I had one too.
Most horrible machine I have ever swung and one of the most frustrating experience I have ever had.
I told you so in a previous thread, but you got it for free, I think, so that was almost worth it.
The friend that gave it to you should have paid you to take it off his hands.
The second I swung another detector I realized exactly how bad this thing really was.
Not good in the dirt, tot-lot chips, freshwater lake and I assume salt water beaches will not be any different.
I am not knocking Bounty Hunter's...just this one.
First Texas should be ashamed of selling this unit, whether it is called the Pilot, Quicksilver or Ex.
Search for a thread from last year about the worst detector you have owned...this one had several mentions...more than any other.
I try to control myself whenever I see a thread about using this or, heaven forbid, someone thinking about buying one.
But I can't help myself.
The only thing this one is good for is to be used to drive people out of the hobby.
I hope you are saving up for your first upgrade and then you will see what I mean in about 5 seconds after you swing another.