Hypothetical question

[gambler13]

You were robbed of all your metal detecting equipment. You can only spare 500.00 to get back into the hobby. What metal detector would you buy?

 

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[Kentucky Kache]

You were robbed of all your metal detecting equipment. You can only spare 500.00 to get back into the hobby. What metal detector would you buy?

Personally, I'd rather have a good used top of the line machine, than a brand new one of the lower class. I probably wouldn't be too picky, as I would be looking for the best deal, but I'm a fan of White's, so probably a used XLT.

 

[Lowbatts]

I'm with Kentucky on that. When I had my CZ5 stolen back in the late '90's I was into a new CZ7 within two weeks. They can cost a lot less these days, 300-400 bucks and I'd pull the trigger on either if I had to replace my current gear.

I if felt new gear was the only option then I'd get the best money can buy for 300 bucks and start the seed money for the next high-end machine with the left over 200 bucks, then hit every totlot/carnie cleanup/schoolyard playground/soccer field within 10 miles, until I finished the new gear fund.

By the time you're done doing that though, you find that clad and bling can be a real fix for deep oldies if it comes in massive quantities and you might just let the new rig slide by and end up getting a new car instead. One that's cheap on gas because you will be following that routine for some time.

 

[lennon631]

If you can squeeze one more hundred I have the Whites M6 and it's producing VERY WELL. Two gold rings, one of which with a good size diamond that I got today, and you know it'll pay for itself. Or, look into KellyCo buy one get one deal and sell the one to average your cost down...just my 2c worth of idea. OH! And to hell whoever stole your machine. Like fishing equipment, another true fisherman (as I would hope detectorest) wouldn't steal a fellow equipment.

 

[Iron Patch]

Easy question.

Used Explorer. It's also what I'd buy if I had $5,000, $50,000, or 5 million. (absolutely the truth too)

 

[miser]

I would get the Minlab X-Terra 505 that retails for about that price. I just bought a 305 and am very impressed with it. The 505 has the same capabilities but enhanced and runs a little deeper. It has an LCD screen with a numeric system (since they're used around the world, it won't tell you "penny"). You will soon understand what is under the coil with continued use.

The next best benefit is that you can take it to the beach, wet or dry sand. But don't get the housing wet! It's not waterproof. And the depth is supposed to be excellent.

It may not be the perfect all in one machine, but it comes reasonably close for the money and should keep you entertained for years. If you ever decide to upgrade, it will make a first rate backup machine.

 

[Frankn]

A used XLT sounds good to go!

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