In Michigan, ground mineralization could have an effect with the igneous geology and industry that has taken place. In that case, manual or autotracking GB could be a plus. That is what you will need to ask your dealer about.
There is much to recommend buying a top detector, but for your first it may not be needed. I think ease of use, lightweight and practicality win out. You want to take it and use it everywhere; really make it an extension of your arm. The more luxe units can be a bit taxing for the newcomer.
With that said, here are my
"Top Ten Tips For Newcomers." Enjoy!
1. Dig!
This is detecting, as in "finding metal objects." You won't ever know what you HAVE detected if you dont recover it and you wont learn how your instrument responds to things if you don't.
2. DO NOT rely on meters to solve your problems.
There is A LOT of junk out there and nearly all of it can masquerade as good stuff. A bronze Roman brooch can look like a large old can lid to your detector, for instance. Ditto buckles and other desirables. Refer to Tip #1.
3. Turn the sensitivity down to start.
Dont expect to find stuff halfway to China, as most good things are within the first 8-12", at best. SENS that is too high only results in false signals and lots of frustration. Normally, I recommend starting it at about 7.
4. Set time limits.
A. Plan to detect for a certain amount of time, as often as possible. Like any activity, good practice makes you better.
B. DO NOT detect longer that you should - set a limit on that, too. Remember you have a job and a family and friends.
5. Set Recovery Goals.
A certain coin, or artifact, a certain number of coins, etc. Then work to achieve them. I have mine, you should have yours.
6. Carry your detector with you as much as possible.
You never know when a chance to detect will come along and you want to be ready. This is one reason many detectorists have a backup unit.
(but dont store it in your car - EVER!! The heat and jostling is murder on it and break-in thieves know what detectors are worth, too).
7. Learn about your area and what you might actually find in specific locations.
It obviously does no good to take your detector to a parking lot, but you rarely need to go three counties away, either.
If you've done good research into your immediate locale, you will find many places close to home to search... places you can hit more often and with less aggravation.
8. Talk to your friends and family about your new hobby.
Quiz them about any old places, or good modern places, where lots of people have been active. Become an ambassador for this avocation and talk to people. Make up some simple businss cards on your computer, declaring yourself a "detectorist." Hand them around whenever the chance arises.
A. Only the unwise refer to themselves as treasure hunters. dont be one of them. The word "treasure" gives everyone the wrong idea.
B. Learn to ask people if you can detect, when needed. Private property rights extend to landowners, not to you.
9. Plan to do all sorts of detecting.
You are new and this hobby has lots to offer. Dont imagine yourself only "this sort" of detectorist or "that sort." Try it all.
10. Get a "possibles bag." I use a rugged, $2 carry-on luggage case from the thrift store. Keep these things in it:
Extra headphones.
Extra batteries for your detector(s)
2 Digging trowels
1 recovery apron
1 probe
1 long screwdriver
1 8-10" inch hunting knife
Garden gloves
Flashlight
Super glue and duct tape
...You can have more, but youll need all of these sooner or later.
BONUS TIP #11: "Be Determined to Have Fun."
