I am interested in getting a Tesoro detector. I like the simplicity, and reputation of the Compadre specifically. I have two questions though. First, when they refer to "silent search" what does that mean? I figure it can't actually be silent as it's only means of indicating a target is with a beep. And second do these machines have different tones that indicate different types of targets, or is it just one tone all the time?
Thanks
Silent search means no beeps, tones or noises unless it is swinging over metal.
In the real world there might be some false noises here and there but there is no constant threshold tone like many units possess using all metal for instance so basically silent search.
The Compadre has an all metal knob setting but unlike a Vaquero it is just hunting in disc while accepting all targets with no threshold tone so still silent search.
Except for the Golden model most other Tesoros have one tone but don't think that is all there is to it and that these are "beep and dig" units only...far from it.
There is a language, some techniques and behavior we all learn that can give you about as much info about hidden targets as those that use screen units and I know because I have many, many hours using both kinds and still do.
There is an amazing amount of possible information in that one tone and I have always said learning to hunt the Tesoro way with sound only can only have positive effects and results in the future for any hunter that does no matter what kind of units they end up preferring to use
As far as how to use a Tesoro, the basics anyway, here is something I posted long ago in answer to a new owner of a Compadre that had questions about how it works and how we use it.
Post number 2 in this thread....
http://metaldetectingforum.com/showthread.php?t=77822
I still pull out my Compadre from time just for a change and mostly because it is just so much blasted fun to use...and still so productive.
Last week I used it in a heavily hunted area and still managed to find a totally hidden and masked 1917 buffalo nickel.
I have always said no matter how many types of detectors you have in your arsenal everyone should definitely also own a Compadre...a no brainer IMO.
For the price of a decent coil you get a complete unit that can do some amazing and jaw dropping things.