Suggestions for 1st MD

[RallySTI]

With XMAS around the corner, I was going to ask for my 1st metal detector. What should I start with. Price range up to $400. Also what else do I need. I live next to the Meramec River in MO and I have witnessed people lose wedding rings when they flip canoeing. So I would like one that is semi-waterproof. It doesnt have to be submerged, just shallow water wading. I also plan on doing a lot of searching in fields. I have a 500 acre farm with 2 old houses so I plan on spending a bunch of time out there. I would like it to be able to find mostly coins and jewelry. I am a total noob to MD'ing so any information will help. I plan on doing a lot of reading on the forums also.

[Lowjiber]

If you're going to stay in water below knee level, just about any detector will suffice. The coils and bottom shaft are waterproof. It's when you get the box under water that you have a BIG problem and need a totally waterproof machine.

The problem with buying a waterproof machine is that they're not really ideal for hunting dry land. I have a water proof Detector Pro Wader that works in the dirt, but there are many other land machines that will outperform it on the dry stuff.

There are several good beginning machines that fit well within your price range. I recommend the Ace 250 at about $200.

I'm originally from Mo too. Grew up in Devils Elbow. I went into Onondaga Cave when you had to enter by boat in an underground river....tells you how old I am.

Anyway, Welcome to the forum from northern California. You'll find lots of friendly folks here who will be happy to help and answer any questions.

[Carol K]

Also check out the Tesoro line of detectors. Like a Cibola. It will give you great depth in the fields.

[Bearharold]

welcome to the forum RallySTI glad to have you join us . I use the ace 250 myself but not in water , but it can be used in shallow water but have to keep the top box dry or its gone . Most coils are water proof but like he said can't get water in the electronics box or it will be a goner. I live at Chillicothe , Missouri myself and hunt mostly parks and tot lots and a few old farm yards . Good luck HH Harold

[RallySTI]

All that I plan on getting wet would be the head so I guess I have no worries. So are most of these metal detectors user friendly? Are they pretty much turn on and go? Or do you have to dial them in

[rascal]

They are very user friendly but all detectors can be tweaked. rascal

[RallySTI]

I've been reading reviews on the Garrett Ace 250. Some people love it, some hate it. I watched a video on youtube and it seemed like a good starter. A lot of the hunting I want to do will be along the river, in both gravel and sand. But I also want to be able to use it in fields.

[RallySTI]

So I just saw the awesome deals on Kellyco's website. I talked to my dad and he wants a metal detector for xmas also. So I've decided to go with the Ace 250. I figured I would get him a tesaro or a whites. What do you think

[BrianVickers83]

i have heard alot of praise for tesoro. I think you should check em out.

[Flapjack]

Originally Posted by RallySTI

So I just saw the awesome deals on Kellyco's website. I talked to my dad and he wants a metal detector for xmas also. So I've decided to go with the Ace 250. I figured I would get him a tesaro or a whites. What do you think

I think Kellyco has some good deals if you are going to buy 2 detectors.
Flapjack