Metal detecting?

[fishingandfirearms]

My Dad and I want to get a couple metal detectors for a trip to the beach we are taking in July. I would like to spend around $150 a piece. These would mainly be used for the beach but I would also like to search for relics around some old farm houses that sit on land that I hunt artifacts and deer on. Could anyone of you suggest a detector that would be in my budget and work for the type of hunting I’m doing? Thanks.

[FairfieldOH]

I don't know a lot about metal detectors, but we do a little. One thing to consider is not all metal detectors work in the wet sand. If you want to look in wet sand, which probably has most of the good stuff, make sure the metal detector you buy can handle it.

[Wildhorse]

It's hard to find a good machine for the money you have to spend. Most machines that will work in wet sand and do a good job run over $800. and up. The cheaper ones will miss a lot and you will not be able to pass over the junk. Cheaper machines are just that cheap and will not be easy to hunt with. Not to say you can't have some luck with them just they are not going to make your hunting easy. Go on line and check out the different types and read the reports posted. Also it takes some time to learn to use them. First time out will be spent mostly learning how your machine works. These are tools and they are only tools to help find things. Pratice and time make them work much better. My guess is about 50 hours and you will begin to understand what your machine is telling you. Whatever you do try to read up about the difference on these and good luck.

[DesertWalker]

Wildhorse speak good medicine.

[Rick Hicks]

I agree with Wildhorse. Check out the website Metal Detecting Forums The New Treasure Depot It is the best site for learning about metal detecting. They also have a Classified Forum where members buy, sell and trade detectors and equipment. Good luck with your metal detecting.

[fishingandfirearms]

I knew you guys could point me in the right directions. Thanks a lot!!!

[neches]

If you are interested I have upgraded to a more expensive machine and I have a Whites IDX Pro up for sale for $300 shipped.

[Mud Hawk]

I have a Tesoro Compadre ($150) and I love it. It has a small coil for easy pinpointing and is a single dial control... you can sweep and alter the discrimination with the same arm/hand. I have used it on beaches without issues (besides gross amounts of trash). Single 9v battery so it isnt expensive to operate (like 8+ AA battery types).

It is a solid starter model, and will give you an idea of whether you like to metal detect or not before shelling out BIG bucks (can be a very expensive hobby).