As a passionate treasure hunter, my countless adventures have been accompanied by my trusty Garrett ACE 400 metal detector. One of my favorite features is the Digital Target ID system, a true game-changer in distinguishing between valuable finds and ordinary items, saving me time and effort.
So, whether you’re a seasoned detectorist or a curious newcomer, let’s dive into the world of target identification and uncover the secrets of the Garrett ACE 400 Target ID system together!

Decoding the Ace 400 Target ID Numbers: A Quick Guide
Here’s a handy guide to understanding the Ace 400 Numbers. Remember, accurately identifying your find depends on its shape, size, and material.

Below is a general guide to the Ace 400 Numbers. Getting the machine to accurately identify your find has a lot to do with the shape, size and obviously the material.
Target ID Range | Metal Type | Common Targets |
0-20 | Ferrous Metals | Iron, steel, nails, bottle caps |
20-30 | Low Conductivity | Small gold items, aluminum foil |
30-40 | Low-Mid Conductivity | Thin gold chains, small brass |
40-50 | Mid Conductivity | Gold jewelry, pull tabs |
50-60 | Mid-High Conductivity | Nickel, gold coins, small copper |
60-70 | High Conductivity | Copper, zinc pennies (post-1982) |
70-80 | High Conductivity | Silver coins, large copper items |
80-99 | High Conductivity | Large silver items, silver dollars |
Keep in mind that this table serves as a general guideline, and actual target ID numbers may vary due to different factors. Use this table alongside the Garrett ACE 400’s other features to better identify targets and filter out unwanted objects.
Metal Detecting Tip: Download a FREE copy of the Garrett Ace 400 User Manual π Garrett Ace 400 User Manual
Going Beyond the Numbers: Garrett Ace 400 and Target Insights
On the Garrett ACE 400 metal detector, the Digital Target ID system displays numbers on the LCD screen, representing the detected object’s conductivity. Ranging from 0 to 99, these numbers help users determine if an object is worth digging up.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the Garrett ACE 400 numbers:
- Lower numbers (0-20): Typically ferrous metals, like iron and steel, which are considered trash or undesirable targets. Use the Iron Discrimination feature to filter out these low-value targets.
- Mid-range numbers (20-50): These can represent a mix of valuable and non-valuable metals, such as aluminum, gold, and brass. Gold jewelry and small gold nuggets often fall into this range, so pay attention to these signals.
- Higher numbers (50-99): Usually non-ferrous metals with high conductivity, such as copper, silver, and large brass or bronze objects. Coins, large silver items, and relics made from these metals will generally produce higher numbers.
As you gain experience with the Garrett ACE 400, you’ll become more adept at interpreting the numbers and understanding the types of targets they represent.
πHey David here the guy behind this website. Check Out My Favorite Metal Detecting Equipment Below π Recommended

When asked what I recommend, the π Nokta Simplex Ultra stands out. Perfect for beginners, it’s waterproof, includes wireless headphones, and offers five functional modes, growing with your detecting skills.

The next thing you need is a great shovel, believe me when I say you’ll dig more knowing you can dig FASTER. The nearly bullet proof Lesche T- Handle Shovel is the most comfortable heavy duty shovel I’ve ever used.

Metal Detecting and Beaches are a perfect match. To search a beach you’ve GOT TO HAVE A SAND SCOOP. CKG Sand Scoops are heavy duty and able to be used as a shovel.

If it’s time up UP YOUR GAME , get the industry standard metal detector. The Minelab Equinox 800 IS THE BEST. Okay it’s not cheap, but your finds are going to increase with this machine.
Swinging for Success: Tips and Tricks for the Garrett ACE 400
- Understand the Target ID scale: Familiarize yourself with the Garrett ACE 400’s Target ID number range (0-99) and the general guidelines for interpreting these numbers.
- Use Iron Discrimination: Adjust the Iron Discrimination feature on your ACE 400 to filter out low-value targets such as iron and steel. By setting the discrimination level appropriately, you can focus on more valuable finds and avoid digging up unwanted items.
- Listen to Audio Tones: Pay attention to the audio tones produced by the ACE 400, as they can provide valuable information about the target. The detector uses three distinct tones (low, medium, and high) based on the target’s conductivity. Combining this auditory feedback with the Target ID numbers can significantly improve your ability to identify targets.
- Practice makes perfect: Spend time in the field practicing with your Garrett ACE 400. The more you use the detector and interpret Target ID numbers, the better you’ll become at distinguishing between various types of targets. Start by detecting in familiar areas or places with known targets to improve your understanding of the Target ID system.
- Use Notch Discrimination: The ACE 400 features Notch Discrimination, which allows you to selectively reject or accept specific target ID numbers. This feature can be especially helpful when you’re searching for specific types of items or want to eliminate common trash items from your search.
Looking for some “How To” metal detecting articles? I’ve got you covered
- Metal Detecting Digging Tools – Tells you all about shovels, scoops and how to dig a plug.
- Where are the Best Places for a Beginner to Metal Detect? – Just like the title says, this article points the beginner to the highest probability places.
- Can You Metal Detect on BLM Land? – So many people have asked me about BLM detecting I had to write this article.
Are Target ID Numbers Common for All Metal Detectors?
Target identification (ID) numbers are a common feature found in many modern metal detectors, especially those with digital displays.
However, the specific implementation and range of target ID numbers can vary between manufacturers and models.
In general, target ID numbers are used to help users identify the type of metal detected based on the object’s conductivity. The scale and range of these numbers may differ across different brands and models, but they serve a similar purpose: to give users an idea of the metal type they have detected, helping them decide whether to dig or pass on a particular signal.
Some metal detectors might use a different system for target identification, such as visual icons or audio tones. Visual icons can represent different types of targets, like coins, jewelry, or relics, while audio tones vary based on the target’s conductivity, with different tones corresponding to different metal types.

One Last Swing
As we conclude our exploration of the Garrett ACE 400 Target ID numbers, it’s evident that mastering this feature can truly enhance your treasure hunting experience.
So go ahead, grab your trusty ACE 400, and embrace the thrill of discovery. With a keen ear, a discerning eye, and a little practice, you’ll soon be unearthing hidden gems and uncovering the stories that lie just beneath the surface. Happy detecting, and may your finds be as rich as the memories you create along the way!

David Humphries, Writer and Creator of METAL DETECTING TIPS. After borrowing my sonβs detector and finding $.25. I felt like a treasure hunter. FREE MONEY! I was seriously bitten by the metal detecting bug.
Read about David -> HERE
Want to send me a question – contact
Sources and More Reading
- Garrett ACE 400 Official Product Page: This is the official product page for the Garrett ACE 400 metal detector, where you can find detailed information about its features, specifications, and accessories. https://garrett.com/ace-400-metal-detector
- Metal Detecting Tips and Techniques: This webpage offers a wealth of information on metal detecting tips, techniques, and advice for both beginners and experienced detectorists, including information on target identification and discrimination. https://metaldetectingtips.com/metal-detecting-tips/
- TreasureNet Forum: This is a popular online forum where metal detector enthusiasts share their experiences, tips, and advice on using various metal detectors, including the Garrett ACE 400. You can browse and participate in discussions to learn more about target identification and other aspects of metal detecting. https://www.treasurenet.com/forums/metal-detecting/