OT: Looking for help buying a metal detector

[Woodtroll]

Hello friends,

I'm hoping someone here can help me out. I'm looking for a decent metal detector for my father for his birthday. He has recently retired, and the farm still keeps him busy, but we're looking for something to promote a little recreation as well. I'd appreciate your thoughts on brand names, desireable features, things to look out for, and the least expensive place to buy. We'd like to get a mid-grade one, I guess, if such can be had for $200-300 or so?

Thanks, I appreciate your suggestions. Y'all take care! Regan

[Mojo]

I used to have a Fisher m-scope Model 1236-X2. It was a fine detector in the price range which you mentioned. Take a look at http://www.kellycodetectors.com .

[mescalero1]

It depends on what you are expecting to find.
Some are favorable for finding coins, etc.
some are more geared to finding gold nuggets
A reputable shop should be able to help

[irl104]

White's have been around for many years. I have one I bought 17 years ago. Works perfect. I'm pleased with my White.


http://hobby.us.whiteselectronics.com/

[Woodtroll]

Thanks for the prompt responses!

I should have mentioned what it would be used for. My homeplace is a farm that has been in my mother's family since just before the Revolution, and has several old homesites on it. My residence was built by my great-grandfather on another piece of property, and has some old building sites on it, as well. He also needs to find survey corner "pins" (rebar rods), etc. sometimes. Although there is a trace of gold in our creekbeds, I don't see him looking for gold nuggets <G>- mostly just finding lost objects and piddling around the old homesites.

Thanks, guys, I do appreciate it! Regan

[86er]

The best place to buy is Kellyco. They have great service and will discuss the features and your Dad's needs and intended uses before letting you buy anything.

[JReed]

+1 to the White detectors. My dad and I used to find all sorts of loot with his. It was sensitive enough to find silver dimes over a foot down.

[86er]

More details:

I got my Dad one for his birthday in Oct. It is a White's Surf Pro PI. It can be used underwater. He often hunts at the beach and likes to take it travelling. He has already found enough stuff in the surf that it would have paid for the detector.

For more casual use in the parks and such he has a White's Classic IV. It has served him well for many years.

Again I highly recommend Kellyco at www.kellycodetectors.com
for whatever you need based on the customer service and pricing.

[mescalero1]

Mine is a Garrett Gold Stinger, and as such as the name implies; you know what I do with it