Garrett Ace 400 Review

How the Garrett Ace 400 Changed My Routine

The Garrett Ace 400, manufactured by Garrett, is a metal detector designed to bridge the gap between beginner-friendly devices and those with more advanced capabilities. With features like Iron Audio, Digital Target ID, and adjustable frequency, it promises to help users find more treasure and less trash. After a decade of metal detecting with various machines, from basic entry-level units to some more sophisticated models, I was intrigued to see if the Ace 400 could offer a worthwhile upgrade for enthusiasts seeking greater precision and control without breaking the bank.

My usual detecting spots were becoming less productive, yielding more iron trash than valuable finds. I needed a detector that could better discriminate between desirable targets and unwanted junk, offering more control over the search process. Upon unboxing the Garrett Ace 400, I was immediately struck by its lightweight design and the familiar yet refined build quality.

Compared to my old Garrett Ace 250 and a friend’s Minelab Equinox 800, the Ace 400 seemed like a solid middle-ground option. The Ace 250 was great for starting out but lacked the features I now craved, while the Equinox 800, although powerful, felt overkill and more expensive for my casual detecting needs. I chose the Ace 400 because it promised an upgrade in target identification and discrimination without the steep learning curve and price tag of more advanced machines.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The Garrett Ace 400 looked and felt like a capable machine, but I was eager to put it to the test and see if its advanced features lived up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Garrett Ace 400 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Garrett Ace 400 was at an old farm field known for producing colonial-era relics. The field was moderately trashy, with plenty of iron nails and bits of wire scattered throughout. I tested the Ace 400 in varying conditions, including dry soil and damp patches after a recent rainfall.

The Ace 400 performed admirably in the field. The Iron Audio feature immediately proved its worth, allowing me to identify and avoid many of the iron targets that would have previously required digging. It took a little time to get used to the audio nuances, but the separation between iron and non-ferrous targets was noticeably improved. I found it relatively easy to adjust the settings. There were no issues on the first use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Garrett Ace 400 has proven to be a reliable and capable metal detector. It has held up well to regular use, showing only minor signs of wear and tear, such as a few scratches on the coil housing. The stem camlocks provide a stable feel while detecting.

Maintenance is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use keeps the detector clean. Compared to my older Ace 250, the Ace 400 offers a significant improvement in target identification and discrimination, making it easier to find valuable targets amidst the trash. The enhanced iron resolution definitely makes a difference.

Breaking Down the Features of Garrett Ace 400

Specifications

• The Garrett Ace 400 operates on a higher frequency of 10 kHz, providing better sensitivity to low and medium-conductivity targets such as gold and lead. This makes it ideal for finding smaller, harder-to-detect objects.
• It uses 4 AA batteries, offering a decent balance between weight and runtime. Battery life typically lasts for around 20-25 hours of continuous use.
• The metal detector’s light weight of only 2.9 lb makes it comfortable for extended use. Users can spend more time searching without fatigue.
• The Garrett Ace 400 includes an 8.5″ x 11″ PROformance submersible DD searchcoil, providing excellent ground coverage and depth. This allows for efficient searching of larger areas and improved target detection at greater depths.

Performance & Functionality

The Garrett Ace 400 performs exceptionally well in its intended role as a mid-range metal detector. The Digital Target ID system provides a clear and easy-to-understand numerical representation of the detected target’s conductivity, allowing users to quickly assess its potential value. The different search modes allow for a customizable search.

Its strengths include its accurate target identification, effective iron discrimination, and user-friendly interface. The only notable weakness is its sensitivity to extremely mineralized soils, which can sometimes produce false signals. Overall, it meets and often exceeds expectations for a detector in its price range, providing a noticeable upgrade over entry-level models.

Design & Ergonomics

The Garrett Ace 400 boasts a well-balanced design, with the weight evenly distributed for comfortable use. The materials used are durable and weather-resistant, capable of withstanding the rigors of outdoor use.

The user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, with clearly labeled buttons and a simple LCD screen. The learning curve is minimal, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced detectorists.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Garrett Ace 400 is expected to last for many years. Its sturdy construction and high-quality materials ensure its ability to withstand the elements.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and battery replacement. The coil is submersible, and the rest of the machine can be wiped clean with a damp cloth.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Garrett Ace 400 comes standard with an 8.5″ x 11″ PROformance DD searchcoil, which provides excellent coverage and depth. Additional coils of various sizes and configurations are available for specialized searching, such as smaller coils for trashy areas or larger coils for deeper detection.

While the Ace 400 is primarily designed as a standalone unit, it is compatible with a variety of aftermarket accessories, such as headphones, carrying bags, and digging tools. Most accessories that fit other Garrett detectors are compatible with the Ace 400.

Pros and Cons of Garrett Ace 400

Who Should Buy Garrett Ace 400?

The Garrett Ace 400 is perfect for:

• Hobbyist treasure hunters looking for an upgrade from entry-level detectors.
• Individuals interested in relic hunting, coin shooting, and general metal detecting.
• Users who want a detector that offers a balance of performance, features, and affordability.

Who should skip this product? Experienced detectorists who require advanced features like ground balancing and multi-frequency operation may find the Ace 400 limiting.

Must-have accessories include a good pair of headphones for improved audio clarity and a quality digging tool for efficient target recovery.

Conclusion on Garrett Ace 400

The Garrett Ace 400 is a capable and versatile metal detector that offers a significant upgrade over entry-level models without breaking the bank. Its enhanced features, user-friendly design, and durable construction make it an excellent choice for hobbyist treasure hunters and casual detectorists alike.

The price of $357.95 is justified by the detector’s performance, features, and overall value. For the user seeking a balance between cost and capability, the Garrett Ace 400 is an outstanding choice.

I would definitely recommend the Garrett Ace 400 to anyone looking to take their metal detecting hobby to the next level. It’s a solid performer that will help you find more treasure and less trash. Get yours today and start uncovering the hidden history beneath your feet!