By now, everyone should know the name Fisher Labs and their excellent lines of metal detectors. The F44 by Fisher Labs is an entry-level metal detector that is extremely popular amongst novice metal detector enthusiasts.
In this review, we’re going to cover everything you need to know about the Fisher F44 metal detector. We’ll discuss its specs, the key features, pros and cons, my review, and the questions I come across the most regarding this model. Let’s dig in, shall we?
Specs
| Brand | Fisher Labs |
| Model | F44 |
| Product Dimensions | 22 x 8 x 5 inches |
| Item Weight | 3.59 lbs |
| Batteries | 2 AA batteries required |
| Operating frequency | 7.69 kHz |
| Recommended For | Jewelry, relics, most metals, and coins |
Key Features
There are so many great features in the Fisher Labs F44 metal detector worth mentioning, but here are some of the key features:
- Lightweight
- Waterproof control box
- Backlight
- Five search modes
- Manual + automatic ground balance
- Weatherproof control box
- Adjustable iron audio
- Two-digit target ID
- Battery power indicator
- Depth indicator
- Search mode selector
- 9-segment discrimination scale display and the ability for determining metal type found
For a more detailed understanding of the ins and outs of the Fisher F44 metal detector, please be sure to check out the manual provided by Fisher Labs.
Pros & Cons
Everything has pros and cons, and the Fisher Labs F44 metal detector is no exception! Here are some of the pros and cons of this machine:
Pros
- Overall, it’s pretty waterproof
- Lightweight design
- Manual ground balance
- Automatic ground balance
- Iron audio is adjustable, making it excellent at differentiating between trash and treasure
Cons
- Not the best model for saltwater coastlines or wet sand conditions
- The control box isn’t completely waterproof
Review
Where to even begin when discussing the Fisher F44? It’s both a straightforward and complex metal detector all at the same time. I think the best place to start is to discuss the features of the F44.
The performance of the Fisher F44 is high, considering it’s an entry-level metal detector meant for those just getting into metal detecting as a hobby. The F44 is a user-friendly model, and maybe that’s why it’s so inviting to novice metal detectors. If you’re looking for an easy go of heading out into the wilderness for some treasure hunting, then this is the metal detector you want to take with you.
The frequency range featured in the F44 is 7.69 kHz which is considered the near-sweet spot when it comes to frequencies. The reason is that it manages to balance the sensitivity of the metal detector perfectly with its depth detection abilities.
I’ve mentioned this a few times before and will continue mentioning it, but the F44 isn’t 100% waterproof. While it’s great for more torrential weather conditions, it’s not meant to be completely submerged due to the control box not being waterproof at all.
The F44 features four discrimination modes that can differentiate between jewelry, coins, artifacts, and custom settings. There’s also an ‘all metals’ option to find anything and everything metal. Another major benefit of this model is the ultra-lightweight design which makes metal detecting for long periods of time manageable. Of course, you can get accessories like a harness to make it even easier, but that’s entirely up to you.
The biggest complaint I’d have about the F44 is how it handles coastlines and wet sand. The answer is not so great. It can do just fine on the dry white sands, but the moment it gets damp, you’re essentially done. I don’t believe this to be the biggest con of the metal detector, but if this was something you were hoping for, you’d be disappointed.
Overall, the F44 is an impressive entry-level model that’s ready to work with you to find some treasures wherever you choose to start metal detecting. There are so many great features that make the model a winner in my eyes!
FAQ
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions I find when people are just now discovering the Fisher Labs F44 metal detector.
Can you use the Fisher F44 to find gold nuggets?
The short answer is yes.
Theoretically, you would be able to find larger gold nuggets. However, it comes down to whether it’s the recommended metal detector for such an activity. The answer to that question is not really. Instead, you should search for a metal detector that features a higher frequency for gold prospecting.
What’s in the box on delivery?
The metal detector arrives and is easy to assemble. If you struggle, the comprehensive manual attached will guide you through the entire process.
You can get two different size accessory coils for the F44 as extras. This means you can improve on the depth and coverage area that the F44 already has. The options include a 7-inch coil, a 9-inch teardrop coil, and an 11-inch triangulated coil.
Is the F44 metal detector waterproof?
Yes and no. The coil itself is waterproof. However, the control box can only withstand weather conditions like light or moderate rains. Don’t submerge the control box underwater because this will cause the device to render itself useless.
How deep can this metal detector go?
The Fisher F44 can find items up to 10” in neutral soil. However, it’s also able to find larger items deeper than 10’. The depth indicator is a 6-segment DI that is initially calibrated for coins. Thanks to the series of segments, each one helps it find items deeper than the initial figure as the segments fill up. This requires the use of the discrimination modes and the pinpoint feature to further identify and investigate the target.
Conclusion
Now you know everything that needs to be known about the Fisher F44 Metal detector. This is a great way to get some insight into the product you’re considering purchasing. The Fisher F44 is a great device that allows for some excellent adventures in the great outdoors, looking for treasures.
My one piece of advice to all buyers of metal detectors is to never just go with the first option you hear about. Beyond the F44, there are a ton of great metal detectors by Fisher Labs as well as other competing makers. So explore all the available options before making a final decision.
You can buy the Fisher F44 metal detector at most major sporting retailers, Amazon, and other online retailers.
