"Unlock Free Metal Detector in Atomfall Early"

In the post-apocalyptic world of *Atomfall*, getting your hands on the best tools early can make a significant difference in your survival and exploration. One of the most valuable tools you can acquire is the Metal Detector, which can unearth hidden caches of essential items. Here's your guide to obtaining a free Metal Detector early in your journey.

How Metal Detector Works in Atomfall

Screenshot by The Escapist

The Metal Detector is an indispensable tool in *Atomfall* that you'll want to keep close at all times. When equipped, it alerts you to nearby metal caches scattered throughout the game's vast open world. As you explore, keep an eye on the bottom left corner of your screen for the tool icon, signaling a nearby cache. When you're safe, use the hotkey to activate your Metal Detector.

The device features a row of lights that guide you toward the cache. If the lights sway left, turn left; if they sway right, turn right. Your goal is to follow the center light until the dial reaches its peak frequency of 10. When all the lights blink simultaneously, you've pinpointed the cache's location. Use the 'Dig' option to excavate the cache, then 'Search' it to claim the valuable items inside.

Screenshot by The Escapist

Where to Find Free Metal Detector Early in Atomfall

Screenshot by The Escapist

In the initial stages of *Atomfall*, you'll encounter various trader NPCs willing to barter. Reg Stansfield at the Slate Mine Caves in Slatten Dale has a Metal Detector available, but it's often too expensive for early game budgets.

Instead, head east from Slatten Dale, sticking close to the mountainside and avoiding the 'Water Wheels' compound, which is teeming with Outlaws. Minimizing early combat is key to your survival.

Screenshot by The Escapist

Continue eastward and then south until you reach a large, shallow pond at coordinates **(29.1E, 73.9N)**. In the middle of the pond, on a rocky outcrop, you'll find an Outlaw corpse. Be cautious of the carnivorous leeches in the water; they can be hazardous if you stay too long.

Approach the corpse and 'Search' it to obtain a functional Metal Detector at no cost. This early acquisition not only earns you the **'Detectorist' trophy/achievement** but also gives you a significant advantage in gathering free healing items, ammo, and other loot for bartering.

Additionally, using the Metal Detector can help you unlock other achievements like **'Where there’s much there’s brass'** (Find 10 metal detector caches) and **'Packed lunch'** (Find 5 buried lunchboxes).

With this guide, you're now equipped to find a free Metal Detector early in *Atomfall*, enhancing your chances of thriving in this challenging environment.