"Unlock Free Metal Detector in Atomfall Early: Guide"

In the expansive world of *Atomfall*, securing the best tools early can significantly enhance your survival and exploration experience. One essential tool is the Metal Detector, which helps you unearth valuable items for personal use and trading. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to obtain a free Metal Detector early in your adventure.

How Metal Detector Works in Atomfall

Screenshot by The Escapist

The Metal Detector is an indispensable tool in *Atomfall* that you'll want to keep in your inventory at all times. As you traverse the open world, the Metal Detector will alert you to nearby metal caches filled with useful items. When you receive a ping, indicated by the tool icon in the bottom left corner of your screen, take out your Metal Detector using the designated hotkey if it's safe to do so.

The device features a row of lights that guide you toward the hidden cache. If the lights sway to the left, you should turn left; if they sway to the right, turn right. Follow the center light until the dial beneath the lights reaches its peak frequency of 10. When all the lights blink simultaneously, you've pinpointed the cache's location. Use the 'Dig' option to uncover the cache, then 'Search' it to claim the items inside.

Screenshot by The Escapist

Where to Find a Free Metal Detector Early in Atomfall

Screenshot by The Escapist

During your initial exploration in *Atomfall*, you'll encounter various trader NPCs willing to barter items. One such trader, Reg Stansfield, located in the Slate Mine Caves in Slatten Dale, has a Metal Detector in his inventory from the start. However, the cost might be prohibitive early on.

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

Screenshot by The Escapist

Continue east and then south until you reach a large, shallow pond at the coordinates **(29.1E, 73.9N)**. In the middle of the pond, on a rocky outcrop, you'll find an Outlaw corpse. Be cautious, as the water is home to aggressive leeches that can harm you if you stay too long.

Approach the corpse and use the 'Search' option to retrieve a functional Metal Detector. This early acquisition not only grants you the **'Detectorist' trophy/achievement** but also gives you a significant advantage in gathering healing items, ammo, and other loot useful for trading.

Utilizing the Metal Detector 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).

This guide wraps up how to secure a free Metal Detector early in *Atomfall*, setting you on the path to a more rewarding gameplay experience.