question about detecting around large metal objects

[detectorbase]

Hello All

Looking for more sage advice. How do you guys detect around large metal objects? For example, fire hydrants, street sign poles, water mains, etc?

I use a 8" coil for my standard coil, and switch to the 5" on occasion, but I have real hard time getting even remotely close to these types of objects. I know that all detectors have issues with this, but my SE seems to be the worst.

Do you guys crank down your sensitivity on the fly when you get close? How low do you go? Any coil techniques?

I know I'm missing some good ground by avoiding these spots.

What I encounter is falsing when I get close, and forget about pinpointing targets.. since it draws me to the object instead of the target.

Thanks!
DB

 

[James N.D.]

Also, you may have to get a Joey Coil or some other oval Coil to be able to get close to these objects. Your 5" should work if you drop the Sensitivity down to 16 and if that isn't enough, try lowering it more. I have detected right up close about 5 or so Inches to Poles and such with my Joey Coil but that could be because it is a 5"X10" Oval Coil. But you still won't be able to get right next to Large Objects since the Coils are hot on the edges too. Good Luck and HH.