I’m looking at buying a Minelab Explorer 2 but have little knowledge of the operation of this machine. Looks like a good one as it has a pro coil and upgrades on the data cards. I’ve used the MXT quite a bit with good success and was looking for advice on what the learning curve would be? Is $450 a fair price? I’ll be using it for relics and beach or whatever sounds fun. Any thoughts or advice would be appreciated
The explorer series (s, xs, II, Se, and SePro) are a great set of Multifrequency VLF detectors, especially when it comes to hunting salt water beaches. The II was the first model to feature a screen with both ferrous and conductive #'s. The II also received a faster processor than the S and XS.
It is pretty easy to use. There is an auto mode that you can use to simply turn on and go. But there are also manual settings to tweak the machine for max sensitivity and depth as well as discrimination. For tips, pick up Andy sabisch book in the explorer.
Considering it's age, the plastic parts can fatigue and crack or break. Look at the control module where the upper shaft slides in. Are there cracks? What about the cam mechanics that connects the upper to lower shafts, does it still work or are there cracks? Check out the headphone connector. This used the mini connector and was easily damaged. Of course, this is nothing you can't ghetto engineer or use resine to repair, but if it does have such damage, don't pay top dollar.
Coils.... I like the original coil more than the pro coil. It was more sensitive and deeper by about 1.5". That was just my experience but the pro coil is slightly lighter and looks more modern. I'd skip both and buy the 13" ultimate coil which will give you at least 20% more depth. The 15 could will really give you a boost in depth and help you cover more ground, (ideal for big beaches) but are much harder to use in the grass. The Exp-Ii will work good all the way up to 21" coils if you are in clean areas and have the arm strength to swing it.
$450 is on the high end for that machine, especially with ML releasing it's Equinox 600, an improved lightweight version that is also waterproof for $650 MSRP, brand new with warranty. Ive bought and sold quite a few explorers. Best deal was $175, and the most I paid for an SePro was $450. So you are in the ball park but it's whatever you feel comfortable with.
Any other questions, just ask
