Super Metal Detectors Top 10 Review: Tesoro Compadre

The Tesoro Compadre, though discontinued in 2018, remains a popular choice on the secondhand market for budget-minded treasure hunters. This no-frills detector earned a reputation for its affordability, and surprising capabilities in coin and relic recovery. But how does the Compadre stack up against modern detectors, and is it still a relevant option for those starting their metal detecting journey? We have a quick peek at the Compadre’s functionalities, exploring its strengths and weaknesses to help you decide if it’s a good fit for your treasure hunting..

A Closer Look: Back to Basics Design

The Tesoro Compadre stands out for its stripped-down design philosophy:

• Single Knob Operation: This detector features a single knob for adjusting discrimination and sensitivity. While it lacks the granular control of more advanced machines, it prioritizes ease of use for beginners.
• All-Metal Mode: In addition to the discrimination mode, the Compadre offers an all-metal mode that detects all types of metals. This allows users to get a feel for the detecting process and uncover various targets.
• Hardwired Search Coil: The Compadre comes with a single 8-inch concentric search coil that’s permanently attached. While this limits coil options, the chosen coil is well-suited for general coin and relic hunting.
• Audio Feedback: The Compadre offers a single-tone audio response. While not as nuanced as detectors with multiple tones for target identification, it provides a basic indication of target strength.

While the Compadre’s simplicity makes it user-friendly, it’s important to remember that it lacks the advanced features and functionalities found in modern detectors.

Who Is It For: Beginners and Budget-Conscious Treasure Hunters

The Tesoro Compadre caters primarily to two audiences:

• Beginners: The straightforward operation with a single knob and the all-metal mode make the Compadre an approachable option for those new to metal detecting.
• Budget-Conscious Treasure Hunters: Since it’s a discontinued model, the Compadre can be found on Facebook Marketplace or Nextdoor at a price that is cheaper than chips.

However, experienced users might find the Compadre too limited in functionality for their needs.

Ease of Use: Simplicity Reigns Supreme

The Tesoro Compadre prioritizes user-friendliness above all else. Here’s a breakdown of its usability:

• Display: The display is basic, showcasing only a battery level indicator and a single meter that reacts to target signals. While minimal, it’s enough for beginners to understand if a target is present.
• Handling: The lightweight design (around 2.2 lbs or 1 kg) and well-balanced construction make for comfortable operation for extended periods. The single control knob is conveniently positioned and easy to access with rubber gloved hands.
• Parts: The Compadre comes with a single 8-inch concentric search coil, suitable for most general detecting scenarios. As mentioned, the coil is hardwired and cannot be replaced with other options.

Overall, the Tesoro Compadre prioritizes ease of use. The basic display, single knob control, and lightweight design make it easy for beginners to pick up and start detecting quickly.

Terrain Compatibility: Sticking to the Basics

The Tesoro Compadre performs decently in some terrains, but its limitations should be considered. Here’s a breakdown of its suitability:

• Parks and Fields: This is where the Compadre performs well. The open spaces and minimal ground mineralization make it easier for beginners to identify coin and relic signals.
• Woods (Limited): While the Compadre can function in wooded areas, the lack of ground balancing might make it challenging to differentiate targets from ground noise in highly mineralized soils.
• Beaches (Not Recommended): The Compadre is not submersible and doesn’t perform well in saltwater environments. In other words, if you put it in water, it will die.

The Compadre is best suited for open areas with minimal ground mineralization. More advanced features like ground balancing, found in other detectors, are crucial for tackling challenging terrains like beaches and highly mineralized soils.

Pros:

• Ultra-Affordable (Secondhand Market): Since it’s discontinued, the Compadre can be found at a significantly lower price point compared to most modern detectors, making it a great budget option.
• Single Knob Operation: Incredibly easy to learn and use, ideal for absolute beginners.
• Lightweight Design: Comfortable to swing for long periods, reducing fatigue.
• All-Metal Mode: Allows beginners to experience detecting all types of metals and get a feel for the process.
• Decent Coin and Relic Detection: Despite its simplicity, the Compadre can be surprisingly effective in recovering coins and relics in favorable conditions

Cons:

• Discontinued Model (Limited Availability): Finding a Tesoro Compadre in good condition on the secondhand market can be challenging, and replacement parts might become scarce over time.
• Limited Functionality: Lacks features like ground balancing, multiple discrimination settings, and advanced target identification capabilities found in modern detectors.
• Single-Tone Audio: Provides only basic information about detected targets compared to detectors with multiple tones for more precise identification.
• Hardwired Search Coil: Limits customization for specific terrains, and replacing a damaged coil requires special modifications.
• Not Suitable for Experienced Users: The lack of features and limited depth range make it unsuitable for experienced detectorists seeking more control and advanced functionalities.

Other Detector Options (Modern Alternatives):

Since the Tesoro Compadre is discontinued, here are some modern detectors to consider depending on your needs:

• For Absolute Beginners Who Want Similar Simplicity: Bounty Hunter Tracker IV: Offers a single-knob operation and all-metal mode at an even lower price point than a used Compadre, but with slightly less depth range.
• For Beginners Who Want Ground Balancing: Garrett Ace 150: Provides a slightly higher price point but includes a ground balancing mode and multiple discrimination settings for more control over target identification.
• For Budget-Conscious Coin Hunters Seeking More Features: Makro Racer: Offers a wider range of discrimination options, superior target identification capabilities, and a ground balancing mode at a comparable price point to a used Tesoro Compadre.

Final Thoughts:

The Tesoro Compadre holds a special place in the hearts of many detectorists for its simplicity and surprising effectiveness in coin and relic hunting. It might look like it came out of grandpa’s woodshed, but it has stood the test of time.

Don’t expect too much though. The Compadre is a basic machine that lacks the functionalities and depth range of modern detectors. Because it is now discontinued, getting parts and repairing is an issue. If it breaks, you’ll probably be replacing straight away.

For absolute beginners on a tight budget, the Compadre could be a good starting point if found in good condition. But, let’s get real, if you intend making detecting a long-term scene, a modern detector with ground balancing, multiple discrimination settings, and more advanced features will make your life easier. If you’re progressing fast, you’ll likely outpace the capabilities of the Compadre and crave a detector that can keep up with your treasure hunting epicness.