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DIG:IT Metal Detector on Kickstarter Turns Every Backyard Into Your Personal Treasure Map

  • Writer: Michael G.
    Michael G.
  • 4 days ago
  • 7 min read

The DIG:IT metal detector on Kickstarter solves the eternal treasure hunter's dilemma: you're standing in a field, pinpointer beeping frantically in your right hand, trowel dangling uselessly from your left pocket, and you're trying to mark the exact spot without setting anything down in the dirt. Magpie Tech looked at this clumsy dance and asked the obvious question — why are these two essential tools still separate? With over $51,000 pledged from nearly 1,000 backers and 38 days remaining, DIG:IT's modular approach is resonating with adventurers tired of carrying redundant equipment.


Picture yourself sweeping DIG:IT across an old park—the 5-level detection indicator climbs, vibration intensifies, you've found something metallic buried eight inches down. Instead of fumbling for a separate tool, you simply detach the trowel module, flip DIG:IT around, and dig at the exact coordinates the pinpointer just identified.

Quick Verdict


Who it's for: 


Treasure hunting enthusiasts who want streamlined gear, families looking for adventurous outdoor activities together, beachcombers tired of carrying multiple tools, and anyone who's ever lost track of a detection spot while switching between pinpointer and shovel.


Main strengths:


  • True 3D scanning technology with adjustable three-level sensitivity detects coins to 20cm and large objects to 43cm deep

  • Detachable trowel module with leverage mechanism eliminates tool-switching and lets you dig at exact detection coordinates

  • IP68 full-body waterproof rating enables complete underwater submersion for pond and tidal searches

  • 30-hour battery life with USB-C charging, multi-sensory feedback system, and family-friendly interface from proven creator Magpie Tech


Main limitations:


  • First venture into metal detection category for Magpie Tech despite successful track record with laser measurement tools

  • Future expansion modules promised but not yet detailed or available


Bottom line: DIG:IT reimagines treasure hunting equipment by merging pinpointer and trowel into one ergonomic tool that actually makes sense. Magpie Tech's track record with VH-80 laser measurers and VADER laser levels proves they understand precision tools and Kickstarter fulfillment—now they're applying that expertise to turn every outdoor space into potential excavation territory.


DIG:IT metal detector on Kickstarter with detachable trowel module and IP68 waterproof design for treasure hunting

The Two-Tool Problem Nobody Fixed Until Now


Every treasure hunter faces the same inventory nightmare. Your pinpointer locates targets precisely. Your trowel digs them out efficiently. But juggling both while crouching in dirt, sand, or mud turns discovery into awkward choreography. Set down the pinpointer to grab the trowel, then spend fifteen seconds relocating the exact spot you just identified. Keep holding the pinpointer while one-hand digging, achieving neither precision detection nor effective excavation.


Magpie Tech's Modular Solution


DIG:IT's detachable trowel module transforms the fundamental workflow. Scan in pinpointer mode until you locate your target. The cylindrical indicator shows depth clearly—you know whether you're digging through two inches or ten before starting. Attach the trowel module with a simple switch, and the leverage mechanism built into DIG:IT's design maximizes digging force while minimizing effort. Excavate at the precise coordinates your detector just mapped. The ergonomic grip stays comfortable whether you're detecting or digging, eliminating the hand strain that comes from constantly switching between different-shaped tools.


True 3D Scanning Technology


Most pinpointers sweep horizontally and call it detection. DIG:IT's premium sensor intelligently analyzes every layer of space around it, mapping three-dimensional coordinates instead of basic proximity. When the pinpointer touches the surface, it penetrates up to 7.9 inches (20cm) deep for regular coin-sized objects. Larger items or those with higher metal concentration extend that range to 1.4 feet (43cm) beneath the ground. This isn't simple metal presence—it's spatial awareness that tells you exactly where to focus your digging energy.


Adjustable Sensitivity for Different Hunts


Sometimes maximum detection power finds everything, including bottle caps and aluminum foil scraps you'd rather ignore. DIG:IT offers three manual sensitivity levels—Low, Medium, High—letting you tune performance to match specific hunts. Searching for delicate antique jewelry in trashy areas? Lower sensitivity filters noise. Scanning open beaches for deep targets? Crank it to High and let the powerful sensor do its work. You control the tool instead of accepting whatever factory setting seemed reasonable.


Multi-Sensory Feedback That Guides Every Move


The 5-level real-time detection indicator doesn't just beep—it orchestrates a complete sensory experience that keeps you oriented during hunts. Audio beeping speeds up as you approach targets. Vibration intensity grows stronger the closer you get. The mini-LCD display shows exactly which detection level you've reached, providing visual confirmation even in noisy environments or when wearing gloves that dampen haptic feedback.


LED Tip Illumination


The LED built directly into DIG:IT's tip does something competitors miss—it points exactly where the metal is buried. Not ambient lighting. Not general area glow. Focused illumination on the precise excavation spot, functioning equally well in twilight searches, shaded forest floors, or cloudy beach mornings. This intuitive design detail prevents the frustration of knowing something's nearby but losing visual reference while digging.


Intuitive Interface for Family Adventures


Minimal physical buttons combined with straightforward firmware make DIG:IT accessible across generations. Adults appreciate the streamlined controls. Kids can actually operate it without constant supervision and questions. The mini-LCD's vibrant colors and proper brightness mean staying oriented feels effortless whether you're an experienced detectorist or a ten-year-old on their first treasure hunt. This transforms metal detecting from solo hobby into genuine family activity where everyone participates meaningfully.


With DIG:IT Metal Detector, Waterproof Freedom Changes Where You Hunt


IP68 waterproof rating isn't marketing fluff—it's complete submersion capability that expands hunting territory dramatically. Unlike pinpointers claiming "water resistance" that actually means "don't get the handle wet," DIG:IT is fully waterproof from top to bottom. Wade into ponds scanning for lost fishing tackle. Search tidal pools during low tide. Explore riverbanks where erosion exposes buried items. The rugged, shock-resistant construction survives wet environments without paranoia about damaging electronics.


Extended Body, Lightweight Balance


DIG:IT's elongated design creates wider scanning range than compact pinpointers, covering more ground per sweep. Normally this extended length would mean hand fatigue during long searches, but lightweight construction eliminates strain. The balance point stays consistent even when the trowel module attaches, preventing the awkward weight shift that makes some combination tools feel front-heavy and unwieldy. Ergonomic curves reflect actual user feedback, creating natural grip positions that reduce muscle tension across hours of detection.


30-Hour Battery Endurance


A 1,500mAh lithium battery powers up to 30 hours of operation, or 10 hours with continuous detection mode active. USB Type-C charging means you're using the same cable as your phone, power bank, and probably half your other electronics. No proprietary chargers. No hunting for the right adapter. Just convenient, widely compatible charging that keeps DIG:IT ready for spontaneous adventures without advance planning.


What Treasures Actually Hide Beneath Your Feet


DIG:IT detects ferrous metals like iron, steel, cast iron, and stainless steel, plus non-ferrous metals including gold, silver, copper, brass, bronze, aluminum, lead, tin, nickel, and zinc. Translate that technical list into actual discoveries: ancient coins and modern currency, jewelry containing stories, historical relics and artifacts, lost keys and tools, buried smartphones, metal ornaments, precious metals, and hidden metal hazards making your yard safer by removal.


Locations Worth Exploring


Beaches reward treasure hunters with coins, jewelry, and items buried by tides. Parks hide decades-old coins alongside lost keys and trinkets in family-friendly environments. Ponds let you safely explore underwater for rings, tools, and relics carried by water over time. Mountain trails and valley riversides contain rare metals beneath the surface. Even your backyard might conceal precious finds you'll never discover until you power on DIG:IT and start scanning systematically.


Future-Proof Modular Expansion


The detachable trowel is just the beginning. Magpie Tech is actively developing new modules that expand DIG:IT's capabilities simply by switching attachments. Specific modules aren't detailed yet, but the modular architecture means your initial investment grows more valuable over time as new functionality becomes available. This approach mirrors their laser measuring tool evolution—the VH-80 led to VH-80SE and VH-80A improvements, showing Magpie Tech's commitment to iterating products based on user feedback.


How DIG:IT Compares to Traditional Pinpointers


Standard handheld pinpointers require carrying a separate trowel, doubling your equipment load and forcing constant tool transitions. They typically offer basic proximity detection without depth visualization or sensitivity adjustments. Many claim waterproof ratings but actually mean water-resistant tips with vulnerable electronics in the handle. DIG:IT consolidates essential tools, provides precise 3D scanning with depth indicators and adjustable sensitivity, delivers genuine full-body waterproofing, and offers 30-hour USB-C powered endurance—addressing the practical frustrations experienced hunters actually face in the field.


Magpie Tech's Proven Track Record


Magpie Tech has successfully delivered numerous Kickstarter campaigns including the VH-80, VH-80SE, and VH-80A dual-laser measuring tools that pioneered precision measurement innovation. Their VADER and VADER 3D green laser levels brought professional-grade leveling to broader audiences. QUBE, their 3-in-1 multi-measurer, elevated everyday convenience through thoughtful tool consolidation. This isn't a first-time creator learning fulfillment logistics on backers' dime—it's an established team with expertise in precision instruments now expanding into recreational detection equipment. They understand manufacturing timelines, shipping coordination, and post-campaign support because they've executed it repeatedly across multiple successful projects.



Frequently Asked Questions About DIG:IT Metal Detector on Kickstarter


For Kickstarter backers wondering about detection accuracy, how reliable is the 20cm depth claim?

Detection depth of 7.9 inches (20cm) for regular coins reflects optimal conditions with the sensor touching the ground surface. Actual performance varies based on soil mineralization, moisture content, and coin orientation. Larger objects or items with higher metal density extend range to 1.4 feet (43cm), but smaller or irregularly shaped targets might register at shallower depths. The adjustable sensitivity helps compensate for challenging conditions.

If I'm backing this campaign, does the trowel module handle rocky or compacted soil effectively?

The leverage mechanism maximizes digging force efficiency for most soil types including sand, loam, and moderately compacted dirt. However, extremely rocky terrain or heavily compacted clay may require a dedicated heavy-duty digging tool for initial excavation. DIG:IT's trowel module excels at precise excavation once you've identified targets, rather than replacing industrial-grade shovels for tough ground conditions.

Backers planning underwater searches should know—can I fully submerge DIG:IT?

Yes, IP68 waterproof rating means complete submersion capability, not just splash resistance. The entire body is waterproof from top to bottom, allowing you to search underwater in ponds, rivers, and tidal areas without risking electronics damage. This differentiates DIG:IT from pinpointers that only waterproof the detection tip while keeping vulnerable components in the handle.

For families considering this purchase, is DIG:IT genuinely accessible for children to use?

The simplified firmware, minimal buttons, and intuitive LCD interface make DIG:IT approachable for kids alongside adult supervision. However, the trowel module attachment and understanding depth indicators may require initial adult guidance for younger children. It's designed for family participation rather than independent use by very young kids, turning treasure hunting into a shared activity where everyone contributes meaningfully.

Backers comparing options should know—what makes DIG:IT different from carrying a separate pinpointer and trowel?

Traditional setups force you to set down your pinpointer, grab your trowel, and hope you remember the exact detection spot. DIG:IT's modular design lets you scan, then immediately switch to digging mode at the precise coordinates you just identified—no tool juggling, no lost locations, no awkward one-hand digging. The integrated approach streamlines workflow significantly, especially during long detection sessions where efficiency compounds over dozens of finds.







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