Security and the beach

[Steve from Ohio]

Here is a topic that I have not seen on this site but has ramifications for all of us.

When detecting a beach by yourself, what kind of protection do you carry to protect against anyone who may try to rob you? I was thinking of carrying some mace with me just in case. I also carry my trowel that is very sharp that I can use to protect myself. I try to be on the beach with others present but going out at night to follow the low tide sometimes I cannot find anyone to go out with me at 1 in the morning.

I know not to answer anyone who asks if I have found anything with a yes...I just tell them I've found a bunch of old iron and pull tabs.

Has anyone been attacked while detecting? Anyone had their detectors stolen from them while out on the beach?

Cars broken into and detectors and valuables stolen? I have heard that cars have been broken into along the Treasure Coast in Florida.

With the economy the way it is, I am sure that there are some that would take advantage of those out looking to find things on the beach.

What kind of ID do you put on your detector to help find it in case it is stolen. Is there a national stolen detector data base? Do the major manufacturers keep track of stolen detectors if reported to them and report them if sent in for repairs?

Is there insurance that can be had for metal detectors other than home owners insurance?

 

[Gulf Hunter]

Hello Steve, as far as insurance and the national data base, I am not aware of any specific provisions, as such. Never tell of finds, in daylight or dark, or how much you detector costs(tell them it was a gift). Never tell of best finds(consider the code is my answer to that question). Tell them you are finding pennies and pull-tabs, if asked. NEVER have night-time interviews, avoid people, if possible. I carry an 11lb, stainless steel scoop(most volatile and immediately available weapon). I also have a fixed blade field knife sheaved onto my webbelt. I have a 12GA Olins flare gun(yes it will fire after being submerged), locked and loaded, with extra rounds in a magazine, in my rear mesh pouch. I make sure thugs get a view of the armament, with my headlight, before they want a piece of me. Shining the headlight directly into their eyes, will ready your advantage. I have had no confrontations. Been hunting all hours of the day and night, since '04. God is ALWAYS with me too, and is my greatest protection, see Psalm 23! Best of luck mate!

 

[bdahunter]

Just as you keep your eyes peeled for rogue waves you have to be aware of the rogues that shadow isolated places looking for easy prey. So far I've found that having my eyes open and a big @ss scoop in my hand has proven to be an adequate deterant to rogues. I've been sized up by predators on isolated beaches just twice, a firm stance, strong eye contact and a quick spin of the scoop indicating I meant business was enough to discourage them. Scum bags aren't looking for a knock down drag out fight, they're looking for an easy victim who will give up without a struggle. Nuf Said.

BDA

 

[BEACH HUNTER]

[attachment 115074 user3027_pic2389_1224770264.jpg]

 

[BEACH HUNTER]

n/t

 

[bdahunter]

Grape shot or Cannister load, Mate??
Nice to see a pic of your trip to St. Georges. I'm off to pick up a Mate from another forum who is staying at Elbow Beach, a nice cut at the beach at Horseshoe so I'm hoping it will finally deliver up some loot.

Cheers Norm,

Eric

 

[bdahunter]

n/t

It's a small island, Mate. You bet.

 

[Eric from NC]

remember, any weapon that you have to protect you can be used against you. Keep your whits about you, flashlight in the eyes is great and a will not go down easy attitude is a good one to have. Never tell anyone what you find, only junk. Never allow someone to invade your personal space, stand up for yourself. Bullies will usually backdown if given a bit of attitude back. keep everyone infront of you, if there are two or more make sure they are in sight, never allow someone to get behind you. always have a way out. and walk away from the situation. If you have to walk backwards do it. remember what they look like. If you use mace or spray, makesure it has the dye that tints their skin for the police later.

 

[mattockman]

That looks like Bermuda to me....

 

[bdahunter]

I didn't realize you'd been to Bermuda, Mattockman. Of course it could just be the Alzheimers.

 

[Bernie]

Here in Vermont we have an absolute right to carry, so I am always packing something. I also agree with you all on not disclosing what you are finding. I keep a handful of pennies and pull tabs to show anyone who is curious.

 

[BEACH HUNTER]

n/t

 

[bdahunter]

It was a little chilly but sunny in Bermuda yesterday, around 70 f with a stiff breeze blowing. I had my wetsuit on because I'm am now fully acclimatized to this weather and can't take the cold anymore. I was out hunting with Dug Day from another forum who is visiting Bermuda with his wife, very nice couple. Doug didn't need a wetsuit but he is from Pennsylvania and found the weather just balmy, so go figure.
You'll be back soon, Mate and we'll go hunting again. Great fun to hunt with you on your last visit.

Cheers,

BDA

 

[mattockman]

Actually BDA, It all came together knowing Beach Hunter went there to visit, and I google earth alot and travel virtually, and also My oldest sister and Brother were born there....My father was Air Force....and thats where the fam started....I was the last of 8 in the litter and was born in Hawaii

 

[crabby]

I always wear a jacket or tee shirt that says "HOMELAND SECURITY....BOMB DETECTOR" keeps them away.

 

[thinkin2]

If you feel you have no choice but to retreat and you are close enough to the water use it for your retreat, even if your unit isn't waterproof. But I only advise this for people with water survival skills (being a good swimmer doesn't qualify by itself). For water hunters wearing wet suits you already have a great advantage. I would suggest wearing a BC vest. It shouldn't be in your way while you're hunting but if you have to escape it will be easy to manually inflate should you need it. I don't think too many people will follow you into the water and trying to run from them on the beach will be futile with all of the gear you're carrying. I'm not opposed to using weapons if absolutely necessary but it should be an absolute last resort. Remember, these guys probably have weapons too and they may outnumber you. Don't try to be a Rambo. I'm sure some of you are pretty tough guys but the bad guys can be pretty tough too. Stand your ground if you have to but don't escalate things by being confrontational. Retreat when you can.
Jerry