Garrett AT MAX Review | Ultimate All-Terrain Metal Detector 2024
Are you looking for a metal detector that can handle almost any condition and has advanced features that make metal detecting exciting and effective? The Garrett AT MAX might just be the perfect choice for you. This detector is designed for serious detectorists and professionals who want top-notch performance on land and underwater searches. With its powerful detection capabilities and user-friendly design, the AT MAX stands out in the world of metal detecting.
What makes the AT MAX truly impressive is its ability to detect deep metals. So if you are detecting coins, relics, or even gold nuggets, this metal detector offers such advanced features which can make your detecting more fun and worthwhile. In this review, I will walk you through its key features, performance, and why it could be the ideal metal detector for your next adventure.
The Journey of the Garrett AT MAX
The Garrett AT MAX is part of Garrett’s AT series which is known for being effective and advanced. Garrett, a well-known company in the metal detecting world, created the AT MAX to improve on their earlier models like the AT Pro and AT Gold.
When the AT MAX was released, it was made to go deeper and have better features, making it popular among detectorists. The company wanted to combine the best parts of their previous models with new technology, like built-in wireless audio and better detection depth. This innovation in AT MAX has taken its place in the heart of detectorists and become popular among them.
Reviewing the Features of the AT MAX
The Garrett AT MAX metal detector is packed with advanced features that make it a standout choice for anyone serious about metal detecting. I have spent a lot of time testing each feature, and here’s what I found.
True All Metal Mode
One of the first things I noticed about the AT MAX is its True All Metal Mode. This mode allows the detector to reach maximum depth and sensitivity. When using this mode, I was impressed by how deep it could detect even the smallest targets. However, because it picks up everything, you will need to be patient as it detects both trash and treasure.
Built-in Z-Lynk Wireless Technology
The AT MAX comes with built-in Z-Lynk wireless technology, which is a game-changer. This feature allows you to use wireless headphones without any delay in the sound. I found this to be very convenient, as it made moving around while detecting much easier. The sound quality was clear and instant which helped me to respond quickly to the signals.
Built Quality
The Garrett AT MAX is built to be durable and comfortable. Its strong construction can handle rough conditions, including underwater use. The adjustable shaft and strong handle make me feel comfortable for long periods. Its waterproof design ensures reliable performance in wet environments.
Iron Audio
The Iron Audio feature is something I really would love to appreciate. It helps you to distinguish between valuable targets and iron trash. When this feature is turned on, the detector emits a different sound for iron, so you can easily decide whether to dig or move on. This saved my time and effort, especially in areas where there was a lot of iron trash.
High-Resolution Iron Discrimination
Another feature that stood out was the High-Resolution Iron Discrimination. This feature allows me to adjust the detector to ignore iron targets and focus only on more valuable metals. The AT MAX offers 44 levels of iron discrimination, giving me precise control over what the detector picks up. This made searching in trashy areas much more efficient, as I could ignore unwanted items and focus on finding treasure.
Adjustable Frequency
The adjustable frequency of the AT MAX is another handy feature. It helps reduce interference from other detectors or electronic devices. I found this particularly useful when I was detecting in areas where other detectorists were also detecting and near power lines. By slightly adjusting the frequency, I was able to eliminate most of the interference. This made my detecting experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Ground Balance and Ground Balance Window
Ground Balance is crucial when detecting in mineralized soils. The AT MAX offers both automatic and manual ground balance. This allows you to adjust to different ground conditions easily. The Ground Balance Window is a unique feature that lets you spread the ground balance over a range of values.
I found this particularly useful in areas where the ground conditions varied. It helped me to maintain stable performance without constantly adjusting the settings.
Backlit LCD Display
The backlit LCD is a simple but very useful feature. This helped me when I was detecting in low-light conditions. Whether I was detecting early morning or late night, the display was easy to read. It allowed me to keep track of the settings and target information without any problem.
Waterproof Design
One of the things I loved about the Garrett AT MAX is that it’s fully waterproof up to 10 feet. This means you can use it in rivers, lakes, or even in shallow ocean waters. I tested it in a river, and it performed very well. The waterproof design lets you detect in the rain and even underwater.
Digital Target ID
The Digital Target ID is a feature that helps you identify which type of metal is detected before you start digging. The AT MAX provides a target ID number from 0 to 99, which helps you figure out whether the target is likely to be iron, gold, silver, or another metal. I found this very helpful in making my decision about a target whether I have to dig for it or not. It saves my time and effort
Electronic Pinpointing
The Electronic Pinpointing feature makes it easy to focus on your target. Once I detected a signal, I could switch to pinpoint mode to locate the exact spot where the object was buried. This feature was incredibly accurate. It has made my digging much easier and faster, as I knew exactly where to dig each time.
If you are curious about whether metal detectors detect stainless steel, then you can read my article on it.
Performance Review of AT MAX
Overall, the Garrett AT MAX performed exceptionally well in a variety of environments. It has delivered excellent results on dry land, in wet conditions, and underwater. Its deep detection capabilities, combined with features like Iron Audio and High-Resolution Iron Discrimination, made it easy to find valuable targets while avoiding junk.
The AT MAX’s built-in wireless technology and waterproof design make it a convenient tool for detectorists. Its ability to adapt to different ground conditions with adjustable ground balance and frequency settings ensured stable performance, even in challenging environments.
The AT MAX is a powerful, feature-rich metal detector that offers everything you need for successful metal detecting.
Specifications of Garrett AT MAX
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Operating Frequency | 13.6 kHz |
| Search Modes | 4 (All Metal, Custom, Coins, Zero) |
| Iron Discrimination | 44 levels |
| Target ID | Digital, 0-99 scale |
| Ground Balance | Automatic and Manual (Adjustable) |
| Ground Balance Window | Yes |
| Wireless Technology | Built-in Z-Lynk Wireless |
| Waterproof Capability | Up to 10 feet (3 meters) |
| Audio Tones | 3 |
| Display | Backlit LCD |
| Battery Life | Up to 20 hours (with 4 AA batteries) |
| Weight | 3.03 lbs (1.4 kg) |
| Length | Adjustable from 43” to 56” (1.09m – 1.4m) |
| Pinpointing | Electronic Pinpointing |
| Warranty | 2 years |
Pros and Cons of AT MAX
Pros
Cons
Conclusion
The Garrett AT MAX is a top metal detector that offers powerful performance and a wide range of features. With its deep detection capabilities, True All Metal Mode, and advanced Iron Audio, it is designed to help you find valuable targets while avoiding unwanted junk. The built-in wireless technology and waterproof design make it suitable for different environments.
It might take some time for beginners to learn it, but its advanced features and reliability make it a great investment for serious detectorists. If you want depth, accuracy, and convenience, the AT MAX is a solid choice.
