Xterra 70

[Banff]

This xterra 70 came up on the local buy swap for $200ono an was wondering if it would be a good buy or not just for a first detector to muck around with? Or better to save the hassle and get a better one. Also what's the things to look at when buying a second hand detector?

Cheers

 

[grubstake]

This xterra 70 came up on the local buy swap for $200ono an was wondering if it would be a good buy or not just for a first detector to muck around with? Or better to save the hassle and get a better one. Also what's the things to look at when buying a second hand detector?

For $200 or less, an Xterra 70 would be a great first detector, IMHO. To familiarise yourself with the machine, you can download the manual here: http://www.minelab.com/__files/f/4146/4901-0059 1.1Inst Manual X-Terra70 Website.pdf

Things to look at? As well as general wear and tear (scrapes, scratches, etc), check for frayed/split cables, cracked casing, damage to LCD area, signs of battery leakage in battery compartment, cracked coil cover, cracks or breaks in coil mounting brackets.

Test the machine, preferably with fresh batteries (4 x AA - take some with you just in case). Does the display look crisp and clear and are all parts of it functioning? (The manual will show you how it should look). Put a couple of coins on the ground and see if it detects them.

If there are no major problems with any of the above, it's time to start negotiating. If there are minor problems (fixable or cosmetic only), point them out to the owner and factor them into your offer. Good luck!

 

[Goldpick]

Sounds like bargain to me, just ensure the press pad buttons are working properly, as it can be an expensive exercise to replace them, so much so that it wouldn't be worth doing. Good luck!

 

[Twapster]

This xterra 70 came up on the local buy swap for $200ono an was wondering if it would be a good buy or not just for a first detector to muck around with? Or better to save the hassle and get a better one. Also what's the things to look at when buying a second hand detector?

Cheers

The 70 was about $1500 when new so $200 is a no brainer. Great for relics/coin hunting, not so good on the gold nuggets as your typical VLF will have issues in mineralised areas that usually produce the yellow and make you stir crazy unless you dumb the machine down. I do have the 18hz 6 inch DD coil that is waterproof so does do well under a bit of water. I don't think u'll find much better at that price point.