"Atomfall: Early Access to Free Metal Detector Revealed"

When diving into the post-apocalyptic world of *Atomfall*, equipping yourself with the right tools from the get-go can make all the difference. Among these, the Metal Detector stands out as an indispensable asset for uncovering hidden treasures that can significantly boost your survival and trading capabilities. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to secure a Metal Detector early in your journey, ensuring you're well-prepared to explore and thrive.

How the Metal Detector Works in Atomfall

The Metal Detector is a game-changer in *Atomfall*, a tool you'll want to keep close at hand. As you roam the expansive world, the detector will alert you to nearby metal caches brimming with valuable items. You'll know you're close when you see the tool icon ping in the bottom left corner of your screen. At that point, it's time to equip your Metal Detector using the designated hotkey.

The device features a row of lights that guide you toward your treasure. If the lights sway to the left, adjust your path accordingly; the same goes for a rightward sway. Your goal is to follow the center light until the dial beneath it hits its peak frequency of 10. When all the lights blink in unison, you've hit the jackpot. Use the 'Dig' option to unearth the cache, then 'Search' it to claim your loot.

Where to Find a Free Metal Detector Early in Atomfall

As you begin your adventure in *Atomfall*, you'll encounter various trader NPCs eager to barter. One such trader, Reg Stansfield, located in the Slate Mine Caves in Slatten Dale, offers a Metal Detector. However, the price might be out of your early-game budget.

Instead, head east from Slatten Dale, keeping the mountainside to your right and avoiding the 'Water Wheels' compound, which is teeming with Outlaws. Your goal is to reach a large, shallow pond at coordinates **(29.1E, 73.9N)**. Here, amidst the dangers of carnivorous leeches, you'll find an Outlaw corpse on a rocky outcrop in the pond's center.

Approach the corpse and 'Search' it to claim your prize: a fully functional Metal Detector. Not only does this early acquisition give you a significant edge in scavenging for healing items, ammo, and other barter-worthy loot, but it also unlocks the **'Detectorist' trophy/achievement**. With your new tool, you're well on your way to achieving other in-game milestones 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*, setting you up for a successful and rewarding exploration of its vast, mysterious world.