How to Buy Old Metal Detectors
Metal detectors are used for everything from security to searching for lost treasures. Use metal detectors to locate buried items in the sand on beaches and beneath the dirt in abandoned lots and even the backyard. New metal detectors, even on the low end, are quite pricey. For a beginner in the hobby, buying an old metal detector is a way to learn and save money at the same time.
Instructions
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Check the advertisements for local estate auctions in your area. These can be for farm or town estates. Announcements for estate auctions can usually be found in local newspapers and on store bulletin boards. Go to the auctions and see if there are any old metal detectors.
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Visit local pawn shops, flea markets and garage sales. Quite often, you can pick up an expensive metal detector for very little money at one of these outlets.
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Look on eBay and other online auction sites if you know the model or type of metal detector you are looking for. Be sure to figure in the shipping costs as part of the overall price.
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Place an ad in your local Thrifty Nickel or other type of free newspaper stating that you wish to buy an old metal detector. Many people have them stored away in a closet or garage and will be willing to sell.
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Post an ad on Craigslist.com in your city. Be sure to state what type of detector you are looking for.
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Tips & Warnings
If at all possible, make sure the old metal detector works before you pay for it. If the seller does not have the batteries needed, ask them to hold the detector until you can return with fresh batteries. Some models use as many as 24 AA batteries. There are a number of metal detecting clubs around the United States. Check online bulletin boards dedicated to metal detecting to find one closest to you.
