Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Metal Detector with Carry Bag Review

Using the Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Metal Detector with Carry Bag in the Real World

For years, I’ve scoured parks, beaches, and forgotten fields, always seeking that whisper of history or the glint of lost treasure. My arsenal of metal detectors has grown and evolved, but I’ve always been on the lookout for a reliable, straightforward machine that doesn’t break the bank. That’s precisely what drew me to the Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Metal Detector with Carry Bag. This particular unit promised simplicity coupled with effective detection, making it an appealing option for both seasoned hobbyists and newcomers to the field.

My quest for this detector was born from a desire to replace a more complex, older model that had become frustratingly temperamental. I needed something that would allow me to get out and detect without a steep learning curve or endless calibration rituals. The idea of a fully automatic ground-trac system was particularly enticing, hinting at a more user-friendly experience.

Upon unboxing, the initial impression was one of solid, no-nonsense construction. The plastics felt durable, and the main shaft assembly seemed robust enough for regular use. It didn’t feel like a toy, which is a crucial first step for any serious hobbyist. I had briefly considered a few other entry-level options, but their feature sets seemed either too basic or unnecessarily complicated for my immediate needs.

My first reaction upon holding it was a quiet sense of anticipation – the promise of uncomplicated treasure hunting was finally within reach. This was less about overwhelming excitement and more about the practical satisfaction of finding a tool that seemed perfectly suited for its intended purpose.

Real-World Testing: Putting Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Metal Detector with Carry Bag to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial foray with the Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Metal Detector with Carry Bag took place in a local park that’s known for its history, boasting everything from old picnic spots to former playground areas. The ground conditions varied from soft, sandy soil near a creek to harder-packed earth and patches of dry grass. This offered a good mix of challenges for a new detector.

The detector performed remarkably well in these varied conditions, especially considering its automatic ground balancing. I experienced only minimal false signals, even when sweeping over areas with significant mineralized soil. The 8-inch waterproof, interchangeable coil was particularly advantageous, allowing me to confidently scan near the water’s edge without worry, a task that often makes other detectors falter.

Ease of use was a standout feature from the get-go. The touchpad selection for various modes and controls meant I could adjust settings on the fly without fumbling with numerous knobs or dials. The learning curve was virtually nonexistent; I was identifying targets and refining my sweeps within minutes of assembly.

One minor surprise was the sensitivity to very small targets. While excellent for coins and jewelry, it also picked up on tiny metal fragments that, while not treasure, confirmed its impressive detection capabilities. This sensitivity, though a strength, also meant I needed to pay close attention to the 3-level iron discrimination to filter out unwanted ferrous debris.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, venturing into denser woods, open fields, and even some rocky terrains, the Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Metal Detector with Carry Bag has proven its mettle. It has become my go-to for casual outings where I don’t need the hyper-specialized features of my more advanced machines. The detector’s overall build quality has held up admirably to the rigors of being slung in and out of my vehicle and being maneuvered through dense undergrowth.

Durability has been impressive; there are no noticeable cracks, stiffness in the shaft adjustments, or signs of wear on the coil housing, even after accidental bumps against tree roots and rocks. The waterproof coil has endured splashes and damp ground without any issues, and the battery compartment remains securely sealed. Its reliability in consistently detecting targets without significant performance degradation is a testament to its solid engineering.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down of the coil and control box after each outing is all that’s needed to keep it in top shape. Storing it in the included carry bag protects it from dust and scratches, ensuring it’s ready for the next adventure. Compared to some budget detectors that might develop erratic behavior after prolonged use, this unit has maintained its consistent performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Metal Detector with Carry Bag

Specifications

The Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Metal Detector with Carry Bag is built with a focus on user-friendliness and effective detection. Its 8-inch waterproof, interchangeable coil is a key component, designed for versatility across different environments, including shallow water. This water-resistant coil ensures durability and allows for expanded hunting grounds without compromising the detector’s integrity.

Powering this machine are three 9v batteries, which provide an impressive 15-20 hours of battery life. This long operational time means more time in the field and less downtime spent searching for replacements. The fully automatic Ground Trac system simplifies operation by continuously adjusting to ground mineralization, reducing the need for manual recalibration.

The detector features Sensitivity Control, allowing users to fine-tune the detection depth and responsiveness to avoid over-saturation in highly mineralized soil or to maximize reach in clean ground. Its discrimination capabilities include 3-level iron discrimination and Notch and Auto Notch modes, which are crucial for differentiating between valuable targets and common ferrous junk like nails and bottle caps. The digital coin-depth indicator offers a clear numerical readout of target depth, aiding in efficient digging and recovery.

Furthermore, the inclusion of a headphone jack with a 1/4-inch plug is essential for any serious detectorist, allowing for silent operation and clearer audio perception of faint signals. The touchpad selection for modes and settings makes adjustments quick and intuitive, avoiding the frustration often associated with older dial-based systems.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function – finding metal objects – the Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Metal Detector with Carry Bag performs admirably, especially for its price point. The 8-inch waterproof, interchangeable coil is adept at pinpointing a variety of metallic targets, from small modern coins to larger relics. Its sensitivity is well-balanced, allowing for good depth penetration without becoming overly susceptible to phantom signals from highly mineralized soil, thanks to the fully automatic Ground Trac.

The discrimination features are a significant strength. The 3-level iron discrimination effectively helps in filtering out common iron trash, though mastering the Notch and Auto Notch modes requires a bit of practice to truly optimize for specific target types. The 3-tone audio discrimination provides a helpful auditory cue for different metal categories, adding another layer of information to each detected signal.

However, like many detectors in this class, it can sometimes struggle with very deep targets or differentiating between two closely spaced objects. The digital coin-depth indicator is generally accurate for shallower finds but can become less precise with deeper targets or complex soil compositions. It meets expectations for general-purpose treasure hunting but doesn’t quite rival the nuanced target identification of high-end professional units.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Metal Detector with Carry Bag prioritizes functionality and ease of use. The adjustable shaft allows for a comfortable fit for users of varying heights, and the overall balance of the unit is good, minimizing fatigue during extended detecting sessions. The control panel, featuring touchpad selection, is logically laid out and easy to navigate, even for someone new to metal detecting.

Materials used are predominantly high-impact plastic for the coil housing and control box, with a sturdy aluminum alloy for the main shaft. This combination keeps the weight down while maintaining reasonable durability. The black finish is practical, resisting scuffs and dirt relatively well, though it’s not immune to scratches from rough use.

Ergonomically, the grip on the handle is comfortable and provides adequate purchase, even with sweaty hands. The placement of the control box is also well-considered, allowing for easy access to all settings without requiring awkward contortions. The headphone jack is conveniently located, ensuring the cable doesn’t interfere with sweeping.

Durability & Maintenance

The Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Metal Detector with Carry Bag appears to be built for longevity under typical hobbyist use. The waterproof coil is a significant factor in its durability, allowing for use in damp conditions and near water bodies without concern. The construction feels solid, suggesting it can withstand the occasional bump or scrape encountered while traversing varied terrains.

Maintenance is straightforward; regular cleaning of the coil and shaft is recommended, especially after use in wet or muddy environments. The 9v batteries are easy to access and replace, and the battery compartment seal feels secure, offering good protection against moisture ingress. There are no obvious points of failure that stand out immediately, though like any electronic device, extreme impacts or prolonged submersion beyond the coil’s rating would likely cause damage.

Given its robust construction for an entry-to-mid-level detector, it should offer many years of reliable service for the average user. Owners should, however, be mindful of protecting the control box from direct, heavy rain and avoid submerging the entire unit, as only the coil is rated as waterproof.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Metal Detector with Carry Bag comes with a couple of essential accessories that enhance its immediate usability. The most notable inclusion is the carry bag, which provides convenient and protective storage and transport for the entire unit. This is a significant value-add, as many detectors at this price point do not include a dedicated bag.

Also included is what appears to be a Bounty Hunter Pinpointer. While not explicitly detailed in the provided specs, pinpointers are invaluable for accurately locating targets once they’ve been unearthed. This accessory, if indeed included and functional, significantly speeds up the recovery process and reduces the size of the hole dug.

Regarding customization, the 8-inch waterproof, interchangeable coil is a key feature. While the standard coil is excellent for general use, the ability to swap it out for different sizes or types (e.g., a larger coil for wider coverage or a smaller coil for tighter spaces) offers significant flexibility. This interchangeability means the detector can adapt to various hunting scenarios, from open fields to trash-heavy parks, by simply switching coils. Compatibility with other Bounty Hunter coils would be a crucial consideration for users looking to expand their setup.

Pros and Cons of Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Metal Detector with Carry Bag

Who Should Buy Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Metal Detector with Carry Bag?

This detector is an excellent choice for novice metal detectorists who want a reliable and user-friendly machine to start their hobby. It’s also a great option for experienced hobbyists looking for a secondary, more portable, or simpler detector for casual outings in parks, beaches, or relatively clean fields. The fully automatic Ground Trac makes it exceptionally accessible, requiring minimal technical knowledge to operate effectively.

Individuals seeking a detector for highly mineralized areas with complex targets or those who require extreme depth penetration for historical relic hunting might need to consider more specialized, higher-end models. Those who primarily hunt in dense woods with heavy trash may also find the 8-inch coil limiting and might benefit from a smaller, more agile coil option.

For those who purchase it, I’d highly recommend investing in a good digging tool and a solid pouch for finds. A good pair of headphones is also a must for maximizing audio cues, especially in noisy environments. The included carry bag is sufficient for basic protection, but a more padded option might be wise for frequent travel.

Conclusion on Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Metal Detector with Carry Bag

The Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Metal Detector with Carry Bag offers a compelling package for its price point, delivering on its promise of ease of use and effective detection. The fully automatic Ground Trac system, combined with a decent set of discrimination features, makes it a fantastic entry point into the world of metal detecting. The inclusion of a carry bag and what appears to be a pinpointer further enhances its value proposition significantly.

For the price of $139.00, the performance and features provided are more than justified. It’s a capable machine that allows users to spend more time finding targets and less time wrestling with complex settings. While it may not possess the advanced capabilities of top-tier detectors, it excels at its intended purpose: providing an enjoyable and potentially rewarding metal detecting experience.

I would readily recommend the Bounty Hunter Quick Draw II Metal Detector with Carry Bag to anyone looking for a capable, budget-friendly metal detector. It’s a solid choice for beginners and a practical option for seasoned hobbyists seeking a no-fuss unit for general-purpose detecting. If you’re looking to dip your toes into treasure hunting or simply want a reliable tool for exploring local parks and beaches, this Bounty Hunter model is definitely worth considering.