Could you help me choose a detector in the $600 range?

[Lukabrazi]

I've been reading lots of posts about detector recommendations this past weekend and decided to just start a thread and ask for some advice. When I was a kid I was mowing the lawn and as I made a loop along the edge of our horse pasture I saw a tiny circle on the ground that turned out to be a 1902 dime. Someone came over with a metal detector and found an old penny and a skeleton key in the same area. This was at least 25 years ago but I've quite often thought that I would like to do some detecting around a few old foundations I know of near where I grew up. I imagine I would be looking for coins and relics in north western and north central PA. I would probably check out some of the beaches around the local lakes as well but not sure that I need anything waterproof. I have been setting some money aside for a detector. Any recommendations around $600? I can't find anywhere locally that sells metal detectors so I'd have to order online. Thanks for any advice!

 

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[H-2 CHARLIE]

Goldbug pro
AT pro

 

[Lukabrazi]

Goldbug pro
AT pro

There is a used AT Pro and THD pointer that I think I can get for about $475. Is there anything I need to watch out for with used equipment?

 

[Metal Detecting Stuff]

The first AT Pros did not have cam locks on the shafts and had an older version of software and circuit board. Those serial #s started with 500 or 501xxxxx. I'd try to get a newer version one if buying used 530, 540, 550xxxxx .

If you decide to buy new, give me a call and Ill work you a great package.

Wayne

(832) 928-9135
Www.metaldetectingstuff.com

 

[Fletch88]

The Whites MX-5, Xterra 505 are good all around machines in that range. A used Xterra 705, Gold Bug Pro, G2 and F-19 are good coin and relic machines also in that range.

 

[Lukabrazi]

Thanks for the advice and taking the time to reply. I just sent a message and asked the seller for the first three digits. It's an ebay item but it's close enough that I could pick it up. Thanks for the info. It seems especially hard to sort through metal detector reviews. I'm always leery about reviews when people are "sponsored" and the nature of the internet seems to be that no matter what model I look up there are some bad reviews. I don't mind buying used if it's a screaming deal but I would pay a little bit more for new equipment that I know hasn't been beat on.

 

[Tnmountains]

He is right on the serial numbers. But if you can of look at it you will be able to see the wear it has on it. Try to get all recipes and bill of sales if possible.
Good luck!

 

[RobRieman]

There's a brand new one for sale on here now with digger and carry bag for $500

 

[Lukabrazi]

The first three digits were 524.

 

[Lukabrazi]

Anyone use metaldetectorreviews.net? The Whites MX 5 and Gold Bug Pro seem to both get consistently good reviews and are around my price range.

 

[digger460]

You have to watch out with reviews.... The bad reviews are usually from people that use them once or twice, and decide, this thing sucks. You have to learn the machine. A couple of 100 hrs..

My advice, listen to what people are saying here. They are very knowledgeable. Good Luck, and remember, there is no best. It's up to the operator!

 

[Fletch88]

Anyone use metaldetectorreviews.net? The Whites MX 5 and Gold Bug Pro seem to both get consistently good reviews and are around my price range.

Yes I have used it many times and a good many are pretty accurate. The one thing that I notice that is not necessarily accurate are the depth ratings. That is input while doing the review( I have done one on there) and not obtained from any scientific method but rather a general guy saying he can pick up a quarter at xx inches. The Gold bug Pro, and mx5 are about my 2 favorites in that price range.
The MX-5 has 1, 2 , and 8 tone audio that is a very good relic hunter in 2 tone and a good coin machine in 8 tone. The gold bug pro only has 2 tones with the low iron tone being adjustable at different levels. The F-19 and G2+ are identical to the gold bug pro with an added backlight, notch disc and more adjustable V-break.

 

[Lukabrazi]

Would a G2+ test unit be any different than the current model?

 

[Metal Detecting Stuff]

The first three digits were 524.

Ok, that's a fall 2012 unit, not one of the original ones . I'd estimate it should go for $375-425 depending on condition.

Wayne

Www.metaldetectingstuff.com

 

[Metal Detecting Stuff]

Regarding reviews, detectors are a lot like cars, some guys hate Fords, others hate Chevys. You will always find someone that does not like something.

Wayne

 

[BigWaveDave]

Why don't you just get a new one from Wayne?

 

[Crappies-n-Coins]

Thanks for the advice and taking the time to reply. I just sent a message and asked the seller for the first three digits. It's an ebay item but it's close enough that I could pick it up. Thanks for the info. It seems especially hard to sort through metal detector reviews. I'm always leery about reviews when people are "sponsored" and the nature of the internet seems to be that no matter what model I look up there are some bad reviews. I don't mind buying used if it's a screaming deal but I would pay a little bit more for new equipment that I know hasn't been beat on.

Do yourself a favor, forget Feebay, and buy a new detector (with warranty) from a dealer who'll be there if needed. Been lots of posts on TN regarding bogus Garrett products (Chinese knock-offs).

ETA: Do your research on detectors, don't let someone else spend your money for you. Advice is one thing, but the final decision is yours.

 

[Lukabrazi]

Nevermind about the G2+. Someone beat me to it. Sold for $415 over on the findmall forum.

 

[Lukabrazi]

Thanks for all of the advice. I ended up getting a used Whites MX5 with a little over a years warranty left for $325.

 

[Fletch88]

That Safari that just popped up on here is a good price also