Subsurface Instruments ML-1 Magnetic Locators

Easily locate underground objects using a ML-1 magnetic locator.

Are you seeking an alternative to Schonstedt magnetic locators? Do you want an intuitive, easy-to-use locator that can take a beating in the field? The ML-1 magnetic locator series by Subsurface Instruments is ideal for locating magnetic objects and tough enough to make it through the job. These devices can be used as property pin finders, survey magnetic locators, or UXO detectors.

If you are looking to find iron or steel objects buried underground, this is the device for the job. The ML-1 series comes in two varieties: the ML-1 is an audio-only device while the ML-1M is equipped with an additional digital meter.

Municipal and Government Customers

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ML-1 Magnetic Locator applications:

• Property pins
• Nails
• Well Casings
• Water Shut-off Valves
• Septic Tank Valves
• Manhole covers
• UXO / magnetic mines
• Firearms
• Anything magnetic

Using a magnetic locator is easy

Reduce training time with the simple functionality of the ML-1. The ML-1 series offers one-handed operation with an easy-to-learn keypad featuring only three buttons – no menus or cumbersome instructions to follow.

Cut the device on and control the volume with the on/off key. Adjust the sensitivity using the “Gain” button. Sweep the magnetic locator in a wide arc in front of you while keeping the tip close to the ground surface.

The tone from the speaker will change pitch when a change in magnetic field is detected. For best results, use the lowest sensitivity setting appropriate for the job.

If using the ML-1M detector, the meter will provide an estimate of signal strength. The ML-1 magnetic locator can also be used near a chain-link fence or other large metal objects by using the method illustrated below.

Go deeper than a metal detector

Subsurface Instruments’ ML-1 series can detect buried objects up to 10 feet underground. The size and shape of the buried object determines the maximum depth of detection. With the ML-1 series, a buried handgun can be detected at 1 to 2 feet, a 175mm UXO projectile at 4 to 5 feet, and a water shut-off valve at 6 to 10 feet.

Don't worry about trashy search environments

The ML-3 magnetic locator only reads magnetic items. No more wasted time digging up aluminum cans, pull-tabs, copper wire, or other non-magnetic targets. The ML-3 can also be used near a chain-link fence or other large metal objects by using the method illustrated below.

Using a Magnetic Locator next to a fence.

Field calibrate the ML-3 Magnetic Locator

The difference between a ML-1 magnetic locator and a traditional metal detector

Magnetic locators work by detecting a variance in the Earth’s magnetic field created by buried magnetic objects. A metal detector works by reading an induced electromagnetic field. This means that a magnetic locator can only read iron, steel, ferrous, or magnetic targets while a metal detector can generally locate any metallic object. That distinction provides two advantages: a magnetic locator will ignore common trash signals such as aluminum cans, copper wire, and pull-tabs and a magnetic locator will also find buried objects deeper than traditional metal detectors.

Included with the ML-1 Magnetic Locator Kit:

• Subsurface Instruments’ ML-1 Magnetic Locator
• Instruction Manual
• Set of 9-volt batteries
• Soft-pack custom carrying case.

Subsurface Instruments ML-1 Magnetic Locator Data Sheet

Subsurface Instruments ML-1 Magnetic Locator Manual

Subsurface Instruments ML-1 Magnetic Locator Technical Specifications