Thanks for this Rich. Very well stated. If I posted some my finds that the 800 has produced in the last 3 years folks would not believe it. Thats OK with me. I and my hunting partners know the truth. The upgrade to the Manticore and a backup 900 was at a very minimal cost due to my success... So why would I not do it? The biggest hurdle was stepping out of my warm comfort zone of the 800 to an updated technology.
Now, 75 hours into the new machine learning curve I am feeling pretty confident... even with weather locked down minimal sites that are heavily detected and never had an abundance of targets I am beginning to pick up speed. The most important thing no matter what your machine preference GET OUT and use what you have. There are going to be dry spells and you must push through them and believe, and guess what? Your luck will turn around. After 50 plus years detecting I plan on detecting long and hard till I cannot. Best of luck to you all.