Garrett Metal Detectors
If you’ve spent any time detecting, you’ve heard the name Garrett. For a lot of us it’s the badge on the very first machine we ever swung, mine included. They’re the brand that makes honest, rugged, dead-simple detectors that just get you out in the field, and they’ve been doing it longer than most.
About Garrett
Garrett started in 1964 in Garland, Texas, when Charles Garrett, a US Navy veteran and electrical engineer, got fed up with the detectors he could buy and built a better one in his own garage. His wife Eleanor ran the business side, and the story goes she gave him a choice: stop tinkering or start selling. They sold. In 1968 Charles patented a coaxial coil design that finally beat the signal drift that plagued early machines, and that one bit of cleverness put Garrett on the map. They’ve stayed in Garland ever since, still building everything in the USA.
Company at a glance
Founded 1964 in Garland, Texas, USA, by Charles and Eleanor Garrett. Still family-rooted and American-made, employing over 300 people. You’ll also know them from airport and event security gates, a side of the business that started when Charles was asked to build the walk-through detectors for the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.
Best Garrett Detectors
Garrett’s sweet spot is the beginner and improver. The ACE range (200, 300, 400) is where most UK detectorists cut their teeth, and the AT Pro is the one people upgrade to when they want a waterproof all-rounder that handles wet grass, rivers and the odd beach. I started on the Ace series myself and later ran a Euro Ace with a NEL coil. The honest knock on the Ace machines is the tones can flatter a signal, that famous double-dinger, so dig a few junk targets while your ears learn the machine.
Garrett FAQ
What is Garrett best known for?
Honest, rugged, easy-to-use detectors at sensible money, and being one of the oldest names in the hobby. You’ll also see Garrett gates at airports and events.
Are Garrett detectors good for beginners?
Yes, that’s exactly where they shine. Simple controls, switch on and go, and tough enough to survive a learning curve.
Where are Garrett detectors made?
In Garland, Texas, USA, where the company has been since 1964, and they’re still 100% American-made.
