Total newbie

[ddicks2012]

Hello from the frigid Arctic air all the way down in Des Moines, Iowa.

I am new to this blog site and I am new to the detecting world. In fact so new that I am looking for my first prospecting device. My oldest son actually found this site. I have thought about prospecting and detecting for quite a while now and I am ready to start finding.

I have had my eyes on the minelab gpx 5000. I am hoping I can get some thoughts on others who have used this machine. I have also looked on ebay and I am finding that some are going for as low as $2000. that concerns me a bit since I know that they are generally over $5000.00 retail new. can anyone give me some pointers on what to look for?

Thanks in advance for your experienced advice.

Dave

 

[Coyote]

Hi Dave and welcome to the Forum,

I would be very careful buying off the net. Make sure you purchase from a reputable supplier. There are some cheap copies on EBAY.
Much better to pay a few dollars more knowing that your buying the genuine machine which include a Warentee and after sales service.

Cheers

Cliff

 

[axeman]

G'day Dave, welcome. Firstly: be careful, be very careful buying a gpx 5000 of ebay or second hand as there are a lot of chinese copies getting around. Buy through a reputable dealer only or if buying second hand get the serial number checked though the minelab themselves. Sounds like it's a bit cold over that way, it's been totally the opposite here, yesterday was the hottest christmas day we've for a long time here. Be good to hear some stories of how you go with your detecting and prospecting as well as seeing some pics. Good luck.
Mick

 

[WalnLiz]

Welcome to the forum Dave. The guys above have given good advice. Many have been stung by purchasing "Fake" GPX5000's on the net, and if you see one for under $3000 it will always be a fake. I run the 5000 myself and can guarantee if you do purchase one you will have the best machine out there for Nugget Hunting.

Great to see more members from abroad finding this forum and look forward to sharing and discussing the many different prospecting methods with you. Look forward to some stories and pics from over your way. All the very best of luck with the hobby.

Cheers Wal.

 

[madtuna]

Welcome mate!
Agree totally with what Wal and the others said. Google GPAA the gold prospectors ascociation of America, I'm sure there is a chapter in your area.

I detect full time here in Wa and use the 5000, and if seriously looking for gold I'd be hard pressed to recommend anything other than one of the GPX series.

We often get Yankadonians come out and spend time with us and have made some wonderful lasting friendships.