Hi Bob; First, contact your Dealer. They should be able to get you jump started on your learning curve, especially you being new to the hobby. Give them a chance to help. Next, I recommend the following learning tools: Explorer II Training DVD or VHS Video; "Mastering the Explorer" book by Andy Sabisch and "The Detectorist" book by Bob Sickler. Lots of great advice and tips in each item. Next, be patient and practice! Lay some coins, jewelry and trash items on the ground (or your driveway). Pass your coil over each item, keeping a distance of 5 or so inches above the target. Watch your screen and listen to the sound each item gives. Do this until it becomes a given. While searching for actual field targets, hunt with a slow, methodical swing. You'll miss less and find more. Remember, DEEP targets do not react like shallow to medium depth targets. They will not register the same on the meter as shallow targets and they will not sound like shallow targets. Practice is paramount to becoming a good Detectorist. As for probes, there are several excellent choices: The Detector Pro Uni-Probe or Pocket Probe, Sun Ray X-1 Target Probe (these are the best in my opinion) and the Vibra-Probe 560. Each probe has its own merit, so talk to your Dealer for comparisons. They can be a great asset. Good hunting, David @ Dixie <center><a href="http://www.dixie-metal-detectors.com"><img src="/metal/html/d-m.jpg"></center>
