Minelab Go Find Metal Detector Review: Essential Power for Every Detectorist

This Minelab Go Find metal detector review reveals why these detectors offer essential power and simplicity, making them ideal for beginners and experienced users alike. We explore their features, performance, and value, helping you decide if they are the right treasure-hunting tools for your adventures.

Metal detecting can be a rewarding hobby. It lets you explore the outdoors and uncover hidden treasures. Sometimes, choosing the right metal detector feels overwhelming. Many models have complex features. The Minelab Go Find series aims to change that. It offers powerful detecting technology in an easy-to-use package. This review will guide you through what makes the Go Find series stand out. We’ll look at its performance, key features, and who it’s best suited for. Get ready to understand the essential power packed into these detectors.

What is the Minelab Go Find Series?

The Minelab Go Find series is a line of metal detectors designed for simplicity and effectiveness. Minelab is a well-respected brand in metal detecting. They created the Go Find series for people new to the hobby. It’s also great for seasoned detectorists who want a straightforward machine. These detectors are lightweight and easy to assemble. They focus on core detecting functions. This means you can start finding targets quickly.

Why Choose a Minelab Go Find Detector?

Choosing a Minelab Go Find detector means opting for user-friendliness. You don’t need to be an expert to operate it. The detectors are affordable, making them accessible. They are also very durable, built for outdoor use. You get reliable performance without complicated settings. This allows you to focus on the thrill of the hunt.

Simplicity and Ease of Use

The primary advantage of the Minelab Go Find series is its simplicity. These detectors have intuitive controls. You can turn them on and start detecting immediately. There are no complex menus to navigate. This makes them perfect for beginners. Even experienced treasure hunters appreciate the lack of fuss. You can focus on listening to the signals.

Affordability and Value

Minelab Go Find metal detectors offer excellent value for money. They provide advanced detecting technology at a lower price point. This makes metal detecting more accessible to everyone. You get a quality machine from a top brand without breaking the bank. It’s a smart investment for anyone starting out.

Minelab Go Find Models and Features

The Go Find series includes several models, each with slightly different features. The most common models are the Go Find 11, Go Find 22, Go Find 44, and Go Find 66. While they share core technologies, higher numbers often mean more advanced features. All models use VLF (Very Low Frequency) technology. This is standard for most hobbyist metal detectors.

Go Find 11: The Entry-Level Gem

The Minelab Go Find 11 is the most basic model. It’s designed for absolute beginners. It features a simple on/off button and essential settings. The coil is a standard 8-inch waterproof coil. It has two search modes. These modes help differentiate between trash and treasure.

Go Find 22: A Step Up in Simplicity

The Go Find 22 is very similar to the 11. It also has a simple design. The main difference is the addition of Bluetooth connectivity. This allows you to connect to headphones wirelessly. It also has a slightly more refined sensitivity adjustment. This model is still very easy to use.

Go Find 44: Enhanced Features

With the Go Find 44, you get more advanced features. It has three search modes. This offers better target separation. The coil size is larger, 10 inches, which helps cover more ground. It also includes a pinpointer function. This makes locating targets in the soil much easier.

Go Find 66: The Top of the Line

The Minelab Go Find 66 is the most feature-rich in the series. It boasts four search modes. It has a 10-inch coil for wider coverage. This model includes built-in GPS. You can mark interesting spots and save them. It also features advanced Bluetooth for wireless headphones. This is the most powerful and versatile Go Find detector.

Performance in the Field

When it comes to performance, the Go Find series generally does well for its price point. They are effective at finding common targets like coins, jewelry, and relics. The detectors are sensitive to various metal types. Their simple design means you might not get the extreme depth of high-end models. However, for general treasure hunting, they perform admirably.

Target Identification

The Go Find detectors use simple audio tones to indicate targets. Different tones represent different types of metal. This helps you decide whether to dig. Higher tones often indicate desirable targets like silver or copper. Lower tones might signal iron or foil. The higher-end models offer more detailed target ID numbers on a display.

Depth and Sensitivity

Depth is always a concern for detectorists. The Go Find series offers decent depth for its class. It can detect coins buried several inches deep. The sensitivity can be adjusted to suit different ground conditions. This helps reduce false signals from mineralized soil. For most hobbyist needs, the depth is sufficient.

Coil Technology and Options

The Go Find series comes with a standard 8-inch or 10-inch coil. These coils are waterproof. This means you can detect in shallow water or wet grass. The coils are designed to be sensitive to a good range of targets. While you cannot swap coils on the Go Find 11 and 22, the 44 and 66 models offer coil flexibility. This allows you to upgrade for specific conditions, like finding gold nuggets with a smaller coil.

Ergonomics and Design

Minelab designed the Go Find series with user comfort in mind. The detectors are lightweight. They fold down easily for transport and storage. This makes them ideal for taking on trips. The shaft is adjustable to fit different user heights. The control box is simple and easy to reach.

Assembly and Portability

Assembling a Go Find detector is incredibly easy. It typically takes just a few minutes. You simply connect the shaft sections and attach the coil. No tools are usually required. This quick setup means you can start detecting sooner. Their collapsible design makes them perfect for packing in a car or backpack.

Comfort During Extended Use

The lightweight nature of the Go Find detectors is a major plus. You can swing the detector for hours without fatigue. The ergonomic handle provides a comfortable grip. This is important for longer detecting sessions. Comfort is key to enjoying the hobby.

Ground Balancing and Discrimination

Ground balancing is a feature that helps the detector ignore minerals in the soil. This prevents false signals. The Go Find series has automatic ground balancing. This means it adjusts itself as you sweep the coil. Discrimination allows you to ignore unwanted targets, like iron nails. The Go Find models offer basic discrimination settings. This helps filter out common trash.

Who is the Minelab Go Find Series For?

The Minelab Go Find series is primarily designed for beginners. It’s for anyone who wants to start metal detecting without a steep learning curve. It’s also a great choice for families. Kids can easily learn to use these detectors. Experienced detectorists might find them useful as a backup detector. Or for times when they want a simple, lightweight option.

Beginners and New Hobbyists

If you’re new to metal detecting, the Go Find series is an excellent starting point. You’ll be able to use it right out of the box. It teaches you the basics of target sounds and signals. This experience is invaluable. It builds confidence for future detecting adventures.

Families and Young Detectorists

These detectors are perfect for family outings. Their simplicity makes them easy for children to handle. It’s a fun way to introduce kids to history and the outdoors. They can experience the excitement of finding their own treasures.

Casual and Occasional Detectorists

If you only go detecting a few times a year, a Go Find detector makes sense. You don’t need a complex, expensive machine. These detectors provide reliable performance for casual hunts. They are easy to store and grab for a quick trip.

Minelab Go Find vs. Competitors

When comparing the Minelab Go Find series to other entry-level metal detectors, it holds its own. Brands like Garrett, Fisher, and Bounty Hunter also offer beginner-friendly models. However, Minelab’s reputation for quality is a strong selling point. The Go Find series often offers a good balance of features and price. Some competitors might offer slightly deeper detection. Others might have more advanced target ID. The Go Find’s strength lies in its combined simplicity and reliable performance.

Pros and Cons of the Minelab Go Find Series

Every metal detector has its strengths and weaknesses. The Minelab Go Find series is no exception. Understanding these helps you make an informed decision.

Pros:

Extremely User-Friendly: Simple controls, easy to learn.
Affordable: Great value for a Minelab detector.
Lightweight and Portable: Easy to carry and store.
Waterproof Coil: Allows for detecting in wet conditions.
Good for Beginners: Ideal for those new to the hobby.
Reliable Performance: Finds common targets effectively.

Cons:

Limited Depth: Not as deep as high-end detectors.
Basic Target ID: Less detail than advanced models.
Coil Swapping Limitations: Not all models allow coil changes.
Fewer Features: Lacks advanced settings found on pricier machines.

Tips for Maximizing Your Finds with a Go Find Detector

To get the most out of your Minelab Go Find metal detector, follow these tips. Practice is key. Learn to recognize the different audio tones. Sweep your coil slowly and steadily. Always check your finds carefully.

Learn Your Detector’s Sounds

Spend time in your yard with known targets. Bury coins, rings, and pull tabs. Listen to the different tones your detector makes. This will train your ear. It helps you distinguish good targets from trash. A good understanding of audio cues is vital.

Master Coil Control

Sweep your coil in a consistent pattern. Overlap your sweeps by about half the coil’s width. Move the coil slowly and at a constant height above the ground. This ensures you don’t miss any targets. Avoid swinging too fast or too high.

Digging and Recovery Techniques

When you get a good signal, dig carefully. Use a small trowel or digging tool. Dig a neat plug of soil. Place the plug to the side. Check the hole with your detector before moving the soil. If the target is still there, check the soil plug. This careful approach helps recover targets and minimizes ground disturbance.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Minelab Go Find

Here are some common questions beginners have about the Minelab Go Find series.

Is the Minelab Go Find waterproof?

The coils on all Minelab Go Find models are waterproof. This means you can use them in shallow water or wet grass. However, the control box is not waterproof. You should avoid submerging the entire detector.

Can I change the coil on a Minelab Go Find?

You can change the coil on the Go Find 44 and Go Find 66 models. The Go Find 11 and Go Find 22 do not have interchangeable coils. Swapping coils can improve performance in different environments.

What is the best Minelab Go Find model?

The “best” model depends on your needs and budget. The Go Find 66 offers the most features, including GPS. The Go Find 22 is a great choice for ultimate simplicity with Bluetooth. For most beginners, the Go Find 22 or 44 offers a good balance.

How deep can the Minelab Go Find detect?

The Minelab Go Find detectors can detect common targets like coins up to about 6-8 inches deep. Deeper targets are possible depending on the target size and ground conditions. They are not designed for extremely deep searching.

Is the Minelab Go Find good for finding gold?

The Go Find series is not specifically designed for gold prospecting. It can find small gold jewelry. For serious gold prospecting, you would need a detector with specialized features. These often include higher frequencies or different coil types.

Conclusion: Essential Power for Your Treasure Hunting Journey

The Minelab Go Find metal detector series truly delivers essential power for aspiring detectorists. This Minelab Go Find metal detector review highlights its user-friendly design and reliable performance. It makes treasure hunting accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Whether you choose the simple Go Find 22 or the feature-rich Go Find 66, you are getting a quality machine. It’s built to last and designed to help you find those hidden gems. Start your adventure with a Minelab Go Find and experience the thrill of discovery.