SEA HUNTER or EX CALIBER

[godzilla]

being new to the hobby i respect the opinion of the experienced metal detectors on these form s i am trying to decide between a mark2 and ex cal i understand the basic difference of the two machines is the ex cal that much better to war rent the extra money on a budget and am leaning towards the Garrett for that reason having just bought a cobra beach magnet i don't want to make a mistake with my next machine also how do you feel about buying a used machine thanks Godzilla

 

[Gulf Hunter]

Hello godzilla. I have used and owned both units. Both are excellent choices, however the discrimination characteristics of the Excal clearly make it the better choice, imo. On the Mark II, there is a feature called Discrete Trash Elimination, but that is not the preferred mode of operation. Standard Trash Elimination, 0 on elimination/discrimination and barely audible volume/threshold is the way to run the Mark II. I would HIGHLY recommend you spend the extra $ on the Excal. I have personnally had greater success using that unit, over the Mark II and they are probably comparable in depth.

Buying a used water unit is tricky business. You just have to be careful about what you get. If you buy one from someone reputable, like say myself, then all should be fine though. I have one for sale on the Classifieds now. My equipment is in tip-top shape, as I use it all myself and I don't use junk out there. I used to own 3 Mark IIs, now I own 3 Excals. In the event you DO buy used, then a trip to factory is not a bad idea, to ensure the unit is operating correctly. Mine just came back from Minelab too, so all is well. Best of luck on your decision mate.

 

[NamVetLesTreasureSeeker]

Godzilla, If you can find a used EXCAL Locally, and tell the owner you want to take for a 20-30min, test drive in his presence, without a commitment to buy, and depending on what bodies of water are available, I would recommend you take it into the water during the test drive. That way you know all the seals
are FINE, and NO WORRIES!! BEST OF LUCK, Les Robinson P.S. If you live in an area near the state of DELAWARE, I have an EXCAL for sale that is
a 9 1/2 out of 10, and you MUST DO THE TEST DRIVE in my presence without a commitment to buy, but after test drive, you must make a decision to buy or not!!

 

[Bling]

they are two diff machines.they both are good at what they do but the Excal would be the better choice if you don't want to waste time digging a lot of junk.

 

[grumpyolman]

I bought a used Excal in these classifieds and did what Gulf Hunter suggested. I sent it in immediately and was still many dollars ahead. I'd almost offer a guarantee from the 2 people who posted here about selling their used detectors that they'd be what they say they are. I'd buy from either one and would be comfortable doing so. Hope that helps...Jim