Bounty Hunter Fast Tracker vs Discovery 3300: Which Should You Buy?
Buy the Fast Tracker if you want the simplest, cheapest machine to switch on and swing; step up to the Discovery 3300 for more adjustability and mid-range capability. Both are analog VLF detectors with motion all-metal, discrimination modes and an interchangeable, submersible coil.
The Bounty Hunter Fast Tracker is the brand's true entry-level machine, while the Discovery 3300 sits a step up as a mid-range all-rounder. Both are analog VLF detectors with motion all-metal and discrimination modes and an interchangeable, submersible coil, so on paper they look close - but the Discovery 3300's own review page is explicit about the split: "If you want the simplest possible experience, the Fast Tracker is easier and cheaper." This guide breaks down exactly what that extra adjustability buys you and who should spend the extra money. For the full lineup, see our best Bounty Hunter metal detector guide, and if you're budgeting, our breakdown of how much Bounty Hunter detectors cost.
Fast Tracker vs Discovery 3300 at a glance
Both machines are VLF detectors from the same family, but they're built for different levels of hands-on control. The table below lines up the points that actually change how each performs in the ground.
| Feature | Fast Tracker | Discovery 3300 |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | VLF (very low frequency) single-frequency | VLF (very low frequency) single-frequency |
| Modes | Motion all-metal and discrimination | Motion all-metal and discrimination |
| Target ID | Basic discrimination-based rejection | Yes, with adjustable discrimination |
| Controls | Simple sensitivity and discrimination adjustment | Adjustable sensitivity and discrimination |
| Search coil | Waterproof submersible coil, interchangeable | Waterproof submersible coil, interchangeable |
| Best for | Beginners and casual coin/jewelry hunting on land | Mid-range coin, jewelry and relic hunting on land |
The headline difference is target ID: the Fast Tracker leans on basic discrimination to reject junk, while the Discovery 3300 gives you an adjustable discrimination-backed target ID reading for finer control over what you dig.
Where the Fast Tracker wins
The Fast Tracker is built around simplicity: switch on, set a couple of controls, and start swinging. There's very little to configure, which makes it a genuinely good fit for a complete beginner, a child stepping up from a toy detector, or anyone who wants an affordable, grab-and-go machine for parks, yards and dry sand. It's also the cheaper of the two, so if budget is the deciding factor or you just want to try the hobby before spending more, it's the sensible starting point.
Where the Discovery 3300 pulls ahead
The Discovery 3300 gives you adjustable discrimination and sensitivity rather than the Fast Tracker's simpler fixed controls, which means more flexibility to hunt differently in a clean field versus a trashy park. Its target ID reading helps you decide what's worth digging with a bit more confidence than the Fast Tracker's basic junk rejection. If you already know you'll be detecting regularly rather than occasionally, that extra adjustability pays off over time - it threads the middle between the true entry machines and the digital flagships like the Land Ranger Pro.
Which one should you choose?
Choose the Fast Tracker if this is a first detector, a gift, or you want the lowest-cost honest way into the hobby. Choose the Discovery 3300 if you're already committed to detecting regularly and want adjustable discrimination and a target ID reading to cut down on digging trash. Neither has an LCD screen; if a numeric target ID display is a must-have, compare both against the digital Time Ranger Pro instead. For the full range, see our best Bounty Hunter metal detector guide.
Coils, accessories and getting started
Both models take an interchangeable, submersible search coil, so a larger coil adds depth in open ground while a smaller one improves separation in trash - see our search coils guide for the trade-off. Neither control box is waterproof, so keep both out of full submersion even though the coil handles wet sand and shallow water. Pick up headphones and a digging tool from our accessories page regardless of which one you buy, and check the manuals page for the model-specific owner's guide once your detector arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the Fast Tracker and the Discovery 3300?
The Fast Tracker relies on basic discrimination-based rejection with simple controls, while the Discovery 3300 adds an adjustable discrimination-backed target ID reading and adjustable sensitivity for more flexibility across different sites.
Is the Discovery 3300 worth the extra money over the Fast Tracker?
If you're detecting regularly and want more control over what you dig, yes - the adjustable discrimination and target ID reading pay off in trashier sites. If you just want the simplest, cheapest way to start, the Fast Tracker is easier and cheaper, as the Discovery 3300's own review notes.
Do the Fast Tracker and Discovery 3300 use the same search coil?
Both use an interchangeable, submersible search coil, and many Bounty Hunter models share a compatible coil connector, so upgraded coils often transfer between machines. Always confirm compatibility for your exact model - see our search coils guide.
Which is better for a child - Fast Tracker or Discovery 3300?
The Fast Tracker's minimal controls and light weight make it easier for a child or complete beginner to pick up right away. Also compare the dedicated best Bounty Hunter detectors for kids guide and the Bounty Hunter Junior.
Should I skip both and get a digital model?
Only if a numeric LCD target ID matters to you. Both the Fast Tracker and the Discovery 3300 are analog machines without a screen; for an LCD, compare the digital Land Ranger Pro or Time Ranger Pro.
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