Gary Drayton’s Oak Island Metal Detector: Gear, Finds, and Expert Treasure Hunting Tips

Gary Drayton, the “Metal Detecting Ninja” of The Curse of Oak Island, primarily uses a Minelab CTX 3030 detector with an 11-inch Double-D Smart Coil for his famous “top pocket finds” on the island. His success comes from combining top-tier equipment with decades of field-proven expertise in coastal and rocky terrain detecting.

You’ve seen him on TV. Gary Drayton is the expert metal detectorist on the show The Curse of Oak Island. He is famous for finding small, important artifacts. These are his “top pocket finds” and “Bobby Dazzlers.” But what metal detector does Gary Drayton actually use on Oak Island? This is a question many hobbyists and treasure hunters ask.

The Oak Island treasure hunt presents huge challenges. The ground is often rocky, muddy, or even underwater. Regular metal detectors struggle in these conditions. Knowing the tools and methods of an expert like Gary Drayton can help you in your own searches. I will break down the specific gear he uses. I will also share his proven metal detecting techniques. This will help you maximize your finds and avoid common mistakes.

What is Gary Drayton’s Main Metal Detector on Oak Island?

Gary Drayton’s primary metal detector on The Curse of Oak Island is the Minelab CTX 3030. This model is a high-end, multi-frequency detector. It is known for its excellent performance in tough ground conditions, including saltwater beaches and highly mineralized soils like those on Oak Island. The CTX 3030 is waterproof, which is essential for working in areas like Smith’s Cove and the swamp.

The Minelab CTX 3030 is an advanced tool for relic hunting. Its Full Band Spectrum (FBS) technology sends many frequencies into the ground at once. This helps it find small, deep targets even through heavy mineralization. Gary often pairs the CTX 3030 with the stock 11-inch Double-D Smart Coil. This coil provides good ground coverage and excellent depth. Using a high-quality, waterproof detector like the Minelab CTX 3030 is crucial for deep relic hunting in difficult coastal environments.

What Other Metal Detectors Does Gary Drayton Use?

While the Minelab CTX 3030 is Gary’s favorite, he uses other specialized detectors for different tasks on Oak Island. The team often faces various challenges, from deep soil to water-filled boreholes. Using a range of detecting gear ensures they can search every part of the island effectively.

Specialized Minelab Detectors

Gary uses other Minelab models depending on the search area. For searching for gold and deep targets, he has used the Minelab SDC 2300 and the Minelab GPX 5000 (or similar GPX series Pulse Induction detectors). These machines are built for gold prospecting and are great at ignoring heavy ground noise. They can detect small pieces of gold at great depth. He has also been seen using the newer, more affordable Minelab Equinox series, which is a versatile detector for both land and water.

Advanced Ground Scanners

For searching deep below the surface in areas like the Money Pit, the Oak Island team uses advanced tools. The OKM eXp 6000 Professional Plus is a 3D ground scanner that has been used. This is not a traditional metal detector. It creates a picture of what is hidden underground. This technology helps locate large anomalies and structures, not just small coins or relics.

Detector Model	Primary Technology	Best Use on Oak Island	Notes
Minelab CTX 3030	FBS 2 Multi-Frequency	Coastal, beaches, relic hunting	Gary’s main detector; waterproof, high discrimination.
Minelab SDC 2300	Pulse Induction (PI)	Gold prospecting, high mineralization	Excellent for finding deep gold in noisy ground.
Minelab GPX Series (e.g., 5000)	Pulse Induction (PI)	Deepest searching for relics and gold	Used for maximum depth, especially in iron-rich soil.
OKM eXp 6000	3D Ground Scanner	Mapping large underground objects, structures	Not for small “top pocket finds;” used for deep, large-scale investigation.

The choice of a metal detector is always based on the ground conditions and the target size. Gary’s toolkit shows a strategy of using the right machine for the right job, a key lesson for every serious detectorist.

What Coils and Accessories Does Gary Drayton Prefer?

A metal detector is only one piece of the puzzle. The search coil and other accessories are just as important. Gary Drayton’s success often comes down to using the right configuration for the terrain.

Choosing the Right Coil Size

The standard 11-inch Double-D coil on the CTX 3030 is versatile. However, Gary has spoken about using a much larger coil on rocky beaches. For example, he has used a large 17 x 13-inch search coil on the CTX 3030. A larger coil lets him detect deeper targets even when he has to sweep the coil over the top of rocks. This is a great tip for beach hunters who usually only use small coils.

• Small Coils (6-inch): Best for areas with a lot of trash (high target separation) or for tight spaces.
• Standard Coils (11-inch): Good balance of depth and coverage, perfect for general relic hunting.
• Large Coils (15+ inch): Best for maximum depth and covering large, clean areas quickly, like rocky shores where target separation is less critical.

The Essential Pinpointer

Every detectorist, especially one like Gary who makes many finds, needs a quality pinpointer. A pinpointer is a small, hand-held tool that finds the exact location of the target after the metal detector has signaled. It saves a lot of digging and makes recovery much faster. Gary Drayton uses a high-quality, often Minelab brand, pinpointer in all his fieldwork.

Using a larger coil for depth and a reliable pinpointer for quick recovery is Gary’s winning combination. This method lets him spend less time digging trash and more time finding “Bobby Dazzlers.”

Gary Drayton’s Top Pocket Finds and Discoveries on Oak Island

Gary Drayton’s role is to find small, historical artifacts that provide clues about the island’s past. These artifacts are often referred to as “top pocket finds” because they are small enough to fit in a shirt pocket. His finds have been crucial in supporting theories about who was on Oak Island and when.

Notable Finds

His metal detecting has uncovered some of the most significant artifacts on the show. These finds have changed the direction of the Oak Island search many times. A few of his famous finds include:

• The 14th Century Lead Cross: Found at Smith’s Cove, this artifact is one of the show’s most important finds. It suggests a pre-colonial European, possibly Knights Templar, presence on the island.
• 17th and 18th-Century Coins: Finding old Spanish and British coins helps date the human activity on the island. They provide a timeline for the treasure mystery.
• Gold-Plated Brooches and Buttons: These items show that high-status people were once on Oak Island. The 16th/17th-century Garnet and Silver Brooch is a great example of a “Bobby Dazzler.”
• Wrought Iron and Military Artifacts: Hinges, spikes, and military buttons give clues about the tools and personnel who might have been on the island centuries ago.

These artifacts are not the giant treasure chest that everyone hopes for. Instead, they are pieces of a historical puzzle. They prove that people were there centuries ago, actively building and leaving things behind.

Gary Drayton’s Expert Metal Detecting Techniques

The equipment is important, but Gary Drayton’s expertise is what really makes the difference. He has decades of experience hunting for treasure in many tough locations, especially beaches in Florida.

Slow and Low Sweeping

Gary always stresses the need to sweep the coil slowly and keep it close to the ground. He calls this “slow and low.”

• Sweep Slowly: Moving too fast means your detector might miss a weak signal from a deep or small target.
• Keep it Level: The coil must be level with the ground on every swing. If the coil tilts up, you lose detection depth at the front of the sweep. Miss an inch, miss a find!

Dealing with Difficult Terrain

Oak Island has very difficult conditions. It has rocky shorelines, dense forest, and mineralized soil. Gary’s approach to rocky areas is smart. Instead of a small coil, he uses a large one to maintain depth even when the coil bumps over rocks. He also uses special recovery tools like needle-nose pliers and a spade to dig between rocks. He is ready for all conditions.

“Outside the Box” Search Techniques

Gary often looks for targets where other people do not. He focuses on rocky areas that other beach hunters skip. He searches in old trash pits and less obvious spots. This “outside the box” thinking is key to finding things that have been missed for years. He uses his knowledge of local history and soil conditions to guess where old artifacts might be hiding.

Comparing Gary Drayton’s Detector to Beginner Gear

The Minelab CTX 3030 is a professional-level machine. It can cost thousands of dollars. As a beginner, you do not need to spend that much money. You can use the lessons from Gary’s gear to choose your own entry-level metal detector.

Key Features to Look For

When you buy your first detector, look for these features, which are similar to what Gary uses:

• Multi-Frequency or Good Single Frequency: Look for detectors that handle mineralized soil well. The Minelab Equinox series, for example, is a great choice and much cheaper than the CTX 3030.
• Waterproof Coil (at least): If you plan to search near water, make sure the coil is waterproof. A fully waterproof detector is best for beach and stream hunting.
• Good Discrimination: You need to be able to filter out most iron trash. This feature lets you focus on better signals like old copper, silver, or gold.

Choosing a reliable brand like Minelab, Garrett, or Nokta is a smart first step. You should always buy the best pinpointer you can afford. This will cut down on your recovery time more than an expensive detector will.

Feature	Gary’s CTX 3030 (Expert)	Good Beginner Detector
Price Range	$$$$ (High)	$$ (Mid-Range)
Technology	Full Band Spectrum (FBS) Multi-Frequency	Selectable Multi-Frequency or VLF
Waterproofing	Fully Waterproof	Often Submersible or Weatherproof
Target ID / Discrimination	Advanced, High Resolution	Good Digital Target ID

A simple machine that you know well is always better than a complicated one you don’t understand. Start simple and upgrade as your skill grows.

The Role of Metal Detecting in The Oak Island Mystery

Metal detecting is an extremely important part of the Lagina brothers’ search. For years, the team focused mostly on deep drilling in the Money Pit. Since Gary Drayton joined the team, the search has also focused on the surface. These surface finds have provided historical context that the drilling could not.

Connecting the Dots with Artifacts

Every coin, button, or lead cross that Gary finds is a clue. It helps date activity on different parts of the island, like Lot 21, Lot 5, and Smith’s Cove. Finding artifacts from the 14th to the 18th century proves that people from many eras were on Oak Island for a long time. These small finds are a key to unlocking the true story of the island.

The success of Gary Drayton shows that a detailed surface search is just as important as the deep digging. By combining metal detecting, archaeology, and historical research, the team has built a much clearer picture of the mystery.

How to Follow Gary Drayton’s Example for Better Finds

You can use Gary Drayton’s methods to improve your own treasure hunting. He doesn’t just rely on expensive gear. He uses intelligence, research, and patience.

The Detectorist’s Checklist

1. Do Your Homework: Gary is an expert in shipwrecks and local history. Before you go out, research your site’s history. Look for old maps, former homes, or lost roads.
2. Sweep Like a Pro: Slow and low, with the coil parallel to the ground. Be patient. The most valuable targets give a faint, easy-to-miss signal.
3. Dig All Good Signals: Even Gary Drayton digs trash. Old iron nails or horseshoes can sometimes sit right next to a silver coin. If the signal is repeatable and solid, dig it up.
4. Use the Right Tools: Always use a pinpointer. For deep or tough digs, bring a heavy-duty spade and recovery tools.
5. Protect Your Finds: Carry a “top pocket” pouch for delicate items. Clean and preserve your artifacts properly when you get home.

Think like an archaeologist, not just a digger. When you find something, think about what it means and why it was lost there. This approach is what separates a great detectorist from an average one.

Final Words

Gary Drayton’s primary tool on The Curse of Oak Island is the Minelab CTX 3030. However, his real secret is his deep understanding of metal detecting and his patient, thorough technique. He proves that the right gear, combined with expertise and local knowledge, can find history where others have walked right over it. You can apply these same lessons to your own metal detecting hunts, whether you are searching for old coins, relics, or “Bobby Dazzlers” of your own. Never underestimate the power of a careful swing and a good pinpointer.

FAQ: Metal Detecting with Gary Drayton’s Approach

Does Gary Drayton use a Minelab Equinox?

Yes, Gary Drayton has used the Minelab Equinox series. This detector is smaller, lighter, and more affordable than the CTX 3030. The Equinox is very versatile and performs well on beaches and in mineralized soil. It is a great option for serious hobbyists who want high-end performance without the high price tag of the CTX 3030.

What is a “Bobby Dazzler” in metal detecting?

A “Bobby Dazzler” is Gary Drayton’s term for a spectacular or high-quality find. It is usually a rare coin, a beautiful piece of jewelry, or a significant historical artifact. The term is part of his signature vocabulary and shows his excitement when finding an important relic.

What is the most famous artifact Gary Drayton found?

The most famous artifact Gary Drayton has found is the 13th to 14th-century Lead Cross. It was found at Smith’s Cove. Experts believe it may have come from Southern Europe and is one of the earliest finds on the island. This discovery helped fuel the theory of a much earlier, possibly Templar, presence on Oak Island.

Is the Minelab CTX 3030 a good metal detector for beginners?

The Minelab CTX 3030 is too complex and expensive for most beginners. It is a high-end professional machine. A beginner would be much better off starting with a mid-range, simpler detector like the Minelab Equinox or a similar entry-level model from a reputable brand. Start simple to master the basics first.

Where does Gary Drayton hunt for treasure when not on Oak Island?

When he is not filming on Oak Island, Gary Drayton is a well-known Florida beach and water hunter. He often searches the Treasure Coast of Florida for Spanish coins and other items lost from sunken 1715 Spanish treasure fleet galleons. This beach hunting is a major part of his metal detecting experience.

Why does Gary Drayton use a large coil over rocky areas?

Gary Drayton uses a large search coil in rocky areas to maintain depth. A larger coil creates a deeper magnetic field. Even if he has to swing the coil higher to avoid hitting rocks, the larger field still reaches deep enough to find targets that a small coil would miss. This is a special tactic for very rough terrain.