If a mate who was buying their first speargun asked me what to buy these are five options I'd recommend. I didn’t follow the recommendation I was given when I started out and bought a cheap (now extinct) brand and model – don’t make my mistake! A crap speargun wounds fish, breaks early and often and just causes frustration. If you are looking for a basic bananas model that won't break the bank, check these options out.
Rob Allen Sparid or Tuna Speargun (1000-1200)
Rob Allen Sparid Railgun:
Rob Allen Tuna Railgun:
I would recommend a 1000mm for use in predominantly dirty waters (<7-8m visibility) or a 1100/1200mm for mostly clean waters (6m+ visibility). These lengths are relatively short however they still provide good range. The tracking (turning the gun underwater) is also very good. Rob Allen speargun's have a solid reputation for good reason. They are accurate, relatively cheap, easy to clean and maintain while being simple to load.
This speargun is versatile, easy to use and like Rob Allen guns, comes with open and closed muzzle options (I recommend closed!). The shaft is finned and the front fin can help to make loading easier, this can be very handy when you are starting out and still trying to get comfortable with technique. The price is very appealing as well (often coming in as one of the cheapest options). Champion spearo's like Dwayne Herbert use Beuchat equipment for good reason, it gets the job done!
When I started out two guys I (still) consider mentors raved about this speargun and swore black and blue that they are the best. The Riffe woodie is a slightly pricier option than many aluminum barreled spearguns but they have stood the test of time. The Riffe Euro also has a great reputation for power combined with accuracy. The wooden barrel dampens recoil and provides a good platform for accurate shot placement. The open muzzle arrangement takes a little getting used to however this is a very effective speargun for taking down anything from a small parrotfish to a Yellowtail Kingfish. For those that like the wood styling and an open muzzle this might be for you.
I love the phrase over-engineered and Aimrite gear is built tough. This gun is one of their entry models but that doesn’t mean its shabby by any means. Choose a good sturdy 7mm shaft with twin 16mm bands and you’ve got your first reliable speargun.
While starting spearfishing has a tonne of costs involved, you should only bootstrap your equipment to a certain extent. These spearguns will all get the job done and you won't needlessly wound and lose fish by using some pop-gun that loses accuracy and power beyond 1m. I hope this article helps you choose for your first speargun if you are just looking. Head in-store at Adreno and speak to a friendly team member for more ideas, help and even some tuition on how to use it all.