Introduction to the Fisher F22 Metal Detector
The Fisher F22 metal detector has quickly become one of the most popular entry-level detectors on the market since its release. Designed and manufactured by Fisher Research Labs, a company with over 70 years of experience in metal detection technology, the F22 combines professional-grade features with user-friendly operation.
Weighing just 2.3 pounds and featuring a weatherproof design, the F22 is built for comfort during long detecting sessions and reliability in various conditions. Whether you’re searching for coins, relics, jewelry, or gold nuggets, this detector offers the versatility needed for different types of treasure hunting adventures.
Key Features and Specifications
The Fisher F22 comes packed with features that make it stand out in the entry-level detector category:
- 11-inch elliptical search coil – Provides excellent ground coverage and depth detection
- 9-Segment visual target ID – Helps identify targets before digging with a numerical scale from 0-99
- 4-tone audio ID system – Different tones for different target types (iron, aluminum, coins, high-conductivity targets)
- 10 levels of sensitivity adjustment – Fine-tune performance based on ground conditions
- 5 search modes – Jewelry, coins, artifacts, custom, and all-metal modes
- Iron Audio feature – Hear discriminated iron targets to avoid digging trash
- Fast recovery speed – Excellent performance in trashy areas
- Weatherproof design – Control box and coil can withstand rain and wet grass
- Adjustable shaft – Extends from 39″ to 52″ to accommodate different user heights
- Operating frequency – 7.69 kHz, ideal for coin and relic hunting
Performance in the Field
The Fisher F22 delivers impressive performance that exceeds expectations for its price point. In field tests, the detector consistently finds coins at depths of 8-10 inches in moderate soil conditions, with occasional targets at even greater depths when conditions are favorable.
The 9-segment target ID system provides reliable identification of common targets. For example, modern coins typically register in the mid-70s to mid-80s range, while pull tabs and larger aluminum items show up in the 40s to 60s range. Iron targets register below 20, making it easier to avoid digging trash.
The 4-tone audio system is particularly useful for experienced detectorists who prefer audio cues over visual displays. The distinct tones help you quickly identify target types without constantly looking at the screen, which is especially helpful when covering large areas.
Iron Audio Feature
One standout feature of the F22 is the Iron Audio function. When enabled, this feature allows you to hear discriminated iron targets, giving you the option to dig questionable signals that might be deep or valuable targets masked by iron. This feature has helped many users recover historically significant relics that would have been overlooked with standard discrimination settings.
Recovery Speed and Target Separation
The F22’s fast recovery speed is particularly impressive. In trashy areas with multiple targets close together, the detector can identify individual targets that other entry-level detectors might miss or signal as a single large target. This makes the F22 an excellent choice for parks, schoolyards, and other areas with high trash content but potentially valuable targets.
Practical Tips for Using the Fisher F22
1. Ground Balancing
While the F22 doesn’t have manual ground balancing, it does feature automatic ground balancing. For best results in mineralized soil, allow the detector to ground balance by pumping the coil up and down a few times when you first turn it on in a new area. This helps reduce false signals and improves depth detection.
2. Sensitivity Settings
Start with medium sensitivity settings (around 5-7) and adjust based on conditions. In areas with electrical interference or highly mineralized soil, reducing sensitivity can actually improve performance by reducing chatter and false signals. Don’t assume maximum sensitivity always provides the best results.
3. Search Patterns
Use overlapping sweep patterns, overlapping each swing by about 50%. This ensures you don’t miss targets between sweep lines. A slow, methodical approach often yields better results than quickly covering large areas.
4. Understanding Target ID Numbers
Keep a log of target ID numbers for common items you find in your area. Different soil conditions and target depths can affect readings, so understanding your local conditions will help you better interpret the numbers. For instance, a deep coin might read 5-10 points lower than a shallow one.
5. Utilizing Different Search Modes
Experiment with different search modes based on your hunting environment. The Jewelry mode is excellent for parks and beaches as it rejects most iron while still detecting gold rings. The All Metal mode provides maximum depth and is ideal for relic hunting where iron might be historically significant.
Who Should Buy the Fisher F22?
The Fisher F22 is an excellent choice for:
- Beginners – The intuitive interface and clear target ID make learning easy
- Budget-conscious detectorists – Offers features found on more expensive models
- Relic hunters – Fast recovery speed excels in trashy areas
- Beach hunters – Weatherproof design handles wet sand and light spray
- Family detectorists – Lightweight and adjustable for users of different ages
Comparison with Similar Detectors
When compared to similar entry-level detectors like the Garrett ACE 300 or Minelab Vanquish 340, the F22 holds its own with several advantages:
vs. Garrett ACE 300: The F22 is lighter and has a faster recovery speed, though the ACE 300 offers slightly better depth on larger targets and includes a digital target ID.
vs. Minelab Vanquish 340: The F22 has better target separation in trashy areas, while the Vanquish offers multi-IQ technology that performs better in mineralized soil.
Maintenance and Care
To keep your Fisher F22 in top condition:
- Clean the coil after use, especially when detecting in saltwater environments
- Store the detector in a dry place with the batteries removed for long-term storage
- Periodically check the coil cable for wear or damage
- Use a protective cover on the control box to prevent scratches
- Keep the battery compartment clean and free of corrosion
Accessories Worth Considering
Enhance your F22 experience with these accessories:
- Pinpointer – The Fisher F-Pulse or similar models make target recovery faster
- Coil cover – Protects the search coil from scratches and damage
- Digging tool – A sturdy trowel or Lesche digging tool is essential
- Headphones – The F22 has a headphone jack for better audio in noisy environments
- Coil – Consider a smaller coil (5-8 inch) for tight spaces and improved target separation
Real User Experiences
Many users report finding their first silver coin or piece of jewelry within weeks of purchasing the F22. One user in the Midwest reported finding a Civil War-era button in a farmer’s field, while a beach hunter in Florida regularly finds gold jewelry using the Jewelry mode.
The detector’s reliability is frequently mentioned in user reviews, with many reporting years of trouble-free operation. The weatherproof design has proven itself in various conditions, from morning dew to unexpected rain showers.
Conclusion
The Fisher F22 metal detector offers exceptional value for both beginners and experienced detectorists looking for a reliable, feature-rich detector at an accessible price point. Its combination of lightweight design, weatherproof construction, and advanced features like Iron Audio and fast recovery speed make it a versatile tool for various detecting applications.
While it may not have all the bells and whistles of high-end professional detectors, the F22 delivers where it matters most: finding targets consistently and reliably. For anyone serious about starting or expanding their metal detecting hobby, the Fisher F22 deserves serious consideration.