Mississippi Newbie

[jhnbaker]

Hello! I am new to metal detecting and have been on another forum and just trying to learn as much as I can about this hobby. I am still in the process of picking out a detector and have been thinking about a Garrett GTXa 550 or a Whites Prism V. I am most interested in relic hunting but would also like to coin shoot as well. I love history especially CW history or as we say down here the War of Northern Agression. (ha) Anyway around 500-525 is about my price range even though I know that these two machines are used for coins I like the displays that they give to tell you what you are getting. I look forward to talking with everyone.

[PABill]

Welcome to the TQ family and there is plenty of folks on here that will help answer any of your questions. Good luck with what ever machine you decide to go with and keep us posted on your finds.

[NC_Hunting]

Hello and welcome to the forum ... good luck with your detector choice and look forward to some upcoming posts.

[TonyinCT]

Hi jhnbaker.
The Gtax 550 ia a pretty good detector but a bit older technology. The Prizm V is also a good detector with updated digital technology. Either one would be a good choice. Also look at the Fisher ID Excel which is under 479.95 . Another good choice would be the Tesoro Tejon which is just above that price range. Let me know If I can be of any help to you.

[ERnurse]

Welcome to the site. You will learn alot here. I live and detect in north Mississippi. Where you from?

[jhnbaker]

Hey ER nurse I am from Booneville and hope to have a final decision on my detector in several months. It's a hard decision!

[INDY]

Welcome to TQ...alot of great people on here to help with any questions you may have.

[GoldDigger]

Chuck makes a good point regarding a coin/jewelry machine for relics. These machines do have All Metal mode so I would think with some experience you should be able to use these as well.

I purchased a used GTXa 550 on eBay. Got a great deal on it ½ the retail price.

There are new ones on eBay for around $350. One person has these on from time to time.

I like the unit. I had an ACE 250 and the GTXa is much better quality, but it should be it costs $250 more retail. The shaft is a lot tighter and the unit has deeper depth capability of up to 4 more inches. In addition it has a volume control.

I have read for hours and hours regarding detectors and reviewed many manuals. From what I have read if I were to purchase new I would purchase either a Garrett or a MineLab. I think Whites have a great reputation but to get the same features as a Garrett you have to pay hundreds more. Garret has been in business for a long time and also creates security detectors for police and other security areas.

This is just a novice speaking. The real pro's like Chuck can give you the real scoop.


Regards,
Patrick