The Propointer, is the fully automatic, top shelf pinpointer. Doesn't require much effort to learn how to use. Kind of like when the average TV had knobs and switches, no remote. The really expensive TVs had remotes, so you didn't have to get off the couch... The much less expensive pinpointers will get the job done, just as well, you need to put a little effort into learning how to use them, adjust them.
Unless you are in a race (credit card bill), or some sort of self-competition, it's not going to have a huge impact on your enjoyment of the hobby. You won't need a pinpointer every target. You spend the time learning to pinpoint with your main detector, you can get within an inch or two of the target, before digging. You don't need a pinpointer at the beach at all, the scoop sifts the sand you dig.
Garrett quality doesn't accurately reflect the premium price. My first Propointer went faulty, and completely useless in only 7 months. Customer service is great, quick and painless. Unfortunately, the replacement is going bad, and almost useless, needs to go back soon. Two consecutive units, with the same problem? I really don't care about fancy tools, just a reliable tool, that gets the job done.
I had the Centech from Harbor Freight, before the Propointer, modified it some, and it still works great, only $17. Didn't expect the cheapest, to be the most reliable. I got it, mostly because it was cheap, and I like to fool around with electronics, and for the price, there would be no grief if I messed it up. Was very easy to open up, and work on, kind of fun, when two hobbies come together.
I'd suggest sticking to the basic tools you can afford, learn how to use them, just get out and enjoy the hobby. You'll figure out what you need to upgrade as you go along, and what fits into your hobby budget, see if it's really going to be worth the investment for you. Depending on the area you live, and the places you hunt, might not be a whole lot of treasure jumping out of the ground, to pay equipment bills.
Hobbies are suppose to be fun and relaxing. Different people, have different definitions of fun. I don't see going into debt, and then struggling to pay for more equipment, than I really need, as fun. I've got a full time job, where I get paid to be productive. I don't see turning a hobby, into a second job, as being fun.
and making a pinpointer my next purchase. From what I've been reading, there are two styles: the Garrett ProPointer, and toys. I just wanted to ask straight out if I'm better off saving my money towards the Garrett instead of spending $50-ish on something else.
