Re-entering the hobby, which one should I get?

[achaios]

I'm probably classed as a newbie at metal detecting. Many, many years ago, my parents gave me a Relco metal detector (we weren't rich, it was the absolute bottom of the line model). It was one that required a transistor radio to sit up top and receive the signals from the head unit. I could *barely* find coins that I placed on the sidewalk.

A couple of years later, I hadn't learned my lesson and got the next one up in the Relco line, a little one-knob no-speaker (headphones only) model that worked somewhat. I found 1 dime and 1 penny with it.

Over 15 years ago, I got a White's (I'll have to look at the model), but I didn't get a manual, and never figured out how to use it correctly. I've still got it, but I know that the technology has improved since then, and I want to get back into the hobby now.

My budget is $400 - $600. Right now, I'm leaning towards the Tesoro Vaquero (I've seen the manual, I think I can use it). I've also had the Garrett 1350 recommended to me, and the only strike I can think of on this unit is that membrane keyboards and me have never gotten along well, but I'm giving it serious thought. I don't want any kind of detecting to be excluded, but I will be doing coin/relic hunting the most.

Any recommendations, favorite units, ones to avoid?

Thanks,

-- Tom

[TonyinCT]

Hi Tom and welcome to the forums and back to the hobby.
Both of the detectors you metioned are worth the money. The Vaquero is a pretty decent detector for the money but doesn't have target ID. The 1350 is also a good unit and does have target ID. You have to decide which is best. I think that they are both relatively easy to use and can finds coins pretty deep (7 to 10"). Please also consider the Minlab Xterra 50 as well as the Whites M6. These all fall within your staed price range.
If you need any more help please let me know. You can check out all of the models on my site.
thanks again for coming back to metal detecting.

[Steeler1]

Welcome Tom,


All detectors you mentioned are worth the money, and will allow you to enjoy the hobby. The best advice I can offer is to decide what features are important to you, research, and stick with a major brand. Also, I would buy off of a reputable dealer.

Whatever you decide, gl.

[Ghostcat78]

I'm also new and got a prism V. I did try out an M6, and would say that I fell in love with it instantly. I went with the prism because of weight issues for my wife, she can wield it better since it's more lightweight. I tried both of them out. I'm happy with the prism, it has all the bells and whistles like the M6. Although i've never bought anything from Tony, He does seem to have the cheapest prices, and cares about fitting you in the right detector for your usage and needs.

Doug

[warsawdaddy]

Don't forget to look at the Tesoro DeLeon!