"Unlock Free Metal Detector in Atomfall Early"

In *Atomfall*, getting your hands on the right tools early can make all the difference in your survival and exploration efforts. One of the most valuable tools you can acquire is the Metal Detector, which helps you uncover hidden caches full of useful items for your journey. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to secure a free Metal Detector early in your gameplay.

How the Metal Detector Works in Atomfall

The Metal Detector is an invaluable asset in *Atomfall* that you'll want to keep in your inventory at all times. It helps you locate metal caches scattered throughout the game's expansive world. When you're exploring, keep an eye on the bottom left corner of your screen for the Metal Detector icon, which indicates that a cache is nearby. Use the hotkey to pull out your Metal Detector and start your search.

The detector features a row of lights that guide you to the cache. If the light sways to the left, move left; if it sways to the right, move right. Your goal is to follow the center light until the dial reaches the highest frequency, which is 10. When all the lights blink simultaneously, you've pinpointed the cache's location. Use the 'Dig' and 'Search' options to uncover and claim the items inside.

Where to Find a Free Metal Detector Early in Atomfall

Early in your *Atomfall* adventure, you'll encounter various trader NPCs willing to barter. One such trader, Reg Stansfield, located in the Slate Mine Caves in Slatten Dale, offers a Metal Detector. However, the cost might be prohibitive at this stage of the game.

To get a free Metal Detector, continue eastward from Slatten Dale, steering clear of the 'Water Wheels' compound, which is overrun with Outlaws. Head east and then south until you reach a large, shallow pond at the coordinates (29.1E, 73.9N).

Here, you'll find an Outlaw corpse on a rocky outcrop in the middle of the pond. Be cautious of the carnivorous leeches in the water. Approach the corpse and use the 'Search' option to find a working Metal Detector. This early acquisition not only gives you a significant advantage but also earns you the **'Detectorist' trophy/achievement**.

With the Metal Detector in hand, you can start collecting free healing items, ammo, and other valuable loot, which can be used or bartered. It also aids in unlocking additional trophies/achievements like **'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*, setting you up for a successful and rewarding gameplay experience.