Rank 1
Free Explorer
The UninitiatedEvery legend begins with a single step onto an unmarked road.
No account. Read the map, the stories, and the rules. The trail starts here.
Disciplines
The Path to Legend
Seven ranks. Seven schools of discipline. Advancement is free. The work is real.
Ranks are a LegendHeading community standard, not a government accreditation. Certifications listed below are offered by independent third-party organisations. LegendHeading does not issue or endorse them; requirements change — always verify with the issuer directly.
Rank 2
Wayfinder
School of the Open RoadThe thorn rune marks a threshold. You have crossed yours.
You joined the free Fellowship and opened your first case file.
Disciplines
Leave No Trace 101
Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics
Free awareness course in responsible outdoor ethics.
Join a metal-detecting club
Local / regional club
Adopt a club code of ethics and learn from experienced members.
Rank 3
Logkeeper
School of the Written RecordThe rune of the people. Knowledge is only power when it is shared.
You keep a logbook and track the hunts you are working.
Disciplines
First Aid and CPR/AED
American Red Cross
Core safety certification; renew per the provider's schedule.
Rank 4
Field Fellow
School of the HuntTiwaz: the victory rune. You are ready to meet the terrain on its own terms.
You have verified field readiness and can travel to hunt responsibly.
Disciplines
FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
Federal Aviation Administration
Optional, for drone survey. 16+, a 60-question knowledge test (70% to pass), recurrent training every 24 months.
State detecting permits
Your state or land agency
Confirm what your ground requires before you search.
Rank 5
Cartographer
School of Evidence and ChartOthalan: the rune of ancestral land. You learn to read what the earth remembers.
You contribute research, sources, and corrections, and train for the water.
Disciplines
NAS Foundation, Introduction to Maritime Archaeology
Nautical Archaeology Society
Theory course plus Recorder/Surveyor Days toward the NAS Foundation qualification.
PADI Open Water through Wreck Diver Specialty
PADI
Wreck Diver needs Adventure/Advanced Diver, 15+, and four wreck dives over at least two days.
Ground-penetrating radar and field survey
Field schools and workshops
Hands-on survey skills for locating and recording sites.
Rank 6
Steward
School of the KeeperSowilo: the guiding star. Others navigate by your light now.
A trusted Fellow who helps verify others and guard responsible practice.
Disciplines
NAS Certificate
Nautical Archaeology Society
Continue the NAS Education Programme, accruing credits toward the Certificate.
Rank 7
Legend
The HallowedYou are no longer following the map. You are becoming one.
Earned, not bought: sustained, well-sourced contribution; significant finds reported to the proper authorities; recognised standing; and mentoring the next Fellows.
Disciplines
A body of work
Earned over time
Advanced NAS or RPA standing, published research, and a record of responsible, cited finds.
Begin the path. It costs nothing.
Create a free Fellowship account to open your rank record and log your credentials.
Certification names, requirements, and availability change and vary by region. Verify current details directly with each issuing organisation before enrolling. LegendHeading is not affiliated with, and does not endorse or issue, any third-party certification listed here.