For a decade and a half, I’ve run metal detectors over everything from Civil War battlefields to oceanfront parks, and I’ve seen firsthand that how you choose your detector can make your search for treasure a success or a failure. Today, I’m delving deep into two ubiquitous Bounty Hunter models that have newbies scratching their heads: the trusty Tracker IV and its new age cousin, the Tracker Pro.
Rolling Up Your Sleeves: Real-World Application
I recall opening my first Tracker IV yesterday, or at least it feels that way. That analog dial intimidated me at first, but there’s a little bit of magic in how natural it feels with a few hours in the field under your belt. That 8-inch search coil may not sound big in theory, but I’ve recovered Civil War bullets at 8 inches deep with this workhorse. Running at 6.6 KHz, it finds that perfect sweet spot between depth and sensitivity most weekenders seek out.
Now, when I received a Tracker Pro for review, I have to admit, I was skeptical. Yet another digital detector attempting to invent a new wheel? But with a 7.69 KHz frequency and 7-inch coil, it brings a little something new to the plate. Last month, at an old playground, its target separation capabilities helped me discern a gold ring between what must have been every pull tab in the county.
The Tech Showdown
Let’s talk tech, but let’s keep it real. The Tracker IV is such a reliable pickup in your driveway – no frilly screens or digital readouts, just no-nonsense controls that get the job done. You have your sensitivity dial, your discrimination control, and three hunting modes. Believe me, when you learn to interpret the audio signals (you will), you’ll be producing good targets and everyone else will still be looking at their screens.
And speaking of screens, the LCD one in the Tracker Pro is a make-or-break for beginners. I’ve seen beginners go from “I have no idea what I’m even searching for” to confidently selecting coins in under an hour. Target ID feature saved me countless unnecessary digs – but I still dig suspicious signals because, well, part of the thrill, isn’t it?
The Real Scoop About Performance
What you won’t see in the product packaging: both machines will make that 6-8 inch mark in perfect conditions with average target size. The larger coil in the Tracker IV covers more area in less time, and that’s more finds during your finite hunting time. But the Target Pro’s high target resolution in trashy parks produced me with good finds when the IV sounded like a chorus singing.
The Cost of Adventure
Let’s address that elephant in the room – price. The Tracker IV will run about $79, and trust me, it’s a steal for what you’re getting. I know dudes who’ve swung these for two decades with no problem at all. The Tracker Pro bundle doubles the price to $159-$199, but comes with everything a starter will need: headphones, pinpointer, digger, and carry bag. Figuring out in your head what you’d spend in buying them individually, it’s a pretty sweet bargain.
Power and Practicality
The one thing that I hate about the Tracker IV is its two-battery drawback. Yeah, use rechargeable 9V batteries and problem gone, but twice the inconvenience of the single-battery arrangement of the Pro. On the other hand, I’ve run my Tracker IV all day at the beach and seen newer, digital machines burn out for lunch.
Making Your Decision
Look, both machines will detect your treasure – that’s the point, period. If you’re a starter and want a unit that will hold your hand through the getting started stage, go with the Tracker Pro bundle. Target ID alone will save you an hour, two, three, four – an eternity – of digging bottle caps.
But if you’re willing to learn fundamentals of analog hunting, or if you’re an experienced hunter at heart, the Tracker IV can’t be beat for value and ease of use. There’s a certain joy in mastering analog dials and getting attuned to “listening” for your targets.
I still carry both in my car because each has its sweet range. The Tracker IV comes out for big, open spaces and deep hunting, and the Pro is my go-to for trashy urban locations where target ID simplifies life. Either way, you’re entering a hobby that turns routine walks into treasure hunting expeditions.
Keep in mind, the best metal detector isn’t necessarily the most costly one, nor one with all the bells and whistles – it’s one that will work your hunting style and make you want to head out and swing. Whether you opt for the tried-and-true dependability of the Tracker IV, or the high-tech ease of use of the Pro, the real prize is in finding it.
Now, if you don’t mind, there’s an old farm field beckoning my name, and these detectors won’t swing themselves.
My name is Paul and I am the founder of Detector For Metal, a dedicated resource for metal detecting enthusiasts seeking to uncover historical treasures and connect with the past using the latest technology. As a stay-at-home dad and family man, I’ve found metal detecting to be the perfect hobby that combines family adventure with historical learnings for the whole family.
As a father, I’m deeply committed to passing on this hobby to the next generation of detectorists, starting with my own children. I share advice on everything from metal detecting with kids to exploring the top 10 metal detecting sites you never thought about. My methodical approach to the hobby goes beyond the thrill of discovery—it’s about creating family traditions while preserving history and sharing the stories of those who came before us.
