENDING” ground – which means the application is in the process of being assessed by the Mines Dept. During that time, which in some cases can take up to about 12 months, a person holding a W.A. Miner’s Right can use metal detectors and hand tools (machinery is prohibited) to prospect for gold, and other minerals, on that Pending ground. With a Miner’s Right it is also lawful to fossick for rocks and gemstones, and also camp on that Pending ground for the purposes of prospecting.
Another useful, free online database is ‘MINERAL TITLES ONLINE’. This system contains Title details of exploration and mining tenements throughout Western Australia.
TRIBUTE AGREEMENTS
During my recent several years of prospecting in Western Australia I contacted several gold exploration and mining companies, and after voluntarily submitting details of my prospecting experience, vehicle/s, prospecting techniques & gear, and my intentions – I was very fortunate to be granted conditional “Tribute Agreements” with such companies. As a result, I provided details of all my finds of gold nuggets to the mining companies, who then permitted me to explore additional ground held via their leases.
SECTION 40E PERMIT
Holders of a Section 40E Permit can use hand-held tools (including metal detectors) to prospect for a period of up three months on an approved area (of up to about 3,000 Hectares) of Crown land within a granted exploration licence. Although consent from the exploration licence holder/s (e.g. a mining company) is NOT required, the licence holder/s will be notified by the Dept. of Mines of the issue of such a 40E Permit.
A Section 40E permit:
• is issued for three months and is NOT transferable between parties
• is restricted to a maximum of ten (10) nominated “graticular” blocks within one granted Exploration Licence (one block is approximately 310 hectares). The nominated blocks must be in one group and each block must have a common side to another block
• the permit fee applies for each application regardless of the number of blocks being applied for
• may include up to three (3) permit holders who are jointly liable for any activities conducted under the permit
• limits prospecting activities to a depth of two (2) metres from the natural surface
• allows a maximum sample limit weight of 20kg
• enables prospecting activities to commence on the exploration licence 21 days after the permit issue date or when the licence holder has provided a licensee statement to the permit holder
• does NOT allow the use of power or hydraulically driven hand-tools
• is subject to standard protective conditions and notes, which can be varied or added to the permit by the issuing officer.
A Permit under Section 40E costs a bit over a $100.
THE ‘TRILOBITE’ SOLUTIONS APP (for mobile devices)
Many prospectors in W.A. use the ‘TRILOBITE’ Solutions Application on their mobile phone or tablet.
This App provides off-line geology & exploration data covering all of Australia & New Zealand.
All Users of the “Australia Geology Travel Maps” must have the App subscription. Then the additional “WA Prospector” subscription gives access to current tenements, gold deposits, mineral exploration holes, and topographic maps in Western Australia.
The “QLD gold”, “NSW gold” and “VIC gold” subscriptions also give access to the gold maps for the respective States. (All of these subscriptions have a 1-week free trial period).
Some of the many great features of this App include:
• Runs on Android and Apple phones and tablets
• Maps are downloaded to your phone - so there is no dependency on mobile phone reception in the field
• Simplified & detailed geology maps for all of Australia
• Old mine workings, gold, gems & other metal finds
• Gold distribution maps
• Mining & exploration tenement information
• Data is sourced from the State geological surveys & Geoscience Australia
• Aero-magnetic imagery for all States
• Record your trail (Self-Tracking Function), so you can retrace your steps
• Mark & Record notes on important locations – choose a colour for each marker
• PENDING ground in Western Australia is shown on the mapping (also marked as a blue colour)
For the cost of only about $40 per year (for both subscriptions I needed for prospecting in W.A.), I found the ‘TRILOBITE’ App extremely valuable - especially when I lost my 4WD keys in a remote location (with no mobile phone reception) after walking alone & detecting (with my GPX 6000) away from the 4WD for over five hours. Fortunately, I was able to use my pre-activated, trail-record function and after re-tracing my steps for 2 hours I then found my keys just before sunset. PHEWWWWWW.
I also found the WA Prospector App very useful for mapping the location patterns (clusters) of the many nuggets I found on several patches. On one such patch I found about 70-odd nuggets, and I was able to advise the leaseholder (who was very appreciative) – so that he could target future, machine-driven excavations to hunt for much deeper gold (that was beyond the significant detection depths of my GPZ 7000, also my GPX5000 with 19” mono & 25” DD coils).
To greatly extend the battery life of my phone in the field - I would turn my phone onto “Flight Mode”.
You also need the “Location” function on your mobile phone turned on so that the GPS system (and the Self-Tracking function, if required) can work via the App.
Prior to going out solo prospecting for the day/s, I would always take a screenshot of the Trilobite App co-ordinates of my intended (or actual) vehicle parking location in the bush, and provide it/text it to my wife for safety reasons & her peace of mind (I would always carry a PLB/EPIRB in my backpack when prospecting too).
APLA
Many prospectors & leaseholders are members of the Amalgamated Prospectors & Leaseholders Association of Western Australia. The Association has been around for over a century.
Two of the main reasons why I joined APLA were:
1. Financial APLA Members are covered by a $20 Million Public Liability Insurance automatically when they are lawfully prospecting as an amateur.
2. APLA fights for its members, including ALL Prospectors and ALL Leaseholders rights by representation to government departments and political bodies.
Other member benefits include free access to the regular online magazine (which often contains very useful articles written by local prospectors), as well as invitations to Association events and training, and regular Branch meetings (including in Kalgoorlie). APLA members are also invited to bush camps and prospecting trips hosted by experienced and professional prospectors.
I met many APLA members (including prospectors each with many decades of local experience) during my several years of full-time gold hunting in W.A. - who were only too happy to provide advice and assistance to me as a new member. That advice & assistance saved me from so much potentially wasted time & money, that far exceeded the cost of my APLA membership. This was a great investment for me indeed.
Currently, annual APLA membership costs are $110 for a Full Member, $150 for a Family, and $110 for a Pensioner Couple.
Other useful tips will be discussed soon in Part 2, and also Part 3 of this article – to be published online soon
The Minelab GPX 6000 detector kit ($7,999) includes the Minelab 11” round Monoloop coil (GPX11 coil) and also the Minelab 14” round DD coil (GPX14 coil). The GPX11 coil weighs about 600 grams, and the GPX14 coil weighs about 900 grams.
An optional extra coil is the larger, elliptical Minelab 17”x13” (GPX17) Monoloop coil (cost $579) that weighs about 800 grams.
New Minelab skid/scuff plate covers for the three Minelab coils range from about $33 up to $45.
Aftermarket coil makers – both Nugget Finder, and Coiltek, recently released a range of various-sized, non-spoked/solid, Monoloop coils for the GPX 6000. Nugget Finder have released the ‘Xceed’ series of coils, and Coiltek have the ‘Goldhawk’ series of coils. These coils are all approved by Minelab.
The Nugget Finder Xceed coils (white coloured) have an ABS housing, are rated as waterproof to 1 metre depth, have a 2-Years Warranty, and include the following elliptical sizes:
8x6 inches - cost $659 (weighs 570 grams)
12x7 inches - cost $699 (weighs 700 grams)
16x10 inches – cost $745 (weighs 970 grams)
The Coiltek Goldhawk coils (very pale tan coloured) are also rated as waterproof to 1 metre depth, also have a 2-Years Warranty, and include the following sizes:
9 inches round - cost $579 (weighs 700 grams)
10x5 inches - cost $579 (weighs 575 grams)
14x9 inches – cost $639 (weighs 900 grams)
Feedback so far from a many gold hunters throughout Australia has been impressive as to how stable (smooth & quiet) the coils run, and how sensitive they are to all sizes of gold nuggets, with great depth capabilities. Many people also prefer the elliptical shaped coils for not only ease of use on less-open ground/more vegetated ground, but also for better pinpointing capability than a round coil.
Maintenance Tip:
To minimise scuff marks/soil staining on the topside of coils, a protective adhesive skin or suitable adhesive tape can be applied. I used UV-resistant Gorilla tape on my Minelab coils – which I found fit-for-purpose.
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Many prospectors throughout Australia have re-visited goldfields, including their “fav” patches, that they considered “flogged” and then unleashed the GPX 6000 over such areas to find even more gold, including at depth.
The popularity of the GPX 6000 is not only due to its high performance, but also because it is extremely lightweight, and very easy to use - even for “newbie” detectorists, and budding “prospectors”.
There are only three things you can change on this machine – the Sensitivity, the Ground Type and the Threshold – it’s so easy to learn how to use it.
As a bonus, the GPX 6000 also has two Automatic Sensitivity modes (Auto, and Auto +). Both of these modes automatically maximize sensitivity, and also track and remove ground noise – a feature of the unique ‘GeoSense-PI’ technology of the GPX 6000.
With an operating frequency of about 1.2kHz this detector can certainly punch deep, particularly with the two larger coils - the round 14” DD coil (which is included in the box), and the optional-extra elliptical 17x13” Mono coil (costs about $580).
I found the 17” Mono coil excellent for “patch hunting” when I wanted to cover more ground and find patches of gold. I would then exhaust the patch of gold using the 17’ coil. When I was finding little more gold on a patch, I would then run the 11” coil over the patch and find more gold. Finally, I would then put the 14” DD coil and often find some more gold. If you got the good tools, use ‘em mate – that’s what I reckon.
Aftermarket coil makers – both Nugget Finder, and Coiltek, recently released a range of different sized coils for the GPX 6000. Nugget Finder have released the ‘Xceed’ series of coils, and Coiltek have the ‘Goldhawk’ series of coils.
The GPX 6000 is significantly lighter than the GPX 5000 and GPZ 7000 – which means that it can also be comfortably used by women and children too. The GPX 6000 is a more family-use inclusive detector than say the GPX 5000 and the GPZ 7000.
There is an awesome offering of three Minelab different coils for the GPX 6000. The 14inch DD coil that comes with this detector is one of the best DD coils I have ever used near power lines. It can operate nearby to extreme EMI (Electromagnetic Interference), and is also great for use on salty/highly conductive ground (which is common in Western Australia).
The GPX 6000 detector kit includes two coils – a round 11" Mono and a round 14" DD - that gives you options to cover all types of ground. A set of wireless (Bluetooth) headphones are also included in the kit – that are low-latency providing faster, higher quality audio, and they are very useful on windy days.
The Lithium-ion battery has a run-time of up to about 8 hours of use, and it takes about 5 to 6 hours to fully charge a flat battery (an additional Minelab battery costs about $240).
The GPX 6000 retails for $7999 and is only available from "Certified Minelab Dealers" Gold Rat Metal Detectors is a certified dealer contact here for more info.
I have been very impressed by the performance of the GPX 6000 for detecting gold, including in very highly mineralised ground. Accordingly, I have now used the GPX 6000 for 118 days (about 1,000hrs of swinging) and on 100 of those days, my GPX 6000 detected 854 gold nuggets in highly mineralised ground.
Check out some of these Aussie nuggets the GPX 6000 sniffed out with ease!
Gold Detecting Tips:
1. Upon commencing detecting each day, do a “Factory Preset” upon turning the GPX 6000 on.
2. Be patient, the gold is not going anywhere – if the GPX 6000 becomes a bit noisy or “chattery”, then do a noise cancel followed by manual ground balancing using the “Quick-Trak” button. Some days I do this often throughout the day. This will optimize the performance of your GPX 6000 so that you are not wasting time and possibly missing those quieter/faint target signal noises often associated with deeper gold.
3. Swinging technique is also critical to how much gold you are likely to detect. Generally, the “Low and Slow” rule also applies to the GPX 6000 too. On soily ground (without too many sharp rocks) I would lightly and slowly rub my coil upon the ground, with overlapping sweeps from side to side, in order for the detectors pulse induction to energize gold nuggets as long as possible, and so as to increase the chance of the nugget being detected. I found that the coil skid plates lasted longer than I expected and are a small expense to pay for the benefit of finding more gold.
(This week the gold price is nearing an all-time record high of about AU$3,000 per ounce - that's nearly "a HUNGEE" AU$100 per gram).
4. If you find a gold patch, then try using all the coils on the patch, and also then thoroughly over the patch – that is, not only sweep-swinging on a grid-like pattern in both perpendicular directions, but also at angled directions across the patch. It never ceased to surprise me how much more gold I picked up with the GPX 6000 by detecting in many different directions on a patch.
GOOD GOLD HUNTING !
MINELAB have included some training video’s (and the Instruction Manual) on their website – to assist people in learning how to simply use the GPX 6000 detector.
Here is a LINK to this reference material.
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With so much good and misinformation out there its hard to navigate the world of metal detectors we are going to dive in and talk about a few options.
First of all when considering buying your first metal detector its important to know what your primary target is, is it native Gold? Coins, relics? all of the above?
Do you want to detect in the creeks, rivers and beaches?
These are just some not all of the questions we ask at Gold rat Metal Detectors to ensure were giving you the best advice to meet your goals.
Now with all that said alot of customers want a "do it all metal detector" and that's fine there are some really good options in the Minelab range that can tick that box.
For example the Minelab Equinox range from 800-900 models have four search modes, Park, beach, Field and Gold Field. These modes are optimized out of the box for their said zones and once you learn the machines little differences you'll find the equinox range to be a great all rounder.
Given the Equinox range would have to be one of the most sold coin and relic metal detectors sold throughout the world, with that comes awesome aftermarket accessories.
There are compact shafts, coils you name it for the equinox range that make it just a little bit more customizable and a really great detector for all.
If you don't need that gold mode then the equinox 600-700 range are awesome and a better price point to get you into the market.
There's a slight trade off with discrimination customization but outside of that the 600-700 equinox machines are an awesome first metal detector.
There is another new model that's a leap above the equinox and it offers 2d Visualization for ferrous and non ferrous targets (magnetic - non magnetic).
The manticore is very new to the market and over the coming year were going to see just how powerful this machine is we wont go deep into the Manticore here because i consider this an advanced machine.
If you're after just a gold specific machine and not really going after coins and relics the gold monster is a beast! now being VLF technology there's a learning curve but in the right situation that gold monster can produce really good results. There's a few really good VLF Gold Specific machines on the market were going to need a whole other article for that.
Well discuss more about how and where a gold monster really performs in another post. lets look at all the models available.
Before going too deep into gold lets talk about waterproof.
The equinox range, CTX 3030, Manticore and Excalibur all offer fully submersible metal detecting capabilities.
These range from 3 to 60 meters in submercibility.... is that a word? i'm going to run with it. The Excaliber is really the deep sea beast here and with that comes a pretty basic machine. Whereas your CTX 3030 has multiple frequencies and the equinox range has multi-iq (simultaneous frequencies) these differences can make a big difference depending on what your primary target is.
The CTX has a heap or power and some amazing GPS features with discrimination visualization similar but not the same as the manticore, there are also quite a few hand held metal detectors on the market small like a pin pointer these are made by Nokta and are called the pulse dive range.
So by now you should have a pretty good idea where these range of detectors fall in capabilty these metal detectors mentioned above are for the most part VLF (very low frequency) technology, were going to dive into Pulse induction.
Pulse induction metal detectors are the benchmark of innovation in Gold Specific metal detecting, that is if you are really serious about becoming a prospector and want to be able to pull native gold out of highly mineralised soils consistently and effectively then a pulse induction metal detector will get that gold!
This is not to say VLF's wont pull gold they will but Pulse induction (well now refer to this as a PI Machine.
PI machines can get a very accurate look into the soil matrix and discount the ground noise from the returning signal from your coil, this means even the smallest flake of gold can be detected with the right coil combo on a pulse induction machine, PI will also punch alot deeper.
There's alot more complexity to it than that but for now you need to understand the effectiveness scales is 1-1 VLF-PI its more like 1-11 or 1-100 in some situations. well dive into that much deeper another time.
The range in PI machines start at an SDC2300 which is absolute beast of a metal detector, its rugged and compact, super easy to use and completely waterproof yep I'm talking about 3 meters fully submersible. You can literally put your snorkel on and hit that creek looking for gold in cracks. these retail around the $4300 mark.
What really makes this metal detector one of the most popular units on the market is its size once folded down, it fits in a backpack so easily its one of a kind there is nothing like it on the market.
Next we have the GPX 5000 which has more options, coils, boosters etc than any other detector on the market, its a weapon of a PI machine that will always have a place but as minelab develop new machines its fallen behind in favor for a more simplistic user menu like the GPX 6000 or GPZ 7000 machines.
The GPX 5000 is still a really great metal detector that will get you gold and for around $5000 its very affordable.
We offer side mount battery kits for these that bring the weight down and remove the need to harness mount your battery reducing wires etc to make this machine even easier to use.
Next in line you have the current most popular PI machine the GPX 6000, this is definitely the easiest to use, turn on and go gold specific metal detector on the market! Hands down! There's only three things you can change on this machine, sensitivity, ground type and threshold its so easy.
Couple that will an awesome offering of coils, actually i have to say the 14 inch DD coil that comes with this detector is the best DD coil I've ever used near power lines it literally can run under extreme EMI. (electrical magnetic interference.
So out of the box you get two coils a 11" mono and 14" DD that gives you options to cover all ground. The GPX 6000 retails for $7999 and is only available from "Certified Minelab Dealers" you can find your local certified Minelab dealer via Minelab's website here.
At the top we have the GPZ 7000! The biggest and baddest Pulse induction gold metal detector on the market. If you run a lease or mine gold for a living you're running a GPZ 7000. The EMI stabilization alone of this machine can be the difference of being able to work on a day with a pending storm and putting tools down, the electronics are amazing.
The standard coil punches so deep while still being sensitive to sub grammers and flakes. Its one of the heaviest in the line up so you want to be aware of that when looking at these machines but minelab include a hardness and swing arm with the unit to balance that out.
Like with all metal detectors i encourage you to come in and pick up the models that you're looking at there's no feedback online you have to hold these in your hand to get a real understanding of the differences.
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Minelab has identified infrequent cases where users hear audio feedback when using the internal speaker. Please refer to the product notice on our website by clicking on the link below.
https://www.minelab.com/support/product-notices?article=482551
Minelab have produced a hardware update that removes this effect. This update is present in all newly manufactured GPX6000s.
In the event you have a production standard without this update and have experienced audio feedback when using the speaker please follow the procedure below in Australia to arrange for this update to be completed on your detector.
Please note for maximum performance headphones should be used. Headphone performance is unaffected with this update.
Australia
service@minelab.com.au
(08) 8238 0888
You will need the following information ready to give to Minelab staff:
- Full name
- Contact phone number
- Return postal address
- Detector serial number (located on the bottom of the control box)
Minelab Service
2 Second Avenue
Mawson Lakes
South Australia
5095
Because the detector is generally used in an outdoor, open environment, the speaker plays the audio with a high volume to account for wind and other ambient noises. Due to the highly sensitive nature of the GPX6000, in some circumstances the speaker itself may introduce detector noise that sounds like interference.
If you experience this situation, Minelab recommends first performing a Noise Cancel by holding the coil still and about 10 cm (4”) above, and parallel, to the ground. Press the Noise Cancel button on the control panel and wait for about 5 seconds until the confirmation tone signals the end of the Noise Cancel procedure. This will cause the detector to operate on a different frequency where the noise should not persist. Typically, the speaker is best to use when digging to locate a nugget.
Minelab recommends for best detecting results that operators use either the wireless or wired headphones which will not have this problem and will also suppress any environmental noise and ensure the Operator detects the smallest and deepest of nuggets.
Should the problem persist, please contact your Dealer.
article source https://www.minelab.com/support/product-notices?article=482551
]]>This article is my notes on the Manticore Features. We compare the Equinox and XP Deus 2 vs the Manticore in terms of how the features compare.
Anything I did not make note on I did so because it’s either older tech, or relatively straightforward. The Manticore definitely has some intriguing new features. However, until I get it in my hands and test the accessibility and versatility of these features I cannot definitively say whether they are actually helpful or not.
The Manticore Frequencies
Multi-IQ+, 5kHz, 10kHz, 15kHz, 20kHz, 40kHz
It is strange that Minelab would not make a 4kHz feature for the Manticore seeing how popular it was on the Equinox. Or why Minelab didn’t allow for variable single frequencies like the XP Deus offers.
Noise Cancel
Auto, Continuous Auto, Manual (-9 to +9). Continuous Auto will be interesting to hear more about. Minelab is claiming that the Manticore is very EMI-Resistant.
Ground Balance
Auto, Manual, Tracking
Ground Balancing the Manticore might not do you any good says the lead Minelab engineer. He states that ground balance may help you get a little more raw depth, but at that depth you don't even know what your target is (fringe depth). Ground balance he says does not help with discrimination though.
Sensitivity
1-35
Target ID (Identification)
0–99 with “Ferrous Indication”. This is an interesting change. As with the XP Deus 2, iron is not represented by negative numbers like it is on the Equinox. This can be extremely confusing because iron is coming in as a positive number unless it is somehow changed; either by notching it out, or, by changing the ‘pitch’ or the sound frequency of particular iron segments.
The problem then arises: What TID numbers actually represent the scale of iron? Well, when I began with the XP Deus 2, I had to test many pieces of iron until I had nailed down (pun intended) the answer. With the XP Deus 2 I changed the pitch of TID numbers 1-10 to SOUND like iron– again, changing the sound frequency/pitch.
I did not want to actually discriminate out iron completely by notching it out– because any experienced detectorist knows you need to be able to hear your iron to better discern whether what you have under your coil is a iron-false signal (iron halo) or a deep non-ferrous target (specifically silver).
Next, I turn my iron volume down so I can hear it, while keeping my non-ferrous TID numbers (11-99) at a normal volume. Turning my iron down allows me to hear the iron without it blowing my ears out all day.
Will the new “Ferrous Indication” feature be a new feature that helps with this issue? The Manticore does come with Ferrous Volume (0-25), and Ferrous Pitch (0-50) features.
Ferrous Limits is just the new term for Iron Bias
Upper 0-14 | Lower 0-9
Ferrous limits Custom
1-4
The Manticore Iron Horseshoe Dilemma
Here is the strange thing: There is a horseshoe button on the Manticore….
When you press the Horseshoe button on the Equinox, you either hear your iron or you don’t. Pressing the button single handedly wipes out all iron tones and “NEGATIVE” TID numbers, or it makes them audible again.
What TID numbers does the Horseshoe button represent on the Manticore then?
As convenient as the Horseshoe button is, it worries me that Minelab has some predetermined ‘positive’ TID numbers they believe iron represents. My point being– I don’t like companies telling me what numbers to discriminate out.
The Benefits of a Larger TID (Target Identification) Scale
The larger TID scale on the XP Deus 2 is a blessing in disguise. Here’s why:
The Equinox has a very compressed TID scale of only 1-39. Until I started using the XP Deus 2, I didn’t realize how inconvenient this was.
Having a smaller TID scale forces the detector to compress alloys closer together. So in other words, small junk foil will ring up the same as gold jewelry.
However, watching elaborate gold tests along with my own tests on the Deus 2 revealed that gold falls much higher with a larger TID scale (TID 30-40 and above!). Whereas small aluminum mostly falls below TID 30-40.
On the Equinox you will dig gold rings down to TID 2–10!
Think of the incredible space you have now to filter out trash that wasn’t there before with a compressed TID Scale. That is exactly why Minelab increased those TID numbers from 0-99 on the Manticore.
Now, of course you are going to dig some large aluminum and pull-tabs, but I even have some secrets for discriminating some of that without notching anything out!
Manticore 2-Dimensional TID Map
The Manticore 2-D simulated TID map has target trace, and reportedly gives you an actual ‘shape’ of your targets.
Now, for anyone who used the CTX 3030, you would know target trace is nothing new. Target trace was a color-coated animated feature that would show you multiple targets on the screen at once. Non-ferrous targets would emerge as more solid, whereas ferrous targets would smear across the screen.
This is very similar to the XP Deus XY screen in that non-ferrous targets represent more solid lines, and ferrous targets are represented as more chaotic lines.
Both the CTX and the Deus 2 features are simply different methods of giving you new information about your target.
The question is: has Minelab changed anything about this feature? To be honest, the CTX and Deus 2 features lose accuracy at greater depths. It will be interesting to see if Minelab has corrected this.
Target Tones
1, 2, 5 Tone | 1, 2, 5, Region All-Tones.
This is an EXTREMELY disappointing feature. I would expect Minelab to include 3 and 4 tones. This feature essentially means I have to go in and change the tone breaks in 5-tone like I do in the Equinox to make my machine either a 3 or 4 tone machine. “Region All-Tones” has not been described yet so we need more info on that.
Target Volume
0-25
Target Pitch
1-50 This is different from the XP Deus 2 so it will be interesting to see what frequencies 1-50 actually represent.
Audio Themes
Normal, Enhanced, Continuous Pitch (for the gold mode)
Volume Profiles
Simple (like the Vanquish), Medium (Like the Equinox), Rich, Overdrive, Enhanced (Suppresses EMI & Ground Chatter)
Some of these terms are relatively new and will need more explaining by Minelab.
Threshold Level
0-25
Threshold Pitch
0-50
Recovery Speed (Minelab added 0 on the Manticore for those who want to go super deep and slow)
0-8
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