How to Get Free Metal Detector Early in Atomfall

In the expansive world of *Atomfall*, securing the right tools early on can significantly enhance your survival and exploration experience. One essential tool you'll want to acquire quickly is the Metal Detector, which can lead you to valuable caches filled with items perfect for use or trading. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to obtain a free Metal Detector early in your *Atomfall* journey.

How Metal Detector Works in Atomfall

The Metal Detector is an invaluable asset in *Atomfall*, one you'll want to keep close at all times. This tool, when in your inventory, will alert you to the presence of metal caches scattered throughout the game's open world.

As you roam, your Metal Detector will occasionally emit a ping, indicated by a tool icon in the bottom left corner of your screen. This signal suggests a nearby cache. If it's safe, quickly equip your Metal Detector using the designated hotkey.

The detector's row of lights guides you toward the hidden treasure. If the lights sway left, move left; if they sway right, move right. Your goal is to keep following the center light until the dial beneath reaches its peak frequency at 10.

When all the lights blink simultaneously, you've pinpointed the cache's exact location. Use the 'Dig' command to unearth it, followed by 'Search' to claim the contents.

Where to Find Free Metal Detector Early in Atomfall

In the initial stages of *Atomfall*, you'll encounter various trader NPCs eager to barter. For instance, Reg Stansfield in the Slate Mine Caves in Slatten Dale might have a Metal Detector in his inventory from the start. However, the price might be prohibitive for a newcomer.

A more budget-friendly option is to head east from Slatten Dale. Stick close to the mountainside and bypass the 'Water Wheels' area, which is overrun with Outlaws. Avoiding early combat is key.

Keep moving east then south until you reach a shallow pond at coordinates **(29.1E, 73.9N)**. In the center of this pond, you'll find an Outlaw corpse on a rocky outcrop. Be wary of the carnivorous leeches in the water; they're quick to attack.

Approach the corpse and 'Search' it to retrieve a fully functional Metal Detector at no cost. This acquisition also earns you the **'Detectorist' trophy/achievement**. Equipping yourself with a Metal Detector this early gives you a significant edge, helping you uncover free healing items, ammo, and other loot that can be traded.

Furthermore, using the Metal Detector can aid in unlocking additional trophies/achievements like **'Where there’s much there’s brass'** (Find 10 metal detector caches) and **'Packed lunch'** (Find 5 buried lunchboxes).

This guide should help you secure a free Metal Detector early in *Atomfall*, setting you up for a more rewarding adventure.