Should I get a pinpointer too?

[JunkLover]

Just about every detecting video I've seen (for the Eurotek Pro and otherwise) has shown the hunter using a pinpointer. The Garrett one seems to be a popular choice. I understand that it can make detecting easier, but are they necessary? I didn't think those little wands would be so pricey, even second-hand! But I admit it's awkward trying to maneuver the detector coil into a hole holding it by the bottom.

If a pinpointer would be a good choice for a still-beginner hunter, is there a particular model anyone might suggest? Particularly any that are under $100? Like my Amazon wish list needs to be any longer.

 

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[FollowTheBeep]

I would highly recommend getting a pinpointer as it will really cut your recovery time. If price is an issue, a Harbor Freight, Cen-tec pinpointer can be had for under $20. It is really basic but way better than nothing. Chances are you will need to replace the switch at some point. I use one now but plan on moving up to the Deteknix Xpointer for about $90. I have read nothing but good things about it.

 

[Gold Maven]

I don't think they are necessary, I have used a plastic scoop for over 20 years, and I don't believe I'm losing any time.

If you get get proficient with centering your plug on the target, a scoop or two at the most, and you got the target.

I know they look great on TV, but try it without one, you will soon see if you need one or not.

IMO, one more thing to carry, and put batteries in, that's not really necessary.

 

[hammerjammer]

when I bought my mxt they threw in a bullseye ll pin pointer for free. I've had it for 7 years and love it. Rarely needs a new 9 volt battery, easy to carry, light weight and now I can't leave home with out it.

 

[dieselram94]

After getting my pro pointer I will NEVER be without one again!

sent from a potato...

 

[airscapes]

Not needed.. no more than a full set of golf clubs are needed to golf.. However if you only have the driver it is really hard to putt..
Whites TRX it the Current leader in Pinpointer and about $140. It is a hand held metal detector that gets ground balanced and had sensitivity adjustments during pinpointing as well as many other features. Do you have to have it, NO, will you want to MD without it after you get it, NO.
Speaking of videos.. you see the one where the guy uses a brass probe and screw driver? With the TRX you can just pop the coin as you will know EXACTLY where it is without probing.. makes recovering stuff that is 3" or less deep very fast without digging a plug. . Or you can putt with the Drive and probably get good at it after a while..

 

[JunkLover]

I also probably should get a decent digging tool first. I broke the plastic shovel I got with my detector, I lost the metal one I had for a short time, and what I'm using now is much too short. I found an old trowel in the shed, but it's one that's meant for plaster, not digging. And I tried digging around on the rocky shore of the Susquehanna River and it was not easy. Lowe's has a really nice steel one with a serrated scoop that I think I'll get.

I'll give it a go with the new shovel and then decide on a pinpointer. I don't need anything fancy. Just something that will tell me one way or another if the metal is still in the hole. Thanks very much for the suggestions!

 

[mikeraydj]

I got the new Deteknix X-pointer. I like it and is less expensive than the others. It comes with a lanyard, tip covers, and only $89. Plus it doesn't false. Something even more expensive pinpointers can do.

 

[bowwinkles]

The x pointer is a good coin/relic pointer from most reports here. It is how ever not very good on small gold and jewelry. If your hunting includes that then maybe another choice would be wise.

 

[McKinney_5900]

Here's my opinion...I'd simply quit this hobby within a month of starting back in 2010 had it not been for me spending the money and getting a good pinpointer. Digging a hole here in Texas in the summer time and waving dirt at the coil killed my patience. I got me a Garretts Propointer(yes the pocket book stung about $127) and I revisited some of my filled in holes here in my home yard, and THEN found coins I'd given up on. I kinda went overboard after that...bought a second Garretts for a backup cuz I can't even begin to imagine detecting without a PPr. IMO, they are mandatory if you are wanting to have real fun.

This new X-pointer for $89 seems like a bargain to me if I was in your spot. I happen to own 5 different pointers today though, and each will do the job. Once you go to a good pinpointer, you'll wonder how you ever lived without one. Maybe you can borrow one sometime to find out. I introduced a new friend to the Garretts years back since I had 2, and it wasnt 6 months before he invested in not only one, but two so he wouldn't ever be without one. Pinpointers are "that good" IMO, but not the cheapies like the Harbor Freight. They work but barely. martin

 

[dieselram94]

I ordered mine within a week of trying a friends.

sent from a potato...

 

[fortaleza]

I think they are a must have item for MDing. Saving time and energy. I got mine two years ago and it really is a big help getting you to the target. Once you get one you will know what we all are talking about.

 

[JunkLover]

Do pinpointers actually tell you what the metal in question is like a detector would? I just assumed it beeped in the vicinity of anything metal.

And in regard to what I'd be looking for, I'm on the lookout for coins and jewelry. From what I've seen, the Garrett pointer does well with coins, but is there a particular one that would do alright with coins and, say, rings?

 

[dieselram94]

I'd get the pro pointer. It only tells you there is metal. Not what type...

sent from a potato...

 

[mikeraydj]

Garrett is my sentimental favorite. When it works it works well. Mine I bought used so went out after 4 months. Falsing on everything. Contacted Garrett and they said the pinpointer just went out of warranty. I saw the Deteknix and from all I saw, It did what I wanted. The added bonus was $89 instead of $129. If I had that kind of money, I would have bought the Garrett but my clad said Deteknix and so far have not regretted it.

 

[Gaspipe]

Get one . The Garrett PP is at the low price range of the decent PP's. Anything less is junk.

 

[Metal Detecting Stuff]

Pinpointers will save you recovery time and allow you to dig more targets in a day. We have the Deteknix Xpointer , as well as Garrett Pro Pointer , Whites TRX and Minelab Pro-find 25 in stock. Cheapest is $89.99, and they go up from there.

Wayne

www.metaldetectingstuff.com

 

[eyemustdigtreasure]

YES! Most definitely get and use a pinpointer!
But, if you are really getting into detecting, purchase a top of the line
Garrett ProPointer AT (or the) Makro Pointer. Both are waterproof.
I suggest the Makro, as they are cheaper than Garrett, more sensitive, huskier built,
BUT doesn't have the "getting lost mode" that Garrett has.
Garrett also has a tether ring attachment to the probe, to where loosing the thing is much harder to do.
Garrett has the Orange color, hi visibility.
I'm looking at getting a Makro, in spite of those obvious differences, as I've gone through
two pinpointers, Whites Bullseye II and a Garrett Pro pointer. My third,
another Pro Pointer, that has be water-proofed (sorta), with a Papadoody probe cover, plus additional
ends protection, to reduce wear and keep moisture and crud from getting in. And doesn't take long
at all to change batteries.
See photo, showing my modifications

 

[DiggerGal]

Check out Bart on BigBoyHobbies. Since the new Garrett Pro is coming out in Feb/March, the pro pointers are reduced. Additionally, he may have a pre owned one at something that you can afford.

 

[Higgy]

A pin-pointers are like cell phones and microwave ovens. They aren't a necessity, but once you have them you don't want to live without them.