Which new detector to purchase???

[Babacat]

Hi Folks,

I'm brand new to this forum, but I understand the implications of such a subjective question that I'm about to ask. After many years, I may be in the market for a new detector and would like to hear opinions and options from a wide an audience as possible.

First, a little info about me which may help in the search... I'm a lifelong Fisher fan and have owned several of their machines going back to the early 80s. As of now, I'm using a 1266 which will be handed down in the family. I have been out of relic searching for quite some time; however, the future is always a possibility. I enjoy coin hunting with the kids as much as anything as well as the occasional trip to the beach looking for whatever. My budget is around the $500 range.

I like the ease of use that the 1266 affords, and I'm not a fan of a lot of meters and "push button" technology that I see in recent machines. I like buttons and knobs that twist on/off due to the fact that in my experience these parts don't wear out as quick.

Hope this info helps. What say ye?

Many thanks. Happy hunting!

Babacat

 

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[Terry Soloman]

Save another $150, and get a Minelab Equinox 600 ($650). If you have to stay at $500, get a Tesoro Vaquero.

 

[bowwinkles]

Judging from the hype, I would choose the Minelab or First Texas, over the Garrett and Whites machines. The reviews given by non shill individuals seem to reflect somewhat better performance with that choice. Tesoro is always in the running but not talked about like the other two. Those three also display a better bang for the buck. You asked for an opinion, this is mine. Good luck on your choice which ever machine you choose.

 

[Rookster]

I think I would start with a machine that has a package with a smaller coil also. Maybe 8 to 10 inch DD. This would be at least for me looking back a better choice. One reason is separation from bad to good targets that build confidence. As you learn the machine, move the coil size up if you prefer. Good luck.

 

[Babacat]

Thank you, bowwinkles, for the reply. Which particular Minelab or First Texas machine would you recommend and why? Which company has better service? Thanks, again.

 

[Babacat]

Thanks, rook3434, for your quick reply. I used a large hot head coil on a Fisher 1265 for relics back in the early 90s. If you were going to purchase a new machine today, what would it be and why? Thanks, again, from a fellow Mississippi hunter!

 

[Babacat]

Thanks, Terry. I appreciate you taking the time to respond! I am going to look into both of those machines.

 

[rebbel31]

Since you don't like fancy buttons and doodads I'd recommend the tesoro vaquero. I noticed service was a concern. Tesoro has one of the top 2 in the business.

 

[chub]

Look at the teknetics patriot or F75 deals. Awsome value for money, lightweight, use no batteries.....but as Terry said the Minelab equinox seems to be alot of detector for the money.

Chub

 

[Professor of Engineering]

Hello Babacat,

If you can hold out a bit, IMHO;I believe a lot of mid/higher end metal detectors will be up for sale on this forum, Feebay and other classified sections. I have bought some very nice high end machines for short money.

Regards,

Doc

 

[RustyGold]

May I recommend the Minelab 600 or 800 Equinox. It should be perfect.
I found my long lost 14k wedding band in the yard in about 3 minutes yesterday.

 

[Babacat]

Thanks, rebbel31. That's the second vote for the vaquero. Best wishes!

 

[Babacat]

Doc,

I see that you have a Tejon. What's your opinion of this machine?

Thanks!

PS: The semester is almost over!

 

[FreeBirdTim]

The reviews given by non shill individuals seem to reflect somewhat better performance with that choice.

I'm not a "shill individual" and I would take the AT Pro over any other machine. Just takes a lot of practice to get good with it. There's a reason why the AT Pro is used by so many detectorists. It's tough as nails and finds more than all the other hyped detectors. Check out some of my threads and you'll see what it can find...

 

[Professor of Engineering]

Hello Babacat,

I use the Tejon for relic hunting only, not saying its not for coin and jewelry. Terry is the expert on Tesoro machines he would know which Tesoro you can use!

Regards,

Doc