Crafted for both budding treasure hunters and those seasoned in the art of metal detection, the Garrett Ace 250 metal detector truly stands out.
When embarking on the journey of metal detecting, a suitable companion is essential. Enter the Garrett Ace 250 Metal Detector, a fantastic choice for novices and enthusiasts. In this Garrett Ace 250 review, we’ll deep dive into its features, performance, and overall value for money. And if you’re curious about how it measures up to other models, do have a look at our Garrett AT Pro review.
Garrett 250 Review
Watch the official Garrett 250 Ace video here:
Garrett 250 Ace Detectors
The design might remind some of its predecessor, the Garrett Ace 150. Still, the Ace 250 brings more to the table than just a similar look. Boasting intuitive controls that make navigating through its multiple modes a breeze, you’ll quickly be switching between All Metal, Jewellery, Custom, Relics, and Coins. This versatility means that whether you’re after Saxon gold or hammered coins, this machine has got you covered.
Though, if Saxon gold is on the menu, some avid detectorists have hinted that an even mightier model might up your chances. That said, this model has found plenty – from old ship nails, bullet fragments from bygone wars, to, yes, the odd scaffolding pole. And if you’re a beginner dreaming of bigger finds, the Garrett Ace 250 will certainly keep you hooked, ensuring every outing is an adventure.
Ace in Features
Beyond its diverse modes, the Garrett Ace 250 metal detector features a control panel that’s easy to operate. The LED display gives you a quick look at battery life, depth of the target, and more. And, with a clear audio output, even the sound of waves crashing won’t deter you from catching that precious beep.
For those who’ve tried the Garrett AT Pro, the simplicity and effectiveness of the Ace 250’s interface might seem familiar.
The coil, a critical component, is also interchangeable, allowing for upgrades. This means if you ever feel the itch to advance your treasure-hunting game, the best coil for Garrett Ace 250 is just an upgrade away. Plus, its lightweight design and comfortable grip make prolonged searches a delight rather than a chore.
Shortcomings
While the Garrett Ace 250 metal detector boasts many praiseworthy features, there are a few areas where it could improve:
- Battery Woes: A notable drawback is its reliance on disposable batteries. Many users feel that for its price point, the inclusion of a rechargeable built-in battery would’ve been beneficial. Not only would this be more eco-friendly, but it might also be more convenient for users in the long run.
- Accuracy on Wet Sand: If you’re planning a beachside treasure hunt, be wary. Some users report that its accuracy tends to dip on wet sand. Though it excels in many terrains, the changing composition of sand layers, especially when wet, might lead to false readings.
- Volume Control: A lack of volume control can be a slight annoyance for some, especially when detecting without headphones. While the sound clarity is commendable, the option to adjust the volume directly on the device would have been a welcome addition.
- Learning Curve: It’s worth noting that while the Garrett Ace 250 is intuitive for many, some first-time users might find it a tad confusing. Watching tutorials or reading the manual thoroughly is recommended to truly harness the device’s potential.
- Better for Beginners: Seasoned treasure hunters might find themselves outgrowing the Ace 250, craving a detector with more advanced features. While it’s perfect for starters and intermediate users, professionals might lean towards higher-end models for specialized hunts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common queries from users considering purchasing the Garrett 250:
Is the Garrett Ace 250 Waterproof?
The Garrett Ace 250 metal detector is not fully waterproof.
The search coil is waterproof, which means it can be submerged in water for detection in shallow streams, ponds, or at the beach. However, the control box (which houses the electronics, display, and controls) is not waterproof and should not be exposed to water.
If you’re planning to use the Ace 250 near water, you need to be careful to keep the control box dry. If you’re looking for a fully submersible detector from the same brand, you might want to check out the Garrett AT Pro, which is designed to be waterproof up to 10 feet.
How to change the batteries?
Changing the batteries in the Garrett Ace 250 is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:
Locate the Battery Compartment: The battery compartment for the Garrett Ace 250 is located on the top of the control box, just behind the display and control panel.
Slide the Battery Cover Off: There is a slide-off battery cover on the control box. Slide it in the direction indicated (usually backward) to remove and access the battery compartment.
Remove Old Batteries: If there are old batteries in the compartment, remove them. Make sure to note the orientation so you can correctly install the new batteries.
Insert New Batteries: The Garrett Ace 250 typically requires four AA batteries. Insert the new batteries, ensuring the positive (+) and negative (-) ends are positioned correctly according to the markings inside the battery compartment.
Replace the Battery Cover: Slide the battery cover back onto the control box, ensuring it clicks into place securely.
Test the Detector: Turn on your metal detector to ensure that it powers up correctly with the new batteries.
Dispose of Old Batteries Properly: Remember to recycle or dispose of the old batteries in an environmentally responsible manner.
How to calibrate Garrett 250
Calibrating the Garrett Ace 250 metal detector is about ensuring that the device is set up optimally for the ground conditions and the specific type of treasure hunting you’re conducting. Here’s a simple guide to calibrating the Ace 250:
Power On: Turn on the Garrett Ace 250 by pressing the power button. Wait for the initialisation process to complete.
Ground Balance (Manual): The Garrett Ace 250 has a fixed ground balance set for average soil conditions. This means it doesn’t have an adjustable ground balance feature like some other metal detectors. However, if you’re in an area with high mineralisation, you might need a metal detector with an adjustable ground balance.
Selecting Detection Mode: Use the Mode button to cycle through the five pre-set hunting modes: All Metal, Jewellery, Custom, Relics, and Coins. Choose the mode that best suits your current treasure hunting objective.
Sensitivity Adjustment: Press the Sensitivity (+) button to increase or the Sensitivity (-) button to decrease the detector’s sensitivity.
If you encounter erratic behaviour or false signals, reduce the sensitivity. Increasing sensitivity will make the detector pick up deeper or smaller targets but can also make it more susceptible to interference.
Discrimination: Use the Discrimination buttons to set the range of metal conductivity the detector should respond to. This helps in eliminating unwanted targets.
The Garrett Ace 250 has a set of pixels at the top of its LCD display. As you increase discrimination, some pixels will turn on, indicating which types of metals will be ignored.
Pinpointing: After detecting a target, press and hold the Pinpoint button.
Move the search coil side to side and then front to back over the suspected target location. The strongest sound indicates the target’s location.
Noise Elimination: If you’re getting interference from other electronic devices or other metal detectors, you can try switching off and then switching the detector back on, which will cause the detector to pick a new operating frequency.
Battery Check: Ensure you have adequate battery life before starting your hunt. The battery level indicator is displayed on the LCD.
Testing: Before setting out, it’s a good idea to test the detector using some coins or other metal items. This helps ensure everything is working as expected.
Remember, the most effective calibration often involves getting to know your detector’s nuances and behaviours. With time and practice, you’ll develop a better sense of how to calibrate and use the Garrett Ace 250 in various conditions and environments.
Verdict
The Garrett Ace 250 metal detector might be pitched as an entry-level device, but it punches well above its weight. Whether it’s a trip to the beach or a day out in the fields, its versatile modes, easy-to-use interface, and durable build make it a popular choice for many. And for those just starting on their metal detecting journey, especially the younger enthusiasts, it’s a brilliant introduction to the world of buried treasure.
So, if you’re looking to get into the game or even upgrade from a basic model, the Garrett Ace 250 should undoubtedly be on your radar.