Have any Garrett users used the MP5?

[marcomo]

Not really a Garrett question, but I know there are some really knowledgeable people here in the Garrett forum with a lot of experience with different detectors.

My 11 year old nephew picked up the detecting bug from me, so my wife's sister and brother-in law bought him a detector for Christmas.

I would have steered them in a different direction (like maybe the Ace 250) had they asked, but I guess they figured my two cents worth wasn't worth it.

They bought him a so-called "closeout" MP5 for $129.

I really don't know much about this detector. My gut feeling on it is negative, but in fairness I don't remember having ever read an opinion from anyone who's actually used it.

My negative feeling stems from the fact that there seems to be only one superstore place that pushs it and there is a huge difference in price between the retail and actual price of the unit. That's a common ploy used by companies selling inferior products to make uninformed buyers think they are getting a great deal. Another negative is that I think it's a Chinese made detector, can anyone verify this?

By the way, I'm not saying anything bad about that wonderful Walmart of the Detecting World. I've never bought from them, but I do appreciate their sponsorship of this forum.

I'd like to hear anyone's opinion, but especially anyone who has actually used an MP5

 

[khouse]

I have never used one. But just see if he sticks with detecting. Lots of kids give it up the first 30 minutes they don't hit a treasure chest. If he sticks with it then he could move up to an Ace 250. Try to help him with the machine he has. I wouldn't let any of them think it was junk. I'm sure it will beep on metal.

 

[Joel-Winnipeg]

To encourage him you could go out and plant some clad coins in some location and suggest to him of a good spot to hunt.
You help him with his new toy and you your self go along and detect.
I think this may encourage him if he finds something of coins.
Never divulge this to him and to the parents.He might just catch the bug
You may have to do this a few times.

 

[Uncle Willy]

I've never used one but suspect it is a Chinese job. Kellyco lists it at $649.95 and their price at $199.95 - a $450 discount. And at the close-out price of $129 you quoted that is $520 off retail ( an 80% discount ) so figure it out. Most dealers get a 40% discount from the factory and distributors about 48% . But it may be good enough to get the boy started and tweak his interest then if he gets addicted he can always pick up an American detector.

Bill