Choosing the Best Spearfishing Gun

Selecting the right spearfishing gun is essential for progress in underwater hunting. From propulsion type and barrel length to spear choice, every detail matters. Here is a complete guide and a selection of the most effective models to help you make the best choice.

What Is a Spearfishing Gun?

The spearfishing gun, often called a speargun, is the main weapon of the underwater hunter. It shoots a spear attached to a line, allowing the capture of fish and cephalopods.

There are two main categories:

• Rubber-powered spearguns: the most common, using elastic bands for propulsion.
• Pneumatic spearguns: powered by compressed air, more powerful but requiring extra care.

Key Criteria for Choosing

Before buying your speargun, here are three important factors to consider:

1. The Barrel

• Aluminum: affordable and lightweight.
• Carbon: very maneuverable but fragile.
• Wood: more expensive, but offers excellent buoyancy and stability.

Recommended diameter: 25 mm for maneuverability, 28 mm for rigidity and balance.

2. The Spear

Choose stainless steel with a diameter of 6 to 7 mm. The length depends on the speargun: for example, a 90 cm gun uses a 130 cm spear, while a 120 cm gun requires a 160 cm spear.

3. The Rubber Bands

• 16 mm: easier to load, ideal for beginners.
• 19 mm+: more powerful, but require greater loading strength.

Top 5 Spearfishing Guns

1) Beuchat HERO – 90 cm

• Historic brand, inventor of the modern speargun (1947).
• Aluminum barrel Ø 28 mm, lightweight and stable.
• Open head with double 16 mm rubber bands.
• Highly maneuverable, ideal for ambush or diving.
• Excellent value for money.

2) Cressi Cherokee Fast – 90 cm

• Open magnetic head for secure spear retention.
• Round 28 mm barrel with integrated guide.
• Double 14 mm circular rubber bands.
• Comes with a pre-mounted reel.
• Lightweight (1.4 kg), balanced, and easy to handle.

3) Pathos Saragos – 90 cm

• Designed for ambush hunting and freediving.
• Aluminum barrel Ø 28 mm with open head.
• 17.5 mm circular rubber band.
• Reverse stainless steel trigger mechanism for +7 cm loading length.
• Great balance of power and precision.

4) Labrax Nova – 75 cm

• Compact, easy-to-handle model.
• Perfect for beginners and hole hunting.
• Round barrel Ø 28 mm with closed head.
• 6.5 mm stainless steel spear + 16 mm rubber bands.
• Affordable entry-level option.

5) Meandros Argo Open – 85 cm

• Aerospace-grade aluminum elliptical barrel Ø 32 mm.
• Open head with double 16 mm rubber bands.
• 7 mm stainless steel spear.
• Ergonomic ambidextrous handle with reverse stainless steel mechanism.
• Versatile and precise, suited for most hunting styles.

In summary: The right speargun depends on your preferred hunting technique, skill level, and budget. Beginners should start with a short, maneuverable gun. As you gain experience, opt for a longer and more powerful model. Combined with the right camouflage suit, a good speargun ensures more rewarding and successful fishing trips.