I bought the MXT-300 just this past week, but was also thinking about the MXT with the smaller coil. The reason I bought it with the bigger coil was one for the savings of the 12" coil of $150 off the cost of buying the coil alone. and using the savings for the 6X10 DD. May sound some what stupid, but new to this detecting sport. I took the machine out for it's first run today and had a blast. I went to a school and the play area had wood chips around the equipment, great for digging. I found quarter after quarter, 3 in just one spot. Then some dimes and penny's. The penny's came first. I thought I was doing something wrong until I hit the quarters. Like you all have been saying, it's learning the machine. The area wasn't very trashy, I guess that helped me out most of all using the bigger coil. The coil is heavier, but I did well with it. I'm trying to learn as much as I can before my vacation to Northern California for my Fly-Fishing and Prospecting trip. My dad lives right on this river and I can't wait to get up there and hunt. Reading all the things you all write is very great and helpful. I am going to step way out there and say we all like our detectors, and I'm sure you will love whatever machine you purchase. I think you will love the MXT, but all in all.....you need to learn your tools in order to enjoy the treasures. I don't think I will ever stop learning.
DC
DC