I've been metal detecting of and on for about 7 yrs and have found it to be a very enjoyable hobbie. I currently use a Garrett GTAx 550. I found the 550 to be a great beginner unit and would highly recommend it for any one wanting to get into metal detecting. March 10 2010 I have upgraded to the Minelab Etrac, Holy smoke the difference between the GTAx- 550 and the Etrac is like the difference between a Toyota Corolla and a high end Lexus. The GTAx- 550 is a great detector for the money and I highly recommend it but the Etrac is the Lexus of metal detecting, unsurpassed performance (depth) and all the bells and whistels. The photos that I have posted are items that I have found in hard hunted areas that have been missed for years.