There used to be a more notable difference back in the '70s, '80s and '90s, mainly with analog circuitry and coils like a 6" or 7" compared with an 8" and then a 9½" to 12", and then something larger for bigger-size targets. Coil designs have changed a little and the detectors have mostly graduated to digital circuitry and there is a lot more control in the software.
That's why I only have one detector with what I consider a larger-size coil, my 2nd Apex w/'Raider' coil, to take o plowed fields, a beach or some other sparse-target open area.
Long ago I found that a lot of our more modern detectors can achieve surprising detection depths with their smaller-size to mid-size coils, as long as there is not target masking going on. Thus, my current Detector Team is well outfitted and suited to taking on a wide-range of hunt sites i plan to search. I have trimmed a lot of extra coil choices and excess detectors to get to my current set-up. That helps keep it 'simple' and also maintains the 'fun-factor' to enjoy going out detecting.
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 .. Racer .. Vanquish 540 .. FORS 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. ***