Minelab Go-Find 66 Metal Detector Review

Let’s Talk About Minelab Go-Find 66 Metal Detector

The Minelab Go-Find 66 Metal Detector promises a serious upgrade to the metal detecting experience, packing high-tech features into a compact and user-friendly design. As an experienced outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless detectors come and go, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. This one caught my eye with its promise of precision, performance, and maximum depth, all while remaining accessible to beginners.

I was looking for a lightweight and portable metal detector that I could easily pack on hiking trips, allowing me to explore historical sites and potentially unearth hidden treasures. I have always loved history and the idea of finding a piece of the past is thrilling. My current detector is bulky and cumbersome, making it impractical for longer treks.

My first impression upon unboxing the Minelab Go-Find 66 Metal Detector was positive. The sleek gray and black design looked modern and the lightweight construction immediately appealed to me. It felt sturdy despite its lightness, suggesting a reasonable level of build quality.

Compared to the Garrett AT Pro and the Fisher F22, the Minelab Go-Find 66 Metal Detector seemed to offer a better balance of features and portability at a competitive price point. The Garrett AT Pro is a workhorse, but pricier and overkill for casual use, and the Fisher F22, while similarly priced, lacked the smartphone connectivity and advanced features that the Go-Find 66 boasted. Ultimately, the promise of a user-friendly experience with advanced technology swayed my decision. I was excited to get it out in the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Minelab Go-Find 66 Metal Detector to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Minelab Go-Find 66 Metal Detector was to an old farm site rumored to be the location of a minor skirmish during the Civil War. I wanted to test its ability to detect relics in varied terrain. The weather was dry and sunny, perfect conditions for detecting.

The Go-Find 66 was incredibly easy to set up and use right out of the box. It required virtually no learning curve. I immediately appreciated the simplicity of the interface and the intuitive controls.

The detector handled the uneven terrain well, and the 10-inch waterproof coil allowed me to explore shallow streams without worry. The Treasure View feature, with its five LED indicators, made it easy to quickly identify the type of metal detected. I was impressed by the accuracy of the target identification. My first find was a corroded iron nail, followed by a few modern coins. The device operated exactly as expected.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the Minelab Go-Find 66 Metal Detector on various terrains, including parks, beaches, and wooded areas, it has proven to be a reliable companion. Despite some minor scratches on the plastic housing, it has held up well to regular use. I am pleased to report that it’s a robust system for the price.

Cleaning the detector is a breeze, requiring only a damp cloth to wipe away dirt and debris. The collapsible body makes storage and transport simple. The detector continues to impress me with its consistent performance.

Compared to my old detector, the Minelab Go-Find 66 Metal Detector is a significant upgrade in terms of ease of use, portability, and target identification accuracy. It has exceeded my expectations for a detector in this price range. I believe it is a fantastic entry-level device for new detectorists.

Breaking Down the Features of Minelab Go-Find 66 Metal Detector

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Minelab.
• Battery Type: AA Alkaline. It’s good to know that readily available batteries will power the system.
• Condition: New.
• Battery Quantity: 4. Bring spares for longer trips.
• Color: Gray/Black. This gives the detector a sleek and modern look.
• Weight: 2.3 lb. The light weight is a major selling point for portability.
• Gender: Unisex.
• Find Modes: 4. This allows for different detecting scenarios.
• Search Coil: Large (10-inch waterproof coil). The larger coil provides better ground coverage, and the waterproof feature allows detecting in shallow water.
• Treasure View: 5 LEDs. This provides a quick visual indication of the type of metal detected.
• Backlight: Yes. The backlight ensures visibility in low-light conditions.
• Sensitivity: 5 Levels. This allows adjustment for different ground conditions and target types.
• Volume: 5 Volume Levels. This lets you customize the audio feedback to your preference.
• Pinpoint Locating: Yes. Pinpoint mode helps to precisely locate targets before digging.
• Bluetooth: Yes. Bluetooth connectivity allows for wireless audio.
• Smartphone App: Pro Version. The app offers advanced features and target tracking.
• Smartphone Holder: Included. This makes it easy to use the smartphone app while detecting.
• Digging Tool: Included. A digging tool is a necessary accessory for retrieving finds.
• Earbuds: Included. Earbuds allow for private detecting.
• Batteries: 4xAA Batteries (not inc.). Remember to purchase batteries before heading out.
• Length Collapsed: 21.9 in / 555 mm. The compact collapsed length makes it easy to store and transport.
• Length Extended: 51.4 in / 1,305 mm. The extended length is suitable for most users.

Performance & Functionality

The Minelab Go-Find 66 Metal Detector performs admirably for its intended purpose. The four find modes (All Metal, Coins, Jewelry, and Custom) allow for versatility in different detecting scenarios. The sensitivity adjustment is very useful to reduce false positives.

The Treasure View feature accurately identifies different types of metal. While it isn’t foolproof, it provides a good starting point for target identification. The pinpoint function is excellent for precisely locating targets.

However, the Minelab Go-Find 66 Metal Detector struggles in highly mineralized soil. False signals were common in those environments. It is recommended to use the appropriate sensitivity to mitigate false positives.

Design & Ergonomics

The Minelab Go-Find 66 Metal Detector boasts a well-thought-out design with a focus on portability and ease of use. The lightweight construction makes it comfortable to use for extended periods. I appreciated the ergonomic handle.

The collapsible design is a game-changer for storage and transport. The smartphone holder is a clever addition. I felt there could be more padding on the handle.

There is virtually no learning curve. Even a complete novice can quickly master its operation. The interface is straightforward and the controls are intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

The Minelab Go-Find 66 Metal Detector appears to be reasonably durable for its price point. The plastic housing is sturdy enough to withstand normal use. The waterproof coil adds an extra layer of protection.

However, it is important to note that the detector is not completely waterproof. Avoid fully submerging the control box. Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep it in good condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Minelab Go-Find 66 Metal Detector comes with a smartphone holder, digging tool, and earbuds. The inclusion of these accessories is a welcome bonus. You will need to buy the batteries separately.

The Minelab Go-Find 66 Metal Detector is specifically designed for use with the Minelab Pro App. The included smartphone holder is designed to securely hold your smartphone while using the app. While the device can be used with standard headphones, third-party accessories may or may not be compatible.

Pros and Cons of Minelab Go-Find 66 Metal Detector

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Who Should Buy Minelab Go-Find 66 Metal Detector?

The Minelab Go-Find 66 Metal Detector is perfect for beginners who are new to metal detecting and want an easy-to-use and affordable detector. It is a great tool for casual hobbyists who enjoy exploring parks, beaches, and historical sites. This can also be a great gift idea for adults and children.

This product may not be suitable for professional treasure hunters or those who require a detector with advanced features and customization options. Users who frequently detect in highly mineralized soil may want to consider a detector with better ground balancing capabilities. It might be too simplistic for those with professional needs.

Must-have accessories include a sturdy carrying bag, extra AA batteries, and a high-quality pinpointer tool for precise target location. Purchasing a book or guide on metal detecting techniques can also be beneficial.

Conclusion on Minelab Go-Find 66 Metal Detector

The Minelab Go-Find 66 Metal Detector is an excellent entry-level detector that offers a great balance of features, portability, and ease of use. The price of $198.49 is justified considering the features and performance it offers. It’s a very good value for money.

I would definitely recommend the Minelab Go-Find 66 Metal Detector to anyone looking for a simple, fun, and affordable way to get started with metal detecting. Get out there, explore, and uncover hidden treasures! The Minelab Go-Find 66 Metal Detector is a great start.