WOW TOM WHERE DO I BEGIN!!!!
They were the most basic detector one can imagine. (by comparison) They did do the job well, by the standards of that time. It didn't take much to find such a high conductive as silver, it was comparable to modern day clad drops, it was literally everywhere.
I see a lot of posts from the tone only folks. They generally say, if you learn the tones, that's all you need. It is true, that the audio response is critical. Many make the inference that a visual machine doesn't compare. But, what they either don't understand or choose to ignore, is that visual machines HAVE tone response too. Most have multiple tones that are very easy to ID good targets. Some machines, one I happen to have, you can assign specific tones/pitch to very narrow areas of conductive metals. You can literally target very specific, very narrow conductive areas of interest by tone alone if you wish. Put that together with a screen that can show you the conductive target, lying right next to a piece of scrap metal. (This weekend, I found a 1944 silver quarter, which was standing on edge, right next to a piece of corroded metal strapping. Great tone, and a visual of the two lying next to each other on the target trace screen. HOW GREAT IS THAT
I've seen many posts, telling of times they have detected areas "salted" by idiots with pennies or BB's. With one push of a button, I can eliminate/discriminate that very narrow conductive band and eliminate the problem, without missing a swing of the coil, or compromising any good targets. And restore it any time.
Tom, I could go on and on about it. There are SOoooooo... many things about some of the modern units folks call "bells & whistles" that are useful in everyday detecting, I am amazed every time I go out. I am certainly NOT suggesting it is for everybody, or it is the only way. All I say is there is some pretty amazing equipment out there that makes the hobby of metal detecting a joy. (TO ME).
Most of todays detectors find metal pretty well. If someone is a dig it all person, most of what I said is moot. The detector senses it, you dig it, and can't help but find the good stuff. For lots of reasons everyone can't dig it all. I feel that is where the "bells & whistles" come in handy. And make detecting more enjoyable.
The differing features/technology from the 60's, to present are many. They have generally made metal detecting a much more enjoyable hobby. As to whether someone calls them "bells & whistles" or useful features, is a matter of opinion. I tend to agree with Jason in Enid's opinion in that regard.
I LOVE THIS HOBBY!!
