Begginer needs the scoop on scoops

Wahoo

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Doc says retire, you have rheumatoid arthritis. So moving to my sailboat full time. Already picked out a metal detector, that was easy vs picking out a sand scoop. I've been reading all the posts I can about scoops but still have no clue where to start or even where to buy whatever one everyone thinks a beginner with arthritis should use. Input Data please !:BangHead:
 

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Wahoo as in I won a prize or found gold etc....Sorry just realized I already answered this post! First time back to TNet for a couple of years and trying to get caught up!
 

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I like the RTG Scoops. I have two of them. And they will do custom work if you email them. I had them make me an 8" aluminum monster with an extra long handle , a grab handle , and a stainless lip. Things a beast ! But a little heavier than my favorite go-to scoop , the RTG 6" with mesh in the bottom. Drains quickly, but catches stud earrings. Their Scoops are bulletproof. All these open face Scoops end up breaking handles. You don't have to worry about that with an aluminum RTG. Good Luck.


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You need a scoop assist handle to make life easy, with or without arthritis.

Makes water retrievals and one handed digging a snap. IMG_1619.webpIMG_1618.webp
 

I got a Garret scoop for $70 and a $15 shovel handle from Home Depot and it's already found me 6 rings 4 of which are gold and 1 that's platinum . You don't need a $200 scoop to find gold.
 

I got a Garret scoop for $70 and a $15 shovel handle from Home Depot and it's already found me 6 rings 4 of which are gold and 1 that's platinum . You don't need a $200 scoop to find gold.

How does a scoop find you anything?
 

Stealth 720i with carbon fiber handle. My shoulders are gone from Arthritis and it's very easy for me to scoop with it.
Last scoop you'll ever need unless left behind in the parking lot.
 

Stealth Extreme 920 is my scoop and I swear you will love it!
 

I personally have found the Starvr a good option. Very durable. They are somewhat smaller so you get less material to move .... which can really take its tole if you live in an area where it dont drain well. The CF handles can make a weight difference as well. I use the 1/2 holes which hold most targets....... as far as a magnet, they serve little purpose if you have a disc machine. I dont have a problem taking two scoops if needed.... because most of the time its a matter of PPing NOT how deep the scoop will go. I found scoops like the RTG with rounded tips roll.... fully enclosed they tend to push targets out as well. There is nothing more infuriating than chasing a penny.
 

I got a Garret scoop for $70 and a $15 shovel handle from Home Depot and it's already found me 6 rings 4 of which are gold and 1 that's platinum . You don't need a $200 scoop to find gold.
Problem with cheap scoops is they don't hold up to the stress of digging wet sand over time. My 1st scoop was $80, broke the handle inside of 30 days, broke a $125 scoop too, now I use Stealth scoops. You can use a $200 scoop for 5 years and still sell it for $150+ if you decide you want to upgrade scoops or get out of hobby.

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Problem with cheap scoops is they don't hold up to the stress of digging wet sand over time. My 1st scoop was $80, broke the handle inside of 30 days, broke a $125 scoop too, now I use Stealth scoops. You can use a $200 scoop for 5 years and still sell it for $150+ if you decide you want to upgrade scoops or get out of hobby.

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I should be driving over to Kellyco next week to pick up my repaired Excal. I'll bring my scoops and assist handles if you want to try it out in their dig pit.
 

Doc says retire, you have rheumatoid arthritis. So moving to my sailboat full time. Already picked out a metal detector, that was easy vs picking out a sand scoop. I've been reading all the posts I can about scoops but still have no clue where to start or even where to buy whatever one everyone thinks a beginner with arthritis should use. Input Data please !:BangHead:

Thank you for posting this and thanks to ALL for great answers and ideas!!! :icon_thumright: Saved me from having to ask... :thumbsup:
 

I also use the Stealth 720 and it is a beast. I use it in the surf, wet sand and dry. I upgraded to the carbon shaft and it's nice but not required IMHO.
I keep trying to convince a friend that a good scoop is nearly as important as a good machine on the beach. For me efficiency is key. If I'm digging 150+ coins in a 4-5 hour window, I need to recover those targets FAST. Since my beaches change from tide to tide, when I'm on a good pocket, I'm digging like a mad man because eventually one of those targets is gonna be something I really want. A good scoop allows you to be efficient on the beach just like a good digging tool allows you to be efficient and dig quality plugs on land. You can go with a smaller scoop than the Stealth 720 if you are going to hit dry sand only, and this will probably be better on your arthritic joints too. Wet sand is HEAVY!!
 

Thought id add this..... https://www.facebook.com/XtremeScoops/ Im waiting to see how this comes out. You can also do what Max did, get a tool hook off a tool belt instead of the SS TH mentioned. You wouldnt think dragging that scoop would be an issue. But this year ive had neck issues and believe it had to do with the tension from hanging on to and moving the scoop in the water.
 

Stealth scoop, american made here in Michigan. I have a modified 920 and love it. I may trade it in for a 720 - a little narrower and a little taller.
 

Keep an eye on these sites for one on sale or try eBay. I snagged a earlier stealth scoop 90 degree handle with that separate kick plate on the back for $90. It is heavy hauling around on the dry sand but easy in the water (wooden handle). I found in one area I have that it's clay along the bottom so the scoop doesn't push down as easily as just sand or pebbly beach. I bent the back kick plate trying to pound scoop into clay but it still functions. The newer design is better I'm sure but hard to beat a bargain. If mostly staying on dry sand and not wet heavy sand then definitely go with something lighter duty that strains quickly
 

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