In the post-apocalyptic world of *Atomfall*, securing the right tools early can make all the difference in your journey of exploration and survival. One essential tool is the Metal Detector, which can be a game-changer in locating valuable items for personal use and bartering. Here's your guide on how to obtain a free Metal Detector early in the game.
How the Metal Detector Works in Atomfall
Screenshot by The Escapist
The Metal Detector is a crucial tool in *Atomfall* that you'll want to hold onto throughout your adventure. When equipped in your inventory, it helps detect metal caches hidden across the expansive game world.
As you navigate the landscape, your Metal Detector will send a ping, indicated by the tool icon in the bottom left corner of your screen, signaling that a cache is nearby. When it's safe, activate your Metal Detector using the designated hotkey.
The detector's row of lights guides you toward the cache. A sway to the left indicates you should turn left, and a sway to the right means you should turn right. Your goal is to follow the center light until the dial beneath it reaches its peak frequency of 10.
Screenshot by The Escapist
When all lights blink simultaneously, you've pinpointed the cache's location. Select 'Dig' to unearth it, then 'Search' to collect the items inside.
Where to Find a Free Metal Detector Early in Atomfall
Screenshot by The Escapist
In the initial stages of *Atomfall*, you'll encounter trader NPCs willing to barter. Reg Stansfield at the Slate Mine Caves in Slatten Dale has a Metal Detector available, but its price might be prohibitive early on.
Instead, head east from Slatten Dale, staying close to the mountainside and bypassing the 'Water Wheels' compound, which is notorious for Outlaw activity. Avoiding unnecessary fights early on will serve you well.
Screenshot by The Escapist
Keep moving east and then south until you reach a large, shallow pond at coordinates **(29.1E, 73.9N)**. Look for an Outlaw corpse on a rocky outcrop in the pond's center. Be cautious, as the water is home to dangerous leeches.
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 advantage in gathering healing items, ammo, and other loot for bartering.
The Metal Detector also aids in unlocking other achievements, such as **'Where there's much there's brass'** (Find 10 metal detector caches) and **'Packed lunch'** (Find 5 buried lunchboxes).
This guide should help you secure a free Metal Detector early in *Atomfall*, enhancing your gameplay experience from the start.
