Fisher CZ-20 Quicksilver Operating Manual

CZ-20 Quicksilver

Operating Manual

Deep Search, Body Mount, Target I.D. Metal Detector

FISHER RESEARCH LABORATORY

CONTENTS

About Your CZ-20 .................................................................... pg. 1

Condensed Operating Instructions .......................................pg. 3

Assembly ..................................................................................pg. 5

Setting Up ..................................................................................pg. 6

For Land or Shallow Water ..................................................... pg. 6

For Diving .................................................................................. pg. 7

For Hipmounting ...................................................................... pg. 8

Control Panel ...........................................................................pg. 9

Turn on Procedure .................................................................. pg. 10

Ground Balancing..................................................................pg. 10

Pushbutton ............................................................................... pg. 11

Bobbing ................................................................................... pg. 12

Search Modes.........................................................................pg. 14

Auto Tune.................................................................................pg. 14

Target-I.D. ................................................................................ pg. 15

Chart ........................................................................................pg. 17

Searching on Land or in Shallow Water ..............................pg. 17

Searching Underwater ..........................................................pg. 19

Pinpointing...............................................................................pg. 20

Target Identification ............................................................... pg. 21

Target Recovery ..................................................................... pg. 23

Recovery Tools ....................................................................... pg. 24

False Signals ............................................................................ pg. 25

Operating Tips ......................................................................... pg. 28

Battery Replacement .............................................................pg. 30

Maintenance ..........................................................................pg. 32

Five Ways to Preserve Treasure Hunting ..............................pg. 32

Treasure Hunters Code of Ethics ...........................................pg. 34

Where To Use Your Metal Detector In the U.S. .................... pg. 35

Specifications .........................................................................pg. 36

Accessories............................................................................. pg. 38

Service.....................................................................................pg. 39

1

ABOUT YOUR DETECTOR

Your CZ-20 QuickSilver is truly an all-purpose metal detector
engineered for land, beach, salt and fresh-water treasure
hunters. Here are some important built-in features:

1. Leakproof: Submersible to 250 feet, headphones
and all.

2. 3-Tone Target I.D.: A low tone for iron; a mid-tone
for pull tabs, foil and most gold rings; and a high
tone for U.S. coins, silver rings and some gold rings.

3. Visual Target Response: Two bright, red LED’s flash
over targets, varying in intensity according to
target signal strength.

4. Depth: Patented Fourier domain signal analysis.
Two deep-seeking, ground-compensating VLF
signals (one at 5 KHz and one at 15 KHz) provide
twice as much target information for accurate
analysis and identification.

5. Two Search Modes: A silent-running, slow-motion
target-I.D. mode and a hot, wide-scan autotune
mode for all-metal searching.

6. VCO No-Motion Pinpointing: Just push the
pinpoint button and the signal tone increases in
pitch and volume as the center of the coil
approaches the target.

7. Big-Target Alert: Ordinary detector circuits
overload on large, shallow targets, identifying them
as good targets. But not the CZ-20. A distinctive bell
tone immediately warns you that the target is too
large to identify.

8. Faint-Target Audio Boost: The lower range of the
volume control is like any other that you’ve used.
But as you increase it above mid-range, strong
target sounds remain at a fixed volume while faint,
deep-target sounds continue to get louder.

9. Pushbutton Ground Balance: Just push the
pinpoint button and lower the coil to the ground.
Then set the ground control just below the audio
tone and you are precisely tuned for on-site

ABOUT YOUR DETECTOR

2

conditions.

10. Separately Sealed Battery Compartment:
Protects the electronics from accidental flooding.

11. Spider Coils: Your choice of the all-purpose 8­inch or deep-seeking 10 1/2-inch Spider coils. Light,
tough and with open centers for accurate
pinpointing. The hot, little 5-inch coil is great for
extremely trashy areas, tight spots or highly
mineralized ground.

12. Balanced, Comfortable and Hipmountable:
Cushioned arm rest, soft foam grip and a control
housing that slips off the handle and onto your belt.

13. Easy to Use: Just pick it up, set the control on
the red circles and start searching in a “coins-only”
mode. Or for maximum performance, you can
easily adjust the controls for your own specific
situation.

Read this instruction manual thoroughly, practice often and
you’re in for some exciting treasure hunting. Drop us a line if you
have any questions, comments or good finds to tell us about. In
the meantime . . .

Good Hunting,
Fisher Research Laboratory

3

CONDENSED OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

Factory Pre-Set ‘Turn-On-and-Go’ Marks

Your CZ-20 QuickSilver is fairly simple to operate, especially
when compared to other target-I.D. machines. Even so, we
strongly recommend that your read this entire manual. You’ll
be able to tune your CZ-20 to your specific needs and
conditions. And if you have a good understanding of how to
do it and why, you’ll find more.
But if you just can’t wait any longer, and you’re an
experienced detector user, here’s some quick instructions to
get you going.

Factory pre­set turn-on­and-go
marks
(circled in
red on your
CZ-20 control
panel) can
get you up
and running
with your CZ­20
immediately.

1. Set all the controls to the red “Turn-On-and-Go”
marks:

GROUND = 5
DISC = 4
SENSITIVITY = 3
VOLUME = 5

This puts you in a “coins-only” mode, and you’re
ready to start searching. Keep in mind that the

Pre-set
Audio
Boost
mark at
“5”

Pre-set

SENSITIVITY

mark at “3”

Pre-set
DISCRIMINATION
mark at “4”

Pre-set

GROUND

mark at “5”

4

GROUND setting of “5” is probably not the
optimum setting for the ground you’re searching,
and that’s why the sensitivity level is lowto
reduce false signals caused by ground
mineralization.

2. Adjust the volume control for a comfortable
volume when the coil is passed over a large,
shallow target.

3. Travel slowly, overlap your sweeps and keep
the search coil moving. Remember, you’re in a
“motion” search mode, and the coil must be
moving at least slightly to detect a target.

4. When you get a good, repeatable signal,
pinpoint the target by placing the coil on the
ground away from the target, pushing and
holding the pinpoint button and then bringing the
coil back over the target.

5. Good hunting!

CONDENSED OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

5

ASSEMBLY

1. Remove the headphone, handle and search­coil assemblies from the carrying case. Be careful
not to damage the foam-rubber inserts or put any
strain on the cable connections.

2. Adjust the lower stem to the approximate length
you will be using: extended for stand-up use or as
short as possible for diving. To extend the lower
stem, push in the spring lock, pull out the lower stem
and let the spring lock snap into another hole.

3. Unwind just enough cable to attach the search
coil to the lower stem.

4. Remove the bolt and wing nut from the search
coil. Line up the hole in the lower stem between
the two holes in the search coil “ears.” Attach the
coil to the stem with the bolt and wing nut and
finger tighten.

5. The arm rest may be repositioned for maximum
comfort by removing the arm-rest screws, sliding
the arm rest to the next screw hole and re-installing
the arm-rest screws.
Your Fisher CZ-20 QuickSilver is built to last for years.

Submersible

Adjustable arm rest

Control Housing

Control Panel
Target I.D.

Foam hand

7-foot Search Coil

Fiberglass upper

Arm-rest

Battery access

8-inch Spider

Nylon Wing nut

Fiberglass
reinforced
nylon lower

Headphone

6

SETTING UP FOR LAND OR SHALLOW WATER

Put the headphones around your neck to keep them out of the
way while making the following adjustments:

SETTING UP

ASSEMBLY

However, it’s a sophisticated electronic instrument
containing state-of-the-art components. Handle it
carefully, care for it regularly, and it will give you
years of dependable service. The CZ-20 requires
little assembly. Unpack it carefully and save the
carton; it comes in handy if you ever have to return
the instrument for service.

When searching on land
or in shallow water, keep
your arm straight and your
search coil no more than
2 inches above the
ground.

Adjustable Arm Rest
Scews
Screw Hole

Upper Stem

7

Control housing (Never hipmount your
control housing while diving.)

Shortened Stem length

Extra, coiled
cable

1. Adjust the stem length and coil angle so the

search coil rests flat on the ground about 6 inches
in front and slightly to the right of your foot (to the
left of your left foot if you’re left handed).

2. Leave enough slack in the coil cable to allow
the coil to swivel as far as it can in either direction.
The coil wing nut should be tight enough to prevent
the coil from moving.

3. You should now be able to move into your
“search” position by leaning slightly forward and
raising the search coil no more than 2 inches above
the ground. Your arm should still be straight, and
the coil should be parallel to the ground, about 12
inches in front of your foot. The coil angle may have
to be slightly readjusted at this point.

SETTING UP FOR DIVING

Unlike most VLF metal detectors, the CZ-20 works well in salt
water. This capability, along with its deep-seeking sensitivity,
makes it ideal for underwater treasure hunting and wreck diving.
The CZ-20 is waterproof to a depth of 250 feet. Remember, always
practice safe diving methods.

(Never hipmount your control housing while diving.)
When diving with your CZ-20, use the shortest stem length
possible, with the extra cable wrapped tightly around the stem,
as closely as possible to the control housing.

SETTING UP

8

1. Adjust the stem length as short as you can without

having the search coil detect your diving gear.

2. Adjust the search coil parallel to the sea bed,
river or lake bottom.

3. Make sure extra cable is coiled tightly on the
upper stem as closely as possible to the control
housing, with just enough slack near the search coil
to allow it to swivel as far as it can in either direction.
Too much loose cable near the search coil may
generate false signals.

4. Remove the tethered earphone plugs for rapid
pressure equalization as you dive and return to the
surface.

Caution: Hipmounting the CZ-20 control housing is not
recommended for underwater use. The search coil cable may
become entangled with a submerged object, making it difficult
for the diver to resurface quickly in case of emergency.

SETTING UP FOR HIPMOUNTING

For almost-effortless treasure hunting, the control housing is easily
removed from the handle and attached to a belt clip.

SETTING UP

You can hipmount your CZ-20 by sliding the control housing from the
handle and attaching it to your belt. This reduces the weight of the
stem, creating nearly effortless hunting.

9

“Hipmounting” the CZ-20 in this manner takes about half the
weight off the handle and allows the land or shallow-water
Treasure Hunter to search much longer without arm fatigue.

1. Grasp the handle grip firmly with one hand and
the control housing with
the other.

2. Slide the control housing off the mounting
bracket by pulling it toward
you.

3. Slide the belt clip into grooves on the bottom of
the control housing. This
is a snug fit, and you’ll have to bend the clip slightly.

4. Unwrap just enough of the coil cable to allow
for searching.

5. Slip the control housing onto your belt, left side
for right handers, right side for left handers.

NOTE: Because of the extreme sensitivity of the CZ-20 search
coil, hipmounting the control housing may produce a false
signal when the search coil reaches the end of its arc (on the
side that the control box is attached to your belt). Depending
on your stem length and how high you have the housing
hipmounted, the search coil may actually detect the housing.

SETTING UP

10

1

2

3

4

5

6

CONTROL PANEL

1. VOLUME/OFF: Power on-off and volume control.
Volume is gradually increased from 1-5 settings. From
5-10, loud-target response is held constant while faint
targets continue to get louder.

2. DISC: In the 0-6 positions, the CZ-20 is in the target
mode, which is a silent, no-threshold, motion­discrimination mode of operation with the ability to
identify and then ignore (“reject”) or accept many
kinds of small metal targets. In the AUTOTUNE position,
the CZ-20 is in an all-metal mode. In this mode, the
CZ-20 has a slightly wider and deeper search pattern;
however, it lacks the ability to discriminate or identify
and reject targets.

3. PINPOINT: A two-purpose, spring-loaded
pushbutton. When pushed and held, the CZ-20 goes
into a no-motion, all-metal mode for precise
pinpointing. This button is also used in conjunction
with the GROUND control during the ground­balancing procedure.

4. GROUND: Used to electronically cancel the effects
of wet salt and ground mineralization. Proper use of
this control will minimize false ground signals and
ensure that the CZ-20 is operating at its maximum
potential in just about any ground condition including
wet, ocean sand.

5. SENS (Sensitivity)/BATT TEST: In the extreme
counterclockwise position, the battery condition is
checked as indicated by a strong or weak tone and
the red LED’s.

11

TURN ON PROCEDURE

1. Set your controls as follows:

GROUND = “10”
DISC = “0” for normal use in target I.D. mode. (Set

DISC to “Autotune” for deep search, all-metal
AUTOTUNE mode.

SENS = “10”
VOLUME = OFF

2. Hold the search coil waist high, away from any

nearby metal.

3. Turn the VOLUME control to “1” (a brief bell tone is
normal when you turn the VOLUME control on).

4. Then increase the volume to a comfortable level
when the search coil passes over a large, shallow
target.

When your CZ-20 QuickSilver is properly “ground balanced,” it will
have only a minimum response to ground mineralization. Precise
adjustment of the GROUND control is critical for optimum
performance. The higher the degree of ground mineralization or the
higher the sensitivity setting,the more critical it is to have your
machine properly ground balanced. Once you adjust it in either
the Autotune mode or Target-I.D. mode, you can switch back and
forth between the two modes without resetting, unless you increase
the sensitivity level or go from dry sand to wet sand or vice versa.
You should also recheck your setting occasionally as you search
because ground conditions often change rapidly.
If you have difficulty ground balancing, try reducing your sensitivity
level or moving to another spot just in case you are over a buried
piece of metal. In some areas of high ground mineralization you
may not be able to use the pushbutton method.

6. LIGHT EMITTING DIODES (LED’s): Used to indicate
target signal strength. When the SENSITIVITY control is
in the “BATT TEST” position and both LED’s are fully lit
up, the batteries are fully charged. When both LED’s
are out, it’s time to replace the batteries.

GROUND BALANCING

CONTROL PANEL

12

PUSHBUTTON

This will probably be your method of choice in all but the most
difficult of ground conditions. It’s fast, easy and accurate. You
can use this method in either the Autotune or Target-I.D. mode.

1. With your controls set as in the “Turn-On”
procedure (GROUND control at “10”), hold your
search coil parallel to and 6 to12 inches off the
ground. Press the PINPOINT button and hold it until
you’ve completed step 2. Make sure you’re at
least 3 feet away from any metal objects.

2. Continue pressing the PINPOINT button as you
lower the coil to the ground. Keep your thumb on
the PINPOINT button, and starting at “10,” rotate
the GROUND control clockwise until you hear an
audio tone. Then back off to the exact point where
the tone disappears. Release the PINPOINT button
and you’re ready to search.

3. Always ground balance your CZ-20 in the areas
you intend to search, whether it’s on land or
underwater.

NOTES:

1. If you get an audio response as you first lower the coil with

the GROUND control at “10,” you’re probably over a piece
of metal. Move and try again.

2. If you get a sudden bell tone that is not preceded by an
increasing audio response as you lower the coil, you’re
probably in some very highly mineralized soil or sand. In this
case, it’s best to use the “bobbing” method, paying particular
attention to the notes under paragraph 7.

3. If you don’t get any audio response, or just a very faint one
as you rotate the GROUND control from “10” all the way to
“0,” you’re probably in an area where there’s very little ground
mineralization. Just leave the GROUND control at “10” and
begin searching.

GROUND BALANCING

13

BOBBING

1. AUTOTUNE and the SENSITIVITY control is set so

you can just barely hear a threshold hum. Hold the
search coil parallel to and 6 to 12 inches over the
ground and at least 3 feet away from any metal
objects. Do not use the PINPOINT button during any
part of this procedure.

2. Lower the coil to an inch or two above the
ground and then quickly raise it. Note that as you
lower the coil, the tone disappears then gets louder
as you raise it and finally returns to normal when
you stop it 6 to12 inches above the ground.
Conversely, if you set the GROUND control to “1,”
the threshold hum will get louder as you lower the
coil and disappear when you raise it.

3. Your objective now is to adjust the GROUND
control so that there is no change, or only a
minimum change in the threshold hum, as you move
the coil up and down. Start by lowering the
GROUND control to “9.” Lower the coil and raise it
again. One of three things will happen to your
theshold hum:

1) It will fade again as you lower the coil and
increase as you raise it.

2) lt will get louder as you lower the coil and go
silent as you raise it.

3) The hum will remain the same, or if it changes
slightly, the change is the same whether you lower
or raise the coil.

4. If the hum remains the same or changes only
slightly (as in step 3 above), your CZ-20 is properly
ground balanced, and you are ready to begin your
search.

5. If the tone fades as you lower the coil (as in step

1), continue to lower the ground balance setting
in small increments until the threshold hum remains
the same (or changes very little) as the coil is
lowered and raised.

6. If the hum gets louder as you lower the coil, you

GROUND BALANCING

14

GROUND BALANCING

have gone past the correct ground-balance
setting. Increase the ground-balance level
(rotating the control counterclockwise) in small
increments until there is little or no change in the
threshold level.

7. With a little practice, you should be able to
ground balance quickly by “bobbing” the coil up
and down in a continuous movement as you adjust
the GROUND control with your thumb.

NOTES:

1. If you get an audio response as you first lower the coil with

the GROUND control at 10, you’re probably over a piece of
metal. Move and try again.

2. lf you get a sudden bell tone, not preceded by an increasing
audio response, you’re probably in some very highly
mineralized soil or sand. Instead of lowering the coil to an inch
or two above the ground (as in step 2 above), stop just before
you hear the bell tone and ground balance as instructed.
Maintain that coil height as you search.

3. If you don’t get an audio response, or if the hum stays the
same no matter where you set the GROUND controls as you
bob the coil up and down, you’re probably in an area where
there’s very little ground mineralization. Just leave the
GROUND control at “10” and begin searching.

15

SEARCH MODES

Your CZ-20 has two search modes: Target I.D. and Autotune.
Both search modes are “motion” modes, meaning the search
coil must be in motion to detect a target.

AUTO TUNE

Set the DISC control to AUTOTUNE, and you’re in a very sensitive,
wide-scan, all-metal, motion search mode. Since this mode
responds to all metal targets and does not have the ability to
identify or reject objects, this will probably not be your normal
search mode.

The Autotune mode does have some advantages, however,
which make it useful to use in at least three situations:

1. Non-Trashy Areas. Since the Autotune mode has
a wider scan than the I.D. mode, you’re less likely
to miss a good target when using it. Search in the
Autotune mode until you find a target. Pinpoint the
target using the PINPOINT button and then switch
the DISC control to “0” to identify it. The DISC control
is positioned so that you can switch back and forth
between AUTOTUNE and “0” with a flick of your
thumb.

2. Highly Mineralized Soil or Sand. The Autotune
mode is recommended for black and gray beaches
or highly mineralized soil. Under these conditions it
may be necessary to lower the Sensitivity level and
sweep several inches off the ground (see the note
under paragraph 7 on p. 15) Gold nuggets are
generally found in highly mineralized soil so this will
be the search mode of choice for prospectors.

3. All Metals Searching. Evidence recovery teams,
archeologists and professional underwater
Treasure Hunters will often opt for the deep search,
all-metals Autotune mode.

TARGET I.D.

When the DISC control is set in the 0-6 positions, the CZ-20 has
the ability to identify many types of small targets and, depending

16

on the discrimination level, reject or ignore most of them. To better
understand just how your CZ-20 responds to different targets, try
the following:

1. Scatter some sample targets such as coins, rings,
pull tabs, nails and foil on the ground at least 18
inches apart. Include some large targets as well:
jar lids, soda cans, etc.

2. Set the DISC control at “0,” SENS at “5.” Adjust
the VOLUME control for a comfortable level when
you are over a large target.

3. Ground balance the CZ-20 as in the “Ground
Balance” procedure.

4. Hold the search coil about 2 inches above and
parallel to the ground and move it slowly back and
forth across each sample. Remember, the coil must
be in motion to get a response. Keep in mind that
for accurate target I.D., the coil center must pass
directly over the target.

5. Note the different audio responses over the
various targets. Your CZ-20 will respond with a low
tone over most iron or steel targets. Pull tabs and
foil will give a medium-tone response and U.S. coins
will give a high-tone response.

6. Note that an elongated ferrous object such as a
nail will give you a double “beep” as you cross it
from end to end or a single “beep,” if you cross its
center.

7. When you go over a large, shallow target the
CZ-20 will respond with a distinctive bell tone. This
is due to the fact that metal detectors can only
identify small targets. What usually happens is that
the detector circuits will overload and identify a
target as “good” (silver, coins, etc.). Your CZ-20,
however, will alert you to the fact that the target
is big and shallow, and cannot be accurately
identified. (Big deep targets, however, will usually
be classified as a coin. Also be aware that coins
on the surface may set off the bell tone if you get
too close. And the smaller 5-inch coil is more likely

SEARCH MODES

17

SEARCH MODES

to overload than the 8- or 10 1/2-inch coils.

8. Most silver rings will give a high tone. Most gold
rings will fall into the pull tab/foil mid-tone category.
This is due to the unavoidable fact that most gold
rings are conductively similar to aluminum foil and
pull tabs. Some are more closely identical to the
U.S. 5-cent piece; however, the CZ-20 does have
the unique ability to separate those signals from the
aluminum trash signals.

9. Now increase the DISC control to “1.” You will
find that the CZ-20 rejects the small, iron targets and
no longer responds with an audio tone.

10. Continue to increase your DISC control, noting
that with each successive step up you reject more
and more targets. At DISC = “4” for example, you
are in a “coins-only’ mode, ignoring iron, tabs and
foil while accepting U.S. coins.

11. Use the target I.D. decal on the left underside
of your control housing graphically displays which
items are rejected and accepted at each DISC
level. For example, “foil” is placed between DISC
= “2” and DISC = “ 3.” This means that foil is accepted
at “2” and rejected at “3.”

12. You may expect varying signals over different

Typical CZ-20 Audio Responses

18

targets and at different levels of discrimination.
Note that as you progressively increase the
discrimination level you eliminate more and more
targets.

13. Now switch the DISC control to the AUTOTUNE
position and note the completely different kind of
response. No tone, just a smoother, solid response
over every target.

NOTE: Be aware that due to the virtually infinite variety of sizes,
shapes and alloys of many “good” targets (relics, jewelry,
foreign coins, etc.), they may be identified as just about
anything. For example, a Civil War mini ball may be identified
as foil, or a new Canadian coin as a rectangular pull tab.

Good search techniques are every bit as important as having a
good detector.

1. Make sure your CZ-20 is properly ground balanced.

2. Decide which search mode you’re going to use:

Target I.D. or Autotune. Recommended starting point:
Target I.D. mode with the DISC control set at “4.”

3. Set your SENSITIVITY control. Only experience will tell
you how to set it in every situation, but you’ll probably
want to run it as high as you can. Recommended
starting point: SENSITIVITY = “5.” If you’re in the Autotune
mode, set it so that you can just barely hear a slight
audio hum.

4. Adjust your VOLUME control. Remember that a
setting above “5” will amplify the response of faint
targets so that they sound like a shallow or large target.
Some searchers prefer not to use it above “5” so that
the audio response will give them some ideas as to
the depth and/or size of the target. Recommended
starting point: VOLUME = “5,” then adjust the volume
control for a comfortable, not-too-loud response over
loud targets.

5. Once you’ve got your controls properly set, begin
your search by walking slowly and sweeping the

SEARCHING ON LAND OR SHALLOW WATER

SEARCH MODES

19

search coil in a tight semicircle as shown.
When the stem length is properly adjusted, the CZ­20 is balanced for sweeping in a tight pattern
around the front of the operator: wide to the right
for right handers, wide to the left for left handers. Be
sure to overlap your sweeps.

6. Keep the coil parallel to the ground and as close to
the ground as practical.This is extremely important for
maximum coverage and depth. If you’re searching
on a lawn, you may set the coil right on the grass and
lightly “scrub” it.

7. Overlap your sweeps by at least 50 percent.
Remember, your coil’s search pattern is conical, and
if you don’t overlap each sweep you’ll miss the deeper
targets.

8. Search in a methodical manner. Pay close attention
to where you’re going and where you’ve been.

9. Keep the search coil moving at a comfortable rate.
Remember that the CZ-20 is a motion detector and
responds only when the coil (or the target) is moving
(except when in the Pinpoint mode.)

10. Take your time. If you walk too fast you can’t
overlap your sweeps and you’ll miss a lot of ground. If
you swing your coil too fast you’ll lose some sensitivity
to deep and/or small targets.

11. The illustration below shows the CZ-20 search coil
pattern and how it is affected by sweep speed,
ground mineralization and search mode.

SEARCHING ON LAND OR SHALLOW WATER

When the stem length is properly
adjusted, the CZ-20 is balanced for
sweeping a tight semicircle around
the operator: wide to the right for
right handers, wide to the left for left
handers. Be sure to overlap your
sweeps.

20

1. Minimum depth
a. Very slow or very fast sweep speed
b. Highly mineralized soil
c. Target I.D. search mode

2. Good depth
a. Moderate sweep speed
b. Moderately mineralized soil
c. Target I.D. search mode

3. Maximum depth
a. Moderate sweep speed
b. Non-mineralized soil
c. Autotune search mode

4. Missed target

Many targets well within the range of your
CZ-20 will not be detected unless you overlap
your sweeps.

The effects of sweep speed,
ground mineralization and
search mode.

Unlike other metal detectors, the discrimination level has little if
any effect on the depth capability of the CZ-20. Note, however,
that the all-metal Autotune mode has a wider search pattern
and may detect a little deeper. Depth is also determined by the
size, shape and conductivity of the target as well as the sensitivity
setting of the CZ-20.

1

2

3

4

SEARCHING ON LAND OR SHALLOW WATER

21

SEARCHING UNDERWATER

The CZ-20 is waterproof to 250 feet, and it operates the same
underwater as on land. However, some differences in search
technique should be noted.

1. Tune your CZ-20 underwater on the bottom as
instructed on p. 9. Many divers prefer to use the
Autotune mode, in which case you may want to
run your threshold tone slightly higher than you
would on land. If you’re wearing a hood, you’ll
probably have to turn the volume control to
maximum.

2. Keep the coil as far away from you (and your
dive gear) as possible. Sweep the search coil
back and forth in a wide semicircle in front of
you to cover the bottom in a methodical
manner.

3. Keep the coil parallel and as close to the
bottom as possible. Overlap your sweeps at least
50 percent.

4. Recheck your ground balance every 5 to10
minutes.

5. Remember, observe all the rules of safe diving.
Move slowly, keeping the search coil away from
your dive gear and as close to the bottom as
possible.

NOTE: Keep the search coil away from your metal dive gear.
Search slowly, overlapping your sweeps with your coil as close
to the bottom as possible.

Move slowly, keeping the search coil
away from your dive gear and as
close to the bottome as possible

22

PINPOINTING

Target location is quick and easy using the pushbutton Pinpoint
mode. You do not have to keep the coil moving to get a response
in this mode.

1. Once the presence of a target is indicated by
the “beep-beep” of your CZ-20, simply move the
coil away from the target area, and with the coil
lightly on the ground or very close to it, press and
hold the PINPOINT button. (It doesn’t matter which
mode you’re searching in, Autotune or Target I.D.)
Edge of signal with pinpoint button pushed once.
Edge of signal with pinpoint button pushed and
released three times.

2. As you bring the coil back into the target area,
still pressing the PINPOINT button, the audio volume
and pitch will increase.

3. When the pitch and volume are at their highest
points, stop the coil and move it forward and
backward a couple of times, again stopping over
the strongest response. Edge of signal with pinpoint
button released and pushed again.
To pinpoint a large or shallow target, find the edge
of the signal with the pinpoint button pushed. Then
release the pinpoint button and re-push it. This
automatically narrows the width of the signal by
slightly decreasing the sensitivity of the search coil.

4. Repeat one more time, side to side and then front
to back, keeping the PINPOINT button pushed in,
stopping over the spot where you get the maximum
volume and pitch.

NOTE: Large or shallow targets can give a wide signal when the
pinpoint button is pushed. This can make pinpointing difficult.
To pinpoint these large or shallow targets, find the edge of the
wide signal with the pinpoint button pushed. While over the edge
of the signal, release the pinpoint button and re-push it. This
automatically decreases the sensitivity and narrows the width
of the pinpoint signal. By repeating this procedure a few times
over the edge of the wide signal, you can narrow the pinpoint
signal and pinpoint your target.

23

Target I.D. with the CZ-20 is quick and simple. Just keep in mind
these two rules:

1) You must be in the Target-I.D. mode.

2) The center of the search coil must pass directly over

the target.

1. Once you’ve located a target, pinpoint its exact
location as in the “Pinpointing” procedure. Since
accurate I.D. is dependent on accurate
pinpointing, it is recommended that you press the
PINPOINT button rather than try to pinpoint your
target in either the Autotune or Target I.D. mode.

2. Once you’ve pinpointed your target, release the
PINPOINT button. If you’re searching in the
Autotune mode, switch over to DISC = “0.” If you
are already in the Target I.D. mode, just leave the
DISC control where it is.

3. Move the coil just enough, left-right-left, across
the target to get a good, solid signal. If you no
longer get a signal after you’ve pinpointed your
target, then you’re over something that falls below

TARGET IDENTIFICATION

Target I.D. Mode and Autotune Mode

Pinpointing in either of the search modes is more difficult, but
with practice you should be able to get the hang of it. (Many
CZ-20 operators don’t even bother with the Pinpoint mode.)
Simply use the same basic procedure as you would using the
Pinpoint mode, moving the coil side to side and front to back
over the target area, stopping over the strongest audio
response. The only difference will be that you should use as
short of stroke as possible (4-6 inches is plenty) and when you
stop the coil you will lose the audio signal. You MUST keep the
coil moving at least slightly to determine the location of the
strongest signal before you stop it.

PINPOINTING

24

TARGET IDENTIFICATION

the DISC setting you’ve chosen, and your CZ-20 is
rejecting it.

4. Once you’ve pinpointed your target and you’re
getting a good, consistent signal, you’ve identified
or at least classified your target. A low tone means
your target is probably ferrous. A mid tone indicates
a pull tab or foil, and the high tone indicates a U.S.
coin.

5. The DISC control provides increments of rejection
and identification within the mid- and high-tone
target classifications. Take a look at the target I.D.
decal on your control housing (or the chart on p.

15) to see what gets rejected at which DISC point.

6. If you’re getting a high-tone response for
example, you may well be over a U.S. coin. If you
want to know what kind of coin it is, advance the
DISC control to “5.” You know from the I.D. decal
that if you lose the signal your target is probably a
nickel (or something conductive and very similar).
If you don’t lose it, go up to “6.” If you lose it at “6,”
your target may well be a U.S. zinc penny. If you
still get a signal, your target, if it is indeed a coin,
will probably be a copper penny, an older silver
coin or a clad coin. Most other small targets will be
ignored.

7. The same is true of the mid-tone targets: Round
pull tabs are rejected at “2,” foil at “3” and
rectangular tabs at “4.” If, for example, you’re
looking for gold rings in an extremely trashy area,
you have the ability to reject at least some of the
trash say iron, round tabs and foil and still get those
rings falling into the rectangular tab and all coin
categories. (Of course you’ll have to dig
rectangular tabs as well.)

8. Your CZ-20 will correctly identify most of the
targets on your I.D. decal most of the time, but it
can be fooled. Large targets, uneven ground
mineralization, good targets lying next to bad
targets, deep targets, all of these and more are

25

TARGET RECOVERY

Once you’ve identified and pinpointed a target, your objective
is to recover it quickly and neatly, leaving virtually no trace of
your excavation. There are almost as many ways to do this as
there are treasure hunters. Whatever works for you is good
enough as long as you don’t break any laws, leave uncovered
holes or damage the environment either on land or underwater.

Generally speaking, divers and beachcombers do little, if any,
damage to the environment while recovering small targets.
However, if you plan to use your CZ-20 on lawns or in parks, your
target-recovery method can be very important. Two of the most
successful methods are illustrated in a separate booklet enclosed
with your CZ-20.

Reminder: Whichever method you choose, remember that
responsible treasure hunters take pride in their ability to leave
soil and vegetation intact and undamaged. If you don’t want
to see your right to treasure hunt restricted or even eliminated
by government legislationfill those holes! And leave your hunting
areas in better shape than when you arrived.

sources of error. Remember, the CZ-20 is designed
to I.D. small, coin-sized targets only, and even some
of these may be deep enough, bent, damaged,
or corroded enough to give a false signal.

9. You should also realize that there are many good
targets which are not classified by the CZ-20. As
mentioned earlier, gold rings, for example, may fall
into any category except iron. Many foreign coins,
especially the new ones, may I.D. as foil or pull tab.
Gold nuggets, depending on their size and shape,
may fall into just about any category, the smaller
nuggets falling on the lower half of the scale. So if
you’re not just looking for U.S. coins, you should test
some sample targets to determine what level of
discrimination you want to work at and what targets
you want to dig.

TARGET IDENTIFICATION

26

RECOVERY TOOLS

1. Sand scoops designed especially for

beachcombers and shallow- water treasure
hunters are available at metal detector outlets.

2. Divers use a variety of recovery tools, depending
on the condition of the sea bed or lake bottom. A
sturdy dive knife will suffice in packed mud or small
rocks. Most divers prefer to use their hands in loose
sand. Professional treasure hunters often use an air
hose fed by a surface compressor to blow away
loose sand, gravel or mud.

3. For land recovery, a sturdy hunting knife with a
5-inch blade will suffice in most soils. A high quality,
double edged “survival” knife is an even better
choice (and more expensive) because it will be
almost impossible to bend or break.

CAUTION: Using a jack knife without a locking
blade is a good way to lose a finger.

4. A heavy duty, blunt screwdriver is commonly
used for shallow targets where digging or
“plugging” is objectionable.

27

FALSE SIGNALS

A “false signal” occurs when a target is incorrectly identified.
For example , a small, broken-off piece of pull tab may be
identified as a nickel. Or a small, deep coin, especially in
mineralized soil, may read “IRON.” The more sensitive the metal
detector, the harder it is not to have false signals. Your CZ-20 is
an extremely sensitive machine, so you’re bound to encounter
them. Here are some of the most frequent sources of false
signals and what to do about them:

1. Trash: The most common source of false signals.
Large or irregular pieces of trash may give good,
consistent, high-tone signals. In this case you’ll
usually have to dig the target, but with
experience you’ll be able to eliminate many of
the large targets whose size will be obvious
when you go into the pinpoint mode. Another
false signal response may be a “one-way” or
disappearing signal. You’ll sweep over the target
and get a good signal but nothing on the return
sweep. When this happens you’re over a target
that the CZ-20 can’t positively identify due to its
size, shape, depth or alloy. The CZ-20 may I.D. it as
a coin when swept from one direction and iron
on the return sweep. If your DISC control is set at
“0” you’ll hear first a high tone (coin) and then a
low tone (iron).
Or if your DISC control is set higher, to reject iron,
you’ll hear the high tone sweeping one way and
nothing the other way. Quite often the signal will
just disappear and you won’t be able to find it no
matter which direction you sweep. These one­way and disappearing signals are usually trash,
and as a general rule you should ignore them. If
you have any doubts, press the PINPOINT button
to get an accurate location, and then I.D. the
target. If you get a good repeatable tone, dig it.
If you still get a one-way signal or it disappears,
move on. Also, if your pinpointing location is
different than your I.D. location, your target is
probably a piece of iron. Reducing your

28

FALSE SIGNALS

sensitivity level, taking shorter, slower sweeps, or
increasing the discrimination level may reduce
the number of false signals caused by trash.

2. Deep Targets: Deep targets, just barely within the
range of the CZ-20, may be misidentified. For
example, a deep coin may I.D. as iron, or a deep
piece of iron may I.D. as a coin. There’s not much
you can do to avoid this other than to use your
pinpoint mode to ensure that you are exactly
centered over the target. Or you may reduce your
sensitivity level so you just ignore the very deepest
targets.

3. Electrical Interference: Constant chatter caused
by radio/TV stations, power lines or nearby
detectors operating at one of the CZ-20 search
frequencies. The best solution is to move away from
the source of the interference. You may also try one
of the following: switch to the Autotune mode;
reduce your sensitivity level; slow down your
sweep speed. If the interference is only minimal
and you wish to continue searching anyway, test
your CZ-20 over a known target to make sure it’s
operating properly. Inside some buildings, electrical
interference may be so bad that you’ll have to go
outside just to bench test your CZ-20.

4. Highly Mineralized Soil: May cause a bell tone
response or constant false signals. Check your
ground balance (see the “Ground Balance”
section referring to mineralized soil). Try lowering
the sensitivity and/or increasing the discrimination
level. Search in the AUTOTUNE mode. Re-ground
balance using the “bobbing” method. If all else
fails, raise the search coil just high enough for the
false signals to disappear and then sweep at that
constant height.

5. Black Sand: Same as Highly Mineralized Soil.

6. Wet Salt-Water Sand: Your CZ-20 should be able

to handle most wet sand easily unless it’s black (see
Black Sand above). You should able to reduce the

29

number of false signals caused by salt water by
lowering your sensitivity and making sure you are
ground balanced properly.

7. Hot Rocks: Some rocks, by virtue of their high
mineral content, will be seen by metal detectors
as a metal target. In the Autotune mode, the CZ-20
will respond to most hot rocks. Prospectors (who
will most likely be using the Autotune mode in an
area where hot rocks abound), however, will learn
to distinguish between many hot-rock and nugget
sounds. In the target-I.D. mode, certain types of
hot rocks will be automatically rejected at DISC =
“0” and virtually all other hot rocks will be identified
as iron or rejected at DISC = “1.”

8. “End of Swing:” Silent search motion detectors
often give false signals at the edges of the search
pattern just as the coil stops and begins
accelerating back toward the operator. If this is a
problem, try one or more of the following: Keep
your sweep smooth, slow and low to the ground.
Check your ground balance. Lower your
sensitivity. Make sure your search coil is properly
secured and the cable connector is firmly
tightened.

9. Digging Tool: If you’re carrying a metal sand
scoop, digging knife, or screwdriver, hold it behind
your back or keep it above your waist. Your CZ-20
is sensitive enough to sound off each time you
sweep the coil beneath it.

10. Elongated Ferrous Objects: If you get two beeps
close together and can’t find either target, you may
be near a nail or some other long, ferrous object.
Fortunately, in most cases your CZ-20 will identify
these objects correctly; they just won’t be where
you think they are. In all cases, the target will be
between the beeps, or if you sweep at right angles
to your original direction, you’ll receive a single
beep directly over the target.

FALSE SIGNALS

30

OPERATING TIPS

1. It’s always a good idea to walk slowly and

overlap your sweeps. But if you’re searching a
large expanse of new territory, you may want to
walk a little faster and not overlap your sweeps as
much until you start making a few good finds. Then,
slow down, overlap your sweeps and cover every
inch of ground.

2. In trashy areas, to reduce the “masking” effects
of trash on nearby good targets, use a shorter and
slower sweep pattern. If you’re going to be hunting
exclusively in this type of ground, you may be better
off equipping your CZ-20 with the smaller, 5-inch
coil at time of purchase. It will zero in on good
targets closer to trash.

a) Shallow coins (at or near the surface) or coins on edge
will give a double beep: one on either side of the coin,
just like a nail. Like the nail, the coin on edge will give a
single beep directly over the target if you sweep at right
angles to your original position.
b) A coin lying in the ground at an angle (as shown) may
give a single target response but may pinpoint several
inches away from its true location. Check around the
inside edges of the hole. If you still don’t find it, enlarge
the hole by a couple of inches.
c) A large, deep target, like a buried pipe or a manhole
cover at 2 feet, will often give a good, strong coin signal.
If you’ve dug down a foot and widened your hole several
times, give up.

Targets that aren’t there.

Coin lying at an angle or on edge.

Long, ferrous object. Large, deep object.

FALSE SIGNALS

31

3. Recheck your ground balance occasionally.

4. Here’s a quick and easy way to tell the difference

between a small, shallow piece of foil and a gold
ring (or other possibly good target) without digging:
If you get a good solid “FOIL” I.D., set the search
coil down close to the target and then whip it
rapidly across the target just once with what can
best be described as a flick of the wrist. lf the target
disappears, it’s probably a small, shallow piece of
foil. If not dig it up it could be that gold ring you’re
looking for. Practice this over some foil until you
get the hang of it.

5. Don’t be afraid to turn your sensitivity down. True,
the higher the sensitivity, the deeper your CZ-20 will
go, and the more you’ll find. But that’s only under
optimum conditions. If you’re getting a lot of false
signals caused by electrical interference, ground
mineralization or dense trash, lower your sensitivity.
If you have to back it down to “4,” “3” or even “2”
to eliminate the falsing, do it. That’s what your
SENSITIVITY control is for. You’ll be surprised at how
much you might find in an area that would
otherwise be unsearchable at high sensitivity levels.

6. Set your discrimination at an appropriate level.
If there’s very little trash in the area, set it low, say
at iron discrimination, and dig every good signal. If
there is a lot of trash present and you’re mainly
interested in coins, set the discrimination level high
you may even want to sacrifice nickels and zinc
pennies in extremely trashy areas. If you’re looking
for gold rings, relics, artifacts, or small ancient coins,
you’ll have to set your discrimination level low. The
best way to find out how low is to bury some sample
targets or just dig everything for awhile until you
get a feel for which target classifications will be
the most productive.

7. Look for repeatable signals and don’t waste time
on disappearing or one-way signals. If you hear a
good beep but can’t repeat it when you go back

OPERATING TIPS

32

over the target area, or if it beeps in only one
sweep direction, it’s probably a piece of trash ­something below your discrimination setting.

8. If you’re in a relatively non-trashy area, try
searching in the Autotune mode and then
identifying your targets by switching to DISC = “0.”
You’ll find more and deeper targets this way. And
you’ll eliminate almost all false signals.

9. If you’re having any difficulty pinpointing or
identifying a target in the I.D. mode, don’t waste
any more time. Push the pinpoint button for quick
pinpointing, then release it for accurate I.D.

10. If your target disappears when you go into the
Pinpoint mode, you’ve probably tuned it out by
pressing the button too close to the target or over
another piece of metal. Try again, this time pushing
the PINPOINT button over another piece of ground.

11. Don’t waste a lot of time digging holes for targets
you can’t find. If your hole keeps getting deeper
and wider, cover it up and go on. You may be over
a buried pipe or some other large deep target.

12. When in doubt, dig. If your CZ-20 can’t quite
decide whether a target is good or bad, dig it up.

13. Good things often come in two’s. Or even
three’s. Once you’ve recovered a good target,
always recheck the hole for a second signal and
carefully search the immediate area by walking
slowly around the hole two or three times,
overlapping your sweeps in an ever-widening
circle.
Always dig every suspicious sound in the vicinity of
a good find.

14. Recheck your hole even if your find was trash.
Good targets are often found beneath bad ones.

15. Keep the search coil cable wound snugly
around the stem when diving around coral or
jagged rocks to keep it from snagging.

16. Divers should make sure the drain holes in the
headset are unobstructed. Better yet, wait until

OPERATING TIPS

33

Check your batteries frequently. Remove your headset (leave
them around your neck or close by). Set the volume control at
“10” and click the SENS control counterclockwise into the BATT
TEST position. The condition of the batteries will be indicated in
two ways:

1. An Audio Tone: The stronger, the better. A loud,
high pitched tone indicates good batteries. A
weak, low pitched tone or “ticking” sound
indicates weak batteries. No tone means it’s time
to change the batteries.

2. Light Emitting Diodes: When both LED’s are
brightly lit, your batteries are fully charged or nearly
fully charged. One brightly lit LED means your
batteries are about half gone. When both LED’s are
out it’s time to replace the batteries.

The CZ-20 is powered by four, 9-volt transistor batteries located
in the rear section of the control housing. The batteries are sealed
off from the electronics so that accidental water leakage into
the battery compartment will not damage the circuitry. To
replace the batteries, remove the battery access door:

BATTERY REPLACEMENT

you’re on the bottom before putting your headset
on, and take it off before surfacing.

17. Divers should also keep the search coil at least
2 feet away from their bodies. Metal gear (weights,
gauges, tanks, etc.) will be detected by the CZ-20
if held too close.

18. Practice. Practice over known targets. Practice
ground balancing. Practice pinpointing. Reread
the appropriate part of this manual if you’re having
problems.
For even more “how-to” information, see your Fisher
dealer for “Advanced Treasure Hunting with the
Fisher QuickSilver Series Metal Detectors” an 88­page, illustrated book by CZ expert Andy Sabisch.

OPERATING TIPS

34

1. Remove the battery door by partially unscrewing

the two knurled thumb screws with a coin or
screwdriver. (The knurled knobs are “captive
screws” and do not have to be completely
removed from the battery door.)

2. Remove the battery pack from the Control
Housing. It’s not necessary to disconnect the
battery lead connector. Be very careful not to put
any undue strain on the battery leads.

3. Remove the batteries from the battery pack, and
install fresh alkaline batteries. You may also use
rechargeable Nicads, but expect about half the
battery life.

4. Insert the battery pack into the Control Housing.
With your finger, push the top of the battery pack
(with the leads) into the Control Housing first, then
let the bottom follow.

5. Make sure the O-ring and both sealing surfaces
are clear before reinstalling the battery cover. THIS
IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT!

6. Finger tighten the thumb screws, then carefully
tighten again 1/4 turn with a coin or screwdriver.

BATTERY REPLACEMENT

35

MAINTENANCE

Your CZ-20 doesn’t require a lot of care. It’s built with high-quality
materials, and it’s waterproof to a depth of 250 feet. But there
are a few things you should do to keep it in peak operating
condition.

Storage

1. If you’re not going to be using it for awhile, take the batteries

out. Acid damage caused by leaking batteries can be severe.

2. Avoid extreme temperatures. Don’t leave it inside a closed
car sitting in the sun or even worse, in the trunk of a car.

Cleaning

1. Sand and dirt between the coil “ears” and lower stem will

literally grind away the ears and stem.

2. The headphone ear pads may be removed, rinsed and
squeezed out to remove any sea-water salt build up.

3. Sand, silt or fine dirt between the upper and lower stems will
cause the lower stem to freeze up. Rinse frequently.

4. Rinse the lower area under the two knobs on the control
panel thoroughly after use in salt water.

5. Always clean and dry the area around the battery-cover
seal before opening.

Battery Compartment

1. Remove the battery cover and check for water after each

use in water.

2. Keep the sealing surfaces of the battery cover and control
housing clean and free of scratches and nicks. Remove and
clean the neoprene gasket frequently. Lubricating the gasket
is not required or recommended unless it is nicked and/or cut,
in which case use only a very thin coating of petroleum jelley.
Do not use silicone grease.

36

TREASURE HUNTER’S CODE OF ETHICS

LETS PRESERVE OUR TREASURED SPORT!

Laws governing the use of metal detectors are becoming
more and more common. In many countries, the use of metal
detectors is illegal or severely restricted. Don’t let this happen
in your area.

ALWAYS get permission to hunt on private property.
ALWAYS leave a site cleaner than you found it. Take at least

some trash with you or, if you can, take it all.
ALWAYS fill in your holes neatly whether you’re in a city park or
remote wildernessness. Leave the land as it was before you
disturbed it.

ALWAYS obey all laws relating to Treasure Hunting.
ALWAYS return valuable property if you can locate the original

owner.
ALWAYS do whatever you can to give the hobby of Treasure
Hunting the good image it needs and deserves.

37

Where To Use Your Metal Detector In The U.S.

National Forest and Federal Lands—Metal detecting is

allowed only by special permit acquired from the federal
government. Each area has a district office.
Corps of Engineers, Lakes, Shorelines and Lands—Permission
has been granted only on predisturbed sites, such as beaches
and attached swimming areas. New Corps lakes and lands
must be okayed by the main office of the Army Corps of
Engineers. Each area has a district office.
State Parks and Lands—Some state parks are open to metal
detecting, but some are not. Always check with the park
ranger before attempting to use your detector.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Lands—Some areas are
open for metal detecting, and some are not. Always check
with the district office.
City or County Park Lands—Most are open to metal detecting
unless notice is given by a sign or city ordinance. When in
doubt, always check with the city’s Parks and Recreation
Department.
Public School Grounds—Most are open to metal detecting
unless notice is given by a sign, city ordinance, law
enforcement official, or school employee. You should always
check with the school office first.
Privately Owned Lands (Private Property)—Permission required.
And it is always best to have the permission in writing.
Historically Marked Lands or Sites—Metal detecting is not
allowed. Don’t even think about it.

38

SPECIFICATIONS

Length Extended.............................................................................50"

Collapsed .........................................................................................30"

8" Coil..............................................................................................10.5"

Coil 5"...............................................................................................Coil

Weight Complete (with headset) ....5 lb., 11 oz. 6 lb., 1 oz. 5.4 lb.

Handle and Search Coil ............. 2 lb., 6.9 oz. 2 lb., 12.9 oz. 2.1 lb.

Control Housing........................................................................ 2.8 lbs.

Frequency ........................... 1. Dual, VLF Search 5 KHz and 15 KHz

...............................................................2. Audio Target Response

Iron I.D................................................................200 Hz (Low tone)

Foil and Tab I.D. .................................................450 Hz (Mid tone)

Coin I.D. 1 KHz (High tone)

Autotune....................................................... 500 Hz - 1 KHz (VCO)

Pinpoint ......................................................... 500 Hz - 1 KHz (VCO)

Operating Modes

1. Autotune ................. VLF-Motion, all-metal with threshold tone

2. Target I.D.......... VLF-Slow Motion, Silent Search Discrimination

3. Pinpoint ................................................ VLF, All-Metal, No Motion

Search Coil Type......................................... Concentric, Co-Planar

Diameter ......................................................................... 8", 10.5" or 5"

Shielding.................................................................................. 100% ESI

Interchangeable ............................................................................No

Visual Target Response ................................................. Dual L.E.D.’s

Headset Waterproof, Piezo Electric

Interchangeable ............................................................................No

Ground Balance Pushbutton Manual or “Preset” Control
Markings

Hipmountable Control Housing ................................................... Yes

Salt Water/Fresh Water Operation ............................................. Yes

Land Operation .............................................................................. Yes

Submersible ........................................................................to 250 feet

Batteries Separately Sealed Compartment .............................. Yes

39

Type............................................................................... (4) 9V Alkaline

Life Alkaline ...........................................................................35-55 hrs.

Nicads ....................................................................................10-20 hrs.

Operating Temperature...................................................32° - 110° F

Faint Target Audio Boost ............................................................... Yes

Manual Threshold Tuning ..................................In Autotune Mode

Target I.D. Three Tones plus Bell Tone for large, shallow targets,
plus 7 preset DISC.
Control Settings

SPECIFICATIONS

Notes:

1. Subject to improvement or modification without notice.

2. Approximate.

3. Pulsegate Unipolar Audio Processing. Advanced Fisher circuitry which allows

silent operation below “audio threshold tone” with no loss in sensitivity.

4. The 1212-X is a “motion” detector while in the search mode. The search coil
must be moving at least slightly to detect a target.

5. Electro-Static-Insulated to eliminate certain types of false signals.

6. Use of headphones may increase battery life up to 100%.

EXPORT DEPARTMENT

P.O. Box 1896

New Haven, CT 06508 USA

Tel [phone] Fax [phone]

email: [e-mail]

FISHER RESEARCH LABORATORY

200 West Willmott Road.,

Los Banos, California 93635

Tel [phone] Fax [phone]

www.fisherlab.com email:[e-mail]

QUALITY

Fisher detectors are renowned for their quality.

Each detector is hand crafted in the USA with pride

PERFORMANCE

Treasure Hunters worldwide rely on Fisher.

Our detectors are durable, dependable, and search deeper..

REPUTATION

Fisher produced the first patented metal detector in 1931. For

over 70 years, the Fisher logo has been a mark of excellence.

LIFETIME WARRANTY

Fisher believes in the products we produce and backs this

belief with a lifetime warranty, the best in the industry, on all of

our consumer detectors. Warranty may vary outside of the

United States. See your dealer for details

SERVICE

Fisher is committed to providing you, our valued customer, with

superior service. Each and every instrument is rigidly tested and

carefully inspected during assembly and before shipment. Should

you have any questions or problems, contact: