Wife bought me a Bounty Hunter 3300 metal detector for Christmas. I retired in 2021 and I think she just wants me out of the house.
Anyway, I opted for an inexpensive model to see how long my interest lasts. Here are my first impressions (I got it early).
This post is not intended to be a full review as I've not used a MD before and my inexperience might be the source of any complaint I may register. I'll do some more trial runs in the days ahead to learn the basics before venturing out into the field.
Pros:
1. Inexpensive ($140)
2. Easy assembly
3. Upper support rod (called the S-rod) is metal.
4. Includes a Zap mode to eliminate objects with the touch of a button.
5. Can be used almost straight out of the box.
6. Has a built-in PinPointer.
7. Users Manual plainly written (mostly).
Cons:
1. Text above LCD window used to identify coin type (EX: 1¢, 5¢, etc.) too small for these tired old eyes.
2. No instruction on how to turn off PinPoint Mode.
3. Battery type needed not listed in the product description. You'll need 2 9-volt ackalines.
4. Batteries not included.
5. Next to no packing material in the box but did arrive undamaged.
6. Control unit housing is all plastic as is the lower support rod (called the lower stem).
7. Search coil is not waterproof. Not sure how the unit will hold up if I'm caught in a rain storm.
Straight out of the box with assembly complete, I throw the manual on the couch. (Does any read those?). It's written in English. I'll read it later.
I've a penny, nickel, dime, and quarter (common circulation coins, no silver) in hand to perform a quick test. Coins are place on my deck (concrete) about 12" apart. The steel in-ground pool siding below the deck all but forgotten.
Regardless, 3300 accurated identified all four coins. Satisfied, I launch a search of my back yard. I ping several spots but unearth nothing though I try (but not very hard).
My dog follows me around watching me do what I've chastised him for doing. The few spots I dig, I create a plug so I can cover my mistake before the wife sees it. Dog thinks its funny and while I'm not watching carrries off a plug to another part of the yard. A half hour later I get a good signal and decide to dig it out. So, here is my very first 'find' MDing.
I believe it is a Rehsawawa medalian given to a tribal member for tracking and killing a huge male Maskalou (similar to the American Buffalo), thereby providing sustenance for the coming winter.
In the first image below, the Maskalou is depicted in the 2 o'clock position as a raised detail while the hunter is shown stalking the beast at about the 10 o'clock position. The large hole in the middle serves a yet to be discovered purpose.
Posted 12/15/2023 10:31 pm
