One of the things I'd like to add to my tool bag is a good gold-specific detector. Not looking to drop $5k on a Minelab 5000, but not looking for a generic entry-level unit either.

I'm in no hurry, so I'm just holding out for a pretty good deal on something I can mess around with when my shoulders or back act up and I can't dig. If you come across something that might work, let me know!

I have a cheaper metal detector that is great for treasure hunting and larger objects but not so great for the small gold that comes from Colorado. When I looked into something better for what I had in mind I decided on the on the Gold Bug II by Fisher. It is very sensitive so it can pick up small stuff. I have not had much of a chance to find any gold with it yet. The draw back to the sensitivity is it does not detect very deep and the detector will pick the small hot rocks too. The package I bought came with 2 coils (6.5" and 10") the larger coil will detect a little deeper but may miss the small stuff that the small coil might pick up. It is lightweight and comfortable to hold all day. With the small coil you can detect into smaller spaces between rocks and such. Some people say it is hard to ground balance but I have found it easy so far.

That is one of the models I've been looking at that should be around what I'm looking for. I've got a cheapie now (don't remember brand/model). I wandered around Ghost Creek for over an hour and found a nail and a pile of rusty cans lol

I know there is more junk metal out there, so just the fact that this is all I found tells me I need something better lol

Just picked up a used Gold Bug 2 with 10" coil. Found it on one of the Facebook detector forums for $510 shipped. After searching some used equipment sites and ebay closed auctions it seems like a pretty good price!

I look forward to trying it out in April!