But the only metal detector I've ever had was a Garrett. Now all the circuits on it are corroded and it's time for a new one. My choice would definitely be a White, based both on my experience with old metal dectecting buddies and on what little I've read about the newer Whites: I like the better discrimination available on them and the fact that newer models can "image" what's underground. Definitely buy the top-end White available. This will allow you to go over already searched ground and find things earlier searchers missed.
Some old links I've accumulated:
California dectecting forum (but worthwhile reading for everyone)
http://www.findmall.com/forums/
The high-end Whites' forum --- at least last time I looked the DFX was the best White
A ground-penetrating radar site
http://www.g-p-r.com/tutorial.htm
Jimmy Sierra Books and digging tools
Kellyco Metal Detecting Superstore
Noggin subsurface imaging page... Highly rated Noggin systems
Wow, thanks for the links. I'll have to read up a bit. Not sure if I'm going to get into it or not. I was thinking that on this old homeplace, someone buried SOMETHING near or under some great big old oak trees. Seems I would bury something where I could find it later, that would be the key.