"Early Free Metal Detector Guide in Atomfall"

When you're navigating the post-apocalyptic world of *Atomfall*, getting your hands on the best tools early can make all the difference. One such indispensable tool is the Metal Detector, which can significantly enhance your scavenging efforts by uncovering valuable items for use and trade. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to secure a free Metal Detector at the start of your journey.

How Metal Detector Works in Atomfall

Screenshot by The Escapist

The Metal Detector is a crucial asset in *Atomfall*, one you'll want to hold onto tightly. When equipped in your inventory, it alerts you to metal caches filled with loot scattered across the expansive game world.

As you venture through the landscape, keep an eye on the bottom left corner of your screen for the tool icon, which 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. A sway to the left indicates you should veer left, and a sway to the right means you should turn right.

Screenshot by The Escapist

Your goal is to follow the center light until the dial below it reaches its peak frequency at 10. When all lights flash simultaneously, you've pinpointed the cache's location. Use the 'Dig' option to unearth it, then 'Search' to claim the items inside.

Where to Find Free Metal Detector Early in Atomfall

Screenshot by The Escapist

In the early stages of *Atomfall*, you'll encounter several trader NPCs eager to barter. Reg Stansfield in the Slate Mine Caves of Slatten Dale has a Metal Detector in his inventory from the outset, but the price tag might be too high for your initial resources.

To sidestep the cost, head east from Slatten Dale, staying close to the mountainside and avoiding the 'Water Wheels' compound overrun with Outlaws. Minimizing early combat is key.

Screenshot by The Escapist

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

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 gathering free healing items, ammunition, and other loot perfect for trading.

Moreover, using the Metal Detector can help you unlock additional achievements like **'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*, setting you up for a more prosperous and rewarding exploration of its challenging world.