Searching - Fisher M-Scope 1280-X Aquanaut Operating Manual

SEARCHING

Good search techniques remain the same whether you're using
your 1280-X in the desert or on the bottom of the ocean.
1. Decide how much discrimination you want to
use.
a. In relatively non-trashy areas you may wish to
search at zero discrimination. In this manner, your
1280-X is at its most sensitive and will detect all
metal targets within its range. Once an object is
detected, you can increase the discrimination
level for further target identification.
b. In trashy areas, it is generally easier to search
at a higher level of discrimination (at the pull tab
discrimination point for example). This way you
will detect mostly good targets and can lower
the discrimination level for pinpointing (zero
discrimination will produce the strongest signal on
small or deep targets).
2. Search slowly and systematically, sweeping in a
tight semi-circle.
3. Keep the coil parallel to, and as close to the
ground as practical.
4. Overlap your sweeps at least 50%
5. Search in a methodical manner. Pay close
attention to where you're going and where you've
been.
6. Keep the search coil moving at a comfortable
Figure 6. Keep the
coil parallel and as
close to the ground
at all times
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1280Xmanual-870246.indd 10
TARGET RECOVERY
around the hole.
8. Recheck the hole and the area around the hole
with your 1280-X if you still can't find it.
9. Once you have recovered the target, check the
area again. Two or more coins are often found in
the same spot.
10. Scrape all loose dirt back in the hole, reinsert the
plug and press it firmly in place with your foot.
RECOVERY TOOLS
1. Sandscoops designed especially for beachcombers
and shallow water treasure hunters are available at
many metal detector outlets.
2. Divers use a variety of recovery tools depending
on the condition of the sea bed or lake bottom. A
sturdy dive knife will suffice in packed mud or small
rocks. Most divers prefer to use their hands in loose
sand and professional treasure hunters often use an
air hose fed by a surface compressor to blow away
loose sand, gravel or mud.
3. For land recovery, a sturdy hunting knife with a 5"
blade will suffice in most soils. A high quality, double
edged "survival" knife is an even better choice (and
more expensive) since it will be almost impossible to
bend or break.
CAUTION: Using a jack knife without a locking blade
is a good way to lose a finger.
4. A heavy duty, blunt screwdriver is commonly used
for shallow targets where digging or "plugging" is
objectionable.
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6/20/06 3:29:29 PM