Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Digital Metal Detector with Four Operating Modes and LCD Display – QD2 Review

The Honest Truth About the Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Digital Metal Detector with Four Operating Modes and LCD Display – QD2

The Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Digital Metal Detector with Four Operating Modes and LCD Display – QD2 is marketed as an entry-level, yet feature-rich, metal detector designed for both beginners and experienced hobbyists. Manufactured by Bounty Hunter, this detector boasts four operating modes, digital target identification, and an LCD display, all at a remarkably accessible price point. It aims to bridge the gap between basic, entry-level models and more sophisticated, expensive options, offering a compelling blend of performance and value.

My interest in the Quick Draw II stemmed from a desire to rekindle a childhood fascination with treasure hunting without breaking the bank. I wanted a detector that was easy to use, provided meaningful information about potential finds, and could handle various terrains without issue. The promise of digital target identification and discrimination capabilities drew me in, hoping to filter out modern trash while searching for historical treasures.

Unboxing the Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II, I was immediately struck by its lightweight construction. While the plastic housing didn’t exude premium quality, it felt sturdy enough for casual use. The assembly was straightforward, and the LCD display was clear and easy to read.

Compared to other detectors I’ve briefly used – a friend’s Garrett AT Pro and a very basic analog detector from years ago – the Quick Draw II promised a more intuitive experience. While the Garrett AT Pro offered more advanced features, its price tag put it far out of reach. The analog detector felt clunky and offered little in the way of accurate target identification. My hope was the Quick Draw II would strike a balance between functionality and affordability.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The Quick Draw II felt like a step up from basic models, but I remained skeptical about its long-term performance and accuracy, especially given the budget-friendly price. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it could live up to its promises.

Real-World Testing: Putting Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Digital Metal Detector with Four Operating Modes and LCD Display – QD2 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground was a local park known for its historical significance and reported coin finds. The park offered a mix of grassy areas, dirt paths, and sandy playgrounds, providing a diverse testing environment. I experimented with all four operating modes, focusing primarily on the “Coin” and “Jewelry” settings.

The Quick Draw II performed surprisingly well in dry conditions. The digital target identification was reasonably accurate, correctly identifying shallow coins with a decent degree of certainty. However, in wetter areas near the playground, the detector became more erratic, producing false positives and inconsistent readings. The ease of use was commendable; I quickly got accustomed to the touchpad controls and the audio feedback system.

After my first outing, I noticed a few minor issues. The depth indicator seemed overly optimistic, often exaggerating the depth of targets. Also, the automatic ground balance struggled in areas with heavily mineralized soil, requiring frequent adjustments.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II has proven to be a decent, but not exceptional, entry-level detector. The plastic housing has held up well, showing no signs of cracking or significant wear. However, the battery life is shorter than advertised, requiring frequent battery replacements.

Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is usually sufficient. Compared to my limited experience with higher-end detectors, the Quick Draw II falls short in terms of accuracy and depth detection. However, given its price point, it offers a reasonable level of performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Digital Metal Detector with Four Operating Modes and LCD Display – QD2

Specifications

The Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Digital Metal Detector with Four Operating Modes and LCD Display – QD2 boasts a range of features designed to enhance the treasure hunting experience. Key specifications include:

• Coin Depth Detection: 8 inches This indicates the maximum depth at which the detector can reliably detect coin-sized objects.

• Large Object Detection: 3 feet For larger buried objects, the detector can reach depths of up to 3 feet.

• Low Battery Indicator: Yes A visual indicator alerts the user when battery power is running low.

• Tone Target Discrimination: 3 Tone The detector uses three distinct audio tones to differentiate between different types of metal.

• Digital Target Identification: Yes A digital display shows a numerical value corresponding to the probable target type.

• Number of Target Segments: 9 The target identification range is divided into nine segments for more precise discrimination.

• Depth Indication: Yes An on-screen indicator estimates the depth of the detected object.

• Auto Notch System: Yes Automatically filters out common unwanted targets like iron and foil.

• Variable Notch System: Yes Allows the user to manually select which target segments to ignore.

• Ground Balance System: Auto Automatically adjusts the detector’s sensitivity to compensate for ground mineralization.

• Coil Size and Type: 8″ Open An 8-inch open coil provides a good balance between sensitivity and coverage.

• Water Resistance Level: Waterproof Coil The coil is waterproof, allowing for use in shallow water.

• Battery Type: 9V The detector requires 2 9V batteries.

• Battery Life: 15 – 20 hours Expected battery life under normal operating conditions.

• These specifications determine the detector’s ability to accurately identify targets, ignore unwanted signals, and operate effectively in various environments. The digital target identification, discrimination capabilities, and automatic ground balance are particularly important for ease of use and successful treasure hunting.

Performance & Functionality

The Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II performs adequately for an entry-level detector. Its target identification is reasonably accurate in ideal conditions, and the discrimination feature helps to filter out some common trash items. However, its performance suffers in areas with high levels of ground mineralization or electromagnetic interference.

• The strengths of the Quick Draw II lie in its ease of use and affordability. A major weakness is its inconsistent performance in challenging environments.

Overall, the detector meets expectations for its price range, but it doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The Quick Draw II features a lightweight plastic construction that makes it comfortable to use for extended periods. The grip is ergonomically designed, providing a secure and comfortable hold.

• The user interface is simple and intuitive, with clearly labeled buttons and a readable LCD display. There is a slight learning curve associated with understanding the target identification segments and adjusting the discrimination settings effectively.

Durability & Maintenance

The Quick Draw II‘s plastic construction raises some concerns about its long-term durability. While it has held up well during my testing, I suspect it may be vulnerable to damage from drops or impacts.

• Maintenance is straightforward; simply wipe down the detector with a damp cloth after each use. There are no user-serviceable parts, so any repairs would likely require sending it back to Bounty Hunter.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II comes with standard accessories. These include:

• An 8-inch waterproof coil.

• A basic instruction manual.

• A headphone jack for private listening.

• There are limited customization options available for the Quick Draw II. The coil can be replaced with compatible coils from Bounty Hunter or other brands, but there are few other modifications that can be made.

Pros and Cons of Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Digital Metal Detector with Four Operating Modes and LCD Display – QD2

Who Should Buy Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Digital Metal Detector with Four Operating Modes and LCD Display – QD2?

The Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Digital Metal Detector with Four Operating Modes and LCD Display – QD2 is perfect for:

• Beginners who are new to metal detecting and want an affordable and easy-to-use detector.
• Casual hobbyists who enjoy treasure hunting as a recreational activity.
• Those looking for a lightweight detector that is comfortable to use for extended periods.

Who should skip this product?

• Experienced treasure hunters who require a more accurate and versatile detector.
• Those who plan to use the detector in challenging environments with high ground mineralization or electromagnetic interference.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• High-quality headphones for improved audio feedback and private listening.
• A durable carrying case to protect the detector during transport and storage.
• Rechargeable 9V batteries to save money on replacements.

Conclusion on Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Digital Metal Detector with Four Operating Modes and LCD Display – QD2

The Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Digital Metal Detector with Four Operating Modes and LCD Display – QD2 offers a compelling blend of affordability and functionality for beginners and casual hobbyists. While it’s not without its limitations, its ease of use, digital target identification, and lightweight design make it a decent entry-level option. The price is justified given the features and performance it offers.

I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to get started in metal detecting without spending a fortune. However, potential buyers should be aware of its limitations in challenging environments and be prepared to upgrade to a more advanced detector as their skills and interests grow. So, grab your Quick Draw II, head out to your local park or beach, and start digging up some history! Who knows what treasures you might find?