What should I get for a metal detector?

[Bent Benny]

I really want to get into metal detecting while diving. I have no experience at all with metal detectors. I don't need anything that will go super deep, but something that can handle 30fsw is a must.

What should I be looking for? Are there any detectors in particular that anyone reccomends? My budget can handle up to $1,000 USD, but I would really like to keep it below $700 if I can do that without buying junk.

There is a uses minelab excalibur v1 with a 10" coil upgrade that I found for $600. Would this be ok for someone just starting out and is this a good deal?

 

[icechip]

I have used the Garrett Sea Hunter Mark II for a couple of years. It's been great! Price is in your ballpark. Garrett Sea Hunter Mark II Metal Detectors | Manufacturer

 

[American Digger In Europe]

I really want to get into metal detecting while diving. I have no experience at all with metal detectors. I don't need anything that will go super deep, but something that can handle 30fsw is a must.

What should I be looking for? Are there any detectors in particular that anyone reccomends? My budget can handle up to $1,000 USD, but I would really like to keep it below $700 if I can do that without buying junk.

There is a uses minelab excalibur v1 with a 10" coil upgrade that I found for $600. Would this be ok for someone just starting out and is this a good deal?

I have an Excalibur II and a Sea Hunter MK II. The Excal is a MUCH better machine! Mine cost me $1,300.00. If the Excal you're talking about is in good shape, it's a GREAT DEAL!

 

[Bent Benny]

I have an Excalibur II and a Sea Hunter MK II. The Excal is a MUCH better machine! Mine cost me $1,300.00. If the Excal you're talking about is in good shape, it's a GREAT DEAL!

It's not an excal II just an excal. It is great! I've already found a bunch of old Sterling rings and one gold wedding band. The one I got does have a few small issues though so I should probably send it out to get fixed this winter.

 

[Geobound]

How deep are you going with your detector?

+1 on the Excal II.

 

[Bent Benny]

I've just been sticking in 15' or less for the most part. I haven't been using it much though. I used it a bunch for the first couple weeks but I've been trying to focus more on improving my diving ability so I haven't been bringing the excal with me.

 

[Geobound]

I use my CTX for 10' max, and have had decent luck. Are you diving alone at that depth, or have you found a buddy who likes to hunt as well?

 

[Bent Benny]

I use my CTX for 10' max, and have had decent luck. Are you diving alone at that depth, or have you found a buddy who likes to hunt as well?

All by myself

 

[GaMatt72]

I use my CTX for 10' max, and have had decent luck. Are you diving alone at that depth, or have you found a buddy who likes to hunt as well?

You can adapt the CTX to dive deeper. Look up Frogman Riviera on YouTube and check out his mods.
But the Minelab Excalibur II is one of the best. Call a dealer and never pay retail.

 

[Geobound]

You can adapt the CTX to dive deeper. Look up Frogman Riviera on YouTube and check out his mods.
But the Minelab Excalibur II is one of the best. Call a dealer and never pay retail.

If I recall correctly he has also drowned a few machines, so I would be cautious about taking a $2500.00 machine where it wasn't designed to go. I'd rather spend the $1200.00 a purposeful machine like the Excal or the CZ21.