I posted this last week over on Steve Herschbach's site, detector prospector - kind of a summary of thoughts on people and the detectors they choose and use. Some of you don't golf so this may go right over your head. Sorry. If so, you're gonna have to rub two brain cells together and figure it out. It's pretty simple.

Forgive the comparison, but I find a lot of similarities in what is the "Best Detector" to acquiring equipment in GOLF.

In golf, there are an extremely varied group of individuals in regards to skill level from Professional Golfers to those that may golf a couple times a year with friends or family members. Also, the courses played by Professional Golfers are typically much more difficult to play well then our local municipal golf course.

A wise golfer would be fitted for equipment they are capable of using well that will compliment their abilities AND is an appropriate choice for the golf course(s) they are playing.

I read posts about detectors that are most capable and think to myself, Yes, this detector is incredibly capable - but only in the hands of an advanced detectorist that understands the settings and how the adjustment of each impacts the abilities and results seen with the detector.

A beginner detectorist running out and buying "the best" detector, because the internet says so, is likely buying more detector then they can handle or know what to do with. All of those 'confusing' settings are likely to never be used, or if they are used, the results will be a crap shoot because they are being used ignorantly.

Along that same thought, a more advanced detectorists can take a detector that is way too much for a beginner and make it sing, so to speak, in the places they hunt because they have the knowledge, skills, and are in a location to do so.

So, in my mind, the best detector is one fitted to your knowledge and abilities, the locations you hunt, your temperament, your budget and your willingness and ability to learn. Oh, and don't let me forget physical limitations, like weight.

Along this line of thought, my 800 has fit me exceptionally well the last 5 years. I am hoping my manticore can successfully take over the majority of detecting duties for the places I hunt and I can have a great next 5 years.

UtahRich -

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Just one more good target before I go.