Metal Detecting Forums

Metal Detecting => Equipment and Gear => Topic started by: ewertb on October 08, 2016, 01:41 PM

Title: Better Starter Detector?
Post by: ewertb on October 08, 2016, 01:41 PM
I'm looking at getting my 1st detector and am looking for some inputs from the more experienced people to make up my mind. I'm currently looking at the Minelab X-terra 505 or the Garrett ACE 400i, both being in the same price bracket.

I'm leaning towards the X-terra 505 mostly for it's versatility even though the coils aren't waterproof and I'll have to fork out extra for headphones and environmental cover and. Is this versatility and adjust-ability of the 505 really much of a value add to make it a better detector?
Title: Re: Better Starter Detector?
Post by: Paul van Heerden on October 08, 2016, 07:50 PM
I thought the coils were waterproof. I don't have either so I cannot really comment. I do have a Garrett though, and I can say that they are a great make
Title: Re: Better Starter Detector?
Post by: Brendan on October 08, 2016, 08:28 PM
Hi, i have the X-Terra 305 with the stock standard coil, after my hunts i usually wash my coil down with water. The coil is water proof.

Cheers and Happy Hunting :)
Title: Re: Better Starter Detector?
Post by: Tony Curnick on October 09, 2016, 07:11 AM
The 505 will have a waterptoof coil for sure.
Title: Re: Better Starter Detector?
Post by: ewertb on October 09, 2016, 07:26 AM
Ok, seems it's the larger Double-D coils that are only water resistant from the Minelab website. The concentrics and 6" DD are all water proof to 1m.
Title: Re: Better Starter Detector?
Post by: James Kraft on January 07, 2017, 09:53 AM
I also hunt with the smaller brother the Xterra 305 and has rewarded me time and time again. The coil is definitely water proof. Personally, the 505 will be my choice between the two although there is little difference between the 305 and the 505.