5-Second Answer
Get the F44 if you hunt varied ground conditions - manual ground balance is essential. Get the F22 if you only hunt mild ground and want to save $100.
Fisher F22 vs F44
In-depth comparison with scores, field analysis, and expert verdict
Price difference: $79.01 (Fisher F22 is cheaper)
Head-to-Head Ratings
Our expert scores based on field testing and user data
Who Wins By Use Case?
Find your scenario instantly
Auto balance works fine, save $100
Manual ground balance essential
Better ground handling
Lighter weight, simpler operation
11" coil covers more ground
Handles more conditions
The $79.01 Question
The $100 upgrade to F44 adds manual ground balance, larger 11" coil, and more notch discrimination segments. Manual ground balance alone is worth the upgrade for most hunters.
Category-by-Category Analysis
Expert breakdown of each performance area
Ground Balance
Fisher F44 WinsManual ground balance on F44 is essential for mineralized soil. F22 auto-only struggles in challenging ground.
Ground Coverage
Fisher F44 Wins11" coil vs 9" coil. F44 covers 49% more ground per sweep.
Discrimination
Fisher F44 WinsF44 has more notch segments for finer control over what you dig.
Ease of Use
Fisher F22 WinsF22 is simpler with fewer adjustments needed. True turn-on-and-go.
Weight
Fisher F22 WinsF22 with 9" coil is lighter. Advantage for children or long hunts.
Value
Fisher F44 Wins$100 for manual ground balance + larger coil is excellent value.
Full Specification Comparison
| Specification | Fisher F22 | Fisher F44 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $227.99 | $307.00 |
| Rating | 4.5β | 4.5β |
| Reviews | 1,848 | 318 |
| Operating Frequency | 7.69 kHz | 7.69 kHz |
| Weight | 2.3 lbs (1.04 kg) | 2.3 lbs (1.04 kg) |
| Length | 42" to 51" adjustable | 42" to 51" adjustable |
| Coil | 9" concentric | 11" DD biaxial |
| Max Depth | 8-9" (coin) | 10-11" (coin) |
| Waterproof | Weatherproof (not submersible) | Weatherproof (not submersible) |
| Search Modes | 4 | 5 |
| Discrimination | 9 segments | 9 segments |
| Ground Balance | Preset | Manual |
| Power | 2 AA batteries | 2 AA batteries |
| Battery Life | 25 hours | 25 hours |
| Audio | Speaker + headphone jack | Speaker + headphone jack |
| Warranty | 5 years | 5 years |
| Made In | USA | USA |
| frequency | 7.69 KHz | 7.69E+3 KHz |
| weight | 3 pounds | 3.59 pounds |
| batteryLife | 25 Hours | 30 Hours |
| ipRating | IP54 | IP54 |
| coilSize | 9 Inches | 11 Inches |
| dimensions | 8L x 5W x 22H | 22L x 8W x 5H |
| material | Metal | Metal |
| powerSource | Battery Powered | Battery Powered |
| model | F22 | F44 |
Pros & Cons Comparison
Pros
- Very lightweight at 2.3 lbs
- Weatherproof for rain hunting
- Iron Audio feature
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Not fully waterproof
- Preset ground balance
- Concentric coil less ground coverage
Pros
- Manual ground balance for mineralized soil
- Larger 11" DD coil for better depth
- Very lightweight
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Not fully waterproof
- 7.69 kHz less sensitive to small gold
- Fewer features than multi-frequency
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Fisher F22 vs F44
Upgrade Path
When you're ready for the next level
From Fisher F22:
Fisher F44 ($299) for ground balance, or Nokta Simplex+ ($299) for waterproof at same price
From Fisher F44:
Fisher F75 ($749) for pro features, or Garrett AT Pro ($629) for waterproof capability
The F22 vs F44 decision is really about ground conditions. If you only hunt city parks with mild soil, the F22 is genuinely sufficient - save $100. If you hunt anywhere with challenging ground (old sites, farms, hills), the F44's manual ground balance is essential. The $100 upgrade also buys a larger coil and better discrimination. For most hunters exploring various sites, F44 is the right choice.
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