I'm fairly new to water detecting(salt). I currently use my land detector wading, but since the housing isn't waterproof I get a little nervous about using it. I don't know if water detecting is really my thing yet, and don't want to invest big bucks in something I'm not sure I'd like. I have seen a unit by DetectorPro called a Headhunter Wader, and found reduced prices on used units. Has anyone every used one, or have any opinions about it? Would it give me good service until I decide if I want to upgrade? DJ Davey

There are a couple of us here that have Waders. Great little machine and amazingly deep for its weight.

Two things to watch out for:

The cross over cable between the earphones, on the older models, is a weak spot. Don't let the earphones turn over on their mount and put stress on the crossover cable.

Careful with the "O" ring seal when changing batteries. Don't pinch it or let sand on it before closing. (Actually this one applies to most any beach machine).

Thanks for the info Rudy. DJ

Hey Rudy! As you may know I have been talking about upgrading from my orginal Bounty Hunter to get in the water more here in Santa Cruz. Sounds like the Wader may be a good initial upgrade for me.

Hey Ron,

Definitely take a look at the Wader. It is light as a feather and it worked quite well for me in the Santa Cruz/Carmel/Monterey beaches.

Dan Gerber also uses one (last I heard). Also, I think Greg Moscini now carries the line.

I should have added that the cross over wire weakness was on the earlier model. They've since beefed up the wire.

Cool!! B) Thanks for the info Rudy! :bow:

The Tesoro Sand Shark and Tiger Shark look very promising.

I am trying one out this weekend in a fresh water pond.

I'll keep you updated.

Yeah, let us know what you think. I've read that the Tesoro doesn't do as well on salt water beaches as it does in fresh.

Finally made my decision on a first water machine, and am getting a Tesoro Sandshark PI. A few requirements and needs went into this decision. I felt the need for a truly waterproof machine. Lifetime warranty is nice if ever needed, and it met my economic situation. I normally dig every signal in the wet anyway, so lack of discrimination wasn't really a factor. I guess, in the end, it was a matter of letting go of the idea of a multipurpose do-it-all machine(which we all know doesn't really exist) and getting the right tool for the task. DJ Davey

The nearest I've come to an all-purpose detector is my Excalibur, which I've used extensively on land with good results. My only qualm is the weight. I hip-mount it whether land or water hunting, but I feel a little vulnerable (bound) when I'm skulking around sketchy land sites with it.

Yeah I know a lot of guys that use the Excal, but I just couldn't swing the finances for one. I'll let you guys know how the Sandsharks does in the salt. DJ Davey