Hi Stephen I would say go for it , but hang on there are some machines out there probably just as good at a much cheaper price and more user friendly , try looking at the new nokta makro score , there are two models with the double score which has slightly more adaptability, and knowing that nokta makro legend has been a resounding success and even merril himself has it at no1 you could visit your local detecting shop and get some advice and helpful tips , so good luck for the future of beach detecting .

Hi Rachel If its any consolation its just as hard in the uk to get permission to detect on land , but not knowing where you reside it would possibly be best to find a local detecting group where you could join to go on land digs and pick up some good tips , so good luck for the future and let everyone know how you get on and what finds you have made.

though i agree its a good idea from merril , as a last resort change the wife and get a partner who is into detecting ......only joking.

Hi Steve I found your post most amusing and fully understand about keeping the wife happy , but remember when the goodies start coming up on a regular basis that might might be the time to upgrade to a nox900 without upsetting the wife , but anyhow welcome to the great world of detecting and good luck for the future ,

its really nice and touching story and its really nice that companies like kellyco have really helped out ,

A very interesting post , i myself and other followers would be very interested on how you and your friends got on and what finds you recovered , in your initial post you have not mentioned where you are going , but good luck and please do keep us informed on how you get on.

i have to agree with merril , if you are wet/dry sand detecting then the equinox but water/surf detecting the excalibur would be my first choice , but from watching merrils youtube videos there is a possiblilty of a new replacement machine for the excalibur at some future date , but minelab do keep news of any machines coming soon very close to there chest , so go for the equinox 900 and when you gain a lot more experience and gather up a lot of gold rings then purchase both machines . good hunting.

i can understand that certain forest can be rewarding in finds , but it will all come down to two things , the first is research , so carry out research on local history from your local historical group , asking locals who might have knowledge and they can give you some good pointers and lastly luck , because most detecting has a large element of luck , but i do wish you well .

I go metal detecting in the uk with my buddy all year round on the beach in all weathers , i suppose what we most enjoy is the peace and quiet when detecting and to get a break from the wives , but seriously its good for the mental health and the weekly work stress just falls away and hopefully we come up with the goodies . anyhow i would rather swing my ctx than swing a golf club .