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You really know a geat deal about metal detectors. What do "you" think is the best metal detector on the market today?
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Re: CarL: Need your opinion?
Holy smokes, what a question! Since I haven't used all the detectors out there, I surely can't answer that. And most people will immediately point out, that what's best for coin hunting, nugget hunting, relic hunting, and surf hunting, might all be different detectors.
However... I do have a currently "preferred" detector, and I also have a bunch of likes & dislikes across the brands & models. Right now, I mostly use a DFX, because I like tweaking settings, and learning what they do. Plus, it's a very versatile detector. However, I also have an XLT, and would probably use it, as I'm not at all convinced that the DFX is any better. But my XLT is an older model, not the E-series, and has a slower processor that drives me crazy.
For raw depth, I haven't found anything that touches the GTI2500 with the 12.5" imaging coil. It's awesome. It's also the heaviest detector on earth, like swinging a sledgehammer. Also don't like the display.
For swinging all day long with zero effort, any Tesoro uMax. I love the Bandido's true zero-motion AM mode, which has tragically been dropped from newer models. Big dislike on Tesoros, is that mode switches are panel-mounted, but the new Tejon corrects that with a trigger-type mode switch.
Best VID is on the Explorer, and DFX/XLT. But the Explorer is another sledgehammer, with crappy membrane switches. Best discriminator? Beats me, they all seem equally good on high conductor targets, and equally bad on low conductors. Dig it all, or miss some good stuff.
Interestingly, I just took 4 PI detectors to Florida, and there was no clear winner even with them. The Beachscan MkII and the Surfmaster PI Pro were the deepest, but also the noisiest, esp the SMPI. The Sandshark was the most stable and smoothest, but lacked depth. I like its VCO, too. The SeaHunter MkII lacked depth, and was decently stable. The Beachscan and SeaHunter have narrow ring-type coils that are wonderful in the surf. The Sandshark & SMPI have flat donut coils that flop all over the place.
I really don't think there's a single best detector, which is supported by the fact that there are a half-dozen manufacturers selling high-end models. Different strokes for different folks. And a lot of the success of a detector, comes from its owner learning the subtle audio responses, which is why so many people stick with what they know best.
- Carl -
Re: CarL: Need your opinion?
Hi Carl,
Are you serious about the Garrett GTI 2500 having the best depth of any of the detectors you have used of the VLF variety? The reason I ask is that I have never used the 2500 and have never heard anyone say it or any other Garrett had good depth. I hunted with Garrett's years ago but found that they couldn't compare to other manufacturers when it came to depth. I have stayed away from them ever since. Even reading the many Forums that I read I have never heard anyone say anything about a Garrett having great depth until now!!!! That is except on the Garrett Forum itself
I would be interested in hearing more of your thoughts on the GTI 2500. Thanks
HH
BeachcomberComment
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Re: CarL: Need your opinion?
I found the 2500 with the stock coil to be unimpressive. With the 12.5" coil, it was impressive. Now, it is very possible that other detectors with that large of a coil, would be equally impressive. I don't have anything larger than stock for the XLT/DFX, or Explorer. I do have a 10x12 for Tesoros, and a 10.5" for Fishers, and a 15" WOT for the Sov. I have not used the WOT, so I cannot comment on its depth. But right now, the 2500+12.5" beats everything else I've tried. However, it's just too danged heavy to use, so I rarely take it out.
- CarlComment
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Can you comment on the Troy X5?
No mention?Comment
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Because Carl, 16
Especially with a 9" coil and 2.5 lbs and 9v batt.Comment
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Re: Can you comment on the Troy X5?
I have one, and it goes pretty deep, at least as far as I can tell. Non-ID machines like this, really require A LOT of dedicated usage before you can even begin to realize its full potential. I don't have that kind of time to put into it, especially for just one machine. But I do like to try 'em out, in case one of them blows me away. That's why I mentioned the Garrett, it really surprised me, and why I tend to use the DFX for most hunting, because it's so versatile, and I know it so well.
- CarlComment
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Thanks Carl!
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