"Unlock Free Metal Detector in Atomfall Early"

Embarking on your journey in *Atomfall*? Securing the right tools early can make all the difference in your survival and exploration efforts. Among these essential tools is the Metal Detector, a game-changer for uncovering valuable items to enhance your gameplay and barter with others. Here's your comprehensive guide to obtaining a free Metal Detector early in your *Atomfall* adventure.

How the Metal Detector Works in Atomfall

Screenshot by The Escapist

In *Atomfall*, the Metal Detector is an indispensable tool you'll want to keep close at hand. While it's in your inventory, it actively scans for metal caches brimming with useful items scattered throughout the game's expansive world.

As you traverse the landscape, your Metal Detector will occasionally ping, indicated by the tool icon in the bottom left corner of your screen. This signal alerts you to a nearby cache. When it's safe, access your Metal Detector using the designated hotkey.

The device features a row of lights that guide you toward the hidden treasure. If the lights sway to the left, adjust your path to the left. Conversely, if they sway to the right, steer right. Your goal is to follow the center light until the dial beneath the lights hits its peak frequency at 10.

Screenshot by The Escapist

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

Where to Find a 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, located in the Slate Mine Caves in Slatten Dale, offers a Metal Detector for sale. However, the price might be beyond your early-game budget.

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

Screenshot by The Escapist

Continue your journey east and then south until you reach a large, shallow pond at coordinates **(29.1E, 73.9N)**. In the center of this pond, on a rocky outcrop, you'll find an Outlaw corpse. Be cautious, as the water is home to aggressive leeches that can hinder your progress.

Approach the corpse and 'Search' it to discover a fully functional Metal Detector, yours for free. This early acquisition not only earns you the **'Detectorist' trophy/achievement** but also gives you a significant edge in gathering free healing items, ammo, and other loot perfect for bartering.

Moreover, using the Metal Detector can 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).

With this guide, you're now equipped to secure a free Metal Detector early in *Atomfall*, enhancing your exploration and survival capabilities from the get-go.