Garrett GTI 1500 Metal Detector

[slwilliamssr]

Hello,
I'm new to this hobby. I have just ordered the Garrett GTI 1500 metal detector and would like to get some feedback about this unit. There are no clubs near where I live and I don't know anyone else who is doing it. My oldest son is looking to start this hobby as well so any feedback can be passed on to him when he is ready to buy his detector.

Thanks
Sandy

 

[m bryan]

From what I've been experiencing its more about learning your md than it is about the md......The GTI should be a great detector.

 

[Iron Patch]

Better you ask the questions, just easier that way.

I also started with that detector and have some great memories of finds I made with it. My diggin bud put about 5 -6 years on his and did very well. It will certainly do the job, you just have to find worthy places to use it.

 

[slwilliamssr]

I'm sure there is a ton to learn. I've never used one before and have been reading this forum for the last two days and there seems to be more then a few people on here who like to help new people just getting into MD'ing some good feedback on what to do, what not to do, and what kind of MD to use and such.

My way of thinking is the more I learn here while waiting on my MD to get here I will be a little ahead of the game when I start. Like I have found out that research is the key to finding anything. Before coming here my thoughts were ok get the unit, go move it around and the coins jump into my hand lol.

Now I understand doing it that way would be 100% luck on finding anything at all. Just to give a little back ground info I'm 50 years old and have 7 kids and two foster kids. My 18 year old & 28 year old want to do this with me as a way for us to really spend some more time together. Also one of my foster kids has said he would love to join in now as well. Looks like I need a bigger car as well lol.

Anyway I would rather ask something here and get some feedback rather then make a big mistake and get into trouble. I have already found out my states laws as well as my oldest sons state laws on MD'ing. I live in Western Massachusetts and he lives in up state New York.

Thanks for the input guys.
Sandy

 

[Diggin-N-Dumps]

I'm sure there is a ton to learn. I've never used one before and have been reading this forum for the last two days and there seems to be more then a few people on here who like to help new people just getting into MD'ing some good feedback on what to do, what not to do, and what kind of MD to use and such.

My way of thinking is the more I learn here while waiting on my MD to get here I will be a little ahead of the game when I start. Like I have found out that research is the key to finding anything. Before coming here my thoughts were ok get the unit, go move it around and the coins jump into my hand lol.

Now I understand doing it that way would be 100% luck on finding anything at all. Just to give a little back ground info I'm 50 years old and have 7 kids and two foster kids. My 18 year old & 28 year old want to do this with me as a way for us to really spend some more time together. Also one of my foster kids has said he would love to join in now as well. Looks like I need a bigger car as well lol.

Anyway I would rather ask something here and get some feedback rather then make a big mistake and get into trouble. I have already found out my states laws as well as my oldest sons state laws on MD'ing. I live in Western Massachusetts and he lives in up state New York.

Thanks for the input guys.
Sandy

Thats a nice machine to start with..Since i have been MD'ing serously..i have noticed that i sorta pick up stuff everytime i go out..and within a few months i was able to "Understand my Machine"..sometimes it throws me crazy hits..but i learned that its consitant when doing so..and from experiance where to look..For instance..i always get hits that when pinpointed , start bouncing around after i dig..but now i know most time it does that its right there on top of the ground somewhere and to stop diggin ..
This Site is VERY useful and im starting to see people will help you out if they can.

Sounds like you live in a great area to find some old stuff...im still waiting on my first Silver

take care

 

[njnydigger]

And you're off!!!

Welcome to the hobby Never used the 1500, but, it's considered one of the top of the line machines, so, I think you'll do pretty well.

Couple of thing to keep in mind...

First, have patience. A LOT of it. This game is just like fishing. Gotta give it time. Also, gonna have good days and bad, but, if you enjoy the pastime, you'll ALWAYS have a ball.

Second, I'm sure most people (including myself) had grand visions of instant fame and riches when they first purchased their metal detectors. Well, you have a better chance of winning the lottery I've found some great things sometimes worth quite a bit, however, it doesn't happen on a regular basis. So, enjoy it when it does happen.

Third, make sure and learn your machine. Practice anytime and everywhere. Learn what every button, switch, control and setting does. In the beginning, try and dig most any signal. Just to start training your ears and to begin learning what the VDI screen is reporting. Take notes if necessary. Really listen. Take your time. Go slow.

Finally, if you're after anything old, you MUST go to old sites. Preferably out of the way ones. Your local park, the neighborhood schoolyard, etc. are great places to practice or kill some time, but, you'll rarely find anything worthwhile there aside from clad and the occasional piece of jewelry. A good rule of thumb is...Make sure the site is AT LEAST 70 years old. If it's jewelry you're after, try the tot-lots and beaches. That'll be your best bet.

Make sure to read and/or post if you need help with anything. Us know-it-all's sometimes do get it right Most importantly, find some keepers and enjoy yourself!!!

 

[slwilliamssr]

Thanks for all the information. I will be reading and posting for sure. One thing for sure I'm always willing to ask for help. I just found out today my unit is on backorder from Kellyco Looks like I'll be waiting a little longer to get started with this hobby. But I guess I can use the time to do some research and plan out where I want to start and take all the steps to get the ok to search these places. I'll be sure to start in my own yard the first day my house was built in 1900 not to old but might find a coin or two you never know.

Thanks again all for everything.

Sandy

 

[njnydigger]

1900 is plenty old. 110 years to be exact

I'd say you'll find AT LEAST a few keepers there Just remember, GO SLOW!!! Also, don't be afraid to take the manual out in the yard or on your hunt with you. You could even make a little cheat sheet. In the beginning, I'd start with the factory pre-sets. Keep your coil level during your sweeps. No arcing or dishing.

Most importantly, at least to start, dig EVERY signal. This way the chances of finding something goes up and you'll have instant gratification and confidence. You'll also learn what your detector is "telling you".

It's not easy, but, it ain't rocket science either. Just start swinging

 

[dogpound]

i started off with a gta 1000 and then just recently upgraded to the gti 1500 and love it, its pretty much like the gta 1000 so i already pretty much knew the machine. the target sizing imaging is very usefull and does save alot of time not digging up cans or caps. just keep it on the factory coin setting and also do a bench test of different coins and also some junk to get a good feel of what the signal sounds like until ya get some time on the machine. the video that comes with the unit is also a big help if your not familiar with the machine.