Best Metal Detector Under $800

The best mid-range metal detector under $800 for serious hobbyists, tailored for your scenario and use case.

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Suited for intermediate hunters upgrading from entry-level for better finds in challenging soil.

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We use primary hobby, terrain, depth priority, multi-frequency, and weight to recommend mid-range detectors with better ground balance and target separation. These inputs balance performance upgrades for serious hobbyists. Limitation: this price range rarely includes pulse induction technology for extreme mineralization.

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Best Metal Detector Under $800 for Gold Prospecting

1. Minelab Equinox 600

• Price: Approximately $649
• Depth Capability: Up to 12 inches in highly mineralized soil
• Weight: 3.2 lbs
• Key Features:
  • Multi-IQ technology for simultaneous multi-frequency detection
  • Waterproof up to 10 feet
  • 11-inch Double-D coil for enhanced depth and sensitivity
  • Advanced target identification and discrimination settings
  • Lightweight and ergonomic design for long hours of use

The Minelab Equinox 600 stands out as the best option under $800 due to its advanced technology, depth capabilities, and user-friendly features, making it ideal for gold prospecting in challenging soil conditions.

Runner-Ups

2. Nokta Simplex+

• Price: Approximately $299
• Depth Capability: Up to 10-12 inches
• Weight: 2.9 lbs
• Key Features:
  • Fully submersible up to 10 feet
  • Built-in wireless technology for audio headphones
  • Fast recovery speed and adjustable sensitivity
  • Multiple search modes including Beach, Park, and Field
  • Lightweight and ergonomic for ease of use

While the Nokta Simplex+ may not reach the same depths as the Equinox, it offers excellent value and performance for those on a budget, making it a great choice for beginners.

3. Garrett AT Pro

• Price: Approximately $599
• Depth Capability: Up to 12 inches
• Weight: 3.03 lbs
• Key Features:
  • All-terrain and waterproof design
  • Pro Mode Audio for enhanced target sound
  • Adjustable sensitivity and discrimination settings
  • 8.5 x 11 inch DD coil for better depth and detection
  • Target ID and depth indicator for accurate readings

The Garrett AT Pro is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable all-terrain detector with great depth capabilities and advanced features.

Brought to you by TheToolCollective.com

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The Tool Collective are a group of diverse and talented hobbyists on a mission to create thousands of ultra specific, and helpful decision making tools that help others who share our passions and interests. Whether they help with buying decisions, or give you expert level advice for techniques or methods, we will make it. Metal detecting is something many of us grew up doing with our fathers and relatives, especially along the east coast beaches of the U.S. Not many things that bring you a sense a pure hope and wonder like wondering around trying to find a valuable piece of gold jewelry. It's a lot like fishing, you never know what you may catch. Here are a bunch of decision tools devoted to metal detecting enthusiasts and treasure hunters. Enjoy!

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Made with The Tool Collective's signature model. We combine an AI engine which process the user's input choices and runs it through our specifically designed logic and reasoning parameters for that tool to curate a precise and organized output. An enthusiast knowledgeable in the tool category designs the tools inputs and input choices, writes custom logic parameters, and defines the output format and requirements. The AI engine powers the system and creates a lightning fast, highly intelligent decision tool, which is always up-to-date with current pricing and publicly available information on whatever the tool is designed for. Combines all of the internets resources into one.

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