Buying a Metal Detector

[nick_21]

Hi, this will be my 1st metal detector purchase. I have used a metal detector before so I am not new to the hobby, but I don't want to get something and find out I could of got a better one.

What I am really looking for in a detector is listed below.

1. Able to submerge in water (from coil to control box is a plus)
2. Good reliable company
3. Good depth range
4. Nice display read out to tell whats what (really good interface).

I am going to be coin searching 99% of the time. But would like to take it in the water to search, and not have to worry if the entire thing gets submerged.

Detecting GOLD is a plus, I am just looking for a good solid detector, just don't know where to start.

Price range, well is still up in the air.

Thank You,
nick

 

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[mramsoil]

I don't know of a MD that meets all those criteria. If you can accept a control box that's not waterproof, then that opens it up a bit. Everyone (almost) has a brand that they are loyal to for various reasons. I happen to be a White's man.
My reasons are:
1. Top notch service, they replaced a Beachhunter that was out of warrantee. And it came with a new warrantee.
2. Made in America. Not too many you can say that about.
3. Easy to use. Their user interface is easy to understand and use. Even the V3i, which can be overwhelming at first glance, is still a turn on and go MD.
That said, are you hunting beaches only, or are you hunting dirt also? Waterproof machines don't, to my knowledge, give a depth reading other than intensity of the audio. Most water machines don't have screens, the White's Beachhunter does have lights to indicate low, medium, and high conductivity targets.
To my knowledge, all major brands' coils are waterproof.
If you're going to hunt on land more than water, I would concentrate on getting a land machine. If you're going to hunt mostly in water, then a good water machine should be the one to go for. No machine that I know of does it all. Whatever you buy, just take the time to learn what it tells you and you won't go wrong.

 

[Sandman]

To date there is only one detector that meets all your needs as being waterproof and having a display as most of the good waterproof ones don't have a display as it isn't needed. The Garrett AT Pro fits the bill but runs near $600.

You can pick up a used Fisher 1280 for less with no display. Neighter of these is good for saltwater wet sand without being unstable. For that you need a lot more $$$. They will all find gold rings if you are ready to dig lots of pull tabs as this can't be avoided.

 

[Bart@Big Boys Hobbies]

Sounds like you need a Garrett AT Pro. Holler if you have questions or looking for a great deal!

http://www.bigboyshobbies.net/shop/garrett-at-pro-metal-detector/

 

[G.A.P.metal]

Yes the Garrett AT Pro is a good fresh water detector,i think you will like it,most do.
Thanks Gary G.A.P.metal

 

[lovelylea]

Can you use the Garrett AT on the beach but not directly in the water?

 

[G.A.P.metal]

not in salt water but in the sand you can use it in fresh water to 10'deep with the water headphones
Gary

 

[Chuck In Oregon]

I recently got back into this hobby and I had the same question. I chose an AT Pro and I got it from Bart at Big Boys Hobbies. I am more than satisfied with my choice of detector and dealer. Having said that, I'm going up to the White's factory this week with a couple of friends who are in exactly the same place you are and I was. At the very least, it should be an interesting field trip. They both know what I bought and they have both borrowed my CZ-Pro a time or two. Now they can decide for themselves.

Good luck. You're going to enjoy it.

Chuck

 

[Metal Detecting Stuff]

You can use the Garrett AtPro in saltwater, it's recommended to use pro mode in salt. I used mine a few weeks ago in Panama City Fl with no chatter at all.

If I can help you in any way, give me a call!

Wayne
(832) 928-9135

http://www.MetalDetectingStuff.com