1st detector for my son, backup for me.

[Neugene]

I use an Explorer Se. I have bought an X-70 for my 8 year old sons first detector (and as a backup for me). I was/am kicking around the idea that I should have got a F75 instead.
We hunt old home sites, schools, parks, civil war camps and the ocassional trip to the beach.
Do you guys think the X70 suit both his needs as well as my own?
I am also curious how similar the sounds/IDs will be to the Explorer.
Thanks in advance.

 

[BarnacleBill]

Yikes! An X70 for an 8 year old? I can see you using the X70, but it is not a starter detector for a child, and the F75 even less so!

In the Minelab line an X30, Garrett Ace 250, Tesoro Compadre, White's Prizm. Look at the FAQ sticky above for all sorts of opinions, views, uses, locations etc. of the X30.

Whereas some, myself included, are not fond of the pinpoint on the X-Terras, it is the Bee's knee's for use by children, and that is the voice of experience.

HH
BarnacleBill

 

[Neugene]

Thanks for the info.
The way I see it, after reading the manual, is the X70 should be capable of being "dumbed down" so to speak so that he can use it in much the same way that he would use the 30 but still be capable of growing with him. At the risk of sounding like a proud parent, he is an honors student and "smarter than the average bear" so I think he can handle the learning curve given time and proper guidance. BUT, I may be wrong since I have only read the manual and had no hands on experience with the unit.

 

[wpaxt]

The 70 is no machine for an 8 year old, regardless of how bright he is. And don't sell the 30 short--it is a very competent performer that I would recommend for any user who is new to detecting, either as a primary machine or a backup. You turn it on and you hunt. And it finds plenty. Many times I prefer taking my 30 out just because I want to be lazy & not futz with anything.

Good luck with whatever machine you choose.

Bill

 

[Digger]

Since you already bought the X-70, I will try to answer your questions with that in mind. Some adults have thought the lower rod was too long. So, with an 8 year-old using it, you may have to cut it down or order the shorter rod. The F-75 hasn't been around long enough to make any determination as to it's durability. But, based on my displeasure with the construction quality of the T2, I know the X-Terra would have been my choice. You will be able to set the X-70 up as simple or complex as you like. The Auto GB, Auto NC and Tracking will help your son maximize the settings. The audio signal is programmable at single, double, triple, quadruple or multiple ( 28 ) tones. Although the tones are similar to the SE, the faster sweep speed makes the X-Terra easier to decipher. The operational modes, settings and coil frequency choices will allow you to adapt the X-70 to the type of hunting you are doing that day. I think you and your son will find the SE and X-70 to be a great combination.

However, your son needs to accept the fact that dad will likely be using his X-70 while he is at school. HH Randy

 

[bfodnes]

I think You made the correct choice. The 70 is a very good detector and probably the easiest detector to learn in its powerclass. It is also very sturdy and can take a punch better then many many detectors.

Bill has a point that the 70 has far more adjustments then the 30 but at the same time the 70 can mimic a 30 and at the same time better it.

You make the adjustments for him and leave the track on, tell him just to use the pinpoint and You both should be well off, its a hell of a backup to the Explorer too.

Your 8 yo son will love the 70, try to obtain a 6" coil too when they are released. He has a detector to grow with too, it will not be very long until he walks around You at some places. My 11 year shares mine and we cut the lower stem to suit us both. That is the only drawback I see but it is easily overcome and is the same on the 30 and 50 too.

Keep it and dont look back, I think its a good advice.

Bjorn

 

[bfodnes]

I did it before I learned how to do it here on the forum and here is the best way to do it. I missed it but did ok anyway.

Lock the lower stem in the most upper hole and mark the stem good using a marker through some of the lower holes.

Be sure to drill in the exact center of the markings or the coil can be offset when you use the new hole you choose for the clip. The clip is easy to remove and easy to insert once you have done the cut.

Maybe other have better advice, dont do it until you are sure how to do it, but keep the 70 ;-)

 

[nugget71]

My opinion on the subject of your 8yr old son is this.......kids today grow up with technology........computers....mobile phones.....mp3's (mp4's now) etc etc. Im sure your son will have no trouble over time mastering this detector and with your help of course he will probably kick your butt...Lol. I think you made a good choice with the 70 and you will find yourself drawn to this machine. I had the Exp II and loved it but I must say I prefer the 70 for alot of reasons. All in all I wish you and your son the best of luck with your adventures!
Cheers!

 

[Neugene]

Thanks for all the input guys. I will keep it. If it is too challenging to him then I will look for a used 30.

 

[Mick in Dubbo]

Bfodes. The simplest thing to do to make sure that you have got the hole right, is to simply drill it while the lower stem is still inserted in the shaft. Doing this makes getting the hole correctly aligned, foolproof!
Mick Evans.

 

[bfodnes]

That was the second time You corrected me, maybe I got it this time

Thanks again.

Bjorn

 

[Mick in Dubbo]

I must be getting old and forgetful too Bjorn. I remember writing about that, but couldn't remember to whom. Oh well, folks that weren't previously aware of it before, may be able to use the information.
Mick Evans.