HELP - Newbie down to 3 MD choices (maybe)

[bradsguns]

Hello everyone...going to be new to the hobby & need some help. I like to do research before I buy, but Im going crazy !! Im looking to get into a general MD, probably to mostly cover relics(civil war bullets) & coins(old & new). I want to go with a decent quality $700 or less unit, so I dont have to upgrade in 6 mos. I am in rocky/clay soil, but do travel to other areas of the country.

I typically would be looking in pretty open areas like open land & forest(maybe an occassional beach), and will likely dig just about everything that shows up, as there shouldnt be many pull tabs in my main areas. Would like to get good depth and have either manual ground or a very good auto ground feature.

I have a technical background, so I dont necessarily need an "on & go" unit. I do have some hearing issues, so would like a unit with a display. Im also 6'4, so want to make sure the tube is long enough for me.

So, after reading reviews and getting info on other forums, Im down to these 3...unless someone has a better idea !! If you have experience on depth or use, please add it....dont just say "choose this one".
1. Minelab X-Terra 70
2. Garrett GTI 1500
3. Tesoro Cortes

Thanks so much for your time & info.
Brad

 

[EDDE]

get 2 tesoro's

 

[SHERMANVILLE ILLINOIS]

bradsguns,

I have been using the 1500 and just picked
up a Tesoro DeLeon.

"If you have experience on depth or use";
yes I have experience on depth and use
I'm happy with both machines I have.

Don't know enough about the X-Terra series.

"dont just say "choose this one".
Will not just say choose this one;

Since you said, "Im going crazy"
Don't go crazy, be smart, get all three.

Welcome to the board.

have a good un......
SHERMANVILLE

 

[thompy]

i dont think you can go wrong with the xterra, my buddy has one,its a nice machine, thinking of picking up a 50 or 70 myself as a backup to my t-2

 

[ModernDayWarrior]

I have a GTI1500 and am very pleased with it. I'm in East Texas and It gets good depth in my soil. It's sizing feature is great. I don't know how I could do without it now. Don't know much about the Tesoros or the X-Terra. Hope this helps.

 

[luvsdux]

Your choices are generally good in my opinion. I'll throw in a couple of thoughts that I hope won't confuse the issue too much. White's MXT would be another very good choice. Also, I'm a Tesoro owner and I don't mean to knock the Cortes, but for what you describe, you might be better served with the Vaquero or Tejon. They don't have the target id but you would get a bit more depth and manual ground balance that effects both the discriminate and all metal modes. Out in the open field where there is usually much less trash, a beep and dig machine is very workable as you don't need to id foil etc nearly as often as in parks etc. You mention a possible hearing problem - I really feel that any serious detectorist needs to use quality headphones, so add that to your thoughts as well. Try different models at your dealers if you have any in your area. Good luck and have fun.
luvsdux

 

[Jack(IN)]

From the three choices I don't think you can go wrong with any one of them. I'm sure you've researched and have an idea and just wanting confirmation. I think the X-terra, but to be honest no knowledge of the other two to help you. Good Luck!