Garrett Ace 300: A Detailed Review
Are you interested in purchasing a new metal detector? If so, you may be wondering if the Garrett Ace 300 is the right choice for you. This blog post will give you a detailed review of this popular metal detector and help you decide if it is the right fit for your needs.
Garrett Ace 300: A Detailed Review
The ACE 300 is a quality machine that is easy to operate. It is perfect for the novice or mid-level detectorist. The simplified interface is informative without overwhelming, making it perfect for beginners. It is also still engaging enough for more advanced hobbyists.
The Garrett AT Pro metal detector is a high-quality, reliable, and efficient detector. It offers a great experience for both beginner and experienced detectorists.
Pros
Cons
This unit is perfect for finding different treasures, like coins, jewelry, and relics. It has a digital target ID, making finding the treasure you're looking for easier.
The ACE 300 is the new and improved version of the ACE 250. It has a larger search coil, better iron resolution, improved audio, higher frequency, and cam locks on the stem for more stability.
Features
The ACE 300 has many features. The main features are listed below, briefly describing each function.
Digital Target Id
The ACE 300 has two features that help you identify targets: Digital Target ID and a segment-based discrimination system.
The Digital Target ID is a scale from 0-99 that tells you how conductive the target is. A higher number means the target is more conductive.
This means that high conductivity metals like silver will have around 90. In contrast, low conductivity metals like iron will have a reading closer to 0, typically from 0-30.
Mid-conductivity metals like gold and aluminum are usually found between 40-60 on the scale.
The Digital Target ID is influenced by various factors, including the size and depth of the target object and its orientation on the ground.
Digital Target ID allows you to view the target object so clearly that you can distinguish between a copper penny and a zinc coin simply by glancing at the numbers on display.
Adjustable Frequency
The adjustable frequency is a useful feature to have when needed.
The ACE 300 runs at 8 kHz, but it can be adjusted if necessary.
This can be helpful if other detectors operate at 8 kHz nearby or if you are experiencing interference from power lines or WIFI signals.
Enhanced Iron Resolution
The ACE 300 offers more types of iron detection than the ACE 250.
This makes the unit better at screening out iron junk targets. It also makes it easier to separate trash targets from good targets.
Search Modes
Search modes can help you eliminate specific categories of objects, such as money, jewels, or antiques.
Similar to the ACE 250, the ACE 300 features five search modes:
- Zero (no discrimination)
- Jewelry
- Custom
- Relics
- Coins
The search modes work by removing certain segments on the Target ID Scale. This way, you can ignore the stuff you don't want easily. The targets that match unselected segments won't emit an audio signal, letting you focus on what you're looking for.
For example, if you are looking for coins, you would select the "Coins" discrimination setting, which deselects all segments except the ones for the penny, nickel, quarter, and dime.
If you are interested in silver coins, you can adjust this setting by notching out nickel, copper, and zinc segments.
If you want to change the mode on your detector, you can use the Custom setting. But if you do, the detector will remember your changes when turned back on.
Other Features
Among the characteristics of the ACE 300 are:
- 3 Audio Tone ID Levels for extra target identification (low, medium, high).
- There are eight Sensitivity Adjustments to manage the depth and prevent falling.
- Electronic mode for lasering in on a specific target.
- The Depth Indicator provides an estimate of how deep to dig.
- A 7 x 10" concentric search coil with excellent depth and discrimination.
Detector Comparisons
The ACE 300 is an entry-level detector. It has features that compare to other similar models.
ACE 300 vs. ACE 250
The ACE 300 is a newer version of the ACE 250. It has several new features, including:
- Digital (0-99) Target ID for improved target identification capabilities.
- Larger 7 x 10" search coil (as opposed to 6.5 x 9") for increased depth and discrimination.
- Double the iron resolution for enhanced discrimination
- Cam locks provide added stability. Frequency modulation to minimize interference.
- Higher frequency (8kHz instead of 6.5kHz) for somewhat improved sensitivity to tiny things, such as jewelry.
ACE 300 vs. ACE 350
The ACE 350 has been superseded by the ACE 400 in the current Garrett lineup. The ACE 400 has several features not found in the ACE 350, such as:
- Digital (0-99) Target ID (vs. segment-based).
- Pulse Width Modulation audio.
- Adjustable frequency.
The ACE 350 has a larger (8.5 x 11" DD) search coil that covers more ground and is better for use in mineralized ground.
However, the ACE 350 does not have a Digital Target ID. This means that many people prefer the ACE 300.
The larger coil is an accessory that you can purchase for your ACE 300.
ACE 300 vs. ACE 400
The ACE 400 is the next model up from the ACE 300. The ACE 400 has several features that are not seen in the ACE 300, including:
- Larger 8.5 x 11" DD search coil for greater depth and iron discrimination.
- Iron Audio, making it easier to distinguish good targets from trash.
ACE 300 vs. Fisher F22
The Fisher F22 is a similar model to the ACE 300. People appear to hold differing perspectives regarding which is superior. However, the F22 has some features that the ACE 300 does not have, like:
- Weatherproof control box so you don't have to worry about it getting rained on.
- A narrower 9" teardrop-shaped search coil is better for finding good targets in trashy areas since you can get better target separation with practice.
- 5-year warranty (vs. 2-year).
Garrett ACE 300 Principal Functions
VLF Technology
This electromagnetic field applies a sine wave to the Earth's surface.
Mono Coil
Such coils can hit deeper targets regardless of the requirement for more extensive overlap.
Four Search Modes plus Custom
Due to the predefined search modes, there is no need to calibrate the detector to a standing position constantly. Use Custom mode for special scenarios.
Pinpoint
The useful model protects the target from harm during excavation and prevents the detectorist from losing a small target in the soil.
Watertight Coil
A nice feature that expands the spectrum of potential detection sites and conditions.
The Notch Distinction
This feature eliminates detecting any metals you don't want to see. Specific pixels can be activated or deactivated by dragging the pointer left or right.
Garrett ACE 300 Overview
In 2016, Garrett introduced ACE 300 as a compromise between ACE 200 and ACE 400. The manufacturer accurately described ACE 300 as "A powerful performer at an affordable price." ACE 300 is a blend of more complex features and functions than ACE 200 and simpler ones than ACE 400, with a pricing range. No Iron Audio (ACE 400 has it), configurable Notch Discrimination, Garrett ACE 300 frequency 8 kHz with frequency shift option (middle frequency within the lineage). The 710-inch concentric search coil is the primary distinction (medium size). The Garrett 300 ACE is powered by four AA batteries and has a two-year warranty.
Control Box
The LCD makes it easy to change the settings and evaluate the signals on the Garrett ACE 300. In addition to the display, the Control panel contains buttons for Power OnOff (also Factory Reset), Mode, Sensitivity, PInpoint, Discrimination Accept/Reject, and Frequency Adjust. Search mode, Battery level, Target ID Legend, Digital Target ID, Target ID Cursor, Notch Discrimination pattern, and Depth indicators are shown.
Search Modes
Depending on the desired area and targets, a metal detector's preset settings are useful for quick and precise tuning.
All Metal
In this setting, the detector detects all metals. Employ Notch Discrimination for accuracy. However, if a probable target's signal isn't obvious, All Metal can be used.
Jewelry
This mode is intended for watches, rings, necklaces, and bracelets. It eliminates iron and debris, making the search extremely profitable.
Coins
This mode is accurate and precise and designed primarily for US coins and coins with similar qualities and composition. However, consider that medium-sized jewelry may be lost in this manner.
Relics
The mode is intended for artifacts made of metals with a reduced conductivity range, such as lead, brass, and bronze.
Custom
This is a free slot for user-specific parameters to fulfill specific location requirements.
Garrett ACE 300 Specifications
The Garrett Treasure ACE 300 is the middle model in the ACE 200, 300, and 400 series; thus, it is completely beginner-friendly while providing a few more features for metal detecting. In reality, besides being a "turn on and go" machine, it has several fascinating features that enhance the user experience and make treasure searching more efficient. These features consist of:
- VDI Target ID - assigning numbers to various types of targets is visual and maybe more comprehensive for the majority of users than attempting to analyze merely the aural information.
- Fixed Ground Balance — The metal detector may be less effective for beginners with a set Ground Balance. Still, it will help the user master the settings more quickly.
- Pinpoint mode - This is useful for locating the target more precisely.
- Waterproof search coil — water-isolated search coil enables metal detection on wet soil, sand, grass, and shallow water. But the metal detector isn't protected from severe rain or accidental submersion, so use it cautiously.
- Notch Discrimination - This feature enables the activation or deactivation of certain pixels of Discrimination, making iron discrimination more precise and manageable. By employing too-powerful Discrimination, the user reduces their chance of missing a good target.
- Frequency shift - This capability is particularly beneficial for metal detectors with a single working frequency, such as the ACE 300. It avoids noise and erroneous signals resulting from electromagnetic interference from things other than the potential target.
Garrett Search Coil ACE 300
710 inches concentric submersible PROformance coil is the default search coil provided with the ACE 300 base kit. This water-resistant coil is designed for general-purpose metal detecting and is effective against various targets. Even if it is not exceptional, any treasure hunter may successfully detect it because it is versatile and multifunctional. On the other hand, ACE 300 is compatible with numerous different coils, including the following:
- Waterproof Garrett 5.8 millimeters ACE Performance DD Search Suitable coil for narrow spaces, trashy regions, and rock-based metal detection. Effective on heavily mineralized soils.
- Garrett 9x12 inch ACE PROformance Search Coil, designed for the shallow water search, is waterproof and elliptic.
- Resistant elliptic Garrett When hunting for small objects like coins, the 8.5 x 11 inch PROformance DD Search Coil offers the greatest depth of coverage. Consistent performance in highly mineralized environments.
- Garrett waterproof elliptic The 6.5 x 9-inch ACE PROformance Search Coil is an all-terrain, all-purpose coil that combines a good depth of reach with a wide sweep.
- Garrett 4.5-inch round Super Sniper Search Coil with a waterproof case, designed for small shallow targets, trashy regions, and metal detecting in tight spaces.
Garrett ACE 300 Settings
The Garrett ACE 300 features eight sensitivity settings. It is advised only to increase the sensitivity when the detectorist anticipates very little or extremely deep objects. The Search Mode's default degree of sensitivity will produce satisfactory results in all other circumstances. If the area is exceedingly trashy, highly mineralized, or if the detectorist detects electromagnetic interference. It is advised to utilize Frequency shift or to change the Discrimination. Nonetheless, reduced sensitivity may be the remedy if these solutions do not resolve the issue.
Utilizing Notch Discrimination allows the detectorist to discriminate more precisely and reduce the possibility of missing a good target obscured by a ferrous object's response. By utilizing this function, you can filter out items based on how well they fit the Discrimination scale. All 12 pixels in the ACE 300 can be switched on or off in any combination to achieve the desired effect. You can alter the Notch Discrimination by either generating a notch at the Target ID Cursor and silencing a certain item in the future or by moving the Target Cursor and eliminating the pixel right beneath the cursor.
Garrett ACE 300 Problems
The fact that only the search coil of the Garrett ACE 300 is waterproof is one of the first issues that frustrate beginner detectorists. While the metal detector is designed for novice to intermediate-level treasure seekers. This implies that few of these treasure hunters are experienced enough to conduct deeper underwater detecting; having the entire device isolated from water is advantageous. In addition to being up-to-date and allowing the detectorist to learn and improve their skills with the same metal detector, without the need to acquire a fully water-resistant one soon, a fully water-resistant metal detector is more convenient. The ACE 300, on the other hand, can be rendered useless by severe rain, inadvertent waves, or accidental submersion.
The other issue is that ACE 300 software cannot be updated online. When the ACE series was formed and ACE 300 was released in 2016, there was no possibility for upgradable software on these machines. As they were designed for beginners and had only basic functionality. However, the technologies in ACE 300 are not too out of date today, and online updates cannot be used to update them even somewhat. This is a disadvantage when writing when updateable software is nearly essential.
Tips & Tricks for Users of the Garrett ACE 300
Notch Discrimination appears to be one of the most complex capabilities of the ACE 300. Still, it can also be one of the most difficult aspects for a new metal detectorist to grasp. This is why we provide two additional Notch Discrimination recommendations.
When dealing with ferrous objects concealing good targets, you can employ minimal Discrimination, just on the verge of rejecting. You will be able to detect both good and bad targets, but you will be able to differentiate between them.
Notch Discrimination can also locate particularly specific objects, such as missing jewels. Suppose you have a sample of metal or substance. You can scan it in zero Discrimination mode and locate the precise pixel in the Notch Discrimination mode corresponding to the sample response. By turning off all other pixels and detecting only this one, you will be able to identify the object with the same chemical makeup as your sample.
Garrett ACE 300 Accessories
In general, ACE 300 is a rather simple and self-sufficient instrument. There are a few additional accessories available for purchase. In addition to the search coils described previously, the following accessories are also compatible:
- Garrett MS-2 Headphones with 1/4" Stereo Plug amplify even the weakest signals.
- Garrett TreasureSound Headphones are meant to minimize the noise in any setting and are compact and portable.
- Pro-Pointer Pinpointing Detectors - These compact gadgets are indispensable when the treasure hunter must discover small, elusive targets in loose sand or dust or multiple targets in the hole. The treasure hunter must locate them precisely. Pinpointers are waterproof and sturdy, allowing them to be utilized underwater or in the dirt.
Garrett ACE 300 Kit
Most retailers offer the following package by the manufacturer:
- metal detector
- search coil
- coil cover
- ACE rain and dust cover-up
- Easy Stow headphones
- user's manual
- warranty card
However, you may want to investigate local retailers or international marketplaces, as there is a high probability of discovering additional bundles with some already included accessories.
Garrett ACE 300 Manual
Before purchasing the metal detector, consult the Garrett Treasure ACE 300 user's manual if you want to learn about the particulars and nuances of the Garrett ACE 300. The greater your theoretical understanding, the simpler it will be to master the settings in the field.
Final Thoughts
The ACE 300 is a good machine for people starting in metal detecting. It has features that are not usually found in less expensive detectors.
This detector is both reliable and efficient. It meets Garrett's high-quality standards and offers a great experience for beginner and experienced detectorists.
Frequently Asked Questions About Garrett Ace 300
The operating frequency of the Garrett ACE 300 Metal Detector is 8 kHz, which allows it to detect low and medium conductivity objects such as gold and lead more effectively.
The Ace 300i Metal Detector allows you to see and hear that there are multiple objects. With the powerful elliptical and waterproof 17 x 25 cm (7 x 10 inch) search coil, you can find objects of different sizes. The search coil can reach up to 30 cm deep for coins and up to 1 m deep for large objects.
The Garrett Ace 300 is a great choice for people looking for a better treasure hunting experience. It has two more search modes than the Ace 200 and enhanced features to help you find treasure quickly. It also includes headphones, an environmental cover, and a search coil cover.
The Fisher F22 is good for finding coins and jewelry. It is not good for finding relics, as it overloads when detecting large metal objects. Notably, the Fisher F22 can detect large gold lying near the surface.
The Garrett ace 250 is a lightweight metal detector that is good for finding coins and other objects made of metal. It is not as good for finding jewelry or gold nuggets, but it can still do that.
The three most popular metal detectors are the Nokta Makro Simplex, Garrett Ace, and Fisher F series. However, do not worry if a model has advanced features. These characteristics will allow you to develop a hobby.
The Garrett Ace 300 Metal Detector is a high-quality detector with a submersible search coil and three free accessories: an environmental cover-up, a coil cover, and headphones. This detector is designed for experienced users.
Most metal detectors can find objects about 4-8ʺ (10 - 20 cm) deep. In ideal conditions, a mid-range metal detector can find objects that are 12-18ʺ (30-45 cm) underground. Some specialized detectors can find objects as deep as 65' (20 m).
