Like with most hobbies, you have to buy your gear upfront. Whenever you’re investing money in something, especially something you hope will be built to last, you want to trust the company you’re purchasing from. For metal detecting hobbyists, that trustworthy company is Garrett.
Garrett is a US-based company that has had an enviable reputation for producing high-quality, yet affordable metal detectors since its inception. Their ACE series has been a go-to for so many hobbyists because of the high-tech designs. The newest addition to this series that’s making a stir in the community is the Garrett ACE 400.
The ACE 400 is Garrett’s premium spin on the ACE 350, which comes packed with advanced features for enhanced metal detection. Some stellar standout features included in this new package are adjustable frequency, iron audio, digital target ID, cam locks for added stability, and so much more.
So what really makes the 400 model an “ace” above its competitors? Let’s dive a little deeper into that.
Key Features
Along with the new and improved cutting-edge design, this bad boy packs a big punch for such a lightweight product. Why don’t we take a closer look at the specific features that make the ACE 400 stand out from the dozens of metal detectors out on the market?
Design & Usage
The ACE 400 grabs your attention right away with its striking deep yellow color that offsets the black poles. Weighing in at only 2.9 pounds, this model ensures that you can comfortably hunt for long stretches of time without feeling back or arm fatigue. A good detector should be able to provide that kind of long-lasting comfort.
The build is comprised of three-shaft parts with the upper and middle ones made of a lightweight aluminum alloy that’s imbued with a wear-resistant finish. The bottom shaft is made from tough plastic to keep the detector light and free from scratches.
The middle shaft is designed with nine length-adjustment holes so you can perfectly customize it to your needs. The armrest can also be moved towards the upper shaft by adjusting the fixing screw. The ACE 400 also boasts an adjustable stem that stretches up to 51 inches and cam locks for added stability on the separation joints.
And don’t forget that nice extra padding on the shaft arm for a more comfortable grip, as well as the handy Velcro strap for improved portability. You’ll also never have to worry about running out of battery before your day of hunting is through as the battery life offers 25 hours of search time and keeps you updated on how much juice you’ve got left.
Digital Target ID
This is one of the features that separates the Garrett ACE 400 from other detectors in its class. This feature determines the conductivity of targets and displays the values on the LCD screen to help you know what type of metal your target likely is. No more coming up with treasures that aren’t worth your search time.
The digital targeting ID features an extended scale of 0 to 99 for more precise identification of your target. Higher vаluеѕ represent highly соnduсtіve metals like gоld nuggets, ѕіlvеr, and сорреr, while lower vаluеѕ indicate the presence of metal targets such as іrоn and ѕtееl. It is fully up to you to decide what’s worth digging up, which makes this a key feature to make every dig worth your while.
Audio System & Iron Audio Discrimination
The Garrett ACE 400 comes equipped with an audio system that creates three distinct tones based on the target’s conductivity. A bell tone signal is produced when highly conductive targets are detected, while targets with lower conductivity activate a medium or low-pitched tone. This audio is highly responsive thanks to the pulse-width modulation function.
Iron audio is probably the main highlight feature on the ACE 400. It allows you to accurately discriminate iron targets, saving you valuable time that could have been spent digging up trash. It makes a discrete tone upon the detection of iron targets, allowing you to alter the signal range only to pick up desired targets.
Because who wants to waste their day out on the hunt sifting through garbage? By adjusting the iron discrimination settings displayed on the screen, you can accurately capture valuable targets from fields loaded with junk iron. None of the other models in the ACE series have this feature, which makes the ACE 400 rank among high-end detectors despite its reduced price.
A high-quality device for nearly half the price of competitors, you really can’t beat it.
Adjustable Frequency
This device operates at a 10 kHz frequency, which provides better sensitivity to low and medium-conductivity targets. This is the ideal frequency for balancing depth with sensitivity so you’ll be prepared regardless of where you happen to be hunting.
Additionally, the Garrett ACE 400 provides an option to slightly adjust the frequency when needed. This is an invaluable feature, particularly when you’re in the field hunting with other people, and another person happens to be using the same detector. This helps distinguish your frequency over the others and prevents interference.
Cam Locks
Camlocks, for those who don’t know, are locking mechanisms used to tighten the joints as this detector breaks down into three sections. The Camlocks offer extra stability to the shaft, ensuring that the various parts remain stable without unnecessary movements throughout the swing. If you’re going to invest in the ACE 400, you get the assurance that it won’t break or move unnecessarily.
Search Modes
Similar to the ACE 350, this model comes equipped with five pre-set search modes. These include zero discrimination, jewelry, relics, coins, and custom modes. It also comes with a total of twelve discrimination notches, which can be altered to detect specific targets and ignore the rest.
Activating the zero-discrimination mode triggers all the twelve discrimination patterns, providing signals for all metals detected. This can help pick up valuable items concealed within trash metals. The custom mode allows you to create a more personalized setting and save changes to better accuracy.
Other modes like the coin mode for instance may be able to pick up other metals like copper or zinc more easily also. On top of that, it comes with eight sensitivity adjustment settings for improved depth sensitivity on different ground conditions. Whatever you’re searching for, this baby is bound to be able to find it.
Waterproof Search Coil
One of the most important things to consider when deciding on a metal detector is to make sure it can withstand the elements of where you’ll be searching. Both the search coil and shaft of the Garrett ACE 400 are waterproof. This allows you to comfortably hunt in shallow waters.
However, it cannot be fully submerged as the control box isn’t waterproof. So it is recommended if you decide to go beach-combing to be careful of how much of it actually makes contact with the water. The included weather covers offer added protection for the control-box and display in case it accidentally falls in the water.
Intuitive Control Panel
This intuitive control panel includes clearly labeled buttons that are incredibly easy to read. The digital display offers plenty of useful information as it showcases a Target ID and Legend with the various coin denominations. This allows you to easily access the various features and adjust the settings with a press of a button.
Having intuitive design can make all the difference when you’re considering one detector over another. The display and control panel on the 400 really sets it apart from other models.
Comparisons with Other Detectors
ACE 400 vs. ACE 350
Though the ACE 400 may seem like just an upgraded version of the 350, it offers some pretty fantastic bonuses that make the upgrade worth it.
One of the notable differences is the new target ID function included in the ACE 400, which offers improved accuracy while in the field identifying items. The ACE 400 operates at a higher frequency of about 10 kHz compared to 8 kHz of the ACE 350. Unlike the 350 detector, the 400 also allows slight adjustment of the frequency that helps prevent interference from other detectors and nearby power lines.
The iron audio feature on the ACE 400 isn’t included on the 350 model, making the 400 version a superior detector when it comes to identifying worthwhile targets. While the 350 may be the cheaper option, you’re getting a lot more bang for your buck with the 400.
ACE 400 vs. Garrett ACE 300
Both metal detectors come with five pre-set search modes, three audio tone ID levels, PROformance coils, and they weigh almost the same. They also come with pre-defined ground balance, making both of them ideal for a hassle-free hunt.
The ACE 300 has a lesser adjustable frequency of around 8 kHz compared to the 10 Khz of the ACE 400. Due to ACE 400’s higher frequency, it is more suitable for identifying smaller items such as gold nuggets while the lower frequency of the 300 makes it better in penetrating deeper into the ground.
The ACE 300 also lacks the iron audio included in the ACE 400, which makes it unable to filter out iron trash as effectively. All in all, it really depends on what kind of hunting you’re wanting to do, but the 400 even with all the bells and whistles ranks higher than the 300.
ACE 400 vs. Garrett AT Pro
Now, this comparison is a bit different as the AT Pro is a little pricier ( see price ) of a device than the ACE 400. It has a higher frequency of 15kHz compared to the 10 kHz of the 400, meaning the AT Pro offers improved sensitivity to smaller items and better distinction of close targets.
The AT Pro is designed to be waterproof, allowing hunting up to 10 feet deep in the waters. The ACE 400, on the other hand, can only be used on shallow waters as it’s not fully submersible. Both are great for areas with watery conditions, but if you’re looking for a beach detector you might be better off with the AT Pro.
The AT Pro also offers both manual and automatic ground balance, which makes it a superb option for use in highly mineralized fields.
The only thing here that really should be considered is what kind of experience you’re looking for and what your budget is. The AT Pro may have more features, but the 400 is a fantastic detector for the price and offers plenty of things to keep you entertained.
ACE 400 vs Fisher F44
The ACE 400 includes more discrimination modes and a higher frequency than that of the Fisher 44, which improves its sensitivity levels. The F44’s weatherproof design enables hunting during rainy days. It also comes with a larger display screen with backlight for better viewing.
The biggest thing to consider between the two is what features you’re willing to compromise on and what things you must have. I have a full breakdown of the F44 here.
The Verdict
Even in comparison to the other detectors in Garrett’s line, as well as market competitors, the ACE 400 is a supreme detector of its class. It is lightweight and affordable, with features that definitely set it apart from some within the same price range. It is truly customizable and the ease of use makes it a great tool for even the novice hunter.
Whatever you’re looking for, you’re sure to find a great time and a good hunt with the Garrett ACE 400.
