New Guy question

[Bumpus]

Hello,

I’m about to get into metal detecting, and am looking to purchase my first machine this coming payday. I’ve been doing some research into it and I think I’m settling into the idea of a Garrett Ace 250.

My question deals with the differences between the 250 and 300. The price doesn’t seem way off between the two models. What differences are there, and would the 300 be a better choice?

I’m looking to spend under $300 total to get started.

I want something that I’m not likely to “outgrow” in a couple of years.

I don’t own much property but there are a few parks near my house, and I only live a few hundred yards from the Ohio River which has been a popular recreation spot for generations.


Knowing what you know now, if you were just getting started ... What would you buy?


Thanks in advance.

 

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[Rookster]

For parks. The Ace250 or you might look into a White Coinmaster. Good luck and Welcome to Tnet.

 

[vpnavy]

1st - I noticed this was your very first post - so, Welcome Aboard Bumpus! Take a look at Forum: West Virginia for information (i.e., clubs, etc.) directly related to your state.
2nd - Whatever you finally decide on - please consider buying one from one of

's Supporting Vendors.

 

[SD51]

You will be happy with the 250. You will most likely want a pinpointer later but that will put you over your $300 limit.

 

[SD51]

You can look at the Garrett catalog to help understand the differences between the two models...

https://www.garrett.com/flipbook/sportCatalogUS2018/index.html

 

[Bumpus]

Well, I ordered the Garrett 250 & it arrived today!

It hasn’t stopped raining for more than 5 minutes since it got here though. Soooo ... I’ve been listening to different tones just from stuff (modern clad coins, gold necklace, wheat penny, American Silver Eagle) placed on the floor.

*sigh* It’s supposed to rain all day tomorrow, too.



Oh well - It can’t rain all the time.

 

[RustyGold]

Good luck with the new detector.

 

[firemanphob]

Welcome from Indiana

 

[Bumpus]

Aaaaaand ... it had stopped raining.

Got in about 45 minutes.

First hit, first find in my backyard:


( stupid little piece of iron)

Oh well, off and running!!!




I thought.

Next two hits? Well, my 250 “said” dime and quarter. I didn’t find anything in either spot. Lots of digging. About a foot down & expanding outward from original hit. It kept hitting the tone over the hole, then it would be slightly off to the side. No problem - I just got it out of the hole, right? Nope. Nothing in the excavated earth but rocks and dirt. So, it’s gotta be on the side wall of the hole - right? Maybe, but after widening the hole another SIX INCHES ... still nothing


A few quick observations:

1) I got antsy with my plugs. First one wasn’t too bad, next two were a total mess. I need to slow down and not get too excited. Luckily, it’s my own backyard. If I screw up parts of a lawn learning - at least it’s mine.

2) I need to get a pinpointer. Like seriously. This is gonna be waaaay too frustrating of a hobby without one.

3) My bad knees are already happy that I bought knee pads.

 

[Ace300]

I bought the 300. I love it.
However, if you consider buying again. I am going for the AT Pro next time.
I love water detecting as well. With the Ace I can but, the brain part cannot go in the water.
Very happy with my Garrett. You will like it too.
Yes you need a pinpointer.

 

[Bumpus]

... aaaaaand ordered a Garrett “carrot” today.

In for a penny, in for a pound.

 

[Bumpus]

Got back out for a little bit today.

The pinpointer helps enormously, but nothing good yet.

Just found new-ish garbage today, with one old square nail:


Still looking.