OK John Metal Detectors began in 1976 when founder John Wisniewski — known to everyone as “OK John” — opened a small shop to support treasure hunters, hobbyists, and outdoor explorers. His genuine love for metal detecting and his dedication to the community made the business a trusted name throughout Manitoba and across Canada.

Over the years, John wasn’t alone in building that legacy. One of the most influential figures in the company’s more recent history was Randy Gerylo. Randy played a major role in keeping OK John Metal Detectors active, visible, and connected to detectorists all over the province. Many customers knew him personally, and his passion for the hobby helped guide the direction of the store during the later years of John’s ownership.

Randy’s commitment to the metal detecting community and his long-standing involvement with the company make him an important part of OK John’s story. This is why he is proudly represented in our new logo—as a tribute to the individuals who kept the spirit of OK John alive over the decades.

In 2023, ownership of the business passed from the Wisniewski family to Randy Gerylo to The Windy Digger (Robin Paul Paré). This transition marked the beginning of a new chapter, but the heart of the brand remains rooted in the legacy created by John, Randy, and the customers who supported the shop throughout its history.

Since taking over, I’ve focused on modernizing and expanding OK John Metal Detectors while protecting everything that made it special. We updated the website, strengthened our social media presence, improved our product offerings, and continued building relationships with detectorists across the country.

Almost 50 years later, our passion for the hobby remains the same.