Xterra 305 and 505 depth difference and GB 0-20 vs 0-50??

[Lem]

I like what I see about the xterra, wanting to get one for my wife, who is a beginner, just not clear on the significance of
how they differ concerning depth, and the difference of 0 to 20 versus 0 to 50 on ground balance. Our soil conditions are moderately to highly mineralized.

thanks for your assistance

 

[Old Longhair]

I don't believe that there is any depth difference based on GB range. The range is the same, but the increments are finer with the 505...similar to the increments of discrimination.

 

[michaelosully]

Having owned them both, IMO the depth is no difference with the 9" CC factory coil for the 305 vs. the 505. As far as GB, I found (in highly mineralized soil) that my normal GB on the 305 was around 4-5 and on the 505 was around 9. Think that figures out to ~20%-25% of the total GB range on each detector (with a slight adjustment on the 505 for finer increments). My thought is that the GB range is the same [same lower limit & same upper limit] on both with the 505 being able to obtain a 'finer' or 'narrower' GB setting. Being able to achieve a 'finer' GB might allow you to get a little more depth, but I found it to be of minimal , if any, difference. Keep in mind that both the 305 & 505 both have manual GB and both are set in the same way. The 705 has auto GB.

Other thoughts:
You will find that you will benefit greatly with a DD coil in highly mineralized areas.
The 305 is a great beginners detector, but the 705 is actually more simple to use (just has more bells & whistles)
Again, IMO...I would stick with either the 305 (for price) or jump to the 705 and not go for the 505 (and I still use my 505 as a back-up).

Hope this helps.

 

[Lem]

Long hair and Mountain Digger, sincerely appreciate your response, you've answered my questions. I like the 705, and yes auto GB would make
it easier for my wife. All know at this point, is I want a 705.

 

[leroy1937]

good choise 705 all the way