I have been water detecting since 1992 and until this year I have used the same scoop averaging over 400 hours/year since 1992. I had spent more on handles than the X3 costs until I added a stainless steel handle. Now that I am older and hair has turned gray and that I have found more treasure than I have spent on all of my detecting equipment including waders. Now it is time to spend my kids inheritance on something I will enjoy for years to come.
The following was posted a few days ago in answer to another question. In case you did not see it...
Funny you should ask...I just pulled the card out today and will have the X3 Titanium tomorrow.
I used the SS version (3lbs 5oz) for a week now weighing in heavier than the X3 Titanium does at 2.1lbs (both less handle). My current scoop weighs in at 8.1lbs. BIGGEST PLUS!
It removes sand unlike any other scoop I have used.
I will not need to tether it to my pouch belt as it floats, handle out of the water. This will even out my walking gate and lessen hip pain, so say my doctor.
I had to go with the 13" pointed scoop with the 5" top plate. Better for keeping targets in the scoop.
The 54" handle was 5" longer than my SS handle on my current scoop. A bit more cumbersome to pack/carry but much easier on the digging. If you are traveling the travel handle will fit the bill. Its connection has an 11 turn screw/nut configuration. Both shafts are made by Anderson. There is very, very little bending compared to other carbon fiber shafts I have pulled on and has a larger diameter than most.
95% of my detecting is in the surf, New England area, year round hard digging in the rocks.
The Shredder is more for the wet/dry sand and the X3 for the surf.
I had no problem with the textured carbon fiber handle. Some that wanted a different grip bought the blue handle cover, cut the closed end off and slid it onto the shaft into place just above the scoops mounting tube.
Points I will improve on: first is the placement of a marker of some kind, probably reflective tape, on the back side of the handle to help align the scoop when you can not see the scoop. Second is the toe pad I will have to train my foot to the smaller pad than my current scoop has. I you use the Motus grip, you may not need the tape. Third find some way of keeping my digging arm in shape as I will not be carrying the heavy scoop that does not float. Lastly, convince my wife of all the benefits are necessary for my health and wellbeing, which is priceless!
Yet to be seen, will it outlast my original scoop that I have had since 1992. It is made from heavier gauge SS than any scoop made today. I have had 2 new "bills" welded on to replace the worn down SS from digging in the rocks.
For the price the SS X3 would be a wise choice. For me, I can afford the Titanium and have talked about a Titanium scoop for over 25 years. No more talk. I've done it!
Let us know how you go.
P/S I just wanted to add that I average over 400 hours detecting salt and fresh water per year. I do have a smaller SS scoop I have been using in the fresh water, but with this purchase I doubt it will see much use in the near future.