I'm thinking about doing some casual/hobby detecting.
What brands and/or models, under $200, would you suggest for a part time hobbyist?
I'm concerned about weight and depth of detection mostly.
Any advice is appreciated.
Thanks

Me too. I need one to find lot markers in anticipation of expanding my back yard fence and for later use with the grandsons.

Give Doc a phone call @ Docs Detecting Linky and ask what he recommends. Phone number is at the top left area of his website. Good guy.

https://www.kellycodetectors.com/

Those folks have been around quite a while and I was quite happy with a purchase from them.
For what you mentioned you may like the Minelab Go find line-up.

Tesoro Compadre. Do a google and look at the reviews and videos. I've had one a good number of years, I occasionally use strictly for hobby and found stuff with it. One little 9v battery, only one knob to fiddle with and you're off and detecting. The 9v battery last a.long.time too, weeks months and years depending on use. $160.65 and free shipping on Amazon.

Here's a pretty good talking point review:




Link to original video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WduCkmOfO3k

When a relative inherited an 1800s mansion he bought a decent metal detector. He was convinced he'd find a horde of precious metal buried when Roosevelt ordered Americans to turn in their gold (1933). And gave up (the most likely burial spot, the old flower bed, was covered with thorny creepers 5' high).

I visited with a brainy buddy and got advice on where to look for the casual coin. He noticed a short-cut from the porch to a corner of the property which would cut a minute off a walk to town or the train. After 20 minutes I found a 1964 quarter.

The detector sits in a closet now. That is its entire use history. No one else in the family cares to explore old stone foundations or local beaches.

This is where I'd look for a detector. Someone who bought one when the bug bit. Place an ad, get pics, find the new price, and offer 20¢ on the dollar. It will probably be their finest return on investment.

Down the road, after you get used to its features, abilities, and limitations, look for a better model.

I got a Garrett 200 for my first one. The cool kids mock Garrett, but it does what the occasional hobbyist needs and helps you learn the basics. They were $155 when I bought mine a few years ago and I'd do it again.

I bought a top of the line one from Radio Shack just before they went under. It's a Bounty Hunter and was marked down to around a hundred bucks. It's been a great little unit.

last fall I was doing some mowing with my zero turn in a pasture and lost an attachment plate that allowed me to haul around all kinds of stuff. Really pissed me off. I found it in about 20 minutes with my detector. I don't use it much but when I need it, I really need it.