What Makes the Garrett Axiom Special?
The Garrett Axiom represents a significant leap forward in pulse induction metal detector technology. Released in 2020, this detector quickly became a improvement for serious treasure hunters. Unlike traditional VLF detectors, the Axiom uses advanced pulse induction technology that allows it to ignore mineralized ground while maintaining exceptional depth detection.
The Axiom’s standout feature is its four advanced settings that help users find all types of gold, from large nuggets to sub-gram pieces. The device includes independent dual-channel ground balance that covers the full range of mineralization, from heavily mineralized magnetic ground to saltwater without switching modes.
Key Technical Specifications
The Axiom weighs just 4.2 pounds (1.9 kg), making it one of the lighter PI detectors on the market. It operates at a frequency range of 5-20 kHz, which provides excellent sensitivity to small gold targets. The detector comes with both a 13″ and 11″ DD search coil, giving users flexibility for different hunting conditions.
Battery life is impressive – the built-in lithium-ion battery provides approximately 16 hours of use on a single charge. For extended hunts, the Axiom includes a booster pack that adds another 6 hours of operation. The quick-charge USB-C port means you can get back to detecting faster.
Getting Started with Your Garrett Axiom
When you first unbox your Axiom, you’ll find everything needed to start detecting right away. The package includes the control housing, lower rod assembly, upper rod assembly, search coils, coil cover, headphones, and charging accessories. Assembly is straightforward – the rods connect with simple camlocks and the search coil attaches with a bolt.
Before your first hunt, fully charge the battery. The Axiom’s interface is intuitive, but spend some time in your backyard testing different settings with various targets. This practice helps you understand how the detector responds to different metals and ground conditions.
Initial Setup and Ground Balancing
Ground balancing is crucial for optimal performance. The Axiom’s dual-channel ground balance system allows you to adjust for both magnetic and conductive mineralization separately. Start in an area free of metal targets, press the GND BAL button, and pump the coil up and down until you get a stable threshold tone.
For highly mineralized soil, you may need to adjust both channels. The LCD screen provides visual feedback during this process. Take your time with ground balancing – proper adjustment can mean the difference between finding targets and walking right over them.
Advanced Features and Settings
The Axiom’s advanced settings might seem overwhelming at first, but they’re what make this detector so powerful. The four search modes – Fine, Normal, Large, and Salt – each serve specific purposes. Fine mode maximizes sensitivity to small targets, while Large mode helps filter out smaller trash when hunting for bigger relics.
The Iron Check feature is particularly useful. When enabled, it produces a distinct audio response when passing over iron targets. This helps you quickly identify and ignore unwanted ferrous items without even looking at the screen.
Audio Options and Threshold Control
Audio is where the Axiom really shines. The detector offers both PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) and VCO (Voltage Controlled Oscillator) audio options. PWM provides a consistent volume level, while VCO increases volume and pitch as you approach the target. Many experienced users prefer VCO for its intuitive target response.
The threshold control allows you to set the background hum level. A slight threshold helps you hear subtle changes when targets are detected. Some hunters prefer a silent search mode where the detector only makes noise over targets, but maintaining a faint threshold often helps with small target detection.
Real-World Performance and Tips
In actual hunting conditions, the Axiom performs exceptionally well in challenging environments. Its pulse induction technology allows it to handle saltwater beaches and highly mineralized goldfields where VLF detectors struggle. The detector maintains depth even in adverse conditions, making it ideal for serious prospectors.
For gold prospecting, start with the Fine setting and lower sensitivity in trashy areas. Gold signals often sound different from other metals – they tend to be sharper and more distinct. Learning these subtle audio cues comes with experience, but the Axiom’s audio quality makes this learning process easier.
Coil Selection and Usage
The stock 13″ coil provides excellent depth and coverage, making it ideal for most hunting situations. But the smaller 11″ coil offers better maneuverability in tight spaces and around obstacles. For extreme trash areas, consider the optional 7″ coil, which provides excellent target separation.
When hunting in areas with both large and small targets, start with the larger coil to cover ground quickly, then switch to the smaller coil for thorough searching of promising areas. The Axiom’s design makes coil changes quick and tool-free.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance ensures your Axiom performs well for years. After each hunt, especially in saltwater environments, rinse the search coil with fresh water and dry it thoroughly. Check the coil cable for any signs of wear or damage, as this can affect performance.
Store the detector in a cool, dry place when not in use. Avoid extreme temperatures and direct sunlight for extended periods. The lithium-ion battery should be charged every few months if the detector won’t be used for an extended time to maintain battery health.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you experience erratic behavior, the first step is always to check the coil connection. Loose connections are the most common cause of issues. If the detector powers on but doesn’t detect properly, try a different search mode or recalibrate the ground balance.
Battery issues are rare but can occur. If the battery doesn’t hold a charge, ensure the charging port is clean and the cable is properly connected. The Axiom’s battery management system protects against overcharging, but it’s still best to unplug once fully charged.
Comparing the Axiom to Other Detectors
When compared to other PI detectors like the Minelab GPX series, the Axiom holds its own in terms of depth and sensitivity. While some high-end Minelab models might have a slight edge in extreme conditions, the Axiom offers comparable performance at a more accessible price point.
Against VLF detectors, the Axiom’s advantage is clear in mineralized ground. Where VLF detectors become erratic or lose depth, the Axiom maintains consistent performance. The trade-off is that PI detectors like the Axiom don’t provide target ID in the same way VLF detectors do.
Who Should Choose the Axiom?
The Axiom is ideal for serious detectorists who frequently hunt in challenging conditions. Gold prospectors, beach hunters, and relic hunters in mineralized areas will appreciate its capabilities. But beginners might find the learning curve steep compared to simpler VLF detectors.
If you primarily hunt in parks or clean soil and want target identification, a VLF detector might be more suitable. But if you’re dealing with saltwater, black sand, or gold-bearing ground, the Axiom’s pulse induction technology makes it the better choice.
Accessories and Upgrades
Several accessories can enhance your Axiom experience. The wireless headphones provide freedom of movement without cord entanglement. Additional search coils in different sizes expand your hunting options for various conditions.
A quality finds pouch, digging tool, and pinpointer are essential companions for any detectorist. The Axiom works well with most pinpointers, though Garrett’s own Pro-Pointer series integrates nicely with their detectors.
Recommended Hunting Strategies
For beach hunting, focus on the towel line and water’s edge, especially after crowds leave. The Axiom’s ability to handle saltwater means you can search right at the surf line where many other detectors struggle. Use slower sweep speeds in wet sand for best results.
In gold prospecting, research historical gold-bearing areas and focus on exposed bedrock, crevices, and areas where gold naturally accumulates. The Axiom’s sensitivity to small gold means you can find pieces that older detectors miss. Grid your search area systematically for thorough coverage.
Final Thoughts
The Garrett Axiom represents a significant investment in your detecting future. While the price point is higher than entry-level detectors, its performance in challenging conditions justifies the cost for serious hunters. The combination of advanced features, user-friendly interface, and exceptional build quality makes it a standout choice.
Whether you’re a gold prospector, beach hunter, or relic enthusiast dealing with tough ground conditions, the Axiom delivers the performance needed to find targets that other detectors miss. With proper technique and practice, this detector can significantly improve your success rate and open up new hunting opportunities.
Take time to learn your Axiom’s nuances, experiment with different settings, and most importantly, spend time in the field. The more you use it, the more you’ll appreciate why this detector has quickly become a favorite among experienced detectorists worldwide.