what hertz is best for hunt​

Whether you’re an avid hunter of wild game or a treasure seeker using metal detectors, understanding the ideal frequency—or hertz (Hz)—for hunting is crucial. In this guide, we’ll explore how different hertz levels impact hunting effectiveness across various technologies and scenarios, including metal detecting, sound-based game hunting, and electronic calls.

Understanding Hertz (Hz) in Hunting

Hertz (Hz) is a unit of frequency that measures how many cycles per second a signal completes. In hunting, the term “hertz” most commonly applies to:

  • Metal detectors used to find buried objects

  • Ultrasonic or electronic game calls

  • Sound frequency used in predator or prey detection

Choosing the right hertz depends entirely on what you’re hunting and how you’re hunting it.


1. Hertz in Metal Detecting: Which Frequency Is Best?

Metal detecting is a popular form of “hunting” used to find coins, relics, jewelry, or even natural gold. Frequencies in metal detectors typically range from 3 kHz to over 100 kHz, and each frequency has its strengths and weaknesses.

Low Frequencies (3 kHz – 8 kHz)

  • Best For: Deep objects and larger targets (coins, relics)

  • Pros: Better depth penetration; less affected by mineralized soil

  • Cons: Less sensitivity to small or low-conductivity items (like gold nuggets)

Example: A detector operating at 5 kHz can find an old coin buried deeper underground, making it ideal for relic hunting.

Medium Frequencies (8 kHz – 20 kHz)

  • Best For: General-purpose hunting

  • Pros: Balanced depth and sensitivity

  • Cons: Not specialized for either very small or deeply buried items

Example: A 15 kHz detector is good for parks, beaches, and fields—ideal for beginners.

High Frequencies (20 kHz – 100+ kHz)

  • Best For: Small and low-conductivity targets (e.g., small gold nuggets, tiny jewelry)

  • Pros: High sensitivity

  • Cons: Limited depth and more interference from mineralized soil

Example: Prospectors prefer 40 kHz+ detectors for gold hunting in rough terrain.

Best All-Around Choice: 10–20 kHz

If you’re unsure what you’ll encounter, a frequency around 12–15 kHz offers great versatility and depth.


2. Hertz in Electronic Game Calls

Electronic game calls simulate the sounds of prey animals to attract predators like coyotes, foxes, or bobcats. These devices use sound frequencies to mimic distress calls, mating calls, or territorial sounds.

Frequency Range of Game Calls

  • Most electronic calls emit sounds in the 1 kHz – 5 kHz range.

  • Predators like coyotes respond best to distress calls in the 2 – 3.5 kHz range.

  • Deer and elk calls can fall between 500 Hz and 2 kHz.

Factors to Consider:

  • Species you are targeting – Coyotes respond to higher-pitched distress sounds.

  • Distance of sound travel – Lower frequencies travel farther and may be better for open terrains.

  • Weather conditions – Wind and rain can absorb or scatter higher frequencies.

Best Practice:

Use mid-to-high hertz sounds (2–4 kHz) for effective predator calling, but adjust based on species and environment.


3. Hertz in Animal Hearing: What Do Animals Hear?

Understanding the hearing range of your target species helps in choosing the right hertz.

Hearing Ranges of Common Game Animals:

Animal Hearing Range (Hz)
Deer 250 Hz – 30,000 Hz
Coyotes 250 Hz – 40,000 Hz
Rabbits 360 Hz – 42,000 Hz
Birds 1,000 Hz – 4,000 Hz
Dogs (for training) 67 Hz – 45,000 Hz

These animals are more responsive to high-frequency sounds, so using the right hertz in calls increases success.


4. Ultrasonic Pest and Predator Deterrents

Sometimes the hunt isn’t about attracting, but repelling animals. Devices that operate at ultrasonic frequencies (above 20 kHz) are designed to deter animals from specific areas.

  • Best For: Keeping pests like raccoons or feral dogs away

  • Typical Hertz: 25 kHz – 60 kHz

  • Limitation: Not effective on all animals, and results may vary

For ethical and legal hunting, check local regulations before using such devices in the field.


5. Sound-Based Tracking and Acoustic Lures

In modern hunting, sound tracking systems or acoustic lures use specialized speakers and microphones to attract or monitor wildlife.

Effective Frequencies for Luring:

  • Birds: 1 – 3 kHz

  • Boars: 300 – 600 Hz

  • Elk and Deer: 500 Hz – 2 kHz

Recording natural calls and playing them back at accurate hertz levels improves the chances of successful luring.


6. What Hertz Is Best for Specific Types of Hunts?

Let’s break down what hertz is best depending on the type of hunting:

Metal Detecting (Relic and Coin Hunting)

  • Recommended Hertz: 5 – 12 kHz

  • Why: Better for deeper detection and larger metal objects

Gold Prospecting

  • Recommended Hertz: 40+ kHz

  • Why: Higher sensitivity to small gold particles

Predator Hunting (Coyotes, Foxes)

  • Recommended Hertz: 2 – 4 kHz

  • Why: Mimics distress calls and triggers hunting instincts

Deer or Elk Hunting

  • Recommended Hertz: 500 Hz – 2 kHz

  • Why: Matches natural communication patterns

Bird Watching/Hunting

  • Recommended Hertz: 1 – 3 kHz

  • Why: Effective for calls and lures


7. Can You Use Multi-Frequency Devices?

Yes! Many modern metal detectors and game callers now come with multi-frequency or adjustable frequency features, allowing you to switch hertz settings depending on your target.

Benefits of Multi-Frequency Technology:

  • Adapt to environment: Adjust based on soil or terrain

  • Target more species: Use different calls for different animals

  • Improve accuracy: Avoid interference or over-penetration

If you’re a serious hunter or treasure seeker, investing in multi-frequency tools gives you the upper hand.


8. Environmental Factors That Affect Hertz Performance

Choosing the right hertz isn’t just about the target—it’s also about the environment.

Key Factors:

  • Soil mineralization (in metal detecting): High frequencies suffer more

  • Wind and humidity (in sound hunting): Lower frequencies travel better

  • Obstacles (forests vs. open fields): Higher frequencies get blocked easily

  • Background noise: Choose a frequency that stands out

Always test and adjust your device’s settings to match field conditions for the best results.


9. Conclusion: What Hertz Is Best for Hunt?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to “what hertz is best for hunt.” The best frequency depends on your method (metal detecting, calling, luring), your target (animal or object), and your location.

Quick Summary:

Hunting Type Best Hertz Range
Coin/Relic Hunting 5 – 12 kHz
Gold Prospecting 40+ kHz
Predator Calls (Coyotes) 2 – 4 kHz
Deer/Elk Calling 500 Hz – 2 kHz
Bird Calling 1 – 3 kHz

If you’re serious about your hunts, look for tools with adjustable or multiple frequency settings, and always consider your target’s hearing ability or detection range. Experiment in the field and refine your technique—it’s the key to a successful hunt.


Have thoughts or experiences with different frequencies during hunting? Share your insights in the comments below!

Learn how to check and identify what color is the transmission oil to keep your vehicle running smoothly and avoid costly repairs.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You May Also Like