Can Metal Detectors Detect Lead?

Ever pondered whether your trusty metal detector could uncover lead hidden beneath the earth’s surface? Let’s dive deep into this intriguing aspect of metal detecting!

When I was interested in detecting lead treasures, about two years ago, a lot of questions were bothering my mind. As time passed I found answers to all those questions one by one. 

During the early days, one of such questions which gave me a few sleepless nights was, “Can lead be found through metal detecting?”. 

I was in two states of mind regarding whether to say yes or no, based on some answers from my fellow metal-detecting community.

So to provide all those enthusiasts and the metal-detecting community with a clearer answer, I took the responsibility upon myself and start investigating more about lead. 

Now with years of experience, here’s what I know about, Can metal detectors detect lead?

Yes, Modern-day metal detectors are well capable of detecting lead with metal-detecting mechanisms. Even though lead is very low in conductivity, modern-day metal detectors with high sensitivities could identify lead as a separate element. 

Lead is one of the important metals in the metal industry since it is widely used for car batteries, cable sheathing, pigments, weights for lifting and so much more.

So in the rest of the article, I will be talking about how you could easily find lead through metal detecting. Hang around until the end and learn more about whether a metal detector detects lead.

Let’s jump straight into the article!

Do Metal Detectors Detect Lead?

Yes, metal detectors detect lead, especially when the detectors are new and equipped with the latest technologies.

Lead is a non-ferrous metal and all the non-ferrous metal can be detected by metal detectors.

If this question was asked by different metal detecting pros, I guarantee you that you will get different answers each time. 

Because this is one time that the metal-detecting community is divided into two groups. 

Older metal-detecting professionals will tell you that it is impossible to find lead with metal detectors, they will go on to say that there are no specific metal detectors that perform better in finding lead. 

Then the metal detectors, who are new to the metal detecting game and who are open to all the new developments of metal detecting will say that lead can be detected by metal detectors. 

They will go on to say that even if lead is harder to detect compared to finding aluminum or gold, it is not impossible. 

So, what do you think my school of thought might be? I went on several metal-detecting trips to find lead, and I have been successful. 

First I have to confess, that this is not by any means a small or easy task. It is one of the hardest tasks I’ve done in metal detecting alongside detecting titanium. 

Do you know that lead is a non-magnetic metal that can be detected by metal detectors.

Here are some of the factors that affected detecting lead through metal detecting, 

• Metal detector sensitivity
• Range of the metal detector

So, let’s have a look at each of those considerable factors in detail to detect lead more effectively.

Metal Detector Sensitivity 

This is one of the key factors that will decide whether you find a lead or not. 

If you have a metal detector that can reach higher sensitivity settings, the chances of lead being found are higher. 

Metal detectors detect metal by emitting electromagnetic radiation this electromagnetic radiation, when encountered by a metal produces a counter current which is then detected by the coil of the metal detector. 

This is how the metal detectors work. 

So to produce a high counter current, the detecting metal should have a higher electrical conductivity. 

As lead sits near the bottom of the electrical conductivity table, your metal detector should have exceptionally high sensitive capacities to detect elements like lead. 

Range Of The Metal Detector

If the metal detector has a good range, there is a higher chance of you finding a lead. 

Because if the range is high the electromagnetic radiation can travel far down into the earth, so it can even detect the lead pieces which are buried deep in the earth’s crust. 

Read to know the detection depths of the metal detectors.

Does Lead Stop Metal Detection? 

Lead is one of the lowest electric conducting metals. it has a lower electrical conductivity than silver, aluminum, and titanium lie metals. 

Some experts say that lead can disrupt and block metal detection. It is true because I have experienced such phenomena with metal detecting. 

As I explained earlier, the electromagnetic radiation of the metal detector should be met with a metal to produce a countercurrent. 

As lead is low in the electrical conductivity table, the countercurrent will be so low or sometimes absent. 

This is due to the low electric conductivity of the lead.

This absorbs the electromagnetic radiation, but if the lead block is larger or thicker the produce countercurrent is low that it won’t be detected by the metal detectors. 

Factors that affect the ability of lead to produce a counter-current are, 

1. Size of the lead block
2. Thickness of the lead block

If the hidden lead block or piece is larger the produced counter-current will be so minor, that it isn’t capable of traveling back onto the surface of the earth to meet with the coil of the metal detector. 

This goes the same for the thickness too, if the thickness is high produced counter current will be low, thus the lead piece will not be detected by the metal detector. 

Some argue that this is the blocking effect of the lead. But actually, this is not, because in my opinion if a blocking effect is present in lead, it should completely stop the countercurrent being produced. 

But lead doesn’t block metal detection. The only thing is it isn’t capable of producing a stronger countercurrent like gold or silver.  

Can Metal Detectors Detect Through Lead?

Lead is known for its relatively low conductivity compared to other metals like silver, copper, or gold. 

This means that it’s harder for metal detectors to detect objects through a lead barrier due to their low electrical conductivity and density. 

While it’s not completely impossible, the size and thickness of the lead barrier and the type of metal detector used are significant factors.

If the lead barrier is thin and the object behind it has high conductivity (like gold or silver), a high-quality, sensitive metal detector might be able to pick up a signal. 

However, for thicker lead barriers, detection becomes increasingly difficult.

Furthermore, a large enough lead object can produce what is known as a “halo effect” where the electromagnetic field of the metal detector extends around the lead object, making it even more difficult to detect objects behind it.

So, in general, while lead doesn’t entirely block a metal detector’s signal, it can significantly interfere with its ability to detect objects behind or within it.

Best Metal Detectors For Lead

Here are some of the best metal detectors out there that you could use to find lead,

1. Garrett AT Pro – the pro ode of this detector allows enhanced target separation with improved discrimination to identify lead objects separately. 
2. Minelab Equinox 800 – Multi-IQ feature allows the metal detector to find lead objects in different environments
3. Fisher F75 – Digital Shielding Technology of this metal detector allows the electromagnetic interference to be reduced and provides more accurate detection. 
4. XP Deus – Wireless technology feature allows a larger range of motion with easy controls.
5. Nokta Makro Anfibio – All-terrain feature allows the metal detector to effectively search in different environmental conditions, whether it is land or water. 
6. Teknetics T2 Classics – Boost and Cache modes provide improved depth ranges and sensitivity to find delicate metals like lead.
7. Whites TreasurePro – The larger coil present in this increases the depth and range of the metal detector. 
8. Bounty Hunter Land Ranger Pro– Adjustable iron audio feature helps to identify separately between iron and lead targets, increasing the target separation. 
9. Makro Racer 2 – Discrimination and notch filter settings allow the metal detector to increase precise targeting for lead objects.
10. Garrett ACE 10 – Iron audio feature helps to differentiate iron and lead signals easily and helps in identifying lead objects far better. 

How To Detect Lead

There are a few steps that you have to be aware of when you are finding lead through metal detecting. Here are those steps, 

• First, you have to research areas that are high with lead, possibly lead mines or lead production sites. 
• Then after you have done the research select a metal detector with high sensitivity. Upon arrival at the location set the metal detectors’ ground balance to suit the nature of the ground. 
• Then after that follow it up by adjusting the sensitivity settings, discrimination settings, and notching to increase the chances of you finding any possible lead sources 
• Then in the slow sweeping technique start to sweep the area, until you hear a signal. 
• When you hear a signal start digging in the area and uncover what you have discovered. 

If you’re interested, read to know the best locations to find lead treasures when metal detecting!

Valuable Lead Finds

Here are some of the valuable things that you can find during metal detecting, 

Lead Seals and Tokens

During your metal detecting trips you will be able to find tokens or seals, used by generals and higher personnel in the early ages, made out of lead. These will have a serious antique value among collectors.

Ammunition

Old cannon balls were made out of lead. So there is a higher chance of you finding these in your metal detecting trips. 

Lead Weights

These were used in the past for balancing stuff. From weighing to ships, it was used all around. This is one of the common items you can discover during metal detecting for lead.

Artifacts from Shipwrecks

There were abundant lead items present in old naval vessels. These used to have door knobs, ballast weight, and various sculptures on board the ship. 

So finding these types of items could have important and a higher value for maritime history enthusiasts. 

Industrial Items 

Various items like batteries and electrical components are abundant with lead metal. So this is another valuable find you can face during metal detecting.

How to Clean Lead Finds?

Imagine you found something valuable from detecting lead with your metal detector. But with it being hidden underground for so long, it is bound to be dirty. 

Here are some of the steps I follow to clean any lead item I find and restore it to its original condition. 

• First, inspect the metal closely. Then using a gentle brush try to remove as much dirt as you can.
• Then make a mild solution by mixing soap and water. Soak the lead item in the solution for a couple of hours. 
• Then using a sponge or a soft cloth wipe the remaining dirt off the surface of the lead item. 
• After washing off rinse thoroughly with running water to remove any soap or remaining dirt. Then using a soft dry cloth pat dry, the item. 
• After the lead item has been completely dried, store it in appropriate cases like a plastic container or a glass box. 

Now I’m going to share with you some tips that I have learned over the past few years after discovering lots of hidden lead treasures with my metal detectors.

Those are based on my practical experience and they’ll help you to detect lead items easily.

Tips For Using Metal Detectors to Find Lead

Here are some tips to find lead items more easily, 

• Try applying the highest sensitivity settings to your metal detector. This will allow the metal detector to identify smaller targets. 
• Try adjusting the discrimination settings and notching to identify lead separately among other stuff. 
• Try using a slow sweeping movement with overlapping sweeps to cover the whole area.
• Try selecting a metal detector with a larger coil, this will give you ample range to find any lead objects hidden underground, 

Does Lead Set Off Metal Detectors At Airports? 

No. Lead will not be detected by airport metal detectors. because these detectors are programmed to find large pieces of metal that feel threatening. 

But during additional security checks or X-Ray detection, lead could be and would be identified. 

Safety Considerations When Detecting Lead

Here’s a breakdown of the potential safety considerations when detecting and handling lead:

Handling Lead Objects

Lead is a toxic substance and can be harmful if ingested or inhaled. Always use gloves when handling lead objects. 

This will prevent lead particles from transferring to your skin, which can then easily be transferred to your mouth or face.

Cleaning Lead Objects

During the cleaning process, small particles of lead can become airborne and pose an inhalation risk. It’s advisable to wear a mask or a respirator during this process. 

As described in the provided article, cleaning should be done with a gentle brush and mild soapy water, taking care not to inhale any dust that may be dislodged.

Storing Lead Objects

Lead objects should be stored in a safe manner, out of reach of children and pets. 

They should be stored in a dry, enclosed container to prevent the spread of lead dust.

Proper Disposal

If you do not wish to keep the lead objects, do not simply throw them away. Lead is a hazardous material and should be disposed of properly. 

Check with your local waste facility or recycling center to see if they accept lead materials.

Washing and Hygiene

After your metal detecting trip, be sure to thoroughly wash your hands, clothing, and equipment. 

This will help to ensure any residual lead particles are not accidentally ingested or spread around your home.

Awareness of Lead Poisoning Symptoms

Early symptoms of lead poisoning include headaches, stomach pain, and fatigue. In case you experience any of these symptoms after a metal detecting trip, it is advised to seek medical attention.

Remember, safety should be the utmost priority while enjoying this fascinating hobby.

Congrats folks! Now you know everything you should know about, can metal detectors detect lead with tips and tricks.

The United States produced approximately 990,000 metric tons of lead in 2022, underlining the importance and abundance of this low-conductivity metal in various industries.

www.usgs.gov

So, let’s answer some frequently asked questions as well.

FAQs

Did I cover all you wanted to know about: Can Metal Detectors Detect Lead?

In this article, I’ve deeply discussed whether can metal detectors detect lead with a how-to guide, the best metal detectors for lead detection, tips, and some safety considerations as well.

A metal detector can indeed detect lead. Despite lead’s lower conductivity compared to other metals, modern metal detectors with high sensitivity settings are capable of detecting it, making them useful tools for those in search of lead objects.

Lead is one of the toughest metals to find out there. Even more than gold or silver. so if you are struggling to find a piece of lead hidden underground, don’t worry you are not alone. 

I hope this guide will help anyone willing to take the risk and sacrifice their time on finding a lead. Because I can be sure, if you find something valuable, it will be rewarding just as you found some gold. 

Because a lot of metal detectors aren’t interested in finding lead, there is a market to be exploited. 

So if you are a young metal detector who is just starting, this paints a perfect opportunity for you to grab by both hands. 

I hope I covered all you wanted to know about can metal detectors detects lead. I hope this information will be useful for someone lead detecting enthusiast, and be inspiring for him.