The sand scoop is a necessity if you’re planning on beach hunting. There are handheld versions and full-length versions, but both have the same basic design. They utilize a scoop on the end of a handle. The scoop is generally made out of some sort of perforated material, usually aluminum or PVC.
The idea is to scoop up some sand and let the scoop act as a sifter. The sand will pour out of the perforated holes and the target will be left inside the scoop, provided the target won’t fit through the holes.
I prefer the long-handled scoops because I’m lazy. It’s faster and easier to retrieve targets without having to kneel down or bend over. Jewelry hunting is a numbers game. The faster you can get targets out of the ground, the more targets you’ll dig. The more targets you dig, the better your odds will be of nabbing something like a gold ring.
If you decide to make your own sand scoop, the holes should be slightly smaller than a dime. This will allow you to keep most US currency and most rings. If you plan on detecting in the surf or in the water in general, you’re also going to want to make sure your super-duper treasure scooper is brightly colored and buoyant enough to float.
The Best Metal Detecting Sand Scoops
“The Best”
CKG Sand Scoop
This scoop has it all, one of those buy it once and never need to buy again.
- Rugged Stainless Steel Construction
- Perfect size hex holes
- Double handle for shoveling and scooping
Budget
NAT GEO Sand Scoop
Perfect for the “occasional sand sifter” You could find a gold ring with this and make $100’s.
- Light plastic construction
- Durable enough for sand, pebbles and gravel
- Very inexpensive, but still great reviews
Seriously Good
Garrett Sand Scoop
Don’t want to spend a pile, but still want quality? The Garrett name is trusted by detectorists.
- Steel construction for durability
- Large holes for sifting sand fast
- Comfy padded grip
Metal Detecting Sand Scoop Materials:
Stainless Steel: Stainless steel scoops share the durability and reliability of Steel scoops but add an extra layer of benefit – longevity and rust resistance. They resist oxidation, even on welding seams, preserving their aesthetics for a long time. This resistance to corrosion makes a stainless steel scoop the best option for those who love searching on beaches and saltwater.
I highly recommend checking out the CKG sand scoop, heavy duty to last a lifetime. Check prices on Amazon 👉 CKG Sand Scoop
Plastic Scoops: these are inexpensive, lightweight, and good because you can swing your detector over the plastic sand scoop to see if you have the target. With the right tools, some detectorists even make their own. See below for some videos detailing the process.
However, plastic is also going to wear the quickest. Use a plastic sand scoop if you are going to focus on hunting any dry sand beach with loose sand that doesn’t have many shells or rocks. This is why National Geographic Scoop (👈 link to Amazon) is so popular.
Aluminum Scoops: are considered the middle of the road, having the lightweight properties of plastic, while having durability closer to steel. Aluminum scoops work well in dry or wet sand and can handle sand with shells and some smaller rocks. I have found that most metal detectorists use aluminum because it is affordable, light, and strong. Also, a great option is getting an aluminum beach scoop with a stainless steel tip.
Steel Scoops: Steel scoops are a workhorse, boasting durability that can handle the toughest beach conditions. These scoops generally have a socket for attaching a long handle, allowing for easier target retrieval. However, their weight may be a downside for some, with an average scoop tipping the scales at about 1.5 kg.
While they typically come with an anti-rust compound coating, this fades over time, leading to corrosion and a loss of the scoop’s initial aesthetics. However, this does not affect the scoop’s functionality or durability. If appearance isn’t a significant concern for you and you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, an Steel scoop might be your best bet – they typically cost about half the price of stainless steel counterparts.
If you found this article your wanting to get wet metal detecting, let me show you how below:
- I have a complete guide to underwater detecting -> HERE
- Are rivers any good to Metal Detect? Read Metal Detecting in Rivers and Streams
- I compare amazing machines for water in this article -> My Thoughts on the Garrett Mark II Vs. Fisher CZ-21
- Wondering about which beach to search in CA? Read about 5 favorites -> HERE
- Wondering if you can get your machine wet? Read Are Metal Detectors Waterproof?
Considerations on Hole Shape and Size
The size and shape of the holes in your sand scoop have a significant impact on your treasure hunting efficiency. The basic principle to remember is this: the fewer stones and shells in the sand, the smaller the holes can be.
What Size (Whether Buying or Making a Scoop)
For those of you thinking about crafting your own sand scoop, it’s crucial to consider the size of the holes you’re planning to make. Ideally, the diameter of these holes should be just a tad smaller than the diameter of a dime. This optimal size will ensure that most U.S. coins and rings will be caught in your scoop, instead of slipping through the holes.
Hole Shape
However, hole shape also plays a role in how effectively sand sifts through your scoop. For instance, a scoop with hex-shaped holes performs better than one with round holes of the same diameter. The hex-shaped holes allow sand to pour through more efficiently, which can be especially noticeable when dealing with dry sand that doesn’t sift as easily as wet sand.
Choosing the right sand scoop will largely depend on your specific needs, the types of beaches you frequent, and your physical comfort. By taking these factors into account, you can select a scoop that will optimize your beach hunting experience. Remember, the ultimate goal is to make your metal detecting sessions more productive and enjoyable.
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One More Sweep (or should I Say Scoop)
Metal detecting on the beach can be a delightful experience – the sun, the sand, the surf, and the allure of hidden treasures waiting to be found. But to make the most out of this adventure, you need the right tools. A sand scoop, in particular, is an essential piece of gear, and choosing the right one can significantly impact your metal detecting experience.
Recommendation
As a serious detectorist, my top recommendation would be a stainless steel sand scoop. Yes, they come with a higher price tag, but the benefits far outweigh the cost. Stainless steel scoops are sturdy, durable, and resilient against all types of sand and rocks.
Moreover, they maintain their appearance over time, resisting corrosion even on the welding seams. This gives you a tool that not only functions exceptionally well but also retains its resale value should you ever decide to upgrade or sell.
The Scoop I Love
👉CKG Sand Scoop👈
I just want stuff to work, after buying shovels that broke and headphones that the wires pulled out of, I found getting a couple of quality pieces of equipment for my pursuit makes the outing better.
If you love wandering beaches swinging and sifting, the CKG is my recommendation. Here’s a shortcut link to Amazon 👉 CKG Sand Scoop for Metal Detecting
Remember, though, that the best sand scoop is the one that fits your needs and comfort the most. Consider the conditions you’ll be hunting in, the weight you’re comfortable with, and the hole size and shape best suited for your hunting grounds. The goal is to have a sand scoop that aids your hunting, not hinder it.
Whether you’re after the thrill of the find or the joy of the hunt, or both, having the right sand scoop can make a world of difference. So, here’s to successful beach hunting, and may your stainless steel sand scoop lead you to many treasures hidden beneath the sands!
David Humphries, Writer and Creator of METAL DETECTING TIPS. After borrowing my son’s detector and finding $.25. I felt like a treasure hunter. FREE MONEY! I was seriously bitten by the metal detecting bug.
Sand Scoop Recourses
- Friendly Metal Detecting Forum: This forum is the grand daddy of metal detecting forums. +50,000 members with daily correspondence. Just ask and the community is willing to help. https://metaldetectingforum.com/index.php
- CKG: I love the mission statement. “Our mission is to provide the best…the best prices, the best service, the best of what you expect.” Read more URL: https://ckgscoop.com/
- Kellyco Metal Detectors: A comprehensive resource offering numerous sand scoops, along with reviews and ratings. URL: www.kellycodetectors.com
- MetaldetectingForum.com: An online community where you can connect with other detectorists, ask questions, and share your experiences. URL: metaldetectingforum.com