First Impressions of Fisher F19 Metal Detector
The Fisher F19 Metal Detector promises to be a relic hunter’s dream. Fisher claims this machine will find what others have missed, and with its advanced features and relatively low price point, it certainly piqued my interest. I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
I’ve spent years scouring fields and forests with various metal detectors, always searching for that edge. My current detector, while reliable, struggles with heavily mineralized soil and iron-infested sites. The F19’s GROUND-GRAB ground balancing and adjustable iron audio were key selling points for me.
Unboxing the Fisher F19 Metal Detector revealed a well-packaged and lightweight machine. The black finish gives it a sleek, professional look, and the build quality felt solid despite its light weight. It’s noticeably lighter than my current detector, which could make those long days in the field much more comfortable.
I was also considering the Garrett AT Pro and the Minelab Equinox 600. The Garrett is a proven performer, but lacks the advanced iron discrimination of the F19. The Equinox 600 is a multi-frequency machine and thus significantly more expensive, which made the Fisher F19 Metal Detector the more accessible option.
My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. The lightweight design and feature set were promising, but the real test would be in the field. Could the Fisher F19 Metal Detector truly deliver on its claims of superior relic hunting performance?
Real-World Testing: Putting Fisher F19 Metal Detector to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Fisher F19 Metal Detector was at an old Civil War encampment known for its challenging soil conditions. This site is notorious for its high iron content and variable ground mineralization. I wanted to see how the F19 handled these tough conditions.
The F19 performed admirably, even in the highly mineralized soil. The GROUND-GRAB ground balancing system quickly and accurately tuned the detector to the soil, minimizing false signals. The adjustable iron audio allowed me to discern faint signals amidst the iron clutter, helping me isolate potential non-ferrous targets.
The learning curve was minimal. The controls were intuitive, and the backlit display was easy to read, even in direct sunlight. I did, however, find myself adjusting the iron audio frequently to fine-tune the discrimination based on the specific iron conditions.
After a couple of hours, I unearthed several musket balls, a small brass button, and a flattened .58 caliber bullet. While not a treasure trove, it was a promising start, especially considering the site’s reputation for being “hunted out”. The Fisher F19 Metal Detector found targets I suspect previous detectors had missed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use across various sites, the Fisher F19 Metal Detector has proven to be a reliable and capable machine. It has become my go-to detector for relic hunting in iron-infested areas.
The F19 has held up well despite being used in some challenging environments. I’ve used it in wet fields, dusty construction sites, and rocky forests. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear, and the waterproof coil has performed flawlessly in wet conditions.
Maintaining the F19 is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each use is all that’s needed. Battery life is as advertised, lasting approximately 15-20 hours on a single 9V battery.
Compared to my previous experiences with other detectors in similar environments, the Fisher F19 Metal Detector outperforms them in terms of target separation and iron discrimination. It’s not a magical machine, but it definitely provides a significant advantage in challenging relic hunting scenarios.
Breaking Down the Features of Fisher F19 Metal Detector
Specifications
The Fisher F19 Metal Detector boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance:
- Operating Frequency: 19 kHz. This higher frequency is particularly effective for detecting small, non-ferrous targets, making it ideal for relic hunting and gold prospecting.
- Weight: 2.5 lbs (1.1 kg). This ultra-lightweight design reduces fatigue during long hunts.
- Battery Type: 9V. A single 9V battery provides 15-20 hours of operation.
- Water Resistance: Waterproof Coil. Allows for detecting in shallow water or wet environments.
- Ground Balance: Computerized GROUND GRAB with Manual Override. This provides both ease of use and advanced control for varying soil conditions.
- Iron Audio: FeTone, Adjustable Iron Audio. Allows for customized volume settings for ferrous targets, increasing clarity on desirable targets.
These specifications are crucial for the Fisher F19 Metal Detector’s intended use. The high frequency enhances sensitivity to small targets, the lightweight design improves user comfort, and the advanced ground balancing ensures accurate detection in mineralized soil. Adjustable Iron Audio drastically enhances the user’s ability to differentiate iron from desirable finds.
Performance & Functionality
The Fisher F19 Metal Detector excels at its primary task: finding relics in challenging environments. Its performance is particularly impressive in areas with high iron content.
The FeTone adjustable iron audio is a game-changer. Being able to reduce the volume of iron signals makes it much easier to hear the faint signals of non-ferrous targets. The GROUND-GRAB ground balancing system is accurate and easy to use, ensuring optimal performance in varying soil conditions.
One minor weakness is the depth indicator, which can be somewhat inaccurate, particularly with smaller targets. The target separation is excellent, even in trashy areas. Overall, the Fisher F19 Metal Detector meets and, in some cases, exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Fisher F19 Metal Detector features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes user comfort and ease of use. The lightweight construction makes it comfortable to swing for extended periods.
The controls are intuitively placed and easy to access, even with gloves on. The backlit display is clear and easy to read in various lighting conditions. There is a slight learning curve associated with properly understanding and utilizing the audio nuances the machine offers.
Durability & Maintenance
The Fisher F19 Metal Detector appears to be built to last. The materials feel durable, and the construction is solid.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick wipe down after each use. The waterproof coil adds an extra layer of protection against the elements. With proper care, the Fisher F19 Metal Detector should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Fisher F19 Metal Detector comes standard with the basics. It is immediately operational straight out of the box.
Aftermarket options are relatively limited, but there are compatible search coils available to enhance performance in specific environments. Fisher and other manufacturers offer a range of coil sizes for various applications. The most popular customization is the addition of a pinpointer, which is not included.
Pros and Cons of Fisher F19 Metal Detector
Pros
- Exceptional Iron Discrimination: The FeTone adjustable iron audio significantly improves the ability to identify and isolate non-ferrous targets in iron-infested areas.
- Accurate Ground Balancing: The GROUND-GRAB system quickly and accurately tunes the detector to varying soil conditions, maximizing detection depth and minimizing false signals.
- Lightweight Design: The Fisher F19 Metal Detector’s lightweight construction reduces fatigue during long hunts, allowing for extended use.
- User-Friendly Interface: The intuitive controls and backlit display make the F19 easy to use, even for beginners.
- Waterproof Coil: The waterproof coil allows for detecting in shallow water or wet environments, expanding the range of possible hunting locations.
Cons
- Depth Indicator Inaccuracy: The depth indicator can be inaccurate, particularly with smaller targets.
- Limited Customization Options: The availability of aftermarket accessories is relatively limited compared to some other detectors.
Who Should Buy Fisher F19 Metal Detector?
The Fisher F19 Metal Detector is perfect for relic hunters, coin shooters, and history enthusiasts who frequently hunt in areas with high iron content or challenging soil conditions. It’s also a great choice for beginners who are looking for a capable and user-friendly machine.
Those seeking maximum depth on larger targets or who primarily hunt in areas with minimal iron contamination might find other detectors more suitable. Prospectors searching for gold in extremely mineralized areas might consider higher-end machines designed specifically for gold detection.
A must-have accessory for the Fisher F19 Metal Detector is a quality pinpointer to quickly locate targets in the hole.
Conclusion on Fisher F19 Metal Detector
The Fisher F19 Metal Detector is a highly capable relic hunting machine that delivers on its promises. Its exceptional iron discrimination, accurate ground balancing, and lightweight design make it a valuable tool for any serious detectorist.
The price is justified given the performance and features offered. While it’s not perfect, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.
I would highly recommend the Fisher F19 Metal Detector to anyone looking for a reliable and effective relic hunting detector. If you’re tired of digging up iron and missing those subtle non-ferrous signals, the F19 could be just what you need to take your detecting to the next level. Get out there and start digging!