"Early Atomfall Guide: Free Metal Detector Acquisition"

In the post-apocalyptic world of *Atomfall*, having the right tools can make all the difference in your quest for survival and exploration. One of the most essential tools you'll want to get your hands on early is the Metal Detector, which can uncover valuable caches of items you can use or trade. Here's your guide to securing a Metal Detector for free early in your journey.

How Metal Detector Works in Atomfall

Screenshot by The Escapist

The Metal Detector is an indispensable asset in *Atomfall*, one you'll want to hold onto tightly. While equipped in your inventory, it alerts you to the presence of metal caches brimming with useful items scattered throughout the game's expansive world.

As you roam the wasteland, keep an eye on the bottom left corner of your screen. A ping from your Metal Detector, indicated by the tool icon, signals that a cache is nearby. When it's safe, activate 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, steer left; if they sway to the right, turn right. Your goal is to follow the center light until the dial below it peaks at the highest frequency (10).

Screenshot by The Escapist

When all the lights flash simultaneously, you've pinpointed the cache's location. Use the 'Dig' command to unearth it, then 'Search' to claim your loot.

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 ready to barter. Reg Stansfield at the Slate Mine Caves in Slatten Dale offers a Metal Detector, but the price might be too high for your early-game budget.

Instead, head east from Slatten Dale, following the mountainside past the 'Water Wheels' compound, which is teeming with Outlaws. Avoiding early conflicts will serve you well.

Screenshot by The Escapist

Keep moving east and then south until you reach a large, shallow pond at the coordinates **(29.1E, 73.9N)**. In the center of the pond, on a rocky outcrop, lies an Outlaw corpse. Beware of the carnivorous leeches in the water; don't dawdle.

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

With the Metal Detector, you're also on your way to unlocking other achievements like **'Where there's much there's brass'** (Find 10 metal detector caches) and **'Packed lunch'** (Find 5 buried lunchboxes).

That's how you secure a free Metal Detector early in *Atomfall*, setting you up for success in your post-apocalyptic adventure.