Garrett ACE 350 Owner's Manual

Thank You for Choosing Garrett Metal Detectors!

Congratulations on the purchase of your new Garrett ACE 350™ metal detector. This enhanced metal detector has been specifically designed for use in more challenging environments such as mineralized grounds and iron-cluttered relic and coin hunting areas.

The ACE 350 includes Garrett's exclusive Target ID technology and patented discrimination features. This technology features two indicator scales that allow you to see the detector's discrimination setting (Lower Scale) as well as the analysis of each detected target (Upper Scale). The ACE 350 also features Enhanced Iron Resolution™ (additional resolution for separating desirable targets from iron junk in cluttered areas) and a standard 8.5" x 11" elliptical Double-D searchcoil engineered for optimum performance in more challenging mineralized soils.

Backed by more than 45 years of extensive research and development, your Garrett ACE 350 metal detector is the most advanced of its kind in the industry. Whether you are experienced or a beginner, this machine is well suited for a wide variety of your detecting environments. With One-Touch™ operation, the ACE 350 powers on with the touch of a single button, adjusts easily for ground minerals and is immediately ready to begin searching.

In order to take full advantage of the special features and functions of the ACE 350, you are urged to carefully read this instruction manual in its entirety.

ACE 350 Control Panel

The ACE 350 control panel features an LCD screen displaying various information. Key indicators include:

• Mode Indicator: Shows the currently selected detection mode.
• Target ID Legend: Indicates the probable metal types of a detected target, ranging from ferrous metals (iron) on the left to high conductivity metals (like silver) on the right.
• Sensitivity Setting: Adjusts the detector's sensitivity level.
• Target ID Cursor: Indicates the probable identity of a detected target on the Upper Scale.
• Lower Scale: Displays the notch discrimination pattern, showing which target types are accepted or rejected.
• Coin Depth Indicator: Shows the depth of coin-sized targets in 2-inch increments.
• Sensitivity Indicator: Displays the current sensitivity setting.
• Battery Level Indicator: Shows the remaining battery power.

Control buttons include:

• MODE Pushbutton: Selects one of the five detection modes (Zero, Jewelry, Custom, Relics, or Coins).
• ON/OFF Power: Powers the unit on or off. Holding it for 5-10 seconds restores factory settings.
• SENSITIVITY Pushbutton (+/-): Increases or decreases the sensitivity level.
• DISCRIM Pushbutton (+/-): Moves the Target ID cursor left or right to adjust discrimination.
• PINPOINT Pushbutton: Allows static detection to precisely locate a target.
• ACCEPT/REJECT Pushbutton (✓/X): Used in conjunction with DISCRIM to set discrimination patterns (notch out or accept targets).

Quick Start Guide

1. Install batteries: The ACE 350 operates with four (4) AA batteries, which are typically pre-installed.
2. Power ON: Press and release the ON/OFF Power button. The detector powers on in the last used mode, automatically adjusts for ground minerals, and is ready to search. The factory default mode is 'Coins'.
3. Select Mode: Use the MODE Pushbutton to select a different detection mode if desired.
4. Adjust settings: Adjust Sensitivity or Discrimination settings as needed.
5. Begin scanning: Lower the searchcoil to 1 to 2 inches above the ground and scan the coil left and right at approximately 3 feet per second.

ACE 350 Components

The ACE 350 consists of the following main parts:

• Control Housing with S-shaped Stem
• Upper Stem and Lower Stem (connected)
• 8.5" x 11" Double-D Searchcoil
• Handle Grip
• Padded Arm Cuff
• LCD Screen
• Pushbutton Controls
• Arm Strap
• Detector Stand
• Spring Clip

List of Parts

No tools are required for assembly. The detector box typically contains:

• One (1) control housing with S-shaped stem
• One (1) upper stem and one (1) lower stem connected
• One (1) wing nut, two (2) mounting washers, and one (1) threaded bolt
• One (1) 8.5" x 11" DD searchcoil
• Owner's manual
• Warranty Card

If any part is missing, contact your local dealer.

Detector Assembly

1. Align the holes in the mounting washers with the small posts on the lower stem and press firmly into place.
2. Slide the searchcoil onto the stem.
3. Insert the threaded bolt through the holes of the lower stem and searchcoil. Hand-tighten the searchcoil assembly with the wing nut.
4. Depress the spring clip in the S-stem and insert the control housing into the upper stem.
5. Depress the spring clip in the lower stem and adjust to the most comfortable operating length.
6. Wrap the cable snugly about the stem, starting with the first turn of the cable over the stem.
7. Insert the cable connector into the connector of the control housing and hand-tighten.
8. Adjust the arm cuff by removing the screw on the bottom and moving it to the other hole.

ACE 350 Display Elements

The ACE 350 utilizes Garrett's Graphic Target ID technology, which displays a probable target identification on a horizontal scale. This scale ranges from ferrous metals (like iron) on the left to low conductivity metals (like pure silver) on the right.

The LCD screen displays:

• Mode: Indicates the selected detection mode (Zero, Jewelry, Custom, Relics, or Coins) by highlighting the corresponding word.
• Target ID Legend: Works with the Target ID Cursor to show a target's probable identity. Ferrous targets appear on the left half, low conductivity targets in the middle, and high conductivity targets on the right.
• Target ID Cursor (Upper Scale): Shows the probable identity of a detected target across twelve graphic segments.
• Lower Scale (Discrimination Pattern): Indicates the discrimination pattern. Pixels switched 'on' produce an audible response, while 'off' pixels do not. The Target ID Cursor always shows all targets. This pattern can be adjusted using the DISCRIM and Accept/Reject pushbuttons.
• Coin Depth Indicator: Shows the depth of coin-sized targets in 2-inch increments. For best accuracy, sweep the searchcoil 1 inch from the soil. Note that larger targets may appear shallower, and smaller targets deeper than their actual depth.
• Sensitivity Indicator: Displays the current sensitivity setting (eight levels available).
• Battery Level Indicator: Shows the current battery condition.

Audio Features

Headphone Jack: A standard 1/4" plug for headphones can be inserted into the jack at the rear of the Control Housing.

Tone ID: This feature provides three distinct audible tones based on a target's metal type and conductivity:

• High conductivity targets (e.g., silver) produce a unique belltone signal.
• Medium to low conductivity targets (e.g., jewelry, small gold) produce a medium-pitched audio signal.
• Ferrous targets (e.g., iron, nails) produce a low-pitch audio signal.

Pushbutton Controls

The ACE 350 features several pushbuttons for operation:

• ON/OFF Power: Press to turn the unit ON. Resume hunting with previous settings. Press and hold for 5-10 seconds to restore factory settings (indicated by a fast double beep).
• MODE Pushbutton: Selects one of the five discrimination modes (Zero, Jewelry, Custom, Relics, or Coins).
• PINPOINT Pushbutton: Press and hold to determine the exact location of a target. Position the searchcoil to the side of the suspected location, press and hold the button, then sweep the coil side-to-side and front-to-back in a crosshair pattern. The strongest audio and maximum LCD segments indicate the peak signal. The center of the searchcoil is directly over the target.
• DISCRIM Pushbutton (+/-): Use these buttons to move the Target ID cursor left or right.
• ACCEPT/REJECT Pushbutton (✓/X): Used with the DISCRIM buttons to modify the discrimination pattern. Press to eliminate or activate pixels on the Lower Scale. The ACE 350 has 12 pixels (notches) of discrimination that can be switched on or off.

Modifying Discrimination Patterns:

There are two primary methods for modifying the Notch Discrimination Pattern:

1. Manual Adjustment: Use the DISCRIM buttons to position the Target ID Cursor over the pixel to eliminate. Then, use the ACCEPT/REJECT pushbutton (✓/X) to delete or activate that pixel on the Lower Scale.
2. Automatic Adjustment: When an unwanted metal target is detected, press the ACCEPT/REJECT pushbutton to create a notch where the Target ID Cursor signals the trash. The detector will then ignore that target type. This pushbutton can also be used to find specific items by programming the detector to only respond to certain Target IDs.

Note: Discrimination modifications made in CUSTOM mode are retained when the detector is turned off. Changes made in ZERO, JEWELRY, RELICS, or COINS modes revert to factory settings when the detector is turned off and back on.

Selecting Modes (Discrimination Patterns)

The ACE 350 offers five modes, allowing you to optimize hunting for specific target types or create custom settings. While each mode is optimized for certain targets, it will still detect other types of metal.

• JEWELRY Mode: Designed to find jewelry like rings, bracelets, watches, and necklaces. It excludes three ferrous target pixels to ignore most nails and small iron pieces, minimizing target masking effects. In this mode, the lower 3 pixels on the Lower Scale are notched out.
• CUSTOM Mode: The discrimination pattern can be programmed by the operator. The factory preset is the same as the COINS Mode. Custom settings are retained after the unit is turned off.
• COINS Mode: Designed to find all types of coins and eliminate trash like iron and foil. It excludes five ferrous target pixels and two non-ferrous pixels. This mode is effective for eliminating iron trash and pull tabs, but may miss medium-sized gold rings. In this mode, 5 ferrous and 2 non-ferrous pixels are notched out.
• RELICS Mode: Designed to eliminate small iron pieces while detecting targets in the lower conductivity range, such as lead, brass, and bronze. The lowest 2 ferrous pixels are notched out.
• ZERO Mode: Designed to detect every type of metal. Use this mode when you want to find all metal items or when the desired object's material is unknown. All 12 discrimination pixels are switched on, meaning no targets are excluded. This mode is also useful for locating targets with inconsistent signals, which might indicate a trash target close to a good target.

Enhanced Iron Resolution

The ACE 350 offers increased resolution (more pixels) for iron discrimination, allowing for more precise control. This helps prevent iron objects from masking the signal of adjacent good targets.

To avoid masking, use the DISCRIM and Accept/Reject pushbuttons to select just enough discrimination to reject iron trash (e.g., a small nail). Using minimal iron discrimination allows the detector to detect both the coin and nail, preventing the good target from being missed due to masking.

Example: Preventing Target Masking with Enhanced Iron Resolution

In RELICS Mode with two pixels of iron discriminated, a nail might register above the third pixel. By using the Accept/Reject pushbutton (✓/X) to turn off the third pixel from the left, these ferrous targets can be eliminated.

If an iron nail is positioned above a good coin target, and three ferrous pixels have been notched out, the nail alone would not be detected. However, if the combined conductivity of the nail and coin results in a signal higher than the discriminated target (nail), the good target (coin) will be detected.

Bench Tests

Conducting bench tests helps familiarize you with your detector's operation. Follow these steps:

1. Place the searchcoil on a flat, non-metallic surface several feet away from other metallic objects.
2. Select the ZERO mode.
3. Pass various metal objects (coins, bottle caps, nails, etc.) across the searchcoil at a distance of 3 to 4 inches. Your detector will audibly and visually identify the target.
4. Perform this test in all available modes, observing sounds and LCD graphics.
5. Record the results of your bench tests for reference during field hunting.

After determining how targets register during bench tests, test them in the soil by burying them at recorded depths to create a "test plot." Note how targets read when lying flat or at various angles. Keep records or use surface markers for your test plot targets and their depths. Re-test targets after several months, during extreme drought, or after rain, noting any changes in detection.

The following illustrations show an ACE 350 in ZERO Mode scanning selected targets during a bench test (air tests in a pristine environment). The target ID scale can be influenced by soil conditions, conductivity, permeability, thickness, size, shape, and orientation of the target.

Target Examples and Display:

• Small, rusty iron nail: Appears on the left side of the Target ID Legend (IRON).
• Aluminum foil: Appears in the lower conductivity range, typically between IRON and RINGS.
• Small, 14k gold ring: Appears in the gold/silver range.
• Large, 14k gold ring: Appears in the gold/silver range, potentially with a higher reading than a small ring.
• Minié ball: Typically registers in the ferrous or low conductivity range.
• Musket ball: Similar to a minié ball, often registering in the ferrous or low conductivity range.
• Twist-off bottle cap: Can vary, but often registers in the foil or iron range.
• Civil War U.S. Belt Plate: Likely registers as a high conductivity target, possibly in the SILVER range.

Hunting Tips With Your ACE 350

• For New Users: Start searching in areas with sandy and loose soil to make it easier to learn how to use your detector, pinpoint, and dig targets.
• Searchcoil Height: Keep your searchcoil approximately 1 to 2 inches above and parallel to the ground at all times for optimal detection results.
• Scanning Technique: Walk slowly, scanning your searchcoil in a straight line from side to side at a speed of about 2 to 5 feet per second. Advance the searchcoil about half its length at the end of each sweep to ensure full coverage.
• Overlap Swings: To fully search an area, overlap your searchcoil swings by approximately half the coil's length (about 5.5 inches). Sweep the searchcoil in a straight line or with a slight arc at a speed of about 3 ft/sec.
• Isolating Adjacent Targets: The narrow detection field of the ACE 350's DD searchcoil allows for better separation of adjacent targets compared to a concentric searchcoil. Use narrow swings in trashy areas to isolate good targets amongst the debris.
• Coil Orientation: Swing your searchcoil parallel to plow lines and the water's edge. This minimizes negative effects from uneven ground or varying moisture. Avoid swinging perpendicular to these lines, as it can cause abrupt changes in ground response and reduce performance.

Target Pinpointing Methods

Accurate pinpointing helps you dig smaller holes and save time.

Standard Pinpointing Method:

Use the Pinpoint button. Position the searchcoil to the side of the suspected target location. Press and hold the Pinpoint button, then sweep the searchcoil side-to-side and front-to-back in a crosshair pattern to locate the peak signal. The strongest audio and the greatest number of LCD segments on the upper scale indicate the peak target signal.

Note: The ACE 350 DD searchcoil's "hot spot" is under the center of the coil, just ahead of its stem mount. The opening just ahead of the stem mount can serve as a reference point for pinpointing.

Alternative Pinpointing Technique: DD-wiggle

Quickly locate targets without the Pinpoint button: Continuously swing the searchcoil side-to-side using fast, narrow swings of 2 to 4 inches (a "wiggle"). While wiggling, slowly move the searchcoil sideways toward the target's suspected position until the audio response produces a consistent, symmetric beat. This indicates the lateral left-to-right position. Then, locate the front-to-back position by rotating the coil 90 degrees and repeating the process.

Alternative Pinpointing Technique: DD-tip or tail

Some detectorists prefer to pinpoint off the tip or tail of the DD searchcoil, rather than the center.

DD "tip" Pinpointing Technique:

1. Press and hold the Pinpoint pushbutton. Sweep the searchcoil side-to-side to center the target (where the strongest audio response and maximum LCD pixels are displayed).
2. Then, pull the searchcoil slowly toward you, noting the target signal.
3. Once the target signal drops off (audibly and on the LCD meter), shallow targets are located immediately in front of the searchcoil's tip. Deep targets will be under or just inside the searchcoil's tip due to the coil's detection field bending slightly with depth.

You can reverse this technique to pinpoint off the DD coil's tail by pushing the coil away from you. The audio and LCD meter will indicate the target just off the searchcoil's tail.

Tip: Practice these pinpointing options in your test plot to find what works best. Improved accuracy leads to digging smaller holes and more productive hunting time.

Troubleshooting Guide

Metal Detecting Code of Ethics

Many treasure hunt clubs and hobbyists follow this code to preserve the hobby:

• Respect private and public property, historical and archaeological sites; obtain proper permission before detecting on these lands.
• Stay informed on and obey all local and national legislation regarding the discovery and reporting of found treasures.
• Aid law enforcement officials whenever possible.
• Cause no willful damage to property, including fences, signs, and buildings.
• Always fill the holes you dig.
• Do not destroy property, buildings, or the remains of deserted structures.
• Do not leave litter or discarded junk items behind.
• Carry all rubbish and dug targets with you when leaving a search area.
• Observe the Golden Rule: use good outdoor manners and conduct yourself to add to the stature and public image of all people engaged in metal detection.

Cautions

When searching with your Garrett detector, observe these precautions:

• Never trespass or hunt on private property without permission.
• Avoid areas where pipelines or electric lines may be buried.
• National and state parks/monuments are absolutely off-limits.
• Deepseeking detectors can find concealed pipes, wiring, and other dangerous materials. Notify authorities if such items are located.
• Do not hunt in military zones where bombs or explosives may be buried.
• Do not disturb pipelines, especially those carrying flammable gas or liquid.
• Use reasonable caution when digging toward any target, particularly in areas with uncertain ground conditions.
• If unsure about using your detector in an area, seek permission from proper authorities.

Caring For Your ACE 350 Detector

Your Garrett detector is rugged but requires basic care:

• Avoid extreme temperatures; do not store in hot car trunks or sub-freezing conditions.
• Keep the detector clean by wiping the control housing with a damp cloth as needed.
• The searchcoil is submersible, but the control housing is not. Never submerge the control housing or connector in water.
• Protect the control housing from heavy mist, rain, and blowing surf.
• Disassemble the stem and wipe the searchcoil clean with a damp cloth.
• When storing for longer than one month, remove the batteries.
• Use quality alkaline batteries. Replace all batteries at once for optimum performance.

ACE 350 Warranty & Service

Your ACE 350 detector is warranted for 24 months, limited parts and labor. Damage from alteration, modification, neglect, accident, or misuse is not covered.

If you encounter problems, first read this Owner's Manual carefully. To restore factory settings, press and hold the power pushbutton for 10 seconds.

Ensure you have:

1. Checked batteries, switches, and connectors. Weak batteries are a common cause of detector "failure."
2. Contacted your dealer for assistance, especially if you are unfamiliar with the ACE 350.

For repairs or warranty service, contact the local retail outlet where the detector was purchased. Do not return products to the factory in the United States to avoid excessive shipping and import charges.

International warranty/repair information is available on the Garrett website: www.garrett.com. Navigate to the Hobby Division and then the Technical Support page.

ACE 350 Accessories

Garrett offers accessories to enhance your treasure hunting success. These are available from your local dealer or by calling the Garrett factory at 1-800-527-4011.

• 4.5" ACE Super Sniper™ Searchcoil (Part No. 221800): Use for small, shallow targets in trashy or tight places.
• ACE Environmental Cover-Up (Part No. 1619900): Protects the detector from light rain and dust without obstructing the control panel view.
• Garrett Detectorist's Backpack (Part No. 1651800): A rugged pack with external tie-down straps for a shovel and detector. It includes internal straps for securing a disassembled detector, divided compartments for gear (gold pans, searchcoils, headphones, lunch, camera), a zippered treasure pouch, utility clip, water bottle holder, and tool holders.
• Garrett PRO-POINTER® Pinpointing Detector (Part No. 1166000): Combines performance with sleek design for pinpointing hard-to-find targets. Features proportional audio/vibration pulse rate target indicators, 360° side scan detection, water resistance, and an LED light. Includes a woven belt holster and 9-volt battery.

For Garrett's complete collection of metal detector accessories, visit www.garrett.com and explore the Hobby Division.

Additional items like searchcoils, recovery tools, headphones, carrying bags, searchcoil covers, Garrett caps, and shirts are also available.

Suggested Reading

Also available are pocket-size treasure-hunting field guides written by Charles Garrett. Each book is compact (3.5" x 5"), 72-84 pages, and offers basic knowledge for beginning treasure hunting.

Titles include:

• How to Find Lost Treasure
• How to Find Gold
• Understanding Treasure Signs and Symbols
• Metal Detecting and Panning
• How to Search Sand and Surf
• The Sport of Coin Hunting with a Metal Detector
• Introduction to Metal Detecting in Europe

(Available in English language only)

Visit RAM Books on www.garrett.com for future releases.

RAM Books Titles

RAM Books, the publishing division of Garrett Metal Detectors, releases new titles annually related to treasure hunting, gold prospecting, coin hunting, and relic recovery.

To see a current list of titles, consult a Garrett Metal Detectors hobby catalog or visit www.garrett.com.

On Garrett's website, navigate to the Hobby Division and select "RAM Books" to view current titles. An order form is available for printing and mailing with requested titles and payment.

Contact Information

Garrett Metal Detectors

1881 W. State Street
Garland, Texas 75042

Toll Free: 800.527.4011
Tel: 972.494.6151
Fax: 972.494.1881
Email: sales@garrett.com

©2010 Garrett Electronics, Inc. PN 1533000.A.0710