Both are good machines for fresh water hunting. I personally prefer the Tiger Shark, but my hunting partner has a 1280 fisher. As far as finds go my Tiger seems to have better luck on the Gold even my buddy says he wishes he had got the Tesoro over the 1280, but both machines will find the goods in the hands of a good operator. If your buying a new machine the lifetime warranty on Tesoro's is a big plus. Either way get one and get to hunting! Good Luck.