New Detector
Looking for some opinions. I’ve got $800-900 max to spend on a new detector. I do mostly relic hunting but want to occasionally do some beach (wet sand, wading no deeper than calf/knee) detecting. What’s my best bet for a dual purpose detector. I’ll willing to dig most any target.
Are you a first timer? What is the soil condition you would be dealing with on your relic hunts? My choices for you would be the Whites DFX or Minelab Sovereign. If you are looking for a used, you could save some money and pick up a few extra coils for you price range.
Hi Wramsey !
Based on some research, my personal choice would be the Tesoro "Tiger Shark". With the control box attached to the pole the total weight is 4-1/2 pounds, but since the controls can be belt-mounted, this should reduce the weight on your arm by half. The price is $749.00 with the standard 8" coil and Tesoro is the only company I'm aware of that offers a Lifetime warrenty to the original purchaser. People report excellent after-sale service too.
The "Tiger Shark" is submersible to 200 feet, so if you would ever decide to do some scuba-diving, you're all set ! And you don't have to worry about the control box getting wet from wave-splash either LOL! As for land hunting, according to the Tesoro catalog,the Tiger works like any other Tesoro detector and can be used for coin and relic hunting and even gold prospecting.
But don't take my word for it, do some research, including browsing the forums on various metal detecting websites. If you prefer not to register and become a member (It's free!), then you can still browse the forums without Logging-in and learn from the experts. I'm a coin & jewelry hunter myself, so not familiar with the relic crowd, but for Beach Hunting, "Sandman" can give some good advice. If need be, I can give you the names of websites I frequent.
Good Luck and Happy Hunting !
Todd
See if there is a dealer close to you and talk with him. He may know what you need and will probably let you try one out before you buy it. Hope this helps.
Thanks for the comments. I've been metal detecting for 15 years on and off. My main detector is a whites 6000di pro. Right now I'm leaning towards the Minlab Soveren GT. I'm trying to decide if I want to try a PI detector or not. Anyway I'll make my mind up before too long.
Thanks