New member new to detecting.

[SnohomishDigger]

I’ll be detecting up in your neck of the woods this weekend - hoping to visit sites in/near Maple Falls and Sumas.

I started detecting nearly 2 years ago with entry-level equipment: a Bounty Hunter Tracker IV and a Garett Pro Pointer knock off. I wanted to make sure I was going to stick with the hobby before spending a lot of money. I found some pretty cool stuff, including a few silver coins.

In August 2018 I “upgraded” to an Equinox 600 and a real Garret Pro Pointer. The “quality” and quantity of my finds has jumped exponentially since then.

I considered both the AT Pro and the Equinox since I wanted a waterproof machine with VDI, ground balancing, and pinpointing ability. Both machines fulfill these basic requirements. My detecting partner uses an AT Pro, and we both find cool stuff.

What tipped the balance for me toward the Equinox was it’s multi frequency operation. I went with the 600 over the 800 because based on my hunting style and goals I didn’t believe I would need the added features of the 800. So far I have no regrets in choosing the 600. I like the built-in Bluetooth that lets me pair wireless headphones and earbuds directly with the detector right out of box.

Your needs may vary.

As to Washington’s mineralized soil = it hasn’t been a problem for me yet. I routinely retrieve coin size targets 6-8 inches deep. I believe my deepest recovery with the Nox so far was a 1928 Merc dime that was 9.5 inches deep.


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[DiggingThePNW]

Welcome!

Thanks

 

[DiggingThePNW]

I’ll be detecting up in your neck of the woods this weekend - hoping to visit sites in/near Maple Falls and Sumas.

I started detecting nearly 2 years ago with entry-level equipment: a Bounty Hunter Tracker IV and a Garett Pro Pointer knock off. I wanted to make sure I was going to stick with the hobby before spending a lot of money. I found some pretty cool stuff, including a few silver coins.

In August 2018 I “upgraded” to an Equinox 600 and a real Garret Pro Pointer. The “quality” and quantity of my finds has jumped exponentially since then.

I considered both the AT Pro and the Equinox since I wanted a waterproof machine with VDI, ground balancing, and pinpointing ability. Both machines fulfill these basic requirements. My detecting partner uses an AT Pro, and we both find cool stuff.

What tipped the balance for me toward the Equinox was it’s multi frequency operation. I went with the 600 over the 800 because based on my hunting style and goals I didn’t believe I would need the added features of the 800. So far I have no regrets in choosing the 600. I like the built-in Bluetooth that lets me pair wireless headphones and earbuds directly with the detector right out of box.

Your needs may vary.

As to Washington’s mineralized soil = it hasn’t been a problem for me yet. I routinely retrieve coin size targets 6-8 inches deep. I believe my deepest recovery with the Nox so far was a 1928 Merc dime that was 9.5 inches deep.


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That is awesome. I'm stoked there is some more local info. Have you been up by Monte Cristo? I live in Kendall there are some cool areas I'm gonna hunt like lone jack and such.

 

[SnohomishDigger]

That is awesome. I'm stoked there is some more local info. Have you been up by Monte Cristo? I live in Kendall there are some cool areas I'm gonna hunt like lone jack and such.

The Monte Cristo site is off limits for detecting, but there are some opportunities along the Mountain Loop Highway. In that area you need to make sure you’re on public land when detecting.


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[DiggingThePNW]

Get the Equinox 800. Not to bash on any other detector... But I have used Bounty Hunter, Garrett, Nokta, and Whites, and so far, the Minelab Equinox 800 has been my favorite. As for getting what you can afford on your budget, it's good advice, but I would have saved money had I just went ahead and got the Nox first.

Just Ordered it.

 

[DiggingThePNW]

Welcome to the forum from Western NY

Thanks bet there is cool spots up there.

 

[DiggingThePNW]

The Monte Cristo site is off limits for detecting, but there are some opportunities along the Mountain Loop Highway. In that area you need to make sure you’re on public land when detecting.


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I got the state park permit. Noticed alot are not on there.

 

[DiggingThePNW]

you might keep a eye on the For Sale or Trade section for a good used machine , or check or sponsors for good deals on new machines .

That is where my wife's will come from.

 

[SnohomishDigger]

That is awesome. I'm stoked there is some more local info. Have you been up by Monte Cristo? I live in Kendall there are some cool areas I'm gonna hunt like lone jack and such.

Here is a site many detectorists use to evaluate possible search sites: https://www.historicaerials.com/viewer

Other useful info: Washington state parks have specific metal detecting limitations. Details can be found here: https://parks.state.wa.us/127/Metal-detecting

Be sure to practice cutting plugs and always fill your holes.


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[DiggingThePNW]

Welcome Jed to the hobby and to the forum from Wisconsin's now thawed Tundra. Trapper

Thank you.

 

[SnohomishDigger]

I got the state park permit. Noticed alot are not on there.

Yep. The state is pretty restrictive on hunting their land. Check the regulations for your local county parks and city parks. I’ve gotten some pretty cool finds from local lakes that have public access.


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[DiggingThePNW]

Here is a site many detectorists use to evaluate possible search sites: https://www.historicaerials.com/viewer

Other useful info: Washington state parks have specific metal detecting limitations. Details can be found here: https://parks.state.wa.us/127/Metal-detecting

Be sure to practice cutting plugs and always fill your holes.


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Cutting Plugs? I read the state park rules. They seem pretty straight forward. I also have been researching the old usgs maps with current google earth. Ill be using that aerial link now as well. Thanks I really appreciate it.

 

[DiggingThePNW]

... from the Land of 10,000 Lakes - Minnesota! We're glad that you have joined us. Happy hunting!

Thanks, go vikings. My 2nd favorite team.

 

[DiggingThePNW]

Welcome from the coast of South Carolina. My first detector was the Minelab Sovereign GT. I bought it because my brother in law recommended it as being a very good machine. He based his recommendation on the fact that his twin brother used one with success. It took quite a bit of learning to be able to appreciate the machine. Living near the ocean I wanted a waterproof machine and purchased the Minelab Excalibur II which is very similar to the GT. Those two machines have been very good to me. Regardless of what mahine you decide on take the necessary time to learn what the machine is telling you.

Thanks, I'm glad to hear you have enjoyed minelab.

 

[SnohomishDigger]

Cutting Plugs?

Sorry - “cutting a plug” is the term detectorists use to describe opening up the ground to retrieve a target - usually on grass or sod. The term comes from the general practice that many people use a digging tool with a semi-sharp edge on one side and a serrated edge on the other. The goal is to cut open the ground, retrieve the target, then replace the plug in such a way that no trace is left of the procedure. With practice it becomes second nature. This level of care avoids complaints by non-detectorists that the site is being “dug up.”



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[DiggingThePNW]

Welcome from Corsicana, Texas!

Thank you.

 

[DiggingThePNW]

Sorry - “cutting a plug” is the term detectorists use to describe opening up the ground to retrieve a target - usually on grass or sod. The term comes from the general practice that many people use a digging tool with a semi-sharp edge on one side and a serrated edge on the other. The goal is to cut open the ground, retrieve the target, then replace the plug in such a way that no trace is left of the procedure. With practice it becomes second nature. This level of care avoids complaints by non-detectorists that the site is being “dug up.”



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OK got ya. Yeah I plan to leave no trace and remove trash targets.

 

[DiggingThePNW]

So I ordered the 800 and the xp MI-6 pinpointer. Also added a scoop and a shovel as well as the Detect-Ed red belly black shaft. Very Pumped

 

[DiggingThePNW]

should I possibly consider another coil or wait till I figure this all out?

 

[SnohomishDigger]

should I possibly consider another coil or wait till I figure this all out?

I’d advise learning the stock equipment first. The 800 will have a learning curve. Eventually you may want a 15-inch or 6-inch coil. Each has a particular use. The 15-inch is good for covering a lot of ground quickly, and possibly a bit more depth sensitivity than the stock 11-inch coil. I don’t have a 15, so I’ll let other users provide firsthand advice on it.

I do have a 6-inch coil. I picked it up in February. I find it useful for searching sites with lots of trash in the ground, and for sites that have a lot of above ground obstacles like boulders, trees, tall vegetation, etc. But, again, my recommendation is to add it after you’ve used the stock coil for awhile.


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