I have one of the Garrett Pro Pointer AT pinpointers. I about wore it out actually. Used it hard for years. Also have one of the older black models. They do work well for checking for metal in boards. when I did our deck and was using the old lumber, I went over each piece with the Garrett carrot. Saved my tools from nails and screws. One thing that I recommend is to take the battery out if you're not going to use it for some time.
Drop out of warp and prepare to be boarded. Mike southwest CO