Garrett VLF detector for relic detecting — verified specs.
The Garrett AT Max is a premium-tier VLF metal detector from Garrett, aimed at relic detecting. Standout: True All-Metal Mode for maximum depth.
The Garrett AT Max is a premium-tier VLF metal detector from Garrett, aimed at relic detecting. It runs at 13.6 kHz. Weighing 3.03 lbs (1.4 kgs), it sits on the lighter end of its class. Below: every spec verified against the manufacturer's own pages, with sources.
| Brand | Garrett |
| Technology | VLF |
| Frequencies | 13.6 kHz |
| Weight | 3.03 lbs (1.4 kgs) |
| Waterproof | Fully waterproof to 10 feet (3 meters) |
| Coil | 8.5" x 11" PROformance™ DD submersible searchcoil |
| Best for | Relic |
| Price tier | Premium |
Verified against manufacturer pages, October 2026. Fields marked "not published" are absent from official sources — we never fill them from retailers.
The Garrett AT Max sits in Garrett's lineup alongside Garrett ACE 400, Garrett ACE Apex, Garrett AT Pro, Garrett Axiom. It uses VLF (Very Low Frequency) — a single transmitted frequency, typically 3–81 kHz. VLF machines discriminate well — telling iron from silver by phase response — and are light and affordable. Their weakness is mineralized ground and wet salt sand, which read as false targets. Compare it against its intended competition in our guides to the best relic hunting detectors, and see how Garrett's range stacks up on the Garrett brand page.
The Garrett AT Max is best for relic detecting. Key strengths: true all-metal mode for maximum depth.
13.6 kHz
Fully waterproof to 10 feet (3 meters)
3.03 lbs (1.4 kgs)
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The Garrett AT Max is a strong pick for relic detecting, but no machine is universal. Check the waterproof line before any water use, confirm the weight against your stamina, and remember that ground conditions affect real-world performance more than any spec number.