Northern VA -- Best detector from $200-$300??

[mathias13]

Not sure if this is the best forum for asking this question, but I've been considering purchasing the Garrett ACE 250. I'm a beginner.

Can someone please advise on the best detector for Northern VA. I am told there is a high mineral content here (iron) and was advised by some vendors to purchase an MD that has good manual ground balancing to ignore the "iron signals". Is ground balancing really necessary in order to reach the greater depths? I am told that only high-end machines ($350+) will have the necessary bells and whistles to filter out the iron in the soil...

I really don't want to spend more than $250 -- but also do not want to hear chatter constantly and not be able to distinguish mineral content from real stuff.

Help please!

 

[John 'n' W.Va]

What you were told is the truth. I can't vouch for the detector, but Kellyco (1-800-327-9697)has a MP5 detector for $279 that has ground balance. It is made in China. If you live near Boonsboro MD there is a dealer that is a great guy. Battle field Detectors (301) 432-5786. He could help you a lot, because he lives in your area and I know he has MD in northern VA. Maybe he could set you up with a used detector. I know he will take you out in the field and help you learn how to use it. You could try E-bay for a used detector.

 

[mathias13]

Thanks for the advice, John! I'll give him a ring and check out the MP5 on KellyCO.

Matt