What this site is
Metal Detecting Guide is an independent UK website for people getting into metal detecting, or thinking about it. We cover the kit, where you’re allowed to detect, and the law on permission and treasure, with a UK focus that most detector reviews, written for the American market, don’t have.
How we research
We haven’t hands-on tested every detector on this site, and we say so. Our recommendations are based on manufacturers’ published specifications, current UK prices and availability, what detectorists report in reviews and on forums, and how each machine suits UK conditions: wet clay fields, stubble, mineralised soil and beaches.
For the law, we go to the source: the Treasure Act and its official codes of practice, GOV.UK, the Portable Antiquities Scheme, Treasure Trove Scotland, Northern Ireland’s Department for Communities, and landowners’ own published rules. Every guide lists its sources so you can check them.
How the site is funded
Some links on this site are Amazon affiliate links. If you buy through one, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. That never decides what we recommend. See our affiliate disclosure for details.
Corrections
The law and the prices both change. If you spot something out of date, email [email protected] and we’ll fix it.