Best Metal Detectors for Logs

When you’re working with logs, whether it’s for woodworking or sawmilling, metal debris can be a huge headache. Nails, screws, and other metal objects can easily become embedded in the wood and cause some serious damage to your equipment.

In this blog post, we will discuss the best metal detectors for logs and answer some common questions about dealing with metal in trees. We’ll also help you navigate the process of removing metal from logs, lumber, and other wood products once you locate the potentially hazardous objects.

So let’s get started!

At a Glance – Best Metal Detectors for Logs

Top 3 Average-Use Metal Detectors

Top 3 Handheld Metal Detectors

Can a Metal Detector Detect Through Wood?

This is a common question and the answer is yes! Metal detectors can detect metal objects through wood, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, the metal object must be large enough to create a signal that can be picked up by the metal detector, depending on the size and type of technology you are using.

Second, the metal detector will be more effective if the metal object is close to the surface of the wood. The further down it is buried, the more difficult it will be to detect. Again, this will depend on the type of metal detector you are using, which we will get into.

Finally, the metal detector more easily picks up metals that have better electrical conductivity. So, if you’re looking for a metal object that is not very conductive (like stainless steel), it will be more difficult to find.

Do I Need a Metal Detector for Logs?

The short answer is: yes, metal detectors can be a helpful tool when working with logs.

While it’s true that metal objects can sometimes be found just by looking at the surface of the wood, there are many instances where they can be hidden deep within the log. A metal detector can help you locate these hidden objects so you can remove them before they cause any damage.

Tramp metal is a term used to describe metal objects that are not part of the normal product being produced by a manufacturing facility. This can include nails, bolts, washers, and other small metal objects that can become embedded in the wood such as metal dust or scrap metal.

Not addressing the issue of tramp metal in logs or other wood materials can lead to some serious consequences. For example, metal shavings can quickly dull saw blades, making it necessary to replace them more frequently.

In addition, metal objects that become lodged in equipment can cause damage to the machinery and potentially create a safety hazard for workers.

So if you’re working with logs, it’s definitely worth considering investing in a metal detector. But which metal detector is the best for this particular application? Let’s take a look at some of the options before we make our recommendations.

There are generally three types of metal detectors used for logs or other wood materials (planks, reclaimed lumber, etc.).

• Handheld metal detectors
• Average-use metal detectors
• Conveyor metal detectors

Handheld Metal Detectors

If you’re only working with smaller-sized logs or lumber, a hand held metal detector for wood can be a good option. These detectors are relatively inexpensive and easy to use, making them ideal for occasional metal detection tasks.

Specifically, if you work with reclaimed wood, general construction lumber, or logs where only the outermost layers are needing to be scanned, then a handheld metal detector can be a helpful tool for finding metal objects that might be hidden within the wood.

What is great about these metal detectors is their lightweight and convenient design so whether you are scanning metal in a small area or need to do a more thorough scan of an entire log, these handheld devices offer great portability to take them where they are needed.

Just be aware that the detection depth of a handheld metal detector will be more limited when dealing with thicker logs. If you’re working with larger logs or need to scan more than just the surface of the wood, you may want to consider one of the other metal detector options.

Average-Use Metal Detectors

An average use metal detector is what you imagine when you think of treasure and relic hunters, coin collectors, and beachcombers when they are in search of metal.

Or maybe you’ve seen your neighbor using one in their backyard, which is a great starting point for the beginner hobbyist.

An average use metal detector is a good option if you work with a variety of different sizes and types of logs.

These metal detectors offer more features and power than a handheld metal detector, which means they can scan thicker logs more effectively, be used in a range of environments, and easily relay the kind of metal you are dealing with and the exact depth of its location.

While these metal detectors come loaded with more technology to boost their power and detection capabilities, they are also more expensive than handheld metal detectors and still may not be what you are looking for if you’re talking about sawmill level production.

Conveyor Metal Detectors

The third and final type of metal detector we will discuss are conveyor metal detectors. As the name implies, these metal detectors are designed to be used on a conveyor belt and can scan wood materials as they move along the belt.

This is ideal for manufacturing purposes when dealing with large amounts of logs or lumber that need to be metal-free.

Conveyor metal detectors can scan logs of all sizes quickly and effectively, making them ideal for high-volume production. These metal detectors are also able to withstand tough environments and can operate in a wide range of temperatures.

These whole log detectors are usually designed to scan around and through the entire log, which is helpful for detecting metal that might be hidden deep within the wood, without compromising the desired optimal performance that mills usually require.

You see, if it weren’t for these large industrial metal detectors, metal hidden in lumber could easily go undetected and wreak havoc on the machinery it comes into contact with. It also prevents mills from slowing down production to look more closely at each individual log with smaller devices.

For instance, a technical manager of a large German chipboard factory was quoted as saying “one hour of downtime costs around 5,000 euros“, which is equivalent to $5,394.30 in US dollars.

3 Best Average Use Metal Detectors for Logs

Now that we’ve gone over some of the basics when looking to metal detect logs and other wood materials, let’s take a look at three of the best metal average use detectors for this job.

Bounty Hunter Land Ranger Pro

The Bounty Hunter Land Ranger Pro is an excellent choice of metal detector that offers professional results and a reasonable price. But I’d be remiss to mention that some users have found that the buttons tend to stick, and require a bit more pressure to hammer down.

However, I can’t say that I’ve had this experience.  Also, it can be difficult to use for beginners compared to other more user-friendly devices that offer immediate use right out of the box.

Additionally, if you’re looking to expand your search for other metals in non-wood-related environments, it’s not the best choice for gold detecting or for highly mineralized areas as well as other detectors might be.

Despite these drawbacks, the Land Ranger Pro is still a powerful and useful tool for any serious woodworker in need and metal detectorist starting out.

The Verdict:  The Bounty Hunter Land Ranger Pro is our top pick because of the features you get access to at an outrageously affordable price. The depth at which you will find metals in your logs is far deeper than a handheld option and equally so than other options comparable to average-use metal detectors.

Unless you really need a machine that can detect more than a foot, I recommend going with the Land Ranger Pro for its versatility and overall value.

Fisher F11

The Fisher F11 is a great metal detector for those wanting to find metal in logs to protect their equipment from damage. However, it is important to note that highly mineralized areas will cause false signals.

In addition, nearby electrical fields from other machinery, buried power lines, and even other metal detectors will cause your detector to malfunction.

And I should mention to those with more expanded interests, that if you are looking to detect metals like gold, there are better metal detectors that are more suited to that purpose.

The Verdict:  If price is a major factor, you can rely on the Fisher F11 without having to worry about sacrificing performance. While it doesn’t detect metal as deep as other models, you can feel more secure in knowing that you found metals buried under a foot deep into your log.

If you’re looking to dive deeper into the hobby of metal detecting, this is a good device to start with, but for a little bit more money, you can really come away with a solid upgrade to use for years to come.

Garrett AT Pro

I love this metal detector, not just for logs, but for everyday use. But buyers should be aware of some of the less-than-ideal experiences it may offer them. This metal detector is more expensive than other models if all you need it for is detecting metal-ridden logs, but it is well worth the investment.

The screen on the Garrett AT Pro is not as large as I would like it to be, but it is still easy to use. Also, you can’t adjust the volume without using headphones, but that’s more of a minor inconvenience than anything.

Beginners to metal detector use should be ready for an adjustment period while learning the various feature settings that come preloaded, but once you learn how to use them, you will be able to find anything you are looking for.

The Verdict:  If you are looking for a metal detector that not only gives you the best detection of metals in logs but also allows you to adventure outside your comfort zone, the AT Pro is perfect for you.

While it is more expensive than some other models, it is still a steal for everything that it provides. The only reason it didn’t win our top pick was the price. Because, if you will only ever need it for logs, you’re probably better off with a more affordable model.

3 Best Handheld Metal Detectors for Logs

Sometimes a larger metal detector isn’t needed for finding metal in the wood. Usually, a nail detector for wood planks only requires a few inches of detection depth at most.

If that is the case, then save yourself some money and consider one of these three best handheld metal detectors.

Garrett Super Scanner V

As far as a handheld metal detector goes, the Garrett Super Scanner V is reliable and trusted among many industries.  However, we should mention some of the drawbacks that come with this device, but there aren’t many.

First, it’s not specifically designed for detecting wood materials, but that doesn’t stop it from being successful at it. Also, the Super Scanner requires batteries and does not come with a charger, which would really make it that much more of a steal. 

While the results generally speak for themselves, there are some factors that can alter the expected performance of this wand, like the density and wetness of the wood. 

Finally, for beginner users, be aware that this detector uses a motion-activated sensor so just hovering over a piece of wood may not produce any response.

The Verdict:  I get that this handheld metal detector isn’t specifically designed for detecting wood materials but there are so many users that rave about this device, it’s impossible to ignore its effectiveness and accuracy. 

The price is far and it’s hard to find many (if any) downsides to using the Garrett Super Scanner V. So if you’re on the go and need a portable, lightweight metal detector, this should be your pick.

Lumber Wizard 5

The Lumber Wizard 5 is definitely an upgrade over our next metal detector but there are some flaws that come along with it.

While some owners have complained of disappointing sensitivity and hit-and-miss results when it comes to finishing nails in particular, I still think this detector should be considered for woodworking professionals.

The Verdict: With the Lumber Wizard being specifically made for woodworkers and having a pretty reliable detection consistently at 6 inches, I’d highly recommend this metal detector. It’s reasonably priced and popular among many woodworking professionals.

Even better, the auto-tuning only improves the detection prowess with each new log or board scanned.

Little Wizard II

It’s certainly a handy little device to have available in your toolbox but there are some downsides that I just can’t ignore. When dealing with thicker pieces of wood or larger projects, it really isn’t the best option in my opinion.

Owners have complained about constantly having to adjust the sensitivity to avoid getting false signals and pinpointing the metal with accuracy.

The Verdict: Ok, I like the Little Wizard II if you’re working on some reclaimed wood and need to get all the old nails out before making that new headboard or custom statement piece.

But other than that, I’d rather pay a little bit more to get deeper detection and a little more reassurance that I’ve found all the scrap metal inside my log or wood material.

FAQs About Metal Detectors and Logs

How Do Trees Get Metal in Them?

You’d be surprised at how many metal objects can be found in trees of all sizes. Everything from metal fencing, bullets, nails, and old coins can be found in trees. There are a number of different ways that metal can get into a tree. Some are more obvious than others.

For instance, bullets are often shot into trees by accident or for target practice. If left alone, the tree will continue to grow with the bullet lodged inside.

However, besides bullets, nails, and screws being forced into the bark, the most common way metal finds its way into a tree is by being swallowed by the growth of the tree over time.

For example, if a metal fence post is driven into the ground and then the fence is removed, the metal post will be left behind in the ground. Over time, a tree may grow around the metal post.

Nails and other small metal objects can also fall into the cracks of a tree’s bark. As the tree grows, the metal object will become embedded in the bark.

In fact, most metal objects will not deter a tree from continuing to grow around them. In some cases, the metal can actually act as a support for the tree.

How to Get Metal out Of a Log

The best way to get metal out of a log is by first using a metal detector to locate the metal. Once you have found the metal object, you can use a chisel and hammer to remove it from the log.

If the metal is easily accessible on the exterior of the wood, you can use the chisel to clear away some of the bark so that your hammer can get a good grip on the metal object for removal.

If the metal is embedded deeper into the log, you may need to use a saw to cut into the log and remove the metal object that way.

Some other really helpful tools that can be used to remove common metals from a log or other pieces of wood are a pry bar, a nail puller, an air pressure nail remover, or even a set of pliers.

Will a Metal Detector Detect Metal in Wet Wood?

The answer will depend on the kind of metal detector you are using and the kind of experience you have with metal detecting.

There are differing opinions about metal detecting in wet vs dry areas. Some argue that the wet soil, or wood, in this case, is better for metal detecting because it amplifies the metal signal.

On the other hand, others complain about false signals and missing metal pieces entirely when dealing with wet conditions.

There are plenty of articles that argue a VLF metal detector with discrimination settings is better for metal detecting in the wet than a pulse induction (PI) metal detector. Honestly, for metal detecting a log or piece of wood, a VLF metal detector should be fine.

The PI metal detectors are designed more for depth, greater than your average log not being processed by a sawmill.

In regards to experience playing a factor, in my opinion, if are more familiar with a metal detector and reading the signals that wet environments give you, you are more likely to know the modification of settings needed to feel comfortable with the signals.

Conclusion

All in all, metal detectors can be a really helpful tool when working with logs or lumber. By using a metal detector, you can avoid any accidents that could occur from nails or other metal objects being embedded in the wood.

While there are different sizes and uses for metal detectors used on wood, the most important thing is to be familiar with the metal detector you are using and the settings needed for different types of environments. This will ensure you don’t miss any objects along the way.

I hope you’ve enjoyed the read and it helped you make a decision. For more information on using a metal detector, we suggest starting with the basics!

Until next time!