Anybody used one? I need a new locator and I'm considering this one. If you've used it, how well does it hold up up and does it really work?
these are what used to be marketed as the Magnawand brand. They claim it is a "new" item, but it really has been around a long time.
I bought one, I think about 12 years ago. Prior to that I used Schonstedt.
I like the Magnawand/Chrisnik pretty good. It has held up well and has some really cool features in the way it isolates a vertical magnetic field from other magnetic fields. It has helped me pinpoint survey markers near fences quickly and accurately.
If mine ever goes bad, I will buy another, no doubt.
I also have one of the "older" Magnawand branded ones. Never an issue, although i admit I am a light user.
You can visit the Magnawand Website. The website is a bit old school, but gives you some additional info.
SHG
Stopped down at ChrisNik's office a few years ago and the asked about the Hound. Got a demo and was interested. Then I asked about durablilty because the Schonstedts I had were shaking apart on the 4 wheelers. He started heaving the Hound across the yard, bouncing it off things then he'd demo the thing again with no problems. I've been using it for a couple years with no problems once I learned how to use it. It's not as sensitive as the Schonstedt but over all a good bargain.
I think it is as sensitive, maybe a better way to describe it is "not as responsive". I have learned to slow my sweeps down, a fast sweep doesn't seem to allow time for a response, BUT I think it is able to detect the same object under the same cover as good or better than anything else out there.
As you mention, the durability is fantastic, it is lightweight AND it has the target ID function, very easy to tune out ALL but vertical returns. I have had mine a few years and have never had to change the single 9V battery, so battery life is a plus too.
SHG
