Free Metal Detector Guide: Early Access in Atomfall

In the vast and dangerous world of *Atomfall*, securing top-notch tools early on can make all the difference between surviving and thriving. One of the most valuable tools you can get your hands on is the Metal Detector, which helps you uncover hidden treasures scattered throughout the game. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to obtain a free Metal Detector early in your journey.

How the Metal Detector Works in Atomfall

The Metal Detector is an indispensable tool in *Atomfall* that you'll want to keep close at hand. When equipped, it alerts you to the presence of metal caches filled with valuable items throughout the game's expansive world.

As you venture through the landscape, you'll eventually receive a ping from your Metal Detector, indicated by an icon in the bottom left corner of your screen. This signal means a cache is nearby. When it's safe, pull out your Metal Detector using the designated hotkey.

The row of lights on the detector guides you toward the cache. If the lights sway to the left, you should turn left; if they sway to the right, turn right. Your goal is to follow the center light until the dial below the lights reaches its maximum frequency of 10.

When all the lights blink simultaneously, you've pinpointed the cache's exact location. Use the 'Dig' option to unearth it, then 'Search' to claim the items inside.

Where to Find a Free Metal Detector Early in Atomfall

During your initial explorations in *Atomfall*, you'll encounter various trader NPCs willing to barter. Reg Stansfield in the Slate Mine Caves at Slatten Dale has a Metal Detector available from the start, but the cost might be beyond your early-game budget.

Instead, head east along the right side of Slatten Dale. Avoid the 'Water Wheels' compound, which is teeming with Outlaws, to minimize early combat encounters.

Keep moving east 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 that can quickly deplete your health.

Approach the corpse and 'Search' it to claim your free Metal Detector. This early acquisition not only gives you the **'Detectorist' trophy/achievement** but also a significant advantage in gathering free healing items, ammo, and other valuable loot for trading.

Having the Metal Detector early on can also help you unlock additional trophies/achievements, such as **'Where there's much there's brass'** (Find 10 metal detector caches) and **'Packed lunch'** (Find 5 buried lunchboxes).

That's how you can secure a free Metal Detector early in *Atomfall*, setting you up for a successful and rewarding gameplay experience.