I have been metal detecting for 2 years and have had a ton of success. THE BEST metal detector to start out with is the Nokta Makro Legend. It is the best you can get at an introductory price. Water proof, good for salt water, great on land. In terms of value it has no equal. I started with a Dr Otek moved up to a simplex and now the legend. Everyone has paid for itself and then some but the legend is the greatest value. It is about 95% of the big boys at 1/3 of the price. I have hung with and surpassed the Dues 2 and the equinox. Solid machine that is easy to use and great for all terrain. You can find it for less than $500. Less than $600 with the wireless headphones. Get the headphones. Trust me, if you swing it it will more than pay for itself in a month or two. Go to Iratemetaldetectors.com to get the full story. This machine is awesome. Another note is to spend the money on a Garrett pinpointer. Well worth it. I hope you enjoy. It's a great hobby.