What's The Average Life Span Of A Metal Detector?

I have had 4 different Fisher models. Currently, I own a Fisher 1266XB which I purchased around 1991. It has seen hours and hours of use not to mention falling, dropping and banging. I've never had a problem other than the little plastic pieces that hold the batteries together. These break and need to be replaced. They last longer if you take the batteries out when not in use. I also have a White's Spectrum XLT which I purchased in 1990-1. This too has held up fine. There isn't much to go wrong with the Fisher models that don't have LED displays.

Don't forget to always use a plastic coil cover when detecting. This will wear out the cover but not your coil. When you swing the detector, the coil rubs against the ground. Let the cover wear out then replace it with a less than 5 dollar part rather than wearing out your coil. Coils are much more expensive to replace.

If you are going to get the Ace 350, do yourself a huge favor: Spend a little more and get the AT Pro.

It will be like night and day. It is the difference between a toy and a professional grade machine.

If you aren't ready to use the advanced features of the AT Pro, you can still grow into it. It has 2 modes with different levels (technically 6): 1 is pro mode and the other mode basically turns it into an Ace 350. The AT Pro is also waterproof.

PM me for more info.

My ML Explorer 2 has changed owners at least 3 times, over 10 years old, thousands of hours used at least by myself, still going strong.