Has Anyone Ever Been Assaulted While Metal Detecting? I Was Yesterday Evening:blink:

[John-Edmonton]

Although I was fine, the event was nerve wracking. It did end with a sort of an amusing ending. Here is the short version:

I went detecting yesterday to try out a new set of headphones. I went to a nearby school, and was searching a hill, and while squatting to pinpoint a possible coin with my screwdriver, I felt a sudden "pain" in my lower back. I had been punched/kicked in the back for absolutely no provocation or reason. I turned around to see a tall male, 18-20 years old running away. I stood up and went after him for a moment yelling some choice words at him, then stopped , realizing he could easily outrun me. He was also attempting to drop his pants while running! High on meth maybe? I went to a different part of the school yard to continue detecting, when I saw the same gentleman from a distance coming towards me, only with two other buddies. This did not look good at all. I grabbed my Gaarrett digger, pretended it was a cell phone, punched in some numbers then put it up to my ear. When those guys saw that, they figured I called the cops and took off real quick! I had decided at that point that I had had enough excitement, to call it a day and went home. Luckily, no physical harm done.

So, my digger may have saved me from a most terrible situation! I think I may now consider seriously getting a cell phone.

I typed up a long report, and dropped off a copy to the school, the day care center and the nearest police station. The police opened up a file for any further issues related to this complaint. Life is so short.......

 

[Dancer]

A fortune in detectors , and No cell ? I hate to be interrupted by phones also. But for safety sake, try just getting a Track phone with minutes. A big plus , the camera is always handy. For finds or for the unfortunate happening you just had.

 

[Gamma_Joe]

My heart's there with you, John. Hang in tough, buddy. Get yourself a cell phone or go detecting with a buddy or two.

Haven't had a confrontation here in Florida (yet), but have been eyeballed by some dudes on several occasions. They walk around in twos and threes, sometimes in the middle of the street. I keep an eye on them and hold the metal digging tool in one hand.

One time in a park, a local resident came up to me and said to be careful as there were some bad guys in that neighborhood. He said he'd keep an eye out for me.

On the other hand, there are good folks who come up and have a good conversation about the hobby. Makes it worth while.

Cheers,

Joe

 

[dan h]

Years ago I was setting up my detector etc. when I noticed 2 guys staring at me, then up and down the street. It was obvious they were looking to see if the coast was clear to mug me. I marched off the area and drove away. A cell phone is a necessity for a variety of reasons. Also, I use Killer Bee Stingers, one ear cup, so I can hear what is going on around me, and I "never leave my cave without my club.

 

[Gamma_Joe]

Anybody carry a Mace pistol, or consider carrying one?

 

[Orion42]

I never have both ears covered with cup style headphones. And 2 words : concealed carry!

John

 

[vlad]

Get a Co2 BB pistol-people cannot tell its not real-
-and they damn sure can hurt someone.
(I got a Wally World special, about $30, and 10 shots as fast as you can pull the trigger-a laser cost me $15 more,
that dot appears on someone-gets a serious reaction)

 

[slingshot]

One reason I like the Ace is I can wear the cheapo headphones a few inches AWAY from my ears and hear the slightest noise next to me. That, and I have my sweeps down where it's all automatic and I can constantly survey my surroundings. Not bad idea, as I have spotted cash, gold chains, wallets,etc. while sweeping!

 

[Leslie(nova scotia)]

Glad you came out of it unscaved! Are some nuts out there. My workplace is totally filled with that kind!

On the lighter side....did have a dog affix itself to my leg while detecting!

 

[Waterdog]

I was assaulted and a Non working cell phone had them on the run. I took the cell phone out and in a loud voice said " Give me the Police " and they took off. Cheap insurance

 

[iqwozpoom]

This is the reason I use ultralight's instead of full size headphones. Luckily I've never had a problem but having people suddenly appear right next to me while wearing noise canceling headphones was close enough for me. I usually listen for tones while keeping my head on a swivel and only look at tid's if it sounds good. Before I dig I'll take a quick survey of my surroundings. Predators will use the art of surprise and seek out people who are unaware of what is going on around them. A concealed carry make you feel safe but it's better to meet an attack beforehand then fight while on your back. Stay safe and happy hunting!

 

[JASONSPAZ1]

You have to think like a Jedi.
Try to avoid conflict while being prepared to defend the life of yourself and others.
You do not have to be "tact out", just try to carry a firearm or knife.
Although most of our diggers could brain someone if need be.
I carry a .38 snub nose loaded with buffalo bore hollow points.
I have been a corrections officer for 23 years and luckily, ex inmates I have encountered in public have been without incident.
However, I know the mindset of the "bad guys". Someone swinging an expensive looking device is a perfect target.
They come across nice at first. When they realize your deaf with the headphones on that is when they pounce.
My advice is to follow your gut and avoiding anyone or any area if your gut says perhaps you shouldn't detect there.

HH
Jason

 

[doc holiday232]

If they walk like a DimoRat----Be ready.

 

[detectin4fun]

John, Sorry to read about the attack, that kind of experience make you evaluate the possible risk hunting some locations. I had a close call years back. I was lucky as the guys with apparent bad intent flanked me a police officer pulled into the parking area they paused long enough I made it to my truck and left the park. I believe the officer was just having a paperwork break. My lucky day IMO. I never went back to that city park. I gave up on finding possible civil war Union encampment nectar because of the criminal element. Sometimes here in the US we forget our neighbor to the north does not have CCW as a option. Be safe.