How to Use the Garrett AT PRO Metal Detetcor?
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Detector HeroUSA
Wed May 14 2025·6 min read
A very fulfilling activity is metal detecting, and both new and experienced hunters find great satisfaction in the Garrett AT PRO. From fields to streams, the AT PRO—known for its durability, adaptability, and simplicity of use—offers tools that enable you to identify coins, antiques, and even jewelry in many settings. For someone first starting, the sheer count of buttons and settings could seem daunting, but once you dissect it, it becomes second nature. This guide will lead you through all you need to know about properly utilizing the Garrett AT PRO. This is your go-to handbook for success, from configuring it straight out of the box to mastering the settings and knowing how to obtain the most accurate readings. Let's explore how you could optimize your discoveries and reduce disappointment with this venerable equipment.
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1. Getting Familiar with Garrett AT PRO
Unboxing and Components
You should pause while first opening your Garrett AT PRO to become acquainted with its parts. Inside the box, you will find the detector itself, a search coil, a coil cover, a set of wired headphones, and a user handbook. Every component guarantees the machine runs as it should for a designated use. For instance, your detector's heart is the coil, which also picks up metal signals beneath the ground. For noisy surroundings, the bundled headphones enable you to hear even the lowest of tones. Knowing what each component performs not only increases your confidence but also guarantees correct handling of each to prevent needless damage.
Assembly Basics
Building the Garrett AT PRO calls for no particular tools. Crucially for comfort during extended hunts, the adjustable shaft lets you match the detector to your height. Make sure the cable is neatly wrapped up toward the control box and that the coil is firmly secured at the end of the shaft; try not to let it free as this could produce interference. Correct assembly guarantees both comfortable and effective operation of the detector. Though you should hand-tighten the connections, be careful not to over-tighten as this may harm the parts. You should feel the detector is balanced and easy to move after being configured.
2. Understanding the AT PRO Controls
Powering On and Off
Starting the Garrett AT PRO just requires pushing the power button. The detector quickly self-checks when turned on and shows the default settings on the LCD panel. Doing a brief ground test always helps to guarantee that everything is running as it should. Just hold down the power button till the screen turns blank to turn it off. Always power off before changing or cleaning the coil to stop unintentional button presses or signal interference. These quick yet essential actions help your device last longer.
Basic Display Functions
The AT PRO's display presents a variety of quick-access information. Running from 0 to 99, the Target ID scale guides your likely metal detection type. Usually indicating expensive metals like copper or silver, a larger number suggests iron or foil; lower numbers can imply this as well. Benevolent under the Target ID, the depth indication approximates the depth of the buried target. The battery indicator tells you about power levels, so you never find yourself surprised mid-hunting. Knowing these display elements helps you to make fast field selections.
Control Buttons and Their Functions
Although at first navigating the AT PRO's buttons can appear daunting, each button has a clear function. While the Sensitivity button controls detector scan depth, the Mode button lets you alternate between many search modes. Additionally included is an Iron Audio button to assist in identifying iron targets without completely distinguishing them. The Pinpoint button lets you pinpoint your find exactly. The Discrimination button allows you to shut off unwelcome signals at last. Effective and fun metal detecting depends on knowing exactly what each button performs and when to use them.
3. Selecting the Right Mode
Standard Mode vs. Pro Mode
The AT PRO presents two primary modes: Standard and Pro. Beginners or those who like more forgiving target recognition and simplified auditory tones will find Standard Mode perfect. It filters signals to simplify their interpretation. Conversely, Pro Mode provides more unvarnished, unadulterated information. It provides proportionate audio, which, depending on sound strength, indicates more about target size, depth, and shape. Pro Mode's rich, in-depth auditory feedback appeals to experienced users especially. When you wish to keep things basic or are exploring a new, foreign location, go into Standard Mode.
Standard Mode Settings
Three sub-sets exist inside Standard Mode: Coins, Custom, and Zero. Emphasizing typical coin signals, the Coins option suppresses most iron and garbage signals. Custom lets you save discrimination settings to fit your taste. Ideal for relic hunting if you don't want to miss anything, zero mode—as the name suggests—detects all metal kinds without discriminating. Depending on what you are looking for and where you are looking, each environment fulfills a particular function. Often starting in Coins mode to gain confidence, beginners then progressively explore various environments.
Pro Mode Settings
Pro Mode has Coins, Custom, and Zero sub-sets as well, but with greater target feedback and improved audio. Although the detector still filters out undesired signals in Pro Coins, it provides richer tones to enable you to differentiate between various target depths and sizes. Pro Zero is an all-metal mode that provides maximum target feedback, ideal for advanced relic hunting; Pro Custom lets you fine-tune discrimination and save your preferred settings. Although Pro Mode requires skill, it pays off with more complex information that may make all the difference between missing a great find and excavating it.
4. Adjusting Sensitivity and Discrimination
Sensitivity Settings
Sensitivity determines both AT PRO scan depth and response to smaller objects. In mineralized soils specifically, more sensitivity increases depth but may also bring more ground noise or misleading signals. Lowering the sensitivity a notch will help the machine run smoothly if you find it to be becoming unsteady or chattering. One can maximize sensitivity for deeper targets on clear, low-interference ground. For the most effective hunts, always strike a balance between depth and stability. A simple but essential first step toward effective detection is changing sensitivity based on the surroundings.
Discrimination Settings
Discrimination allows you to indicate to the AT PRO targets to overlook. You can block off particular portions of the Target ID scale, such as iron or foil, by applying the notch discriminating function. In trashy parks or those with plenty of pull tabs, this is very helpful. Be careful not to over-discriminate, though; you may unintentionally reject worthwhile targets like little gold rings. Use discrimination deliberately and alter it depending on the situation. Using a balanced strategy guarantees that you minimize the waste without sacrificing possible treasures buried amid it.
Using Iron Discrimination Effectively
One can change iron discrimination on the AT PRO from 0 to 40. Iron signals are more rejected the higher the setting. This is useful in very iron-infested areas, but overdoing it could cost you deeper non-ferrous findings hidden by surrounding iron, just as in other discrimination settings. Many seasoned users set iron discrimination around 20 to balance lowering iron noise with still hearing desired targets that might be near iron waste. Combining this function with Iron Audio provides you with more control over what to dig.
5. Using Iron Audio and Pinpointing Targets
Iron Audio Feature
One of the best things about the AT PRO is Iron Audio, which enables you to hear iron targets typically suppressed by discrimination settings when turned on. When you want to find whether adjacent iron is masking a good signal, this can be quite helpful. Easy to identify, Iron Audio generates a unique, grating sound. In trashy or iron-heavy surroundings, where nice findings sometimes hide amid trash, it is very helpful. Turning it on increases your decision-making ability regarding whether to proceed or dig.
Pinpoint Mode
Pinpoint Mode lets you zero in on your target without excavating huge pits. Pressing and holding the Pinpoint button will cause the detector to run a continuous tone that gets louder as you approach the center of the target. This marks the exact dig spot precisely and fast. Use a gradual X-pattern across the signal to obtain optimal results; then, listen for the strongest reaction. Particularly in public or maintained places where cleanliness counts, this method guarantees better healing holes and saves time.
6. Field Tips for Effective Use
Coil Swing Technique
Your coil swing technique is among the most important but often disregarded aspects of metal detecting. The Garrett AT PRO performs best always with a coil kept level and close to the ground. Steer clear of lifting the coiafter of each swing; this is a typical error that can lead to missed targets. Your sweep should be systematic and slow, overlapping each pass by roughly half to guarantee no ground is left untouched. Consider it as slow, steady, intentional mowing of the grass. This method enhances target detection in addition to allowing you to cover ground efficiently.
Target Identification Techniques
Target identification involves science as well as an art. Although the AT PRO provides useful tools as Target ID numbers and tones, it is crucial to know how to apply them in practical settings. A suitable target is usually a stable, firm signal with a repeating tone; inconsistent or jumpy signals usually point to rubbish or deep iron. Check targets always from several directions. If the signal is still constant when you swing from several angles, you most likely have something valuable to excavate. Through time, practice develops intuition.
Best Practices for Different Terrains
Although the AT PRO is an all-terrain detector, every setting calls for a somewhat different approach. Use more discrimination in parks since many modern rubbish items like pull tabs and bottle tops are expected there. Zero Mode guarantees you miss nothing while decreased sensitivity helps manage mineralized sand on beaches and shorelines. Pro Mode with less discriminating performs well for relic searching in the woods or rough regions. As you traverse varied terrain, change settings; always keep an eye on ground conditions that can call for adjustments in sensitivity or discrimination.
7. Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Proper Cleaning After Use
After every hunt, taking care of your Garrett AT PRO guarantees its lifetime. To eliminate dirt and grime, wipe the coil and shaft with a moist cloth. Around the coil connector, be especially careful; never shower water straight on it. To clear tight areas of dirt, gently brush. If you have been spotting in saltwater habitats, rinse the coil with fresh water afterwards. Store the detector always in a dry environment; never leave it in very hot or cold conditions. These little maintenance actions stop corrosion, accumulation of dirt, and overtime damage.
Battery Management
Standard AA batteries power the AT PRO, hence, good battery management helps to avoid annoying circumstances in the field. Before leaving, always first check the battery indication. Especially on extended hunts, it's a good habit to have extra batteries. Make sure your batteries are inserted correctly before replacing them; avoid mixing old and new ones since this may lead to erratic behavior. If the detector will be kept for a long length of time, remove batteries to stop corrosion within the battery compartment. Good battery practices maintain the optimal running performance of your detector.
Common Issues and Solutions
There are oddities even in the greatest detectors. Double-check the coil connection first; frequently, this is the easy remedy if your AT PRO starts acting strangely. Should the detector be chattering too much, reduce sensitivity, or do a factory reset to recalibrate it. If you get misleading signals, look for damage or loose wrapping on the coil cable. Interference can also be brought on by environmental elements such as moist ground or neighboring power lines. Under such circumstances, gently lower sensitivity or change frequency. Before supposing hardware difficulties, always methodically identify the issue starting from the easiest fixes.
8. Recommended Accessories
Coil Covers and Protective Gear
An affordable yet efficient approach to shield your AT PRO's search coil from dings, scratches, and debris accumulation is with a coil cover. Rough terrain or rocky regions can gradually wear down the surface of the coil and hence influence performance. Investing in a cushioned harness or detector sling might also help to ease arm tiredness over extended sessions. To keep you comfortable and effective out in the field, also helpful are gloves, knee pads, and a digging pouch. These little accents make your hunts safer and more fun.
Waterproof Headphones
While the AT PRO itself is waterproof up to 10 feet, the basic headphones are not. If you intend to hunt in lakes, rivers, or damp surroundings, think about getting Garrett's waterproof headphones. They aim to manage submersion without sacrificing audio clarity. This guarantees that, even in noisy aquatic surroundings, you hear every faint target sound and helps to keep your ears dry. When situations turn wet or splashy, waterproof headphones create new detection possibilities free from concern for damaging your equipment.
Pinpointer Tools (Garrett Pro-Pointer AT)
Any detectorist would find a pinpoint to be a great tool; the Garrett Pro-Pointer AT partners exactly with the AT PRO to enable you precisely locate a target once you have dug the hole, therefore saving time and reducing digging damage. The pinpointer zeroes down on the exact location of the target instead than ceaselessly sorting among gravel. Perfect for both land and shallow water hunting, the Pro-Poacher AT is tough and waterproof. Including this instrument in your toolkit can greatly hasten your recoveries and lower your risk of injuring fragile finds.
Carrying Bags and Backpacks
Safely moving your AT PRO is crucial, particularly if you regularly visit several detection sites. While organizing all of your equipment, a padded carrying bag shields your detector from dirt, bumps, and scratches. Many backpacks tailored specifically for detectors provide sections for personal goods, digging equipment, and spare coils. This guarantees you won't forget important equipment at home and speeds up setup and disassembly greatly. By eliminating inadvertent damage during storage or transportation, a quality carrying solution also extends the life of your equipment.
9. Safety and Etiquette
Responsible Digging and Recovery
Metal detecting concerns ethics just as much as it does discoveries. Always dig carefully, using the right tools, and leave as little trace as you can. Make precise plugs using a tiny digging instrument or hand trowel, then replace them orderly after recuperation. In fields or parks, be mindful not to destroy habitats for wildlife or damage roots. Maintaining the reputation of the hobby and ensuring that locations open to others remain open depends on leaving the ground looking as though you never were there.
Permission and Regulations Awareness
Always find local rules on metal detecting before leaving with your AT PRO. Many parks, old landmarks, and beaches have rules or call for permission. Detecting without authorization could result in equipment seizure or fines. Private property always calls for the landowner's permission; if at all feasible, seek it in writing. Knowing and honoring regulations not only helps you to stay on the right side of the rules but also promotes appropriate hobby activities in the community.
Filling and Restoring Holes Properly
One's judgment of an excellent detectorist depends on their leaving the site in condition. Always fill the hole and bring the ground back to its natural condition once you have recovered a target. Compact and flatten the ground with a small hand tamper or your foot. If you find yourself in grassy regions, make sure the plug is replaced correctly to let the grass grow back organically. Ensuring metal detectorists are invited back to parks, paths, and open areas depends much on this politeness.
Conclusion
Whether you're searching rural farms, parks, or beaches, the adaptable and dependable Garrett AT PRO metal detector lets you explore a world of many activities. Though at first look their settings seem complicated, once you know them, the AT PRO becomes an extension of your intuition. Your detection will be more effective and fun if you learn the controls, practice on several terraces, and pick up the subtleties of its settings and noises. Remember to respect the ground, take care of your equipment, and abide by local regulations; this guarantees not only outstanding discoveries but also a hobby that will remain easily available for years to come. Glad hunting!
