Saltwater Detector for a Beginner

[UnitedFly]

Hello Everyone,
I am new to this forum, as well as Metal Detecting. I do a lot of fly fishing on the Gulf Coast down here in SW Florida and thought it would be neat to carry a detector along with me.
Can anyone offer input on a good entry level unit? It doesn't necessarily need to be fully submersible, just resistant to the splash from the surf I would imagine.
Thanks!
-Steve

 

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[Terry Soloman]

Multi-frequency VLF, or Pulse Induction units are needed for saltwater. These machines start at $600.00 new, up to $2,500.00
Beach scoops cost another $150 - $275.00
Do your homework. Tesoro Sand Shark PI unit with 8" coil $589.99

 

[RustyGold]

Welcome aboard Steve. Splash proof usually means a waterproof detector cause if you lose it in the surf it's probably history. A used Excalibur would be nice as it's a multi frequency detector. Best of luck!

 

[Mudflap]

I'd suggest a used Tesoro Sand Shark PI unit with 8" coil.

 

[CASPER-2]

LIKE others say - best to go with a PI machine and try to learn to dig everything - Tesoro is good - or if you can find something used and cheap
ones on ebay or craigs - like a whites pi or garrett - just make sure you go with a name brand - there are some cheap Chinese models out there
good luck

 

[UnitedFly]

I have located a used Sand Shark unit and the original owner states its only been used 3 times. I know there's always a chance something may be wrong with it, but how solid are these units? If there is in fact a problem with the unit, how good is Tesoro at handling warranty claims?
Thanks,

 

[Terry Soloman]

I have located a used Sand Shark unit and the original owner states its only been used 3 times. I know the There is no better warranty service in the world.

Watch this video, and check the seal between the cover plate and battery compartment; the connections from the box to the hardwired coil (old machines have removable coils - stay away from these older machines). Check the surface of the coil (scuff cover included?). Check the headphones and connection. I would not pay more than $400.00 cash

 

[UnitedFly]

Thanks for the info Terry. What do you recommend for a beach scoop?

 

[Foggynotion]

If you buy a used Sand Shark, you won't have any warranty. They are only warrantied to the original purchaser. Also, you have to make sure you send in the warranty card to register it or be sure to save the receipt, because they won't take your word for it that you are the original purchaser. They have such a great warranty, that I would only buy a new one, unless you get a used one super cheap.

 

[UnitedFly]

If you buy a used Sand Shark, you won't have any warranty. They are only warrantied to the original purchaser. Also, you have to make sure you send in the warranty card to register it or be sure to save the receipt, because they won't take your word for it that you are the original purchaser. They have such a great warranty, that I would only buy a new one, unless you get a used one super cheap.

Thanks for the info Fogg.
Im pretty sure I'm just going to go ahead and get a new one. I don't usually like to purchase others peoples problems!

 

[Terry Soloman]

Thanks for the info Terry. What do you recommend for a beach scoop?

RTG Monster Aluminum Long Handle. Light and will last forever

 

[UnitedFly]

I went ahead and ordered the Sand Shark and one of the long handle scoops last night. Hopefully Ill have it early next week so I can give her a shot! I have a handful of beaches I'm going to check out that are boat access only. Pretty high traffic areas often frequented by partiers via boat so there's good chances of finding at least some fresh drops.

Will keep you posted!

 

[UnitedFly]

Shes here! Took her out in the back yard just to play with different settings, and I found an old piece of what looks to be a toy of sorts within the first minute. I then proceeded to get yelled at by the girlfriend for digging holes in the yard.
Off to the beach tomorrow after work to see what shes really made of!

 

[Peyton Manning]

how much is a new one? I could use a salt water machine for vacations
let me know when you sell that one

 

[UnitedFly]

Sand Shark with the 8" Coil was $577 + tax. Doubt I'll be selling her any time soon, unless I decide to upgrade sooner than anticipated.

I know there was one on eBay a few days ago.

 

[UnitedFly]

Well, 1st hunt down. Was out for almost two hours at the Sanibel Causeway. Going back on Saturday. Im hooked.

 

[SWFLA]

Great job on first hunt with your new detector. I live in the Cape also, we have a lot of little bits of iron on all the beaches around here but dont let that get you down, I use a PI machine and find gold mixed in with the ton of scrape, just keep digging. Good Luck

 

[UnitedFly]

I hit Bowmans and the Lighthouse this weekend. Ended up with two small silver rings, a handful of clad, 1996 1 pfennig, 2011 Austrian 1 Cent Euro, and a golf ball marker from St. Andrews Links Old Course (Oldest Golf Course in the world - Scotland)
Ill take it!

 

[Peyton Manning]

iffn you ain't found gold yet, send it to me. I'll give you $300

 

[UnitedFly]

iffn you ain't found gold yet, send it to me. I'll give you $300

Ill get it eventually. Hurricane Nate made it difficult to get out in the water with the waves pushing in, and I haven't been able to hit a good low tide yet.
Next week!