UK DETECTOR NET Forum

Hi everyone
I am 44 and from Southampton I have always wanted to try detecting and the kids are growing up so I am looking at buying a minelab gofind 44 as a starter detector is that a good choice? I do not have lots of money to spend . I want to give the local beach a try to start me of but they say I need liability insurance ? what is the best place to look for that , and does anybody have any other tips for a total beginner
thank you

Hi Bob and welcome to UKDN.
I have never used a minelab gofind 44 so I really cannot make a comment about it. I can say that minelab metal detectors are good machines and have a good following.
as for insurance, everyone who metal detects is meant to have public liability insurance and there are two places to look at. you can either insure through FID which is the Federation of Independant Detectorists, you can find them here ... http://www.fid.org.uk
or you can get your insurance with NCMD which is the National Council for Metal Detecting. you can find them here ... https://www.ncmd.co.uk
you only need to be a member of one or the other as they are both recognised by everyone involved with metal detecting and the national farmers union. you must have a valid cover if you want to attend any local club digs or a national rally.
There are loads of tips for you, like don't forget a digging tool, drink, finds pouch, headphones, etc. Just ask away mate.
Happy hunting, Keith

I would not advise starting with a Gofind 44.
The money would be better spent on a guaranteed used machine from a reputable dealer.
We have a number of such dealers if you need some friendly help.
Happy Hunting,
Jerry.

They are aimed at the young my friend,
What is your maximum budget ?

In all honesty, you need to be in the 300 range for the start of the better metal detectors, anything lower and you will end up binning it off and buying a better one shortly after anyway .

The new minelab vanquish range of machines sounds like it’s up your street with wanting to do the beach

Taking advantage of the 0% credit on new machines from the main dealers is something to think about

Ncmd insurance is around £8 a year I believe

thanks for all the advise, I now think on your advise I will be buying a used detector because my budget is £200 . I am still locked down as my wife is classed as vulnerable so it will not be for another month as I need to get back to normal and of course earn some ££££. I really am grateful for the help and if someone can recommend a dealer that sells good used machines that would be great

I'll would give detecnicks a call in West Sussex...

https://www.detecnicks.co.uk/2nd_hand_M ... ctors.html

Kev at Staffordshire detectors has forever been the man for quality used machines

Check out the nokta simplex , brand new at £299.
Many experienced detectorists have bought them and use them with great results.
Your not far away having £200, wait a bit longer and save up