You’ll find the Minelab CTX-3030 delivers professional-grade performance with 28 simultaneous frequencies, while the Equinox series offers similar Multi-IQ technology at mid-range pricing. The Groundtech Discovery SMR provides unique 3D imaging capabilities for depths up to 25 meters. Garrett AT Max and XP DEUS 2 excel in iron-contaminated environments with superior discrimination. For budget-conscious hunters, Nokta Legend delivers multifrequency processing at half the cost while maintaining IP68 waterproofing and 20-hour runtime. The specifications below detail how each model’s technical features translate to real-world relic recovery performance.
Key Takeaways
- Minelab CTX-3030 offers professional-grade FBS 2 technology with 28 frequencies and 1,750 discrimination patterns for precise target identification.
- Minelab Equinox Series features Multi-IQ technology with six selectable frequencies and 10-12 hour battery life for versatile relic detection.
- Groundtech Discovery SMR provides exceptional 25-meter detection depth with 3D ground scanning and five specialized scan modes for subsurface mapping.
- Nokta Legend delivers simultaneous multifrequency processing at half the cost with IP68 waterproofing and 20-hour battery life.
- Garrett AT Max and XP DEUS 2 excel in iron-contaminated environments with waterproof construction and superior discrimination performance.
Minelab CTX-3030: Premium All-Around Performance for Experienced Hunters
The Minelab CTX-3030 delivers professional-grade performance through its FBS 2 (Full Band Spectrum) technology, which simultaneously transmits 28 frequencies ranging from 1.5 kHz to 100 kHz.
FBS 2 technology transmits 28 frequencies simultaneously from 1.5 kHz to 100 kHz, delivering professional-grade target detection across the full spectrum.
You’ll access 1,750 discrimination patterns via Smartfind 2‘s 35 Fe x 50 Co segmentation, enabling precise target identification in iron-contaminated sites.
The advanced features include integrated GPSi for logging locations, settings, and target data, while XChange 2 software maps your finds with GeoTrails precision. The high-performance GPS engine creates FindPoints and WayPoints to help you revisit productive hunting locations with precision.
Your user experience benefits from wireless audio, a full-color LCD with 10-level brightness control, and customizable tone profiles.
The detector’s 3-meter waterproof rating expands your hunting territory to shallow waterways and beaches. The carbon-fiber shaft and adjustable armrest enhance comfort during extended hunting sessions.
At 5.20 pounds, you’ll maintain extended detection sessions while the Auto Ground Balance with compensation adapts to mineralized soil conditions automatically.
Minelab Equinox Series: Multi-Frequency Technology at Mid-Range Price
Minelab’s Equinox series bridges the gap between entry-level detectors and premium models through its proprietary Multi-IQ technology, which transmits multiple frequencies simultaneously rather than switching between single frequencies.
This multi frequency benefits relic hunters by delivering power equivalent to multiple detectors across varying soil conditions and target types. The waterproof features include IP68 ratings (3-5m depth depending on model) for submerged site exploration.
Technical Specifications:
- Equinox 800 employs 5fx8 frequencies while 600 uses 3fx3 for adaptive target discrimination
- Six selectable single frequencies (4-40 kHz) optimize detection for coins, relics, and jewelry
- Recovery Speed settings (1-8 levels) enable precise target separation in iron-contaminated sites
- 119 Target ID segments on 900 series provide granular artifact identification
- Rechargeable 5000 mAh lithium-ion battery delivers 10-12 hours continuous operation
- The built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery eliminates the need for disposable batteries during extended field operations
- At just 1.3 kg, the Equinox maintains portability without sacrificing durability or performance features
Groundtech Discovery SMR: Revolutionary Imaging Display System
Unlike conventional metal detectors that rely on electromagnetic induction alone, Groundtech’s Discovery SMR integrates hybrid geo-electric and 3D ground scanning technologies to achieve detection depths up to 25 meters—ten times the range of standard frequency-based units.
You’ll access five distinct scan modes including resistivity scanning, which combines geo-electric principles with ground imaging to map subsurface voids, tunnels, and burial chambers.
The built-in color display delivers immediate 3D visualization without external devices—red indicates gold, blue marks cavities, green shows soil composition.
Turkey’s Perfect UMD-2 technology processes data through high-sensitivity sensors and advanced processors, minimizing false signals.
You’ll configure step intervals (25-35 cm), target parameters, and analysis viewports independently.
The system stores thousands of scans for comparative analysis, enabling you to verify targets before excavation—critical for maximizing field efficiency. The interface supports multi-language operation across ten languages including English, German, Spanish, Italian, French, Turkish, Russian, Chinese, Arabic, and Persian. At a current price of 7,250, the Discovery Detector represents a reduced investment from its original 7,500 pricing.
Garrett AT Max and XP DEUS 2: Community-Favorite High-End Options
While advanced imaging systems like the Discovery SMR excel at deep cavity detection, most relic hunters prioritize discrimination performance and target identification in iron-contaminated environments—where the Garrett AT Max and XP DEUS 2 dominate community recommendations.
Garrett performance delivers exceptional value through waterproof construction, EMI resistance in zero discrimination mode, and proven effectiveness at Revolutionary War sites.
You’ll appreciate its affordability without sacrificing mineralized soil penetration.
XP DEUS capabilities leverage simultaneous multifrequency processing—4 kHz for deep silver, 14 kHz for target separation—creating superior unmasking in iron-heavy locations.
The WS6 Master configuration provides premium performance under $1000.
The AT Max operates at a fixed 13.7 kHz frequency, while the XP DEUS 2’s multifrequency technology offers distinct advantages in hot or mineralized soil conditions.
The DEUS system’s lightweight design reduces fatigue during extended hunting sessions at sprawling historical sites.
Consider these detection scenarios:
- Recovering musket balls beneath rusty nail clusters at colonial homesteads
- Discriminating buttons from bottle caps in farmstead trash scatters
- Penetrating wet salt sand for deep cavalry artifacts
- Processing VDI signals through Revolutionary War camp debris
- Identifying high conductors amid aluminum foil contamination
Nokta Legend: Budget-Friendly Choice Without Compromising Quality
The Nokta Legend challenges conventional price-performance boundaries by delivering simultaneous multifrequency processing at roughly half the cost of comparable systems.
You’ll access three-frequency combinations plus dedicated single frequencies (4kHz, 10kHz, 15kHz, 20kHz, 40kHz) that adapt to varied soil conditions and target types.
Nokta Legend features include IP68 waterproofing to 5 meters, 20-hour battery life, and 60 Target IDs with customizable discrimination patterns—specifications typically reserved for premium detectors.
The adjustable iron rejection (0-5 settings) and FerroCheck technology eliminate modern trash efficiently.
Budget friendly benefits extend beyond initial purchase: four search modes, 16 programmable profiles, and USB firmware updates guarantee long-term versatility. The carbon fiber construction delivers exceptional durability while maintaining the detector’s lightweight 1.4kg profile.
The vibration alert feature provides target detection notification for hearing impaired users, expanding accessibility without additional cost.
At 1.4kg with adjustable length (63-132cm), you’ll maintain comfort during extended relic hunts without financial compromise.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Digging Tools for Recovering Relics Without Damaging Them?
You’ll need pointing trowels and dental picks for controlled digging techniques that preserve artifact context. Choose non-metal tool materials like plastic spoons for delicate items, while soft brushes remove loose soil without scratching surfaces during recovery.
How Do Different Coil Sizes Affect Detection Depth and Target Accuracy?
You’ll find an 11-inch coil detects coins 3-4 inches deeper than a 6-inch coil. Larger coil sizes maximize detection depth in open fields, while smaller coils deliver superior target accuracy in trashy areas where separation matters most for your success.
What Metal Discriminator Settings Work Best for Filtering Out Junk Targets?
Start with moderate discriminator settings around 5-7 to filter common iron trash while preserving target identification accuracy. You’ll maximize finds by testing against known objects, then adjusting based on site conditions rather than using maximum rejection levels.
How Long Should Battery Life Last During Typical Relic Hunting Sessions?
You’ll get 2-3 hours per session with ideal battery longevity on power-intensive settings, though hunting efficiency improves with 20+ hour detectors like the Teknetics T2. Quality alkaline or lithium batteries maximize your field time without compromising detection depth.
Can Detectors Distinguish Between Valuable Metals Like Gold Versus Iron Objects?
Like separating wheat from chaff, modern detectors excel at distinguishing metals. You’ll achieve precise gold detection and iron identification through conductivity analysis and Target ID systems. Discrimination settings filter ferrous objects while revealing valuable targets based on electromagnetic response patterns.
References
- https://modernmetaldetectors.com/blogs/news/the-ultimate-guide-to-the-best-metal-detectors-of-2025?custom=Buying+Guides
- https://kellycodetectors.com/metal-detectors/relic/
- https://www.metaldetector.com/blogs/new_blog/what-are-the-best-metal-detectors-for-finding-relics
- https://detectorwarehouse.com/collections/relic-hunting-metal-detectors
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X1fz04jZCtA
- https://metaldetectingforum.com/index.php?threads/relic-hunting-detector-input-please.303881/
- https://seriousdetecting.com/pages/metal-detector-comparison-guides
- https://usa.minelab.com/ctx-3030
- https://www.minelab.com/ctx-3030
- https://kellycodetectors.com/blog/field-test-minelab-ctx-3030-metal-detector-review/
