need advise on first metal detector

[CBK]

hi guys, I'm looking to get my first metal detector. Really confused on what to get, my budget is around $200. I will be using it around creeks, rivers and pond's. I want something that is easy to use and have been checking out the garret ace 250. but i really have no clue on what to get. I would like for the coil and shaft to be waterproof if possible.

Thanks for any info and sorry if this has been asked a million times, any links would be appreciated.

 

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[whitjake]

I recommend the 250 or the Fisher F2. Both are great starter machines. I was deciding for a while myself and finally found a used Fisher F2 on Ebay for under 200. Came with 2 coils and headphones. I like the Fisher but that's just me. I never hear anything bad about either one.

 

[Captain Caveman]

I started with an F2 and you should be able to find a new one for $200 or less. It is a good starter machine.
Fisher F2 Metal Detectors- Kellyco

However, if I started right now, I would save up the extra $150 and get the F44. I absolutely love it.

 

[metaldetectorguy]

I started with and ace 150 and still own it. I put the big coil on it and it became a coin monster. Found a good amount of gold and silver too. I do mostly beach hunting and didn't need the 250 also knowing I would upgrade if I got
hooked...I did lol. I recently jumped on the fisher bandwagon a cz-21 which is also a coin beast. So I'd imagine the lower end fishers would be just as good. Good luck!

 

[Fletch88]

The best machine I have used in the 200-$300 price range was the Teknetics Eurotek Pro. It has very good audio feature that the F2 and ace series do not have. The lightning fast recovery speed and adjustable iron audio makes it a very good machine for using in nail infested old homesites using zero discrimination.

 

[Loco-Digger]

I would watch craigslist for your area and surrounding areas. I personally like the stock DD coil that fisher has. You should be able to by either used with your budget. I also like cpt cavemen's suggestion since it is weatherproof and requires less batteries. I started with an el cheapo detector and after 2 months I wanted to go deeper, I ended up upgrading to a used F4 and loved it. It is the next step up to the F2. Both the F2 and F4 require two 9v batteries where the F44 only requires 2 AA batteries.

 

[beerguy]

Ebay has a Minelab 305 up for less that 200 right now. That is a good beginner unit. I have had good luck with used, quality machines.

 

[Loco-Digger]

Here is a member selling a used Eurotek with 2 coils for $200. It's a great deal. It comes with both the stock concentric coil and the DD coil.

http://www.treasurenet.com/forums/treasure-related-stuff-sale/487615-teknetics-euro-tek-pro.html

 

[H-2 CHARLIE]

I heard first hand that a 350 is just ok but below that are kids toys .

 

[CBK]

Thanks for the info guys. I'm still researching all the different models, For some reason i lean towards the garret 250 but everybody seems to love the euro tek pro, plus i will be in some areas that are full of trash cans,nails etc and it seem the euro tek is better in those conditions.