can a metal detector detect a grave?

[krazybob]

I haven't yet purchased a metal detector. As a beginner, I'm really not sure which brand or model I should buy. In Idaho, I'm sure there are many opportunities to search for various things, but my question today is this: I have a great grandfather who is buried in a family plot of six graves with no headstone. He is the only one buried in this family plot, and I'd like to install a small headstone on his grave, if only I could figure out which plot he is in. Are there any metal detectors that are capable of detecting a grave location?
Thanks,
krazybob
Mtn. Home, Idaho

 

[Woodchuck]

Only a sonar ground penitrating detector and they cost a couple thousand. Best way to find a grave is to use a plain old ground probe.And probe the ground. I use to dig graves for a landscape company that had a contract for local churches and cemetarys. hehehe

 

[Tom_in_CA]

I've heard that some coffins are lead encased. Those can be picked up to great depth, no problem. But regular coffins contain very little metal: The hinges, latches, any decorations, etc.... And whatever was put on the body (buttons and such on the clothes of the person being buried.). And considering that burials are typically 6 ft. deep, you will not find the latter. Only perhaps if the coffin were lead, would there be a chance.

In super old times, there was not as much of the "6 ft." standard. Some cultures and time-periods may have dug *just* deep enough, as needed, to cover it. But in our western cultures, it seems that 6 ft. is it.

 

[krazybob]

Thanks. Well it looks like I'll need a probe to have any chance at all. If that doesn't let me find his plot in the family plot, then I guess I'll just have to put the headstone on a guess

 

[fowlercharles]

Krazybob, do a GOOGLE on GRAVE DOWSING and you will find out how to find the grave location you are looking for. Forget the metal detector for this purpose. No way do you want to be seen in any cemetery with a metal detector, and the GRAVE DOWSING method has been proven to be to get the job done and no BS involved.

 

[Jim West Pa]

dowsing is very easy and it most definately works.
You don't need anything fancy, two wire coat hangers will do the job.
Two pieces of copper wire work better tho.

 

[BarberBill]

At least you are only looking for one grave. Good luck.
BB