Metal Detecting discussions and finds

that was one of his better vids, thanks!

 

Opinions needed. I am soon going to buy a mid level priced metal detector. I thought I had it narrowed it down to a Mine Lab Gold Monster 1000. But on talking to to the owner of the shop where I am going to buy it from, He suggested I consider the Mine lab Equinox 800, as it is more versatile, but additional coils are recommended. It is also completely waterproof, which is not the case with the G/M 1000. I am a beginner, but I do not want to buy an entry level detector, with the plan to upgrade it latter. Any advise would be greatly appreciated.

 

Im beginner also...i went with Equinox 800.

 

What will you be searching for? Gold? Coins? Relics?

 

Hobbs asked the best question. It all depends...

If gold, and you want even the smallest pieces, a Gold Monster is great. That’s what I use along with a more expensive unit for deeper gold. The GM is super sensitive to small gold and very easy to use. Lots of people who prospect for gold use GM’s to clean up gold patches of little gold nuggets and grains after using deeper sensing units for the larger and deeper burried gold nuggets, and they also use GM’s to check their tailings when drywashing. But if you want to go for gold along with coins and other stuff as Hobbs asked, I also think the Equinox 800 is a great suggestion. You really won’t need more coils for it, it’s ready to go as is, and is sensitive to small gold as well as for other stuff. Get a good pinpointer instead of more coils instead. I don’t own a Equinox (I just prospect for gold myself), but wilcam47 and Hobbs do so they’ll be better at answering specific questions about it.

Whatever you get, post back here about what you are using and what you find!

One more thing, definitely buy from a brick and mortar detector salesperson! Lots of them will treat you really well, will do training for free with you, and even invite you to go hunt with them where you probably will find gold. Some of my favorites are Robs detectors, Arizona outback, and Nuggethooters store. Perhaps other people will post some of their favorites here too.

Also check the Minelab website for dealers near you, there should be some nearby that you can talk to also, and the good ones will do outdoor trainings too. Have fun out there!

 

Hey Michael- since your info says you’re in SD, also give Executive Detectors in Elsinore a call (listed on Minelab website as an authorized dealer). I bought my GM from them and they are really great, gave me a nice discount too!

 

Big thanks to everybody for their input and suggestions. I've been hiking and backpacking throughout the western U.S. for over forty five years and many times I've came across abandoned remote railroad and miners camps, stagecoach stops at watering holes in the desert and long forgotten Spanish garrisons. Some places are not found on maps and navigationaly challanging to find. I've said to myself many times, "man i wish i had a metal detector" Well now that I have a lot of time on my hands, I plan to dig out my old notes and maps and revisit some places I've not seen in quite a while. I'll keep you guys posted of my adventures.

 

One day maybe you’ll want a SDC 2300, check those out for a future goal. They fold up really nicely for backpacks. Big bucks though... As for the GM or the equinox 800, you can also get better telescoping poles that are shorter than the original ones that come with those units, that’s one accessory you may really want to get if you’re hiking around with your detector. Look up Doc’s carbon fiber poles for those units online. He also sells really nice covers for most units too.

 

I don’t know the seller but people on this website have good reputations. Here’s a good deal on a used Equinox 800, includes some great extras also:

https://www.detectorprospector.com/forums/topic/13340-minelab-equinox-800-two-coils-cover/

 

Fantastic! Those places you've listed are ideal for searching out! And that kind of searching sounds fun, fun, fun! Good for you. Please share your adventures.

Nice FJ-40 BTW.

 

Another good deal on a used metal detector (perhaps for some of us that can afford them )

https://nuggetshooter.ipbhost.com/topic/35613-gpz7000-4500/

 

Ohhh! I like that case!

 

@Whitebutler

 

Sent a pm on Nugget shooter. I think I could swing that much right now. Its the pick up that will be hard

 

Definitely call Minelab to check those serial numbers before you do anything though. it’s a lot of money for nothing if it’s not a legit unit. I would also ask Minelab if it’s still under their warranty coverage too.

 

Yes. I've delt with this before. Although the for a time minelab was great to deal with. The second time they weren't Nice at all. In fact quite short and stern till "disconected".

 

If you end up with it, may be we can get a tacoexpess for it.
I could in theory pick it up and pass it off to @Taco-Obsessed if he is up for it.

 

If it can make it close to me I could get it to Sacramento.