hazlewolke Metal Detector 5 Professional Modes Waterproof Coil Review: A Beginner’s Gateway to Buried Treasure

There’s a unique thrill that courses through you when you stand in a quiet field, an old park, or a sandy beach, knowing that just inches beneath your feet could lie a piece of forgotten history. For years, I’ve walked past these places, my curiosity piqued by local legends of old homesteads or tales of lost valuables. The frustration isn’t just about missing out on potential treasure; it’s about an unanswered question, a story left untold. Ignoring this pull feels like walking away from a locked chest without trying the key. This desire to connect with the past and the excitement of discovery is precisely why a reliable, user-friendly metal detector isn’t just a tool—it’s a passport to adventure.

What to Consider Before Buying a Metal Detector

A metal detector is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for hobbyists, history buffs, and property owners alike. It transforms a simple walk into a treasure hunt, allowing you to find lost jewelry, historical relics, coins, and even practical items like property markers or lost tools. The main benefits are profound: it encourages outdoor activity, provides a tangible connection to history, and can even be a source of unexpected income. For many, it’s a meditative and rewarding hobby that combines patience, technology, and a little bit of luck. The excitement of a clear, strong signal is a feeling that never gets old.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone new to the hobby or an intermediate user looking for an affordable yet feature-rich device. This includes families looking for a fun outdoor activity, homeowners needing to locate buried pipes or survey stakes, and aspiring treasure hunters who want to start without a massive initial investment. However, a detector in this class might not be suitable for professional archaeologists or serious relic hunters who require advanced ground balancing, multiple frequency options, and extreme depth capabilities. For those individuals, high-end models from brands like Minelab or Garrett might be a better, albeit much more expensive, path.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

  • Adjustability & Ergonomics: A long day of swinging a detector can be tiring. Look for a lightweight model (under 3 lbs is excellent) with an adjustable shaft to fit your height perfectly. An ergonomic handle and a supportive forearm cuff are critical for comfort and control, preventing strain during extended hunts.
  • Detection Modes & Performance: The heart of a detector lies in its modes. A good beginner model should have an “All-Metal” mode to detect everything and a “Discrimination” (DISC) mode to ignore junk like iron nails. More advanced features like a Pinpoint mode for precise location and specific modes for jewelry or coins add immense value and reduce unnecessary digging.
  • Search Coil & Durability: The search coil is your eye under the ground. A larger coil (8-11 inches) covers more ground with each sweep. Crucially, ensure the coil is waterproof (IP68 rating is ideal), allowing you to search in shallow water, wet sand, and damp soil without worry. The detector’s body, typically made of ABS plastic and aluminum, should be sturdy enough to handle outdoor use.
  • Ease of Use & Interface: For a beginner, a complicated interface can be a deal-breaker. A large, clear, and preferably backlit LCD screen is essential for reading target information. Intuitive button controls, clear audio tones, and simple sensitivity adjustments make the learning curve much smoother, getting you out of the manual and into the field faster.

Navigating the world of entry-level detectors can be daunting, with countless models promising the world. The hazlewolke Metal Detector 5 Professional Modes Waterproof Coil aims to simplify this choice by bundling a robust feature set into an accessible package.

While the hazlewolke Metal Detector 5 Professional Modes Waterproof Coil is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Unboxing the Hazlewolke Jungler1031

Unboxing the hazlewolke Metal Detector 5 Professional Modes Waterproof Coil was a refreshingly simple affair. The packaging is efficient, and everything you need to start your first hunt is included right in the box: the detector components, two 9V batteries, a carrying bag, over-ear headphones, and a surprisingly robust collapsible shovel. As one user noted, “The little shovel that comes with it is good quality too,” a sentiment we immediately shared. Assembly took, quite literally, about a minute. The retractable toggle design means no tools are needed; the parts click together securely and feel solid once assembled. Weighing in at just 2.4 lbs, the first thing I noticed was its incredible lightness. The adjustable stem and forearm rod made it easy to find a comfortable swinging posture, a critical factor for long sessions. The large, backlit LCD screen is a standout feature—it’s genuinely 50% larger than many competitors in this price range, making it exceptionally easy to read target IDs and settings, even in the glare of the sun or the dim light of dusk. It immediately feels like a device designed with the user’s experience in mind, striking a great balance between beginner-friendly simplicity and the features of a more advanced machine.

Key Benefits

  • Intuitive and easy to assemble, perfect for beginners.
  • Five distinct detection modes offer excellent versatility.
  • Large, backlit LCD is clear and easy to read in any light.
  • Very lightweight (2.4 lbs) and ergonomic for long hunts.
  • Complete kit with shovel, headphones, and carry bag included.

Potential Drawbacks

  • Included shovel, while decent, may not hold up in very hard soil.
  • Can be overly sensitive to iron trash in certain modes.
  • The included headphones are basic in quality.

Deep Dive: Field-Testing the Hazlewolke Metal Detector

A metal detector’s true worth is only revealed out in the field, with dirt under your fingernails and the headphones buzzing with signals. We took the hazlewolke Metal Detector 5 Professional Modes Waterproof Coil through a gauntlet of tests—from a trash-filled park and a manicured lawn to the damp, mineralized sand of a local beach—to see if its real-world performance matches its impressive spec sheet. After many hours of swinging, digging, and analyzing, we can confidently break down its core performance.

Decoding the Signals: Mastering the 5 Professional Modes

The standout feature of this detector is undoubtedly its five operational modes, which provide a level of control typically found on more expensive units. We spent the most time cycling through these to understand their nuances. The ALL METAL mode is exactly as it sounds—it will beep on any metal target, from a rusty nail to a silver coin. This is the best mode for learning the machine’s language and for situations where you want to find everything, like clearing a construction site. One user clearing their land to build a workshop found this mode invaluable for locating scrap metal. The audio tones vary in pitch, giving you a preliminary idea of the target type before you even look at the screen.

The DISC (Discrimination) and JEWELRY modes are where the detector becomes a true treasure hunter. Here, you can selectively ignore common trash items. We found the DISC mode highly effective at filtering out iron signals. The JEWELRY mode is pre-programmed to ignore most iron but still pick up on metals like gold, silver, copper, and bronze. However, as one experienced user pointed out, there’s a learning curve. They noted that at high sensitivity, low iron numbers can “wrap over” and give a false high-tone signal, mimicking silver. We confirmed this phenomenon with old nails, which sometimes registered in the 80s. The solution, as they discovered, is to slightly lower the sensitivity in trash-heavy areas. The real magic happens when you learn the Target ID numbers. That same user provided an excellent guide from their experience: pennies at 71-73, nickels at 42-45, dimes at 77-79, and quarters around 84-86. We tested this with our own pocket change and found these ranges to be remarkably consistent, which speaks volumes about the accuracy of the upgraded DSP chip. The MEMORY mode is a clever addition, allowing you to save a custom discrimination pattern, a feature we found surprisingly useful. Finally, the PINPOINT mode is your best friend once you get a good signal. Pressing the “PP” button causes the detector to give a solid, non-motion-based tone that gets louder as you center the coil directly over the target. This dramatically reduced our digging time and helped us cut cleaner, smaller plugs in the turf. This full suite of modes truly empowers the user to adapt to any hunting ground, a capability that makes this detector a feature-rich choice for any aspiring hobbyist.

Reaching New Depths: The 10-Inch Waterproof Coil

The business end of any detector is its search coil, and the hazlewolke Metal Detector 5 Professional Modes Waterproof Coil is equipped with a generous 10-inch concentric coil. Its size provides a great balance between ground coverage and the ability to separate adjacent targets. The manufacturer claims a detection depth of up to 10 inches for a US quarter, and in our testing in loose, moderately mineralized garden soil, we found this to be accurate. We buried a quarter and got a clear, repeatable signal at 9.5 inches. Deeper targets, like a large metal stake, were easily detectable at well over a foot.

The IP68 waterproof rating on the coil is not just a gimmick; it’s a game-changer. We took it to the wet sand at the shoreline and waded into the shallow surf, submerging the coil completely without any issue. It performed beautifully, punching through the wet, salty sand to find modern coins and a lost fishing lure. This opens up a whole new world of possibilities for beachcombers and those wanting to hunt in creeks or after a heavy rain. Several users echoed this positive experience, with one finding a metal stake on the beach and another successfully locating buried sprinkler valves in their lawn. The sensitivity is impressive; as one beginner noted, “It’s very sensitive-I found aluminum and other small items.” While one user felt the depth was “decent, but just good enough,” our conclusion is that for its price class, the depth is more than adequate and competes favorably with much pricier models. You may not find a Cadillac, as one hopeful user joked, but you’ll certainly find everything from coins to relics within that first foot of soil where most finds are located.

Built for the Field: Ergonomics and User-Friendly Design

Metal detecting is an endurance sport. Hours of slow walking and methodical swinging can take a toll if your equipment isn’t designed for it. This is where the Hazlewolke Jungler1031 truly shines. At a mere 2.4 lbs, it’s one of the lightest adult-sized detectors we’ve ever tested. The weight is balanced well, and the padded forearm rest prevents fatigue. We spent a continuous three-hour session in a local park, and at no point did the detector feel cumbersome or heavy. The adjustable shaft makes it suitable for a wide range of heights, from taller adults to younger treasure hunters. As one parent mentioned, their daughter became interested and could use it easily, highlighting its family-friendly nature.

The user interface further enhances the experience. The oversized LCD screen, with its optional backlight, is a massive advantage. We could instantly read the Target ID number, depth indicator, and sensitivity level with a quick glance. The silicone buttons have a positive, tactile click, so you know when you’ve made an adjustment, even if you were wearing gloves. This simplicity is key for beginners. Multiple users described it as “incredibly easy to use” and “easy to assemble and use right away.” We agree wholeheartedly. From unboxing to finding our first target (a modern penny) took less than 10 minutes. This accessibility lowers the barrier to entry, ensuring that a new user’s first experience is one of excitement and discovery, not frustration with a complicated machine. The entire design philosophy behind the hazlewolke Metal Detector 5 Professional Modes Waterproof Coil seems to be about maximizing fun and minimizing hassle.

What Other Users Are Saying

Across the board, the sentiment from other users is overwhelmingly positive, particularly from those new to the hobby. Many, like the person who bought it to spend quality time with their dad, praise it as an “outstanding” and “incredibly easy to use” device that exceeded expectations. The story of one user finding a small iron meteorite in their backyard just 12 days after getting the detector is a testament to its capability and the sheer fun it provides. Another user successfully located their property’s boundary stakes in just 30 minutes, showing its practical utility beyond just hunting for coins and relics.

However, the feedback isn’t without its critiques, which provides a balanced view. One user noted the included shovel “bent pretty easy” in tough ground, suggesting that for rocky soil, a more robust digging tool might be necessary. Another pointed out a common quirk with entry-level detectors: “I did question the fact it read my engagement ring as a nail lol.” This is often due to the conductivity of smaller or lower-karat gold items falling into the same range as foil or pull tabs, a learning curve present with most machines in this category. The most significant negative review came from a user who received a unit with a missing bolt, rendering it unusable, highlighting a potential quality control issue that seems to be an outlier rather than the norm.

How Does the hazlewolke Compare to the Alternatives?

The hazlewolke Metal Detector 5 Professional Modes Waterproof Coil offers a fantastic value proposition, but it exists in a competitive market. Seeing how it stacks up against other popular models helps clarify who it’s best for.

1. Blue Marble Metal Detector Treasure Hunter Large Coil

The National Geographic PRO Series is a strong contender, backed by a well-known brand. It offers a similar lightweight, collapsible design and a 10-inch waterproof coil. Its main selling point is its simplicity and brand recognition, making it an excellent gift. However, it features fewer distinct detection modes (three compared to Hazlewolke’s five) and lacks the large, detailed backlit screen of the Hazlewolke. While it’s a solid and reliable choice, the Hazlewolke detector offers more fine-tuned control and a better user interface for someone willing to learn the slightly more advanced settings.

2. RM RICOMAX Kids Metal Detector Waterproof Adjustable

This RM RICOMAX model is specifically designed for children, and it’s important to make that distinction. It is smaller, even lighter, and has a much simpler interface, often with just basic discrimination and a smaller 7.4-inch coil. While it’s a fantastic way to introduce a young child to the hobby, it lacks the depth, accuracy, and versatility of the Hazlewolke. The Hazlewolke, with its highly adjustable stem, can be used by older children and teens, but it is fundamentally an adult machine that a family can share, making it a better long-term investment than a detector a child will quickly outgrow.

3. ULHUND Metal Detector Adults Higher Accuracy Lightweight Waterproof

The ULHUND detector is perhaps the most direct competitor, boasting a similar feature set, an upgraded DSP chip, and claims of even greater depth (12 inches). It also features a large LCD and multiple modes. The primary differentiator often comes down to the user interface, included accessories, and subtle performance variations. The ULHUND’s larger 12-inch coil may offer more ground coverage but could be less effective at separating targets in trashy areas compared to Hazlewolke’s 10-inch coil. For users prioritizing maximum theoretical depth, the ULHUND is worth considering, but the Hazlewolke presents a slightly more proven, balanced package with a very user-friendly design.

Our Final Verdict: Is the hazlewolke Metal Detector Worth It?

After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict is a resounding yes. The hazlewolke Metal Detector 5 Professional Modes Waterproof Coil is a standout performer in the crowded entry-level market. It masterfully balances a rich feature set with the simplicity and ease of use that a beginner craves. Its lightweight construction, excellent five-mode versatility, and large, clear display create an experience that is enjoyable and, most importantly, successful. We were consistently impressed by its accuracy and the thoughtful inclusion of a complete starter kit.

While it may not have the ground balancing capabilities of a professional-grade machine, it’s not trying to be one. It is designed for the aspiring hobbyist, the curious homeowner, and the family looking for adventure, and for that audience, it hits every mark perfectly. It’s a tool that removes frustration and replaces it with the pure joy of discovery. If you’re ready to stop wondering what treasures lie hidden just beneath the surface and start your own adventure, we can’t recommend this detector enough. You can check the current price and see more user stories right here.