Fisher F44 Metal Detector Review UK

I've spent weeks testing the Fisher F44 across various UK terrains to see if it truly lives up to the hype. While its lightweight frame and weather-resistant design are immediately impressive, a metal detector’s value depends entirely on what it finds beneath the surface.

I’ve broken down how this machine handles difficult ground mineralization and whether its specialized features actually deliver better results in the field.

Fisher F44 Unboxing & Initial Setup: 8/10

Simplicity defines the opening experience when you crack open the Fisher F44’s straightforward packaging. I found the 11-inch DD coil, the digital control box, and the shaft hardware neatly organized alongside a clear manual. You won’t find AA batteries inside, so I recommend grabbing two before you start. Assembly took me only minutes. I snapped the adjustable S-rod together and secured the coil without needing extra tools.

Once I powered it up, the interface felt immediately intuitive. I especially appreciate the Ground Grab feature; it automates ground balancing, which saves me from tedious manual adjustments required by rival models. The backlit LCD ensures I can see my settings even in dim light. I also love the non-volatile memory that saves my custom settings for the next hunt. While it lacks a carry bag, the quick, tool-free setup makes getting this machine field-ready an absolute breeze for any hobbyist.

Fisher F44 Design, Build Quality & Ergonomics: 9/10

After getting the machine assembled, the first thing I noticed was just how incredibly light it feels in my hand. Weighing only 2.3 lbs, it’s one of the most comfortable detectors I’ve swung. The ergonomic S-rod design, paired with a soft padded grip and adjustable armrest, ensures I can hunt for hours without the usual shoulder fatigue. Whether you’re tall or short, the shaft adjusts from 41 to 51 inches to fit your height perfectly.

Fisher’s USA-made build quality really stands out here. The control housing is weatherproof, so I don't have to panic when a British rain shower starts. While you shouldn't submerge the control box, the 11-inch DD search coil is fully waterproof for shallow water work. It feels robust and well-balanced, balancing portability with professional-grade durability. It’s a tough, reliable piece of kit that handles dust and mud with ease.

Fisher F44 Key Features & Technology: 9/10

Five distinct search modes—Jewelry, Coin, Artifact, Custom, and All Metal—give me the versatility I need for any hunt. This VLF machine operates at a stable 7.69 kHz, which is ideal for sniffing out silver and brass. I’m particularly impressed by the Ground Grab technology; it provides automatic ground balancing, though I can switch to manual overrides in tougher, mineralized soils. The Fe3O4 meter keeps me informed of ground mineralization levels in real time.

Discrimination is sharp thanks to the 1-99 numeric target ID and a девять-segment visual display. I love the FeTone adjustable iron audio because it lets me lower the volume of trashy iron signals without losing depth. With four distinct tones and twenty sensitivity levels, I’ve got full control over the audio feedback. Plus, the non-volatile memory saves my custom settings, and the backlit LCD ensures I can keep swinging well into the evening.

Fisher F44 In-the-Field Performance Review: 8/10

While I’ve tested many mid-range machines, the F44’s 11-inch DD coil gives me a distinct advantage when it comes to depth and target separation. In the field, I’ve found its 7.69 kHz frequency strikes a perfect balance for finding hammered coins and deep Victorian relics. The FeTone adjustable iron audio is a lifesaver; it lets me mute the groan of junk while still hearing those faint, high-tone signals. I’m particularly impressed with the Ground Grab tech. It handles mineralised soils far better than budget rivals, ensuring I don’t lose sensitivity when the ground gets tough. Its weatherproof housing means I don’t head for the car when it starts drizzling, keeping me out longer than others. While it isn’t a multi-frequency beast, the discrimination is sharp and the pinpointing is dead-on. It’s a reliable, lightweight workhorse that makes every hour spent swinging across a muddy field feel productive.

Fisher F44 User Experience & Learning Curve: 8/10

Although it packs a punch with advanced features, the Fisher F44 remains remarkably approachable for those just starting out. I found the beginner-friendly interface incredibly intuitive, featuring a clear LCD and five straightforward search modes that get you hunting immediately. The Ground Grab auto-ground balancing is a standout, as it eliminates the frustration of manual tuning in mineralised soil.

I’ve quickly mastered the pinpoint and depth tools, which significantly boost my confidence in the field. The 1-99 numeric target ID provides precise feedback, while the FeTone adjustable iron audio helps me ignore junk without second-guessing. Even after hours of trekking through varied terrain, the lightweight 2.3 lbs design ensures I don't feel the usual arm fatigue. I appreciate how the non-volatile memory saves my custom settings, so I’m ready the moment I power up. It’s a scalable machine that grows with your skills.

Fisher F44 Value For Money: 9/10

Investment-wise, the Fisher F44 delivers a feature-packed experience that far outpaces its mid-range price tag. I’m genuinely impressed by how much tech Fisher Labs crams into this unit without charging a premium. You’re getting advanced ground balance, iron audio, and a backlit screen—features usually reserved for much pricier machines. Because it’s weatherproof, I don't have to worry about a sudden downpour ruining my investment, which adds massive peace of mind.

The inclusion of the 11-inch DD coil provides superior depth and coverage compared to the F22, making the small price jump feel like a bargain. I also appreciate the incredible battery efficiency; running for thirty hours on just two AAs keeps my ongoing costs negligible. When I consider the robust USA-made build quality and the multi-year warranty, the long-term value is undeniable. For any serious hobbyist, it’s a high-performance tool that offers an exceptional bang-for-buck ratio.