"Secure a Free Metal Detector in Atomfall Early: Tips and Tricks"

In the post-apocalyptic world of *Atomfall*, securing the right tools early on can make all the difference in your survival and exploration efforts. Among the most valuable tools you can get your hands on is the Metal Detector. This handy device not only aids in finding crucial items but also enhances your gameplay by allowing you to barter effectively. Here's a comprehensive guide to obtaining a free Metal Detector early in your *Atomfall* journey.

How the Metal Detector Works in Atomfall

Screenshot by The Escapist

The Metal Detector is an essential tool in *Atomfall* that you'll want to keep with you at all times. It's designed to detect metal caches filled with valuable items scattered throughout the game's expansive open world.

As you roam the desolate landscapes, keep an eye on the bottom left corner of your screen for the tool icon. This icon will ping when you're near a cache. When it does, it's time to pull out your Metal Detector using the designated hotkey.

The device features a row of lights that guide you toward the cache. If the light leans to the left, move left; if it leans to the right, move right. Your goal is to follow the center light until the dial beneath it reaches its peak frequency, indicated by a '10'.

Screenshot by The Escapist

When all the lights blink simultaneously, you've pinpointed the exact location of the cache. Use the 'Dig' option to unearth it, then 'Search' to claim the goodies inside.

Where to Find a Free Metal Detector Early in Atomfall

Screenshot by The Escapist

In the initial stages of *Atomfall*, you'll encounter various trader NPCs willing to barter. One such trader, Reg Stansfield, located in the Slate Mine Caves in Slatten Dale, has a Metal Detector for sale. However, its cost might be prohibitively high for a new player.

Instead, head east from Slatten Dale, keeping to the mountainside and avoiding the 'Water Wheels' compound, which is overrun with Outlaws. The less you engage in combat at this stage, the better your chances of survival.

Screenshot by The Escapist

Continue east and then south until you reach a large, shallow pond at coordinates **(29.1E, 73.9N)**. In the middle of this pond, on a rocky outcrop, lies an Outlaw corpse. Be cautious of the carnivorous leeches in the water; they can be quite a nuisance.

Approach the corpse and use the 'Search' option to claim your prize—a fully functional Metal Detector. Not only will this early acquisition give you a significant advantage in finding free healing items, ammo, and other barter-worthy loot, but it will also earn you the **'Detectorist' trophy/achievement**.

Moreover, using the Metal Detector early on can 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).

With this guide, you're now equipped to secure a free Metal Detector early in *Atomfall*, boosting your chances of survival and success in this challenging world.