Abstract: An empty shell casing retrieval system has a metal detector and retrieval system. The metal detector has a metal detector having a metal detecting coil and a readout gauge and an on/off switch. A hollow tube has a metal detecting coil attached to one end portion thereof and the readout gauge and on/off switch attached to the other end of the hollow tube. A collection container is attached to the hollow tube for collecting metal pieces being drawn through the hollow tube and a vacuum cleaner or other vacuum source is attached to the hollow tube for placing a negative pressure in the tube to draw pieces of detected metal into the hollow tube and collection container. The tube has a plenum in one end having a separation screen therein for preventing metal pieces from entering the vacuum source. The metal detector readout gauge and switch are mounted remotely on the plenum and the handle has a vacuum on/off switch attached thereto.