Garrett Goldmaster 24k

The Goldmaster 24k is a dedicated high-frequency gold detector. Running at 48 kHz, it is very sensitive to small nuggets and gold flakes, the kind of tiny targets that general-purpose detectors often miss. It suits both beginners starting out in prospecting and experienced hunters who want a light VLF machine for shallow, small gold. Its simple layout also makes it easy to learn in a few outings.

Ground handling is built around Garrett's XGB system, which tracks the ground automatically while also offering manual Ground-Sync and TracLock options. A SAT control helps in difficult mineralisation, Ground Scan reads changing soil, and Iron Cancel helps reduce digging of iron trash. You can choose between VCO audio and a two-tone beep, with a 0-99 digital Target ID on screen.

The detector weighs roughly 1.4-1.5 kg and runs for around 45 hours on eight AA batteries. It comes with a waterproof 6 x 10 inch DD search coil and ClearSound Easy Stow headphones. For Pakistani prospectors working rivers, streams and shallow gold-bearing ground, it is a practical, easy-to-carry nugget hunter. Garrett backs it with a three-year warranty, and both a user manual and an advanced guide are available as PDFs.