It is a nice new-entry from Garrett as it's been a while. And it isn't in their top-dollar class so it will be interesting to see what they bring us in the future. I am interested in what Nokta / Makro will introduce in the way of a SMF model, and I have no doubt it will rival the higher-end offerings, like the Equinox 800, from Minelab.

I like the Apex for what it does offer and acknowledge some of the weaknesses you mentioned. But those can come in a future model.. For me and my health and need to watch weight and balance, the Apex is a terrific detector in that regard, just like my Simplex +. A lot of performance and feature options, yet nicely packaged and very comfortable to use. Both of these models are part of my Daily-Use Team that travel in my vehicle. Now all each manufacturer needs to do is get consumers a good-working smaller-size search coils for them.

And I picked up an Apex for a similar reason as you, and that's to have a decent 'loaner unit' on hand.

Monte

"Your EYES ... the only 100% accurate form of Discrimination!"
Stinkwater Wells Trading Post
Metal Detector Evaluations and Product ReviewsI'm now 'back home' in Farr West Utah monte@ahrps.org ... or ... monte@stinkwaterwells.com 503-481-8147Detector Outfit: A selection of my chosen makes and models, with the best coils mounted for the tasks I'll take on.F-19 * F-5 * Racer * Racer 2 * V-540 * Relic * Silver Sabre µMAX * Bandido II µMAX * XLTPinpointers: Garrett AT Pro-Pointers .. Headphones: 'Hornet' .. MS-3 Z-Lynk .. ML-80 *** All working well today to make memories for tomorrow. ***