Garrett 1140460 at Pro (Waterproof to 10 feet)

If you’re on the hunt for a metal detector that can go pretty much anywhere and handle just about anything, the Garrett AT Pro is worth a close look. It’s built for all-terrain use, meaning it’s perfect for hunting both on land and in water. In fact, it’s waterproof up to 10 feet, so whether you’re splashing through creeks or digging on sandy beaches, it won’t let you down. But there’s a lot more under the hood than just its ability to get wet, so let’s get into it.

Key Features

All-Terrain and Waterproof Design

What makes the Garrett AT Pro stand out? One word: versatility. It’s built to withstand rugged environments, making it a perfect tool for detecting in various terrains like forests, fields, and beaches. And the waterproof feature? A game-changer. The AT Pro can handle water up to 10 feet deep, making it great for those shallow river or lake hunts. If you’re one of those people who get their kicks from finding buried treasure on a beach after a storm, you’ll appreciate this feature. The AT Pro won’t flinch if you get it wet; it thrives on it.

Proportional Audio and Tone Roll Audio

Garrett’s AT Pro comes with a unique audio system that separates it from the competition. If you’re new to metal detecting, you might be thinking, “What’s all the fuss about sound?” Well, it’s not just noise – it’s information. The proportional audio gives you louder signals for larger or closer targets, while smaller or deeper objects produce softer sounds. This means you get a sense of what’s beneath your feet before you even dig.

On top of that, the tone roll audio adjusts based on the conductivity of the metal, giving you more data to decide if it’s worth getting your hands dirty. Imagine it like this: instead of hearing just a “beep,” you’re getting a full conversation about what might be down there.

Digital Target ID and Iron Discrimination

Garrett’s digital target ID is a lifesaver for treasure hunters. The display shows a number between 0 and 99, which represents the conductivity of the metal. For example, low numbers might indicate iron (likely junk), while higher numbers are more valuable targets like silver or gold. It’s like having a “sneak peek” before you dig.

Then there’s the iron discrimination feature. Imagine hunting in an area filled with rusty nails and other scrap metal. Without discrimination, you’d be digging up every piece of junk out there. But with 40 levels of iron discrimination, you can filter out the trash and focus on the treasure. This helps cut down on wasted time and makes sure your back is spared from unnecessary digging.

Search Modes: Standard and Pro

The Garrett AT Pro offers six search modes, split into three Standard and three Pro modes. If you’re a beginner, Standard mode simplifies things with a single tone that signals a target, making it easy to use right out of the box. The Pro mode, on the other hand, provides more advanced users with greater target detail, helping you distinguish between metal types and depths.

For example, Zero mode provides no discrimination and picks up everything – great for seasoned detectorists. Custom mode allows you to set your own preferences, and Coins mode eliminates the usual junk (foil, pull-tabs) to help you zero in on those valuable coins.

Performance in Different Conditions

Ground Balance (Manual & Automatic)

Metal detecting can get frustrating if you’re working in areas with highly mineralized soil, like saltwater beaches or clay-rich fields. Thankfully, the AT Pro offers manual and automatic ground balance. The automatic function is fantastic if you’re in a hurry – just press a button, and the detector adjusts to the ground conditions. However, if you’re dealing with tricky terrain, you can manually adjust the balance to get deeper readings and fewer false signals.

Think of it as tuning your car’s suspension. You wouldn’t drive the same way on a smooth highway as you would off-roading. The ground balance does something similar – it adapts to whatever lies beneath.

Sensitivity Levels

With 8 sensitivity segments, you have the flexibility to adjust how deep your AT Pro will search. The higher the sensitivity, the deeper the detector reaches, which is crucial for those really buried treasures. However, cranking it up too high can sometimes cause interference or “chatter.” You’ll need to strike a balance between depth and a clean signal.

If you’re hunting in a trash-filled area, for example, lowering the sensitivity might actually help filter out noise and hone in on more valuable targets. It’s not a “more is better” situation – it’s about finding that sweet spot.

Coil Options for Enhanced Performance

What really pushes the AT Pro into “serious detector” territory is the swappable coils. While the standard 8.5 x 11-inch PROformance DD coil is great for general use, there are other coils you can use for specific conditions. Want to search tight spaces or trashy areas? Go for the 4” DD Sniper coil. Looking to cover large, open areas quickly? The 9 x 12-inch concentric coil is your best friend. Each coil serves a different purpose, allowing you to adapt the machine to your hunt.

Comparison with Other Garrett Models

Let’s talk about how the AT Pro stacks up against its siblings. The Garrett AT Max and AT Gold offer slightly different features. For example, the AT Max includes Z-Lynk wireless technology, allowing for wireless headphones – a neat feature if cords drive you crazy. It also has a higher frequency and greater depth capabilities.

The AT Gold, as the name implies, is geared more towards gold hunting and performs better in highly mineralized soils. However, it’s not waterproof like the AT Pro, so if you’re venturing near water, the AT Pro still wins.

FAQs

Is the Garrett AT Pro good for beginners?

Absolutely! While it has a lot of advanced features, it’s simple enough for beginners to get the hang of quickly. You can start out with the Standard mode and gradually work your way up to the Pro settings.

How deep does the Garrett AT Pro detect?

The depth varies depending on conditions, but you can expect to find objects at around 10 inches deep. Factors like ground mineralization and target size will affect this, but it’s reliable for most treasure hunts.

Can the Garrett AT Pro be used in saltwater?

Yes and no. While it can handle shallow saltwater, it’s not the best choice for serious beach hunters. It’s better suited for freshwater conditions or dry sand, where it performs without much interference.

Conclusion

The Garrett AT Pro is a rock-solid choice for anyone looking to get serious about metal detecting. Whether you’re a seasoned treasure hunter or just starting out, its versatility, ease of use, and solid performance make it a detector you can count on. If you’re ready to hit the ground (or water), the AT Pro’s got your back.