Got my license in 1979 I was 18 my friends dad took me out pheasant and duck hunting and just learned more every year as I climbed the age ladder. Even several major health issues haven't stopped me, just slowed me down some. But I got the ok from my doctor that im good to go this year. Starting to count the days!!
I also have a Teknetics Delta 4000 and it sells retail around $279 and has nice features and is quite easy to learn. You might want give that a look and see what you think. Good Luck!!
Try looking at Kellyco.com They have big assortment of detectors and they show beginner and experienced model detectors and have lots of info on metal detecting. I have ordered from them and customer service is great. Hope that will help a bit. And don't forget You Tube.
LOL Eddie, its a turn on and go detector. Tesoro makes good line of detectors. The Compadre doesn't have all the bells and whistles like the more expensive models out there but its a great beginner detector or good back up for the experienced detectorist. Just turn it on and put it at your level of discrimination and start hunting!!
Welcome to the site Chris. Hopefully the winter won't be as bad as this past one, it was a very cold, snowy one. Thanks for your service. I served in Marine reserve for 6 years back in the 1980's. Seems so long ago!! Good luck!!