In the post-apocalyptic world of *Atomfall*, securing the right tools early on can significantly enhance your survival and exploration experience. One of the most crucial tools you'll want to get your hands on quickly is the Metal Detector. This handy device can lead you to valuable metal caches scattered throughout the game's expansive open world, offering a range of items that can be used or traded. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to obtain a free Metal Detector early in your *Atomfall* journey.

How the Metal Detector Works in Atomfall

When you receive a ping, use the designated hotkey to activate the Metal Detector. The device features a row of lights that guide you toward the cache. If the lights sway to the left, you should turn left; if they sway to the right, turn right. Your goal is to follow the center light until the dial beneath it reaches its peak frequency of 10.

Where to Find a Free Metal Detector Early in Atomfall

A more cost-effective approach is to head east from Slatten Dale, following the mountainside past the 'Water Wheels' compound, which is teeming with Outlaws. Minimize combat encounters to stay safe.

Approach the corpse and use the 'Search' option to retrieve a working Metal Detector, free of charge. This discovery also earns you the **'Detectorist' trophy/achievement**. Obtaining a Metal Detector early in *Atomfall* provides a significant advantage, allowing you to gather free healing items, ammo, and other loot that can be used for bartering.

Additionally, using the Metal Detector can help you unlock other trophies/achievements, such as **'Where there's much there's brass'** (Find 10 metal detector caches) and **'Packed lunch'** (Find 5 buried lunchboxes).

That's all you need to know about securing a free Metal Detector early in *Atomfall*. Happy hunting!