bounty hunter tracker iv user manual
Bounty Hunter Tracker IV User Manual: A Comprehensive Guide
Welcome! This manual details the Bounty Hunter Tracker IV, a metal detector designed for enthusiasts seeking rewards and uncovering hidden treasures.
Congratulations on acquiring the Bounty Hunter Tracker IV! This advanced metal detector empowers you to explore the world around you, uncovering historical artifacts, lost coins, and valuable treasures. Whether you’re a seasoned treasure hunter or a beginner, the Tracker IV offers user-friendly operation combined with robust performance.
Inspired by the spirit of the “bounty hunter” seeking rewards, this device is engineered for diverse terrains and target types. It’s a tool for adventure, historical discovery, and the thrill of the find. This manual provides a comprehensive guide to maximizing your success, from initial setup to advanced techniques. Prepare to embark on exciting explorations!
Unboxing and Component Overview
Carefully unpack your Bounty Hunter Tracker IV and verify all components are present. The package includes: the Tracker IV control box, a 9-inch concentric search coil, a shaft assembly (upper and lower), coil mounting hardware, and this user manual.
Additionally, you’ll find a set of headphones for enhanced audio clarity, and potentially coil protectors. Inspect each item for any shipping damage. Familiarize yourself with the control box layout – noting the power switch, sensitivity adjustments, discrimination controls, and battery compartment. Proper assembly is crucial for optimal performance; refer to the diagrams for guidance.
Understanding the Control Panel
The control panel is your interface to the Tracker IV’s capabilities. Key elements include the Power Switch, initiating and terminating operation. The Sensitivity Control adjusts detection depth, higher settings for stronger signals but potential interference. Discrimination allows filtering unwanted metals – like iron – focusing on valuable targets.
A Battery Level Indicator displays remaining power. The Pinpoint Button narrows target location. Familiarize yourself with the Headphone Jack for private listening. Understanding these controls is vital for effective treasure hunting, allowing customization for diverse environments and target types.
Powering On/Off and Battery Installation
To power on, locate the Power Switch on the control panel and toggle it to the ‘ON’ position. The unit will initiate a self-test. To power off, return the switch to ‘OFF’. Battery installation requires 4 AA batteries. Open the battery compartment, typically located on the control box’s underside.
Insert batteries according to the polarity markings (+ and -). Ensure a secure fit. Low battery levels will be indicated by a flashing icon on the display. Always use fresh batteries for optimal performance and avoid mixing old and new batteries.
Adjusting Sensitivity and Discrimination
Sensitivity controls the detector’s ability to detect small or distant targets. Increase sensitivity for deeper detection, but beware of increased ground noise. Discrimination allows you to filter out unwanted metals like iron or trash. Use the Discrimination dial to select which metal types to ignore.
Start with low sensitivity and gradually increase it until stable operation is achieved. Experiment with discrimination settings to find a balance between rejecting trash and detecting desired targets. Remember, higher discrimination levels may reduce detection depth for valuable metals.
Search Modes Explained
The Bounty Hunter Tracker IV offers versatile search modes for diverse environments. All Metal Mode detects all metallic objects, maximizing depth and ideal for locating deeply buried targets, regardless of material. Discrimination Mode allows selective target identification, filtering out unwanted metals like iron and aluminum, focusing on potentially valuable finds.
Pinpoint Mode precisely locates targets within the coil’s detection field, crucial for accurate digging and minimizing ground disturbance. Understanding each mode’s strengths enables efficient and targeted treasure hunting, maximizing your bounty!
All Metal Mode: For Deep Searching
All Metal Mode on the Bounty Hunter Tracker IV is your go-to setting for maximizing detection depth. This mode disregards target identification, responding to all metallic objects, both ferrous and non-ferrous. It’s perfect for locating deeply buried items, even those obscured by ground mineralization.
While it may yield more “trash” signals, the increased depth penetration significantly boosts your chances of uncovering valuable, older artifacts. Remember to dig all signals in this mode to avoid missing potential treasures – a true bounty awaits!
Discrimination Mode: Targeting Specific Metals
Discrimination Mode on your Bounty Hunter Tracker IV allows selective target identification. This feature lets you exclude unwanted metals – like iron or aluminum – minimizing digging for “trash” and focusing on potentially valuable finds. Adjust the discrimination control to filter out specific metal groups, increasing your efficiency.
Experiment with different discrimination settings based on your hunting location and desired targets. Remember, higher discrimination levels may reduce detection depth for desired metals. Finding the right balance is key to maximizing your bounty and minimizing wasted effort!
Pinpoint Mode: Precise Location of Targets
Pinpoint Mode on the Bounty Hunter Tracker IV narrows down the exact location of a detected target within the coil’s area. After a signal is identified in another mode, switch to Pinpoint to precisely mark the spot for digging. Slowly sweep the coil over the area; the signal will become strongest directly above the target.
This mode is invaluable for accurate recovery, especially in heavily mineralized ground or when targets are close together. Mastering pinpointing minimizes damage to finds and reduces the size of the hole you need to dig, ensuring a cleaner and more efficient treasure hunt!
Ground Balance: Optimizing Performance
Ground Balancing is crucial for the Bounty Hunter Tracker IV’s performance, especially in mineralized soil. Minerals in the ground can cause false signals, hindering accurate detection. This process calibrates the detector to ignore these ground signals, allowing it to focus on metallic targets.
The Tracker IV likely features automatic or manual ground balance settings. Automatic is simpler, while manual offers greater control. Proper ground balance dramatically improves depth and reduces unwanted noise, maximizing your chances of uncovering valuable finds. Experiment with settings to achieve optimal performance in different terrains.
Headphone Usage and Audio Signals
Headphones significantly enhance the Bounty Hunter Tracker IV experience. They block out external noise, allowing you to clearly hear subtle target signals. The Tracker IV likely has a standard headphone jack (typically 1/4 inch). Using headphones also conserves battery life compared to the built-in speaker.
Understanding audio signals is key. Different metals produce distinct sounds – a sharp, clear signal often indicates a good target. Learn to differentiate between strong, weak, and erratic signals. Adjust the volume to a comfortable level, and practice identifying various audio tones to improve your detection skills.
Digging Techniques and Target Recovery
Careful digging is crucial to avoid damaging your finds and the environment. Always use a digging tool appropriate for the terrain – a hand trowel works well for soft ground, while a sturdy shovel is needed for harder soil. Pinpoint the target’s location precisely before digging, minimizing the disturbance.
Cut a neat plug of soil, rather than a large, messy hole. Gently excavate the target, and use your pinpointer (if available) to locate it within the soil plug. Replace the plug carefully, leaving the area as you found it. Respect private property and local regulations regarding digging.
Identifying Found Objects
Understanding metal signatures is key to discerning valuable finds from trash. Different metals produce unique audio tones and VDI (Variable Discrimination Index) readings on your Bounty Hunter Tracker IV. Iron typically registers with a low VDI and a choppy signal. Silver often presents a clear, consistent tone with a mid-range VDI.
Copper and brass exhibit higher VDI readings. Research common coin and artifact VDI ranges to aid identification. Remember, signal strength doesn’t always equate to value; a small gold item can have a weak signal. Careful examination and research are vital!
Common Metal Signatures
The Bounty Hunter Tracker IV distinguishes metals via VDI numbers and audio tones. Iron, frequently encountered, typically displays low VDI readings (under 10) and a broken, erratic audio signal. Aluminum also registers low, often similar to iron, but with a smoother tone.
Nickel and zinc often fall in the mid-range (20-30 VDI), while copper and brass exhibit higher readings (40-60 VDI). Silver usually presents a clear tone and a VDI between 55-70. Gold, depending on purity, can range widely, but often sits between 70-90. Practice identifying these signatures for successful treasure hunting!
Distinguishing Valuable Finds from Trash
The Bounty Hunter Tracker IV helps differentiate treasure from junk. Low VDI readings often indicate iron trash like nails and bottle caps. However, some valuable items, like certain aluminum foil products, can mimic these signals. A consistent, strong signal with a higher VDI suggests copper, silver, or gold.
Learn to interpret signal shape; a sharp, clear signal usually means a smaller, closer target. Practice digging everything initially to learn what different signals represent in your local environment. Experience is key to quickly identifying valuable finds and avoiding unnecessary digging!
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance ensures your Bounty Hunter Tracker IV’s longevity. After each use, clean the coil with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Avoid abrasive cleaners. The control box should be wiped down with a soft, dry cloth.
For long-term storage, remove the batteries to prevent corrosion. Store the detector in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Regularly inspect the coil cable for damage. Following these simple steps will keep your Tracker IV performing optimally for years to come!
Cleaning the Coil and Control Box
Regular cleaning is vital for optimal performance. After each outing with your Bounty Hunter Tracker IV, gently wipe the coil with a damp, soft cloth. Stubborn dirt can be removed with mild soapy water, ensuring it’s thoroughly rinsed and dried afterward.
The control box requires a dry cloth for cleaning. Avoid getting any moisture inside. Never use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on either component, as they can cause damage. Consistent cleaning prevents buildup and ensures accurate readings, extending the life of your detector.
Long-Term Storage
Preparing your Bounty Hunter Tracker IV for extended storage is crucial. First, thoroughly clean both the coil and control box as detailed previously. Remove the batteries from the control box to prevent corrosion and potential damage. Store the detector in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Loosely coil the cable to avoid kinks or stress. Consider storing the unit in its original packaging or a protective case. Periodic checks during long storage are recommended to ensure no moisture has accumulated. Proper storage guarantees readiness for your next treasure hunt!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Experiencing problems with your Bounty Hunter Tracker IV? Let’s address common issues. No Power/Sound: Ensure batteries are correctly installed and have sufficient charge. Check all cable connections between the coil and control box. Erratic Readings/False Signals: Interference from nearby metal objects or electrical sources can cause this.
Try relocating to a different search area. Adjust sensitivity and discrimination settings. Ground balance may also need recalibration. If issues persist, consult the full manual or contact customer support. Remember, patience and systematic checking are key to resolving most problems!
No Power/Sound
If your Bounty Hunter Tracker IV fails to power on or produce any audio signals, begin with the basics. First, verify the battery compartment is securely closed and the batteries are installed with correct polarity (+/-). Next, confirm the batteries themselves are fresh and fully charged; low batteries are a frequent cause.
Also, inspect the coil cable for any damage or loose connections at both the coil and control box ends. A faulty cable can interrupt power and signal transmission. Finally, ensure the volume control is not muted or set to its lowest setting.
Erratic Readings or False Signals
Experiencing inconsistent readings or frequent false signals with your Bounty Hunter Tracker IV? First, ground mineralization can cause interference; attempt ground balancing as described in the manual. Second, nearby electrical interference from power lines, radio towers, or even mobile phones can trigger false positives. Move to a different location to test.
Additionally, high sensitivity settings can amplify minor signals, leading to false indications. Reduce the sensitivity incrementally until stable readings are achieved; Finally, ensure the search coil is moving at a consistent, slow pace; rapid movements can create erratic responses.
Safety Precautions
Before operating your Bounty Hunter Tracker IV, always familiarize yourself with these crucial safety guidelines. First, never operate near power lines or underground utilities; accidental contact can be fatal. Second, obtain permission before searching on private property, respecting landowners’ rights. Third, be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards like uneven terrain or wildlife.
Always fill in any holes you dig to prevent injury to others. Furthermore, wear appropriate safety gear, including sturdy footwear and eye protection. Finally, be mindful of local laws regarding treasure hunting and artifact recovery; adhere to all regulations.
Warranty Information
Your Bounty Hunter Tracker IV is covered by a limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of original purchase. This warranty does not cover damage resulting from misuse, abuse, neglect, accidents, or unauthorized modifications. To make a warranty claim, you must provide proof of purchase and return the defective unit, prepaid, to our designated service center.
We will, at our option, repair or replace the defective unit. This warranty is your exclusive remedy, and we are not liable for any incidental or consequential damages. For full warranty details, please visit our website or contact customer support.
Resources and Further Learning
Expand your metal detecting knowledge! Visit our official website for frequently asked questions, downloadable software updates, and helpful tips from experienced users. Explore online forums dedicated to metal detecting, where you can connect with fellow enthusiasts and share your finds. Consider joining a local metal detecting club to learn from experienced members and participate in organized hunts.
Numerous books and videos are available covering metal detecting techniques, historical research, and responsible treasure hunting practices. Remember to always respect private property and adhere to local laws and regulations. Happy hunting, and may your Bounty Hunter Tracker IV lead you to incredible discoveries!