You have come to the right place for some answers!
Welcome to TNet forum!
Getting gear depends on your budget, but if you are the practical sort,
you'll do your research, but be sure to question yourself,
as to what kind of use you'll be putting the main machine through.
(I recommend a mid-range-priced detector) - where you live,
you might as well get a water-proof machine!
AND be sure to get a real good pinpointer, too...!
Why? Because, if you are really serious about metal detecting,
you'll soon realize that you NEED better performance, in order to find
more good stuff, in less time...!
Good Luck and Happy Hunting!