01/06/2025
In Loving Memory of Dave Johnson (1949–2025)
With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Dave Johnson, a luminary in the world of metal detecting and engineering. Known for his unmatched innovation and dedication, Dave's legacy has forever transformed the metal detecting industry and inspired countless enthusiasts worldwide.
A Life of Innovation and Passion
Born and raised in California, with much of his life spent in Arizona, Dave Johnson's journey into engineering began with his curiosity for electronics. His career in metal detection started in 1981 when he joined Fisher Research Labs in California. Over the decades, Dave contributed to some of the most iconic names in the industry, including Tesoro, White's, and Troy, before finding his home at First Texas Products in 2002. At First Texas, he spearheaded designs that set new performance, usability, and innovation benchmarks.
Dave's contributions include groundbreaking designs for Fisher, Teknetics, and Bounty Hunter. His work on models such as the Teknetics T2, Fisher F75, and the Gold Bug II made them industry icons renowned for their precision, depth, and sensitivity. He had an extraordinary talent for blending technological complexity with exterior simplicity, making his detectors accessible yet powerful tools for hobbyists and professionals.
The Mastermind Behind the Machines
Dave's approach to design reflected his philosophy of excellence and user-friendliness. His insistence on superior ergonomics, as seen in the T2 and F75, revolutionized the way detectors were used, ensuring they became extensions of the user rather than mere tools. He once remarked, "I like products that are easy to use. I don't like complicated stuff," a mantra evident in every detector he touched.
His ability to listen to the needs of the detecting community and translate those into technical breakthroughs was unparalleled. Whether it was the CZ series, which took nearly a decade to perfect, or the F75's superior depth and target separation, Dave's designs turned challenges into opportunities for advancement. His genius wasn't just in creating machines but in creating connections—between the detector, the user, and the history waiting to be uncovered.
A Legacy That Spanned Generations
Throughout his illustrious career, Dave's work helped unearth treasures and memories, but his impact reached far beyond his machines. He was a mentor to many in the industry, a collaborative teammate who valued the input of others, and an advocate for accessible, quality engineering. He frequently credited his success to the teams he worked with, including John Gardiner, Jorge Anton Saad, and others who shared his passion.
Dave's humility was evident in his admission that he wasn't the best detectorist. "I'm not a good detectorist. That's why I like simple, easy-to-use machines," he joked. Yet his profound understanding of soils, terrain, and the science behind metal detecting made him a giant in the field.
An Unforgettable Legacy
Dave's designs are more than just machines—they are extensions of his brilliance and a testament to his life's work. From the simplicity of the Bounty Hunter to the cutting-edge performance of the F75, his creations have been loved by hobbyists and professionals alike. His contributions to VLF technology, soil mineralization management, and detector sensitivity will continue to influence the industry for years.
Dave Johnson's life was defined by curiosity, ingenuity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His contributions to the metal detecting community will forever be remembered in the machines he designed and the countless memories and discoveries they have facilitated.
A Final Tribute
Dave once said, "We're building on a legacy that was created by many people." Today, we honor him as a cornerstone of that legacy. His passing leaves a void that can never be filled, but his spirit and contributions will continue to inspire all those who share his passion for discovery.
Rest in peace, Dave. Your innovations will continue to guide and inspire us, and your memory will forever resonate with the sound of discovery.
With most profound respect and gratitude,
Your Family at First Texas Products and the entire Metal Detecting Community
