Top 10 Features to Look for in a Metal Detecting Pouch

Naturally, both professional treasure hunters and beginners dream first of all of hitting the jackpot and finding a really valuable treasure. Therefore, many underestimate the issue of comfort. And this is in vain. In situations when you return home after a trip with a metal detector, carrying the rod of the device in one hand, the coil in the other, and a backpack with finds on your shoulder, it is probably time to think about buying a good bag in which you can place everything ergonomically. And we are not talking about just a bag with handles, but about a well-thought-out, comfortable, durable thing in which everything will fall into place. And this is really important, because it will help to significantly simplify your life.

But here the question arises, how to choose the right bag for a metal detector that will be ideal for you? The photo shows everything beautifully, descriptions and characteristics are also provided. But what about in reality? Sometimes in such "successful" purchases, zippers get stuck, the fabric rubs, the handles come off. Agree, it has little to do with reliability and comfort. Therefore, it is so important to approach the choice responsibly, weigh the pros and cons. Only in this way can you buy the very model that will fully meet your expectations. Therefore, we offer you ten criteria that will help you not to make a mistake. At the same time, this is not a dry list, but an extract from the real experience of professionals.

Size and shape —   convenience and capacity

The first thing you will have to face when choosing is the banal size. Many mistakenly take "bigger", naively thinking that the device itself, and finds, and even boots will fit in it. But then in practice it turns out that in fact a large bag is not always good. Everything dangles inside, the weight is uncomfortably distributed, and it presses on the shoulder. Also has nothing to do with convenience. If you are unsure which size to choose so that everything fits and is comfortable, we offer you several characteristics of a really good bag:

• the reel fits easily, without resting against the edges (and it is worth considering that they can be from 8 to 15 inches);

• the rod fits in a partially disassembled state, thanks to which there is absolutely no need to unscrew it to the screw;

• there is enough space for various useful little things that will come in handy during forays, such as gloves, a brush, water, a power supply;

• there is no feeling that you are carrying concrete on your shoulders.

Also, do not forget that the shape matters, and this point should not be ignored. It is recommended to choose elongated bags, as they are more conveniently balanced on the shoulder, which as a result significantly reduces fatigue after long hikes.

Material —   types and features

Currently, materials such as Oxford, Cordura, Rip-Stop are especially popular on the market. Yes, it may sound cool, but in fact you still need to touch it and only then draw conclusions. If the fabric is thin, easily wrinkled, and there is no moisture protection on the inside, most likely such an accessory will quickly tear or get wet, because the quality characteristics in this case leave much to be desired.

Therefore, when choosing a bag for a metal detector, it is recommended to give preference to materials with a density of at least 600D, moisture-proof impregnation; which do not leave lint and are not afraid of dust and dirt. Also, an undeniable bonus is if there is a thickened bottom or an additional platform inside. Yes, this is still not the most necessary thing, but it helps to significantly extend the life of the bag.

Comfortable handles and strap

In practice, diggers most often carry bags on their shoulders for reasons of convenience. So be sure to check the belt before buying. It should be wide, adjustable and with a soft lining. Otherwise, after an hour you will feel the belt like a rope, and in this case there is no need to talk about discomfort. It is also important to pay attention to the issue of the belt attachment points being stitched and riveted. The reason is that a simply sewn-in strap can fly out quite quickly, especially if the bag contains a complete set, including the device, batteries and, of course, finds. Also important are the handles, which are relevant for short transfers, for example, from the car to the field. It is great if the handles are not only durable, but also equipped with a special Velcro with a unifier.

Number and location of pockets

Despite the fact that at first glance these are trifles, they decide a lot during operation. If there is one internal pocket, this is already good. Two side pockets, of course, are even better. This allows you to place everything you need, from a power bank to brushes for cleaning the find and documents. Therefore, it is worth noting that a good and convenient bag for a metal detector:

• the main compartment is divided so that the rod does not hit the block;

• there is a secret pocket with a zipper (for especially valuable finds);

• small pockets do not hang out, but sit tightly.

To do this, try to mentally lay out your entire kit in advance. This way, you can guess how much space you need and for what. For some diggers, two pockets are enough, while someone needs five or six compartments for comfort.

Protection of the metal detector inside

Some manufacturers add soft walls or even molded inserts to the bags. This is a kind of pillow for the device. This is especially true if you are transporting it in the trunk, where it can roll around. Without such protection, such problems as mechanical damage to the device, friction of contacts and scratches on the display may occur. If you do not ensure careful transportation of the device, after just one season you can say goodbye to its appearance, and sometimes even to its functionality.

Zippers and fittings

Not everyone attaches due importance to the quality of the zipper. However, treasure hunters often have problems such as, for example, zipper consumption, due to which the coil can simply fall out into the dirt. There may also be difficulties with closing the bag due to the fact that the zipper gets stuck. Therefore, this point should also be given due attention when choosing.

• it is better to choose zippers with large teeth;

• a double slider allows you to open and close in both directions;

• the tabs are convenient, not small, so that you can open them with gloves;

It is desirable that the fittings are made of metal or, in extreme cases, thick plastic.

Moisture resistance (or at least moisture protection)

The bag does not have to be absolutely airtight, after all, it is not planned to store perishable products there. But still, the bag should protect the contents from accidental rain or wet grass to prevent damage to the device. Therefore, before giving preference to one model or another, you should study:

• • the inner layer —   is there a polyurethane or PVC impregnation;

• • how the seams are processed —   if they are simply stitched, without additional gluing, they can let moisture through;

• • whether there is a valve on the zipper —   this helps in strong winds or slanting rain.

Thanks to a responsible approach, your chances of buying a really high-quality bag for a metal detector will significantly increase, which will serve you faithfully for a long period, and will retain its presentable appearance and functionality.

Compactness during storage

Few people think about it, but the bag spends most of its time at home or in the trunk. If it does not fold compactly, it takes up a lot of space. Therefore, it is still better to choose models with soft walls that can be rolled up more compactly. Some manufacturers make a folding design, the bottom and walls on Velcro or inserts. This is more convenient, but be prepared that this slightly reduces the rigidity.

The weight of the bag itself

A paradox, but a fact. In most cases, the cooler the bag, the heavier it can be. Such advantages as protection, pockets, inserts, reinforcements undoubtedly add weight. But do not forget that a metal detector, batteries, finds, water, tools will also be added to this weight. Therefore, a bag weighing up to 1.5 kg when empty is considered optimal. Otherwise, there is a risk that you will get tired before you even start digging.

Additional features

Sometimes it is these seemingly small things that make a bag a favorite:

• ventilation holes —   useful if you wear wet gloves;

• reflective elements —   if you dig at sunset or early in the morning;

• name tag —   helps not to mix up bags on trips or at rallies;

• the ability to attach to a cart —   if you walk with heavy equipment.

But it is worth noting that the presence of these additional elements also implies an increase in price.

Let's summarize

When choosing a bag for a metal detector, you should pay attention not only to the appearance or price. Much more important for further use are convenience, quality of materials and thoughtfulness of the design. Reliable fittings, reinforced bottom, strong  —   all this directly affects comfort in the field.

Professionals are good to have two bags, one large, with a frame and protection, for long trips, and the second one —   light and compact, for short outings. This approach helps to adapt to different situations. The main thing is that the bag does not interfere, but helps in the search. Do not chase brands or fashionable names. It is better to spend a little time studying the options and choose a thing wisely. A reliable bag will last not a season, but years, will protect equipment and save your energy.