Garrett AT Gold – a metal detector that has become classics of gold hunting devices. Its main features are ability to work using high frequency (18 kHz) and water resistance. The device is a twin-brother of AT-Pro metal detector, but with different operation frequency. Garrett has designed AT Gold specifically for gold nuggets and jewelry hunting both on the ground and underwater.
Contents
Area of the device application
Quite often professional metal detectors are designed as multi-purpose devices. However, Garrett has chosen another approach and created two different devices each for its own task (Garrett AT Max and Garrett AT Pro).
The AT Pro is optimized for detecting small coins and relics, while the AT Gold excels at finding tiny targets like gold nuggets and jewelry, operating at a higher frequency of 18 kHz for enhanced sensitivity. Both detectors share a similar design and waterproof capability, but the AT Gold features a smaller coil and a practical hook for securing headphone wires. While the AT Gold is marketed for gold prospecting, it also performs well in beach conditions, making it versatile, though its high sensitivity may not be necessary for all detectorists.
| Model | Garrett AT Gold |
| Weight | 3.03 lbs (1.4 kgs) |
| Length (Adjustable) | 43″ to 56″ (1.09m – 1.4m) |
| Batteries | 4 AA (included) |
| Headphones | Included |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Circuit Type | VLF |
| Standard Searchcoil | 5″ x 8″ ( 14x20cm) DD PROformance |
| Operating Frequencies (kHz) | 18 |
| Water resistance | Waterproof detector |
| Submersion Depth | up to 10 feet |
| Iron Discrimination Segments | 44 |
| Ground Balance | Manual, Auto |
| Search Modes | 3 |
| Updatable Software | No |
| Audio Threshold | Yes |
| Sensitivity/Depth Adjustments | 8 |
| Electronic Pinpointing | Yes |
| VDI (0 to 99 scale) | Yes |
| Build-in flashlight | No |
Last update on 2024-12-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Source: Amazon Affiliates
The review
Shaft
The Garrett AT Gold metal detector stands out for its user-friendly design and construction. It can be quickly assembled and disassembled, with a reliable shaft connection that minimizes backlash compared to the AT Pro model. Its ergonomic control unit placement allows for easy one-handed operation.
The device features an S-shaped shaft made up of three sections: the bottom section, crafted from lightweight plastic, can accommodate both standard and larger coils. The middle and upper sections are made from a lightweight aluminum alloy, coated with a durable powder finish resistant to wear and scratches, making it suitable for tough search conditions.
The middle section includes multiple length-adjustment holes, enabling quick customization to fit the user’s height and comfort. All three sections connect via a spring-loaded lock and camlocks, allowing for telescopic adjustments while minimizing looseness. Although this design is innovative for Garrett, it retains elements from previous models, improving assembly without compromising stability.
However, while the camlock fixation provides a secure hold, it has potential drawbacks. Made from plastic, the camlocks can crack if overtightened and may clog with sand, complicating disassembly on the beach.
The armrest is exceptionally comfortable and borrows its design from earlier models. Its internal surface securely holds the user’s forearm, and a strap with a touch-and-close fastener enhances stability. The armrest features a stand to keep the detector off the ground when not in use, preventing dirt accumulation during target excavation.
The handle, made of soft polyurethane foam, is ergonomically designed for extended use, ensuring comfort during lengthy treasure hunts. Overall, the Garrett AT Gold combines practical features and thoughtful design to enhance the user experience in metal detecting.
The coil
In this section, we focus on the Garrett AT Gold coil, which features an elliptical design measuring 5×8 inches (14×20 cm) and operates at a frequency of 18 kHz using VLF technology. Despite its compact size, this coil is specifically engineered for efficiently locating small targets, such as jewelry.
The coil demonstrates impressive sensitivity to small items like earrings, chains, and rings made of precious metals. It also excels in target separation, effectively distinguishing closely located items and non-ferrous target signals. Moreover, the coil is resilient against soil mineralization, making it suitable for various hunting conditions, including beach environments and coin and relic searches.
A noteworthy feature is the pinpoint function, which operates effectively to help users accurately locate targets. The manufacturer provides a wide array of coils compatible with the AT Gold, as these coils are designed for multi-purpose use across several metal detectors. Additionally, various off-brand manufacturers offer compatible coils, expanding options for users.
Constructed with a special wear-resistant plastic, the coil is designed to withstand impact, friction, and temperature changes. The bottom of the coil is filled with a composite potting material, ensuring durability against various stresses. The manufacturer claims that the Garrett AT Gold coil is the first of its kind that doesn’t require additional protection. However, users may choose to purchase a protective case.
In my experience, I initially trusted the manufacturer’s assertion that no extra protection was needed. Unfortunately, after only ten beach outings, the coil showed significant wear, particularly on its underside, which was covered in deep scratches resembling abrasions. While this did not affect the coil’s performance, it was disappointing to see it in such poor condition, prompting me to acquire an additional protective case.
The coil connects to the control unit via a flexible elastic dual braid cable, designed to withstand mechanical stress. The coil’s jack plug and socket connector feature rubber covers to prevent water ingress.
Headphones
The Garrett AT Gold package includes headphones specifically designed for use on dry land. While these headphones are not suitable for underwater searches, they feature a sealed jack plug, allowing the metal detector to be submerged as long as the user’s head remains above water. This design caters to beach hunters, who often find themselves standing chest-deep in the water, where swimmers frequently lose jewelry and tides can bring in additional finds.
The sealed jack plug enhances the overall durability of the metal detector, making it more resilient in sandy or wet environments. Additionally, the included headphones are designed to provide clear audio feedback, which is essential for detecting subtle signals in busy beach environments.
For underwater searches, users can purchase supplementary headphones from a special product line designed for the Garrett AT series. These additional headphones enhance the user experience during submerged hunts, ensuring that treasure seekers remain equipped for various conditions. Garrett offers a variety of underwater headphones that vary in price and functionality, catering to different user needs and budgets.
Experienced users often recommend wearing a hat or cap to shield the headphones from direct water exposure, further enhancing their longevity during beach hunts. Many users find that the included headphones are also suitable for land use, providing versatility for different hunting scenarios.
Batteries
The Garrett AT Gold features a convenient replacement module for battery installation and replacement. This module is a cassette that accommodates four AA batteries. Notably, the battery compartment is waterproof, just like the entire control unit, ensuring durability and reliability in various environments.
The device operates on four AA batteries, each rated at 1.5V. Alternatively, you can use 1.2V rechargeable AA batteries, providing flexibility in power options while maintaining optimal performance.
Waterproofness
One of the standout features of the Garrett AT Gold is its waterproof case, allowing for treasure hunting both on land and underwater at depths of up to 10 feet. This waterproof capability not only facilitates underwater searches but also ensures reliability in extreme conditions.
The device performs well in rain, fog, dirt, and dust, enabling you to hunt for treasures in various weather conditions without concern for damage. However, it’s important to note that while the metal detector can be submerged, it is best suited for shallow depths. Thus, it is often referred to as a “conditionally underwater device,” meaning it can withstand some submersion, but with depth limitations.
Control unit
The control unit of the Garrett AT Gold is designed to be waterproof, but it’s important to be cautious with this feature. I once made the mistake of setting the detector on the warm beach sand after using it in cold water. When I returned to detecting, I was shocked to see the screen fogged up. Initially, I feared water had penetrated the unit, but it turned out to be condensation caused by the sudden temperature change from cold to hot.
To avoid similar issues, keep the metal detector in the shade before entering or after exiting the water.
The front panel features an LCD screen with 11 control buttons, providing easy access to various functions. The depth indicator is conveniently marked in both inches and centimeters, offering five values ranging from 5 to 25 cm, with intervals of 5 cm. Additionally, a battery charge indicator is displayed, ensuring you know when it’s time for a replacement.
Garrett has introduced a new target identification process with the AT Gold, utilizing Visual Discrimination Indicator (VDI) values displayed prominently in the middle of the screen, ranging from 0 to 99. While the familiar scale of target conductivity remains, the LCD quality is generally high. However, visibility can be poor in direct sunlight.
In practice, I found that relying on tone signals from targets was often sufficient. The buttons are intuitively placed, allowing for one-handed adjustments, and it quickly becomes easy to memorize the functions needed for optimal use.
Control panel
The MODE button serves to power the metal detector on and off. A short press allows you to switch between three operational modes: ALL METAL and two discrimination modes, DISC1 and DISC2. A long press resets the device to its default settings, including the manufacturer’s operation modes, average ground balance values, and threshold settings.
Sensitivity Adjustment
The SENSITIVITY button adjusts the detector’s sensitivity level, with a range from 1 to 8 segments. Increasing the sensitivity allows for deeper target detection but may also lead to a rise in phantom signals.
Pinpoint Function
The PINPOINT mode is utilized for precise target identification in the ground. When activated, it displays the target depth in the right section of the screen.
Iron Discrimination
IRON DISC enables you to adjust the discrimination levels for ferrous metals, helping to minimize noise from iron debris. This setting ranges from 0 (disabled) to 40. Professional adjustment at the edge of ferrous metal thresholds requires some practice.
Threshold Tone
The THRESHOLD setting allows you to adjust the threshold tone, which helps maintain detection depth while changing the noise level of the device.
Iron Audio Feature
The IRON AUDIO function helps detect ferrous targets while minimizing phantom signals. This feature is particularly useful in professional mode, where the detector will emit a tone signal for ferrous targets and produce varying tones for additional signals. If you find yourself overwhelmed by multiple signals in complex, iron-filled soils, it’s advisable to turn this function off. However, if the target signal is unclear, activating Iron Audio can help clarify the signal.
Frequency Adjustment
The FREQ option provides slight adjustments to the operating frequency, allowing you to avoid electric interference from high-voltage power lines or other nearby metal detectors. The AT Gold offers four frequency shifts in addition to the primary 18 kHz frequency. For instance, if two Garrett AT Gold detectors are operating in close proximity, shifting the frequency can reduce interference, allowing both devices to function effectively.
Ground Balance Control
The GROUND BALANCE function enhances detection depth and significantly reduces phantom signals. The AT Gold features both automatic (standard) and manual (pro) ground balance adjustments. In automatic mode, the device selects the appropriate level, while in manual mode, users can set the ground balance level themselves.
Modes of operation
The Garrett AT Gold features three distinct modes of operation, designed to enhance your treasure-hunting experience.
- Pre-set Coin Search Mode
This mode allows you to start coin hunting immediately. It comes with default discrimination settings optimized for detecting coins, ensuring a straightforward and efficient search process. You can adjust the discrimination settings at any time to suit your current search conditions. - User-defined Discrimination Mode
This mode enables you to create a personalized discrimination pattern. While hunting at the beach, for instance, you can set the device to ignore common trash items like foil, bottle caps, and aluminum can pull tabs. However, it will remain sensitive to valuable targets made of gold or silver, ensuring that you don’t miss any worthwhile finds. - All Metal Mode with Threshold Tone
This mode is particularly useful in areas where valuable targets may be difficult to locate, such as when searching through thick ground layers. The All Metal mode, combined with a threshold tone, is effective for prospecting tiny gold nuggets, allowing you to detect even the smallest and most elusive targets.
Conclusions
The Garrett AT Gold is a versatile metal detector designed for both land and shallow water use, making it an excellent choice for treasure hunters looking for small targets like jewelry, coins, and relics. Its waterproof design, lightweight construction, and multiple operating modes cater to a range of detecting needs.
Strengths
- Waterproof Design: Capable of functioning up to 10 feet deep, allowing users to search in various environments, including beaches and shallow waters.
- Sensitivity to Small Targets: The elliptical 5×8-inch coil is highly sensitive to precious metals and jewelry, enabling quick localization of small items.
- Target Separation: Excellent target separation capabilities ensure that closely located targets can be effectively distinguished.
- User-friendly Controls: Easy-to-use controls and a clear LCD screen make it accessible for both beginners and experienced users.
Weaknesses
- Limited Depth Capability: Although it’s a capable metal detector, it may not be suitable for deep treasure hunting, as it is classified as a “conditionally underwater device.”
- Display Visibility: The LCD screen may suffer from visibility issues in bright sunlight, which could hinder detection efforts in certain conditions.
- Scratching Issues: The coil’s bottom is susceptible to scratching in abrasive environments like sandy beaches, leading to potential cosmetic damage.
Competitors
Several competitors offer similar features and capabilities, including:
- Minelab Equinox 600/800: These models provide multi-frequency technology, making them suitable for a wide range of detecting conditions. They excel in both saltwater and freshwater environments and have advanced discrimination capabilities.
- Garrett AT Max: An upgraded version of the AT Gold, the AT Max features improved depth detection and enhanced wireless capabilities, making it suitable for a wider range of hunting scenarios.
- Garrett AT Pro: Known for its versatility and user-friendly design, the AT Pro is equipped with advanced features like Pro Mode audio and adjustable frequency shifts, making it a solid competitor for both novice and experienced hunters.