Introduction to the Garrett Ace 400 Metal Detector
The Garrett Ace 400 stands as one of the most popular entry-level metal detectors on the market today. Building on the success of its predecessor, the Ace 350, this detector offers enhanced features and improved performance that appeal to both beginners and experienced hobbyists alike.
Garrett Electronics, a trusted name in metal detecting since 1964, designed the Ace 400 to bridge the gap between basic entry-level models and more advanced equipment. The result is a detector that’s sophisticated enough for serious treasure hunting yet simple enough for newcomers to master quickly.
Key Features and Specifications
The Ace 400 comes packed with features that make it stand out in its price range:
– **Frequency**: 10 kHz operating frequency, higher than many competitors
– **Search Modes**: Five distinct modes including jewelry, coins, relics, custom, and zero-disc
– **Discrimination**: Eight iron discrimination segments for precise target identification
– **Waterproof Coil**: 8.5″ x 11″ DD PROformance search coil
– **Weight**: 2.9 lbs (1.3 kg), making it comfortable for extended use
– **Adjustable Frequency**: Helps eliminate interference from other detectors
– **Target ID**: Numeric target identification system (0-99)
– **Audio Tones**: Three distinct tones for different types of targets
Performance in the Field
Depth and Detection Capabilities
The Ace 400’s 10 kHz frequency provides excellent sensitivity to a wide range of targets. Users report consistent detection of coins at depths up to 8-10 inches in ideal conditions, with larger objects detectable even deeper. The higher frequency proves particularly effective for finding smaller gold items like jewelry and nuggets.
Ground Balancing
While the Ace 400 doesn’t feature automatic ground balancing, its preset ground balance works well in most soil conditions. For highly mineralized ground, users may need to adjust their search technique or consider using a detector with more advanced ground balancing features.
Target Separation
The DD coil design helps the Ace 400 excel at target separation, allowing users to distinguish between multiple targets in close proximity. This proves especially valuable in trashy areas or when hunting sites with a long history of human activity.
Practical Tips for Using the Ace 400
Getting Started
When first using your Ace 400, spend time in your backyard or a local park to familiarize yourself with the detector’s responses. Bury different types of metal objects at various depths to understand how the detector signals different targets.
Optimizing Settings
Experiment with the discrimination settings to find what works best for your hunting area. Lower discrimination settings will help you find more targets but may increase false signals from iron objects. Higher discrimination helps filter out trash but might cause you to miss valuable targets.
Search Techniques
Maintain a slow, consistent sweep speed of about 3-4 feet per second. Overlapping your sweeps by about 50% ensures you don’t miss any targets. Keep the coil parallel to the ground and maintain a consistent height above the surface.
Pinpointing
Use the pinpoint mode to precisely locate targets before digging. This feature narrows the detection field, making it easier to recover finds without creating large holes.
Accessories and Upgrades
Recommended Accessories
– **Headphones**: While the Ace 400 includes headphones, consider upgrading to wireless options for greater comfort
– **Digging Tool**: A sturdy trowel or Lesche digging tool is essential for recovery
– **Finds Pouch**: Keep your discoveries organized and protected
– **Coil Cover**: Protect your search coil from scratches and damage
Optional Search Coils
While the standard coil works well for most situations, consider these alternatives:
– **7″ x 10″ Coil**: Better for tight spaces and increased sensitivity to small targets
– **12″ x 15″ Coil**: Covers more ground and reaches greater depths for larger objects
Comparing the Ace 400 to Competitors
Ace 400 vs. Ace 300
The Ace 400 offers several improvements over the Ace 300, including higher frequency, electronic pinpointing, iron audio, and adjustable frequency. These upgrades justify the slightly higher price point for most users.
Ace 400 vs. Other Brands
Compared to similar detectors in its price range, the Ace 400 stands out for its build quality, feature set, and the reputation of the Garrett brand. While some competitors might offer specific features the Ace 400 lacks, few match its overall balance of performance and usability.
Real User Experiences
Success Stories
Many users report finding valuable items with their Ace 400, from rare coins to jewelry and historical artifacts. The detector’s reliability and ease of use make it a favorite among detectorists who hunt regularly.
Common Challenges
Some users note that in highly mineralized soil, the Ace 400 can be challenging to use effectively. Also, the lack of full manual ground balancing means it may not perform optimally in all ground conditions.
Maintenance and Care
Regular Maintenance
– Clean the coil after each use, especially when detecting in saltwater environments
– Check and tighten all connections periodically
– Store the detector in a dry place away from extreme temperatures
– Remove batteries if storing for extended periods
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you experience erratic behavior or false signals, check for nearby sources of electromagnetic interference. Adjusting the frequency setting can often resolve these issues.
Who Should Buy the Ace 400?
The Garrett Ace 400 is ideal for:
– Beginners looking for a detector that will grow with their skills
– Experienced detectorists wanting a reliable backup unit
– Hobbyists who want advanced features without a steep learning curve
– Those hunting in varied terrain and target types
Conclusion
The Garrett Ace 400 represents an excellent value in the entry-level metal detector market. Its combination of advanced features, reliable performance, and user-friendly operation makes it a top choice for both beginners and experienced detectorists. While it may not have all the features of high-end models, it offers more than enough capability for most treasure hunting situations.
Whether you’re searching for coins in the park, relics at historical sites, or gold in the field, the Ace 400 provides the tools you need for success. With proper technique and patience, this detector can help you uncover countless treasures waiting just beneath the surface.