Minelab Excalibur IIComplete Review & Field Test 2026
The Excalibur II remains the go-to detector for serious underwater hunters thanks to its 200-foot depth rating and BBS multi-frequency technology. It handles saltwater mineralization that defeats single-frequency machines, making it equally capable on wet sand, in the surf, or on scuba dives. A proven design that underwater hunters trust.
Key Features:
- BBS multi-frequency technology
- Waterproof to 200 feet
- Discrimination in water
- Iron mask feature
- Automatic noise cancel
Price may vary. Last updated: Aug 17, 2026
Expert Overview
The Minelab Excalibur II represents Minelab's commitment to delivering reliable metal detection technology. Operating at BBS (17 frequencies), this professional-grade detector has earned its 4.2-star rating from over 48 verified users—a testament to its real-world performance.
Frequency
25.5 KHz
Weight
8 pounds
Battery
12 Hours
IP Rating
IP44
Coil
25.4 Centimeters
Dimensions
33.75L x 12.25W x 5.25H
Technical Specifications
In-Depth Field Performance
Detection Depth & Coverage
In field testing, the Minelab Excalibur II demonstrates consistent target acquisition across various soil types. The 10" DD provides excellent ground coverage while maintaining sensitivity to smaller targets. With a maximum detection depth of 12-15" (coin), it performs admirably for underwater and beach hunting. Recovery speed between targets is fast enough for trashy sites, making it suitable for competition-level detecting.
Target ID & Discrimination
Target identification on the Minelab Excalibur II uses Full range to differentiate between valuable finds and junk. The Pinpoint + Discriminate search modes provide flexibility for different hunting scenarios. Audio feedback is clear and responsive, helping you make quick dig decisions. The Underwater headphones included delivers clear tones even in noisy outdoor environments.
Technology & Ground Handling
Minelab equipped the Minelab Excalibur II with BBS (17 frequencies) technology, which is optimized for detecting a wide range of targets from gold jewelry to silver coins. The Automatic system automatically adapts to changing ground conditions. The submersible coil allows hunting in wet grass, shallow streams, and rainy conditions.
Build Quality & Ergonomics
Weighing 5.2 lbs (2.36 kg) w/ batteries, the Minelab Excalibur II has a solid feel that inspires confidence, though longer sessions may require breaks. The 48" to 53" adjustable accommodates users of different heights. Build quality is solid and designed for outdoor durability. 12-16 hours means less worry about power during full-day hunts.
Settings & Modes Guide
Choosing a Search Mode
The Minelab Excalibur II offers Pinpoint + Discriminate search modes. For underwater and shallow-water recovery or beach and wet-sand hunting, start with the preset closest to that target type — it pre-loads discrimination and tone breaks tuned for it — then fine-tune discrimination and sensitivity from there as you learn the site.
Discrimination Setup
Discrimination on the Minelab Excalibur II runs on Full range. Start conservative: reject only signals you've confirmed are iron or foil, and dig everything else until the site teaches you what junk sounds like here.
Ground Balance
The Minelab Excalibur II uses Automatic ground balance, so it compensates for mineralization on its own. You don't need to manually ground balance before each hunt, though depth in extremely mineralized or black-sand soil will be more conservative than on a detector with a manual override.
Sensitivity & Mineralization
The Minelab Excalibur II runs at BBS (17 frequencies). In average, low-mineralization soil, sensitivity can run near the maximum stable threshold for the deepest signal. In mineralized ground — red clay, black sand, or salt-contaminated soil — back sensitivity down until the false chatter settles, then re-check your ground balance.
Pros & Cons
- 200 ft waterproof for deep diving
- BBS handles saltwater perfectly
- Discrimination works underwater
- Legendary beach/dive reputation
- Includes underwater headphones
- Older technology (no display)
- Heavy for surface hunting
- Expensive for single-purpose
Beach and saltwater hunters who need fully waterproof construction and ground balance capable of handling salt mineralization.
Beginners who would be overwhelmed by advanced features, or those on a tight budget.
Things to Know Before You Buy
Older technology (no display)
Something worth weighing before you buy, based on real owner feedback.
Heavy for surface hunting
Factor this in for full-day hunts — arm and shoulder fatigue adds up faster than the spec sheet suggests.
Expensive for single-purpose
Weigh this against how often you'll actually use the extra capability — it's real money either way.
What Else You Need With the Minelab Excalibur II
A detector on its own finds targets it cannot recover. These are the tools experienced detectorists carry on every hunt — about $220.87 for the set, and none of them are optional once you have dug a few holes.
Garrett Pro-Pointer AT
The coil gets you inside a foot. A pinpointer gets you to the exact inch, which is the difference between a two-minute recovery and a ten-minute hole.
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Garrett Edge Digger
You cannot recover a target without digging it. A serrated digger is the first thing every detectorist buys after the machine itself.
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GADFISH Stainless Sand Scoop
On sand, a digger is useless — the hole collapses before you reach the target. A sifting scoop is the only practical recovery tool at the beach.
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Garrett MS-2 Headphones
The faint targets are the deep ones. A speaker loses them to wind and traffic long before the coil does.
Check PriceFrequently Asked Questions
In optimal low-mineralized soil, the Minelab Excalibur II can detect a quarter-sized coin at 12-15" (coin). Larger objects like relics and caches can be detected at greater depths. In highly mineralized ground, expect 15-20% reduction in depth. Actual results depend on soil conditions, target size, and discrimination settings.
The Minelab Excalibur II costs $200.00 more than the Minelab Manticore ($1,499.00). That premium buys you 200 ft waterproof for deep diving, plus bbs handles saltwater perfectly. If those specific advantages matter for how you hunt — especially underwater and beach — the upgrade tends to pay for itself. If they don't, the Minelab Manticore is the more budget-friendly option and worth ruling out first.
Yes — the Minelab Excalibur II is fully waterproof (200 feet (66 meters)), making it excellent for beach and even shallow-water hunting. You can hunt the wet sand, surf zone, and shallow water without worrying about the control box. The BBS (17 frequencies) handles saltwater mineralization well.
Start on the search mode closest to "underwater" — the Minelab Excalibur II ships with Pinpoint + Discriminate search modes, and the closest match pre-loads discrimination and tone breaks for that target type. Keep discrimination low at first so you don't skip real targets while you learn the site, and let the automatic ground balance handle mineralization for you. Tighten discrimination and sensitivity once you know what the local trash sounds like.
The Minelab Excalibur II uses Full range for target ID. Start with little to no discrimination so you learn what iron, foil, and pull tabs sound like in your specific soil, then notch out only the confirmed junk tones — narrow notches beat wide ones, since wide rejection zones also bury real targets.
The standard Minelab Excalibur II package includes: the detector unit, 10" DD, coil cover, headphones, requires AA batteries (sometimes included), and user manual. Some retailers offer accessory bundles with additional coils, carrying bags, and digging tools.
Yes, Minelab provides a 3 years manufacturer warranty for the Minelab Excalibur II in the USA through authorized dealers. Service centers are available for repairs and support. Register your detector after purchase for full warranty coverage.
Expect a real learning curve. The Minelab Excalibur II's Pinpoint + Discriminate search modes and Full range run deeper than entry-level detectors, and getting the most out of it means logging real field hours, not just reading the manual. Budget several outings before you're running it at full capability, and don't expect to match a seasoned user's finds in your first week.
Final Verdict
Based on 48 reviews
The Minelab Excalibur II is an excellent choice for beach and saltwater hunters who need fully waterproof construction and ground balance capable of handling salt mineralization.. With a proven track record of 4.2-star ratings from 48 users, it delivers on its promises in the field.
At $1,699.00, the Minelab Excalibur II competes in the professional-grade segment. For serious detectorists, it offers professional-level capabilities that justify the investment. The 3 years warranty provides peace of mind for your purchase.
Bottom Line: For serious detectorists, the Minelab Excalibur II at $1,699.00 is a worthwhile investment that will serve you for years of successful hunting.
Price may vary. Last updated: Aug 17, 2026
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Price may vary. Last updated: Aug 17, 2026
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