I got my first metal detector when I was an early teen. I lived in a very old apartment building and it had a huge front yard. I was finding a few things here and there (and a lot of old can tabs) when I noticed a man with a metal detector across the street. He came over and talked to me. He asked if it was ok to hunt in that field. The landlord had no problem with it, so he joined me. My detector was a sears model, his was either a Whites or Garrett.

He gave me some tips and pointers that helped me a lot. I've also done research and learned that even my sears model could find nice things.

First of all, if you have never used a metal detector do not just go out and buy a nice expensive model with all of the newest features. Find a place to rent a basic one and learn to use it. Experiment with different things. Place different types coins, nails, can tabs, etc on the ground and see what type of sound each produces. Todays detectors come with a wide variety of features. Some are even said to be able to tell you exactly what type of coin or jewelry is in the ground and the type of metal. These aren't always accurate. You will still have to rely on your ears and gut feelings.

After you have learned to use your rented detector and have gained some experience, see if there is a treasure hunting club near you. If so, join it. Get tips from other hunters. Ask what models they think are the best. What to avoid, etc. If you don't have a club near you there are many treasure hunting/ metal detecting message boards online. Most of the people posting in them are a nice bunch and will be glad to give you tips and pointers.

After you feel you are confident and have purchased your own detector, go scouting. You want to find old buildings or places where people now, or used to, congregate frequently.

If you find an old house that is still occupied, try to find the owner. Even if it is not occupied, try to find the owner. NEVER go onto someone else's property without first getting permission. Explain to them what you want to do, how you will dig without leaving a big hole in the ground (I will explain techniques later in the article) and tell them that you will even share with them anything that you find. Explain to them that any junk you pull out you will be taking with you.

If you are out driving and see an old foundation in the woods, pull over and check it out. Way back when, a lot of people didn't trust banks so they put their

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