What are some decent $400 (ish) detectors?

[Firefly]

I currently have an Equinox 800 and looking to get another detector to have as a spare, but also have an extra to allow others to use. I have about $400 in Cabelas points and gift cards, so I figured that this is a starting price point. Should I stay with Minelab or purchase a different brand? I don't have any extra coils or accessories for my Equinox, so I don't have an inventory of parts that I would want to use on another Minelab detector. I have family in Florida, so I would be taking both detectors on vacation to the beach. I would want something that is decent on saltwater beaches. I have never taken my Equinox in the water detecting, so I don't know if the extra detector would be used in saltwater or not. What other information should I consider?

 

[DudeDoubloon]

X-terra Elite

 

[iDetectorX]

One of the best deals going right now is the Nokta Triple Score. It’s closer to $500, but includes wireless headphones and two coils.

 

[Firefly]

One of the best deals going right now is the Nokta Triple Score. It’s closer to $500, but includes wireless headphones and two coils.

Unfortunately, Cabelas does not sell Nokta metal detectors. I watched a video that rated the $500 detectors and the Triple Score the guy rated the Triple Score the best followed by the Minelab X-Terra Elite.

 

[rcornell]

Vanquish 440 as long as you are not dunking the control box

 

[Firefly]

Vanquish 440 as long as you are not dunking the control box

Are these comparable to the Garrett Ace line?

 

[MuddyMo]

Way better.

 

[Digging Prayers]

Elite, best choice. IMHO

 

[MuddyMo]

The Vanquish 440 would be my choice for a backup/lender. The 540 would be better if you buy the 10” coil. Light, simple, works great on the beach and similar tones and numbers as your 800.
If you want waterproof then the elite.

 

[Dave_e]

My only issue with the Vanquish is that it only does SMF. Can't do single freqs. If the EMI is really bad a site might be undetectable without single freq capability.

 

[Surf Master]

I currently have an Equinox 800 and looking to get another detector to have as a spare, but also have an extra to allow others to use. I have about $400 in Cabelas points and gift cards, so I figured that this is a starting price point. Should I stay with Minelab or purchase a different brand? I don't have any extra coils or accessories for my Equinox, so I don't have an inventory of parts that I would want to use on another Minelab detector. I have family in Florida, so I would be taking both detectors on vacation to the beach. I would want something that is decent on saltwater beaches. I have never taken my Equinox in the water detecting, so I don't know if the extra detector would be used in saltwater or not. What other information should I consider?

Keep your Nox 800 , you will get nothing special with 400 clams except low end detectors for Kids

 

[rcornell]

Keep your Nox 800 , you will get nothing special with 400 clams except low end detectors for Kids

Really! lol

 

[stetam]

Really! lol

 

[Solong]

The ole trusty simplex+ is a workhorse. Look on eBay. Sp24 coil is a must.

 

[Cherry Picker]

I go along with the others saying you're not going to find much better than your 800 for $400. I've seen a few good used 800s on eBay for just a tad over $400.

 

[DYING2DIG]

The ole trusty simplex+ is a workhorse. Look on eBay. Sp24 coil is a must.

But not so much on the beach. I would recommend a good used Nox 600 for a backup.

 

[MuddyMo]

The Op isn’t looking to replace his 800 or upgrade. He said a backup/lender for $400ish at Cabela’s that would be used some at the beach.
Both hunters don’t have to be “in” the water at the same time and dry sand hunting can be productive. It is also much easier for kids, older people and new hunters so waterproof may not be necessary.

 

[metaladdict]

Are these comparable to the Garrett Ace line?

No, Garrett is a little bit behind.
Although the Apex maybe closest.

 

[metaladdict]

Keep your Nox 800 , you will get nothing special with 400 clams except low end detectors for Kids

Sorry but my vanquish 440 is no slouch!

 

[Surf Master]

Sorry but my vanquish 440 is no slouch!

Depends , I can't speak for the tott lot hunters , just beach , still have the CTX3030, Manticore , F75se , had a 800 , a 440 wouldn't be an upgrade , a step down more like it , AN upgrade from the 800 , is the Manticore , happy hunting . PS Manticore spring special 1299.00 man up bro.