UIG Gold Digger

The UIG Gold Digger is a conventional ground-search detector rather than a long-range device. It uses an automatic VLF system that the maker says can tell precious from non-precious metals, making it a practical choice for people hunting gold jewellery, coins, relics and shallow gold in Pakistan's fields and riverbanks. It is closer in style to the familiar coin and relic detectors than to UIG's long-range devices.

Seven search programmes are built in: general search, small target, high depth, hard soil, smart scan, custom search and a target localisation (pointer) mode. The standard DD13 double-D coil is waterproof, and UIG also lists an optional 18-inch AP coil for larger, deeper targets. The maker quotes a search depth of more than 4 metres, which applies to large objects in good ground.

The detector weighs about 1.7 kg and the full kit about 5.25 kg, packed in a 650 x 400 x 190 mm case. Six menu languages are offered, including English and Arabic. The package includes a battery, home and car chargers, a headset and a carrying bag, and UIG provides a two-year warranty with CE and ISO 9001 certification. It is a straightforward first machine.