GBRR 2026 - The Perfect Plug

GBRR 2026

The Perfect Plug — Our Meticulous Approach to Your Land

The most common concern we receive is, Won't this tear up my lawn? We totally get it. While it’s impossible to recover relics without disturbing the ground at all, there are ways to do it cleanly—so cleanly, in fact, that the incision becomes nearly invisible.

GBRR has spent years perfecting a minimal-impact recovery technique using simple tools that other detectorists often overlook. Some call it a golf divot. Others, a grass flap. We prefer another term: the perfect plug. Scroll down to see how the surgery is done!

1. Locating the Target

Naturally, the first step is locating the target. Advanced detectors like ours have a 'pinpointing' feature that helps us zero in on the exact spot—so the plug we make is as small and precise as possible.

2. Making the Incision

Using a large, serrated spade, we carefully slice a U-shape deep beneath the grass—protecting the root structure. This ensures the lawn can recover quickly, with minimal visible impact.

3. Lifting the Plug

Once the incision is made, we gently lift the plug—leaving one side attached to the surrounding grass. This keeps the orientation intact and helps the grass recover even faster.

4. Excavating the Hole

Sometimes the target is contained within the plug or just beneath it—making recovery even easier. But typically, we need to scoop out some soil, which is always placed on a tarp or towel. This lets us refill the hole neatly and keeps loose dirt from covering the surrounding grass.

5. Digging Deeper (If Needed)

If we’re lucky, the target is now within reach. But for deeper targets, we may need to dig a bit further—removing more soil with a trowel and placing it carefully on the tarp. Per our agreement, we go no deeper than 12 inches, which is more than enough for most relics.

6. Recovering the Target

Using a handheld pinpointer (a miniature metal detector) we scan the soil to zero in on the target. If it’s not already on the tarp, we repeat the process from Step 5 until it appears. Sometimes, especially with larger items, the relic must be carefully retrieved directly from the hole.

7. Refilling the Hole

Because all excavated soil is placed on a tarp or towel, refilling is simple. We just fold it over the hole and pour the contents back in—leaving no stray dirt behind.

8. Prepping the Plug

Before replacing the plug, we check the edges to make sure no soil has spilled onto the surrounding grass. If it has, we return it to the hole. We may also press the loosened dirt into place with a trowel to ensure a snug fit for the plug.

9. Replacing the Plug

Carefully, we fold the plug back into place, tucking the edges in for a seamless restoration. The grass should once again sit evenly and blend naturally with the lawn.

10. Finishing Touches

Finally, we press the plug down firmly with our hands and feet, making sure the roots can reconnect with the surrounding grass. Within days—especially with a little rain—it should be nearly invisible (if not already)!

As we hope the steps above have shown, this isn’t about tearing up your lawn. Yes, metal detecting involves some ground disturbance, but we go to great lengths to do it responsibly, with as little impact as possible. Your concern is valid, but don’t let it stand between you and the potential treasures beneath your feet!

To see how this works in practice, we’ve included a few short videos below.

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