I tell them I'm prospecting for oil. It is an incredibly effective response, and accomplishes all that its intended to. (Not that it happens too often, but when it does, it works).

There is a semi-interesting story of where this response comes from, and it was when I was metal detecting at a small modern municipal park; you know, the type with a baseball field, soccer field, pavilion, and so forth; the sort with a mulched playground that you take your kids to next to a modern subdivision. Swing sets and slides and that sort of thing.

And I'm metal detecting along, by the soccer field sideline, and someone comes up to me, and in a straight face, asks me if I'm prospecting for oil. I say yes, and they move on. So, I've used it ever since when someone asks what I'm doing, regardless of the find things hobby I'm engaged in. True story -- I'm not creative enough to make something this bizarre up.

If you are ever stuck for a response; I'm certain it will work for you as well.

If you are ever stuck for a response; I'm certain it will work for you as well.

My husband and I got metal detectors last fall. So far, nobody has asked us what we're doing, but I'll keep that in mind. ;^)

I usually just tell them I'm 'boxing. If they ask more, I say more.

I've actually met several fellow boxers for the first time that way.