Schonstedt Magnetic Locator Comparison: GA-52CX, GA-72CD and Spot

Magnetic Locators are designed to locate metals containing ferrous such as iron and steel while ignoring other metals. They are perfect for locating land survey markers, iron water lines, and rebar.

Schonstedt has been designing and manufacturing the instrument of choice of professionals since the 1970s. They are still known today as the leader in rugged and dependable locators. Their products are designed and assembled in their headquarters in West Virginia.

What's the Difference between the Schonstedt GA-52CX, GA-72CD, and Spot Magnetic Locators?

Whether you are looking for the lowest cost, the most flexibility, or the greatest durability, there is a Schonstedt Magnetic Locator available for your needs. They are designed for daily use, even in the most severe environmental conditions. All units feature audio output and durable construction materials, including aluminum, polycarbonate, and ABS. They are all based on Schonstedt Heliflux sensors for the highest level of sensitivity.

Schonstedt GA-52CX Magnetic Locator
The most rugged of the three locators, the GA-52CX, has only two controls for simple, one-handed operation. The power/sensitivity and volume controls can be found on the underside of the cover, making them easy to access yet protected from accidental damage. The HeliFlux sensors offer high sensitivity with five available levels.

Schonstedt GA-72CD Metered Magnetic Locator
Schonstedts' most flexible locator, the GA-72CD, offers both audio and visual output. The LCD Digital readout and bar graphs show both polarity and relative signal strength. The audio output has two settings. It can be set to increase or decrease in volume or frequency based on field intensity.

Schonstedt Spot Magnetic Locator
Featuring the quality and accuracy of a Schonstedt locator at a lower cost, the Spot offers the same engineering as the more expensive GA-52CX in an ergonomic, lightweight form factor. Rated IP54 for dust and water resistance, the Spot is ready for harsh environments and daily use.

What the Schonstedt GA-52CX, GA-72CD and Spot Magnetic Locators Have in Common

  • HeliFlux® Sensors
  • No response to aluminum, brass, or copper
  • Rugged Construction
  • Audio Output
  • High Sensitivity
  • 7-year Warranty

What is Unique to the Schonstedt GA-52CX Magnetic Locator?

  • Five Sensitivity Levels
  • Audio Output: Tone frequency increases (or decreases) with gradient-field intensity

What is Unique to the Schonstedt GA-72CD Metered Magnetic Locator?

  • Four Sensitivity Levels
  • Visual Output: Indicates polarity and relative strength of the magnetic field.
  • Battery Indicator
  • Two Audio Modes: Peak or Null Response

What is Unique to the Schonstedt Spot Magnetic Locator?

  • Gain Memory: Remembers last setting used
  • Easy access to battery removal
  • Includes soft-case and sling
  • Ergonomic & Durable: High impact ABS body, Aluminum tube for sensors
  • Dust & Water Resistant (Rated IP54)

See pricing, specifications, bonus items, compatible accessories, product reviews, and videos for each of the Schonstedt models on the pages above!