The Garrett ACE 250 has been in the market for 15 years. I bought the device a couple of years after its release and have been using it ever since because of the dynamic and reliable features I’ve come to know and love.
It is one of the few detectors that come with an all-in-one package. The device is easy to carry, and the best for beginners to start their hunting journey with. With a wealth of specifications and customization, it is easy to see why it ranks high on my list.
Appearance and Convenience
This device is great for detecting smaller items such as coins, jewelry, and relics. However, it does not offer enough frequency that would allow you to use the detector to dig for gold.
It is extremely lightweight, which makes it easier for the user to carry it around for long hours without getting worn out. The buttons are self-explanatory and within fingers reach, which are easily the best features available in a metal detector as switching between preferences is easier when you can reach them.
It has an adjustable stem, so you can alter the height of the machine as per your individual needs. The device is capable of supporting audio, however, it does not offer volume control, which can be a problem for many users.
What Does It Offer?
Ace 250 did a remarkable job of outshining its competitors in terms of product offering. The package that you get for the price is astonishing to not only the competitors but also the consumers.
The device has five different hunting modes. With the help of the LCD, you can easily switch between these modes, and choose the best one according to your needs.
Here are some of the amazing features that I fell in love with:
Target ID Cursor
The Garrett ACE 250 does not provide target identification, but it contains a graphical presentation with twelve segments. It works with the help of an indicator that represents the metal that the device detects.
It allows you to identify your treasure before you have even started to dig for the object. Target identification is often difficult to remember. Hence, the graphical representation takes the hassle out of it.
The device also offers three different sounds. Each sound is associated with a specific metal, so you can remember these sounds to distinguish between your findings easily.
Accept/Reject Discrimination
You can adjust the discrimination levels to choose what metals to ignore and continue with your quest. It saves a lot of time as you only get alerts for what you are specifically searching for. However, be sure that you do not include a valuable find in the trash by accident or you’ll miss out on something great.
Detecting Modes
The Ace 250 is one of the few devices that offers five different detecting modes. These modes are pre-installed in the detector, and you can change their settings according to your preference.
- All-Metal: This mode locates all metal objects. However, it may also catch signals from an unnecessary metal.
- Jewelry: This mode locates jewelry items such as rings, necklaces, watches, etc., and eliminates the signals from any other metal.
- Coins: Similar to the jewelry mode, this mode does not locate any unwanted material. It keeps the devices focus on finding coins.
- Relics: This mode detects brass and lead, and ignores any other metal.
Custom: This mode allows you to make your own specific pattern and conduct your search accordingly.
Pinpointer Mode
Another significant feature that the detector offers is the pinpointer mode. This pinpoints the exact location where you can find the treasure you are searching for without the trouble of having to search through and dig in the wrong places.
As soon as the coil reaches near the metal, a signal is then sent out to the device to indicate how deep the metal actually is and if you are close to the right place.
Waterproof Search Coil
The search coil attached to the device is not only waterproof but also submersible. You can easily use the tool in wet conditions without the fear of breakage. However, make sure the water does not reach the circuit box as it is only the coil that is waterproof.
Impressions
When I saw the product for the first time, I had to stop myself from asking about it or looking things up. It just looked like it would break my bank account. If you look at the device, only the LCD tells you what features it has to offer. The array of features gave me the initial impression that it would be highly expensive.
However, I was amazed to find out the actual price of the product. It was hard to believe that so many features could be offered at such a cost-effective price.
The device is also easy to understand and is well known to be the first choice for beginners. The device speaks for itself, and you conduct your searches without wasting any time.
How Is it in Terms of Usage?
Over time, I read a lot of reviews about this device. I took suggestions from my friends, and almost all of them recommended the same device.
At first, it was difficult to digest the yellow color that the device comes in. I am not fond of yellow at all, but I stuck with my friend’s advice and decided to test it out, The results were way beyond my expectations.
The LCD screen has a lot of buttons that are all self-explanatory. You just need to practice using them to master the craft. It is best if you spend some time with your machine so that you have a clear understanding of how these buttons work. Like any high-quality product, there is a learning curve but it is worth it.
Outcome
Honestly, the device was lightweight, priced well, and came with so many features that it was hard to consider anything else. I was pleasantly surprised by how well it worked for me and how much it was able to do. I’m someone who spends long hours hunting for treasures and I didn’t want to be exhausted by the end from hauling around a huge piece of machinery. It really helps save you from the backbreaking that some other devices can cause. I was really impressed by its durability and comprehensive features that have enabled me to keep using it year after year.
Final Thoughts
If I were to rate the product, it is a definite 4/5 for me. The detector offers numerous modes that simplify the metal detecting process. However, the product has a low frequency, which makes it impossible for you to use this product for gold detection. If you want to find Gold then you’ll want to look at these detectors.
If you’re looking for a detector to step into the detection hobby, Garrett Ace 250 is your go-to. It offers convenience, style, and expert features at a great price.
