"Atomfall: Early Access to Free Metal Detector Revealed"

When diving into the post-apocalyptic world of *Atomfall*, equipping yourself with the right tools can make all the difference. One essential item you'll want to snag early on is the Metal Detector, which can unearth valuable treasures to aid your survival and trading endeavors. Here's how you can secure a free Metal Detector in the early stages of your journey.

How Metal Detector Works in Atomfall

Screenshot by The Escapist

The Metal Detector is a game-changer in *Atomfall*, a tool you'll want to keep close at all times. As you traverse the vast open world, keep an eye on the bottom left corner of your screen for the tool icon signaling a nearby metal cache.

When the Metal Detector pings, it's time to whip it out using the designated hotkey. The device features a row of lights that guide you toward the cache. If the lights sway left, steer left; if they sway right, go right. Your goal is to align with the center light until the dial reaches its peak at 10.

Screenshot by The Escapist

Once all the lights blink simultaneously, you've hit the jackpot. Dig up the cache using the 'Dig' option and then 'Search' to claim your newfound treasures.

Where to Find a Free Metal Detector Early in Atomfall

Screenshot by The Escapist

In the initial hours of *Atomfall*, you'll encounter trader NPCs eager to barter. Reg Stansfield at the Slate Mine Caves in Slatten Dale offers a Metal Detector, but the price tag might be too high early on.

Instead, head east from Slatten Dale, steering clear of the 'Water Wheels' compound filled with Outlaws. Continue east then south to reach a large, shallow pond at the coordinates **(29.1E, 73.9N)**. Watch out for the carnivorous leeches lurking in the water.

Screenshot by The Escapist

Navigate to the rocky outcrop in the middle of the pond where you'll find an Outlaw corpse. Search it to claim your free Metal Detector. Not only do you gain a crucial tool, but you'll also unlock the **‘Detectorist’ trophy/achievement**.

Having a Metal Detector this early in *Atomfall* gives you a significant edge in collecting free healing items, ammo, and other loot perfect for bartering. It also paves the way for other achievements like **‘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 find a free Metal Detector early in *Atomfall*, enhancing your chances of survival and success in the game.