Unmasking Hidden Treasures: The Advanced Features of Garrett GTI 2500

In this article, we review the Garrett GTI 2500, a metal detector that has stood the test of time. Despite being an older model, the GTI 2500 remains relevant in the market due to its impressive features and capabilities. One of its standout attributes is its ability to detect deeply buried targets, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced metal detectorists.

The story of the device

In this article, we will explore the evolution of Garrett’s metal detectors, focusing on the introduction of the groundbreaking Graphic Target Imaging (GTI) technology. In 1996, Garrett introduced a revolutionary metal detector utilizing patented technology known as GTI. This innovative device, named the GTI 2000, has since laid the foundation for a whole series of metal detectors.

The unique feature of GTI technology is its ability to analyze target sizes and display the results on the detector’s screen. Targets are visually represented by one of five ovals of different sizes, labeled from A to E. The smallest oval, labeled A, corresponds to objects smaller than a coin, while the largest, labeled E, indicates much larger objects. The ovals represent various sizes: B for an average-sized coin, C for a large bottle cap, and D for a beer can.

The GTI system proves to be a valuable feature that simpler metal detectors often lack. The GTI 2500 model successfully integrates this system with a detection depth indicator, as these two parameters are closely linked.

Garrett later designed an improved model, the GTI 2500, introducing enhancements that optimize detection depth and discrimination quality. This evolution reflects Garrett’s commitment to advancing metal detection technology and improving user experiences.

Model	Garrett GTI 2500
Weight	4.6 lbs (2.1 kgs)
Length (Adjustable)	40″ to 51″ (1.01m – 1.29m)
Batteries	8 AA (included)
Headphones	Yes
Warranty	2 year
Circuit Type	VLF
Standard Searchcoil	9.5″ PROformance™ Imaging
Operating Frequencies (kHz)	7.2
Water resistance	Waterproof coil
Submersion Depth	No
Iron Discrimination Segments	3
Ground Balance	Manual or Auto
Search Modes	5 (plus Imaging/Pinpoint)
Audio Threshold	No
Sensitivity/Depth Adjustments	24
Electronic Pinpointing	Yes, with size/depth display
VDI (0 to 99 scale)	No
Build-in flashlight	Yes

Last update on 2024-12-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Source: Amazon Affiliates

Review

The shaft

The construction of the metal detector features an S-shaped design that enhances its functionality and user experience. This design not only improves ergonomics but also reduces user fatigue during extended detecting sessions. The control unit is attached to the upper section of a three-part shaft.

The bottom shaft section is made from carbon-plastic, allowing compatibility with not only the included search coil but also larger and heavier coils for more advanced searching. This lightweight material is specifically chosen for its properties, making the detector easier to handle. The middle and upper sections are crafted from an aluminum alloy, coated with green powder paint for added durability. This coating not only provides aesthetic appeal but also protects against corrosion and wear, extending the lifespan of the metal detector.

To accommodate various user heights, the middle shaft includes nine length-adjustment holes. These adjustments are made simple with spring buttons connecting the shaft sections, facilitating quick assembly and disassembly. The design ensures that users do not need to worry about which end to insert into the upper shaft section.

The armrest features a removable battery unit at the bottom, designed to improve the device’s balance. Users can further lighten the metal detector by detaching the battery unit from the armrest and attaching it to their belt. This unit connects to the control unit via a stranded cable, allowing for comfortable treasure hunting. The battery unit houses eight batteries (four in each of the two holders, 8×1.5V) and includes a ¼-inch headphone jack and a speaker. This jack is located on the battery unit rather than the control unit, preventing cable tangling regardless of the battery’s position, whether on the belt or beneath the armrest.

When in use, the headphones cable runs along the operating arm. However, users should be cautious, as forgetting about the cable can lead to it pulling abruptly if the metal detector is placed on the ground. Additionally, the design of the battery unit allows for easy access to the batteries, simplifying the replacement process without needing to disassemble the entire unit. Many users appreciate the flexibility of relocating the battery unit, as this feature enhances the detector’s balance and allows for a more customized setup based on personal preferences.

The coil

The Garrett GTI 2500 metal detector is equipped with a 9.5-inch PROformance Imaging mono coil that operates at a frequency of 7.2 kHz. This coil is completely leakproof, making it suitable for treasure hunting in puddles or shallow waters on the beach. The versatility of the leakproof design enhances user experience in various environments, including wet conditions, which is particularly beneficial for beachcombing or searching after rain.

The GTI 2500 is available in two package options: a standard package and a Pro package. The Pro package includes the device, a 12.5-inch PROformance Imaging mono search coil, headphones with individual volume control for each speaker, a protective case for the control unit, and a comfortable carry bag with two additional compartments for accessories and findings. The inclusion of headphones with volume control for each speaker is especially advantageous in noisy environments, allowing for better auditory detection of signals.

The larger 12.5-inch search coil is particularly useful for detecting targets located deeper in the ground. While the standard search coil is versatile, users can also opt for various additional coils designed specifically for GTI devices to enhance their searching capabilities. These specialized coils are tailored for different hunting conditions, such as highly mineralized soil or areas with a lot of trash, providing users with customizable options based on their needs.

For deeper searches, the GTI 2500 can be equipped with a coil for deep searches, allowing for enhanced detection depth. This feature is especially valuable for finding relics that may be buried significantly deeper than what standard mono or double-D coils can reach. Deep search metal detectors, although generally more expensive, are essential for uncovering such targets.

Additionally, the GTI 2500 can utilize the EagleEye system, which is available for separate purchase. This specialized system comprises search coils capable of detecting large metal objects located deeper than standard coils. The detection depth amplifier, Treasure Hound Eagle Eye, consists of two separate coils fixed to a rigid shaft, spaced apart to enhance depth capabilities.

Once the control unit is attached to this shaft, the metal detector is ready for operation. In this setup, the device functions exclusively in ALL METAL mode. Beyond detecting large metal objects, the EagleEye system also allows users to pinpoint their precise locations, making treasure hunting more efficient. This capability is particularly favored by advanced treasure hunters, as it enables the detection of larger objects, such as buried caches or larger relics, that traditional coils may miss.

The headphones

Branded Garrett headphones are designed for comfort during extended use, featuring soft and comfortable ear cushions that effectively isolate external sounds. This feature allows users to focus on the signals picked up by the metal detector without distraction, enhancing their overall treasure-hunting experience. The headphones also come with an audio level control, enabling users to adjust the sound individually for each ear. This personalized control ensures optimal hearing, which is especially useful in varying environments where background noise levels may change.

Additionally, the Garrett metal detector carry bag is equipped with soft packing material, providing excellent protection for the device during transport. This bag is not only spacious enough to accommodate the metal detector itself but also offers ample room for its coils and headphones. Its thoughtful design makes it perfect for safely storing and transporting all essential equipment, ensuring that everything remains in good condition while on the go.

The battery

The Garrett GTI 2500 metal detector is powered by eight AA batteries, which are housed in two dedicated battery holders. For optimal performance and extended use, it is essential to choose high-quality lithium or alkaline batteries, as well as rechargeable batteries. These options ensure the metal detector operates efficiently and reliably during long treasure-hunting sessions. However, it is advisable to avoid using saltwater batteries, as they may not provide the necessary power and can potentially damage the device. By selecting the right batteries, users can enhance the performance and longevity of their metal detector.

The control unit

The control unit of the Garrett GTI 2500 features an LCD display equipped with ten control buttons, providing an intuitive interface for users. The display shows the currently selected mode of operation and search program, along with a battery charge indicator to keep track of power levels.

One of the standout features is the discrimination scale, which includes 24 scale marks based on GTI technology. This scale occupies a significant portion of the display and is positioned horizontally in the upper half, allowing users to easily assess the discrimination settings. Additionally, the target size indicator, which is integrated with the discrimination scale, also provides information about the target depth, enhancing the device’s overall functionality.

While the LCD display is monochrome, colorful stickers and hints are included to enhance user-friendliness and readability. In the bottom-right corner, a graphical icon clearly indicates the battery charge level, ensuring users are always informed about their power status during treasure hunting adventures.

Modes of operation

The Garrett GTI 2500 metal detector offers five standard modes of operation, along with the flexibility to customize settings according to individual preferences and requirements. Below are the available modes:

1. COINS: This mode is optimized for detecting metals commonly found in coins. It effectively filters out larger metal objects and ignores targets smaller than coins, ensuring efficient treasure hunting.
2. JEWELRY: Ideal for those who enjoy beach hunting, this mode is specifically designed to detect rings, earrings, and chains. It enhances the chances of finding valuable jewelry without interference from unwanted items.
3. RELICS: When activated, this mode ignores metal targets, allowing users to focus on non-metal relics of interest, such as artifacts or historical items.
4. ZERO: In this mode, the detector identifies all metal targets, making it a valuable setting for investigating potential finds. It is recommended to switch to this mode when a signal from an unknown target is detected.
5. CUSTOM: This versatile mode allows users to tailor the device to their specific needs. You can block unwanted signals and scan objects to input their data into the program, enabling personalized treasure hunting.

While the CUSTOM mode allows for individual settings to be saved, the other modes come with pre-set manufacturer settings that users can adjust as needed, providing a balance of convenience and flexibility.

Feature set

While the Garrett GTI 2500 offers standard features like sensitivity adjustment and discrimination settings, let’s delve into some of its special functions that set it apart:

Key Features

• PowerMaster: This exclusive patented technology enhances detection depth, making it particularly effective in areas frequented by detectorists.
• Garrett’s True Size Imaging: This function provides information about the size of the detected target, helping users assess the value of their finds.
• ScanTrack: This innovative feature automatically adapts the detector to the user’s detection speed. It compensates for the user’s actions, such as moving the search coil too quickly, which can decrease target response time. Conversely, moving the coil slowly increases detection depth and sensitivity.
• Static Mode: This mode allows for thorough ground examination in ALL METAL mode, enabling users to identify potential treasures with greater precision.
• Frequency Suppression: This feature helps the detector ignore signals from nearby metal detectors, electrical transmission lines, and cell-phone transmitting stations, allowing for uninterrupted treasure hunting.
• Ground Balance: The GTI 2500 features both automatic and manual ground balance functions. The manual mode allows for deeper detection across various soil types, enhancing the user’s treasure-hunting capabilities.
• Salt Elimination: This function includes both automatic and manual modes for compensating soil mineralization, facilitating quick adaptation to mineralized soils and beach environments.
• Additional Functions: The device also includes helpful features such as an excellent pinpointer, lighting for low-visibility conditions, a button to return to the previous mode, and voice prompts for the last target’s properties.

Automatic Ground Balance Technologies

The GTI 2500 incorporates patented technologies like ScanTrack and FastTrack, allowing for automatic operation using the ground balance function. Unlike many metal detectors that require manual adjustment, the GTI 2500 can automatically adapt to changing soil mineralization levels, enabling users to switch locations without wasting time on readjustments.

Overcoming Challenges in Iron-Rich Areas

Areas littered with iron debris, such as bottle caps and nails, can pose significant challenges for metal detectorists. The GTI 2500’s discriminator effectively reacts to these unwanted iron targets, preventing interference with the detection of valuable items buried beneath. The Surface Elimination function allows the detector to ignore signals from surface rubbish, enabling deeper target detection.

Discrimination

During testing, the Garrett GTI 2500 demonstrated exceptional detection depth, stable performance, and high-quality discrimination. The device features a discrimination system unique to Garrett’s DSP microprocessors, which has proven to be an effective and precise metal identifier.

Discrimination System

Unlike many metal detectors that rely on VDI (Visual Display Indicator) numbers, the GTI 2500 employs a 24-segment discrimination scale. This scale allows for precise target identification, enabling users to fine-tune their settings to receive signals from valuable targets while ignoring unwanted ones. The more segments available, the more precise the discrimination adjustment becomes.

The bottom row of graphic icons on the display indicates the discrimination sectors. Users can easily see which sectors are excluded from detection and which remain active. In ALL METAL mode, the scale also displays the distance from the search coil to the detected object in inches.

Quick Mode Selection

On the left side of the display, there is a list of operational modes, facilitating quick adjustments based on current search conditions. Users can easily select the required mode for efficient treasure hunting. Additionally, the device allows for manual correction of discrimination settings, enabling customization according to personal preferences.

Discrimination Adjustment Methods

Discrimination adjustments can be performed in two ways:

1. Manual Adjustment: In any operation mode, users can adjust discrimination by pressing the “+” and “—” buttons to move the cursor along the bottom scale to the desired segment. If the segment under the cursor starts blinking, it indicates that it is included in the detection range. Conversely, if it does not blink, the segment is excluded. Pressing the ACCEPT/REJECT button toggles the segment on and off.
2. Object-Based Adjustment: To exclude a specific object, position the search coil about 2 inches above it and press the ACCEPT/REJECT button. The segment’s activity status can be confirmed in the same manner as the previous method.

Conclusions

The Garrett GTI 2500 metal detector offers a range of impressive features and capabilities that cater to both novice and experienced treasure hunters. However, like any product, it has its strengths and weaknesses, as well as competitors that provide viable alternatives.

Strengths

1. Advanced Detection Technology: The GTI 2500 features exclusive technologies such as PowerMaster for increased detection depth and Garrett’s True Size Imaging, providing valuable insights into the size of detected targets. This can significantly enhance the treasure hunting experience.
2. User-Friendly Interface: The LCD display, with colorful stickers and intuitive controls, makes it accessible for users of all skill levels. The 24-segment discrimination scale offers precise target identification, allowing for customized hunting experiences.
3. Multiple Search Modes: With five standard modes (COINS, JEWELRY, RELICS, ZERO, and CUSTOM), the GTI 2500 can be adapted to various hunting scenarios. This versatility is advantageous for treasure hunters focusing on different types of finds.
4. Compatibility with Additional Coils: The ability to use different search coils, including the EagleEye for deep searching, expands the detector’s functionality and effectiveness in various environments.
5. Comfortable Accessories: The branded Garrett headphones are designed for long-term use with comfortable ear cushions and audio level control, enhancing the overall user experience during extended searches.

Weaknesses

1. Price Point: The GTI 2500 is relatively expensive compared to some entry-level models. This could be a barrier for beginner treasure hunters who may not want to invest a significant amount upfront.
2. Weight and Portability: Some users have noted that the GTI 2500 is heavier than competing models, which could lead to fatigue during long search sessions. Portability is essential for those who spend extended periods in the field.
3. Learning Curve: Although the interface is user-friendly, the range of features may be overwhelming for new users, requiring time and practice to master all functionalities.

Competitors

Several competitors offer metal detectors with similar features and capabilities, including:

1. Minelab Equinox 800: Known for its Multi-IQ technology, this detector provides simultaneous frequency detection, making it effective in various conditions. It also has a lightweight design and multiple search modes.
2. Nokta Makro Simplex: This budget-friendly option is lightweight and waterproof, making it ideal for beginners. It includes several advanced features typically found in higher-priced models.