Exp 2 vs. CZ-7

[michaelnc]

I don't post very often and I certainly don't want to start any arguments. I just want to make a couple of observations. I purchased the Explorer 2 about 1 month ago and really like it. I have owned CZ's for years and I like them also. The depth is comparable on both units almost equal (maybe slight edge to the CZ). The target ID is another story altogether ( Explorer wins hands down) awesome at correctly Iding targets even among iron and the CZ has a propensity for nails but you can work around them. So far the Explorer is the best overall detector I've ever owned but it really eats the batteries compared to my CZ-7 which will run around 80 hours on a set = a lotta hunts. The Explorer usually only lasts around 18 hours. Is this normal and if so which rechargeables work the best for this unit. All in all I really like the Explorer but I believe you should use it in well researched sites where you know valuable targets are likely. Unless I can find the right rechargeables then its an everyday detector.

Happy Holidays

 

[king-ghidorah]

I use Tenergy --> http://www.all-battery.com/aa2600mahhighcapacitynimhrechargeablebattery.aspx

They last a while but the explorer is a battery eater compared to other MD.

 

[ellis]

monday morning to you michael; i've never owned a cz so i can only compare with what you've said..my thinking about the batteries is not worry all that much but just enjoy the tector and the hunt more.i have one friend that is always worried sick about the batteries.my experience with my se is that if i start out with the rechargeable down a little bit then it pulls down a little faster,but before i go i usually charge back up.the nimh can be recharged without taking a memory and thats the great thing about that battery.i always take along the other pack with the double a's just in case.keep reading the posts on here because you won't find any better place to learn the exp.line unless you have some one to hunt with that can teach it,and compare signals.maybe the more experienced users can and will chime in here to help you with better info.have a great christmas and hh

 

[grumpyolman]

I just ordered a bunch of AA and AAAs plus a charger. Thanks for the post on the site. I have used T-Energy Lithium-polymer batteries in a RC helicopter and those in that hobby have had good experiences with T-energy batteries. Knowing that the NiMh batteries retain 75%-85% of their charge for a year makes them a really good value. No more alkalines unless I screw up with the rechargeables and have to get someplace to buy them when out tecting. The Mah rating is really good too. Having used lots of batteries in HAM radio I have learned that getting a charger that discharges and then charges keeps batteries in top shape. There are some terrific chargers for a really good price that have automatic features and are idiot proof. (I need that).. Regards...Jim K7-GOM. (Grumpy Ol Man)

 

[C&RHunter]

I know nothing about the CZ. But I have 2 Explorer XSs and now an Etrac. I use the rechargeables all the time and normally never use the AA pack unless I forget to charge the Rechargeable pack and it goes down. I always try to charge it over night. The Etrac manual says it takes 18 hours to get a full charge if the battery has been depleted. I always use headphones, that helps to reduce drain on the battery, as would not using the back-light, etc. Just common sense stuff. I hunt with a couple of guys using Explorer series machines, one of them always uses AA battery pack. I don't know if he had a defective rechargeable or what, but if I had to buy AA all the time, the expense would be high for me. Another thing here, in the Etrac manual (the battery is the same as the Explorer series machines) it says not to use lithium rechargeables in the AA pack, as if fully charged they initially could retain enough voltage, that it could damage the machine and void the warranty. True or not, I don't know, but don't want to find out the hard (and expensive) way either.

 

[michaelnc]

Thanks everyone for the great info. I'm gonna check out those T-energy rechargeable batteries. Maybe I'll get two sets and always have a backup. Now if it'll warm up real quick to around 45 degress I'll get some more time in with the Explorer 2.

Thanx again,

Happy Holidays

 

[grumpyolman]

C&R Hunter...The batteries talked about above were not lithium. They were Nickel Metal Hydride. A different critter so I don't think the warning you speak of applies to the NiMh.