The Best Spearguns

Just a couple of generations ago, spearfishing was a niche sport. But following World War II, with the explosion of the economy and wide availability of consumer goods, it began growing rapidly, and has continued growing ever since.

While many civilizations have harvested fish with spears for centuries, these spears have typically been the kind you throw with your hand, designed for use in shallow water for nabbing smaller fish. Modern spearguns, by contrast, are typically powered by a pneumatic tube or nylon tension bands.

So how do you find the best speargun for your needs?

We’ve put together a list of fifteen choices that represent the best available online. Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first spearfishing gun, or whether you’re a seasoned expert shopping around for an upgrade, we’ve covered all the bases. We’ve also looked at both pneumatic and band-powered spearguns, so you can find something that’s right up your alley.

Best Spearguns

1. AB Biller

The AB Biller is a beautiful mahogany speargun with excellent balance.

Key Features

• 2 to 3-band speargun
• 42” length
• 5/16” diameter shaft
• Double-barbed rock point speartip
• Mahogany construction
• A stainless steel guide shaft
• Long butt extension

The AB Biller Speargun is a powerful mahogany speargun that’s available in seven different sizes, ranging from a compact 24 inches to a hefty 60 inches. You can go shorter for maneuverability around reefs and wrecks, or go long for ultimate open-water power.

This speargun comes with a pair of 9/16” bands to begin with, but you can add a third band if you want to really ramp up the power.

The mahogany stock and barrel are treated with three coats of polyurethane, allowing for a smooth stroke. The wood itself does an excellent job of reducing recoil, and it absorbs almost all of the sound from your shot, so you’re not going to spook a fish at the last possible second.

Another nice feature is the stainless steel guide groove on top of the barrel. Not only does this further reduce noise, but it also improves your accuracy, so your shots will always land where you want them to.

Pros

• Beautiful wood design
• Quiet operation
• Stainless steel shaft for accuracy
• Beefy enough for a big game
• Excellent balance

Cons

• Expensive

If you’re willing to pay top dollar to get a top-quality speargun, this is an excellent choice.

2. JBL African Mohogany

The JBL 6W44 is another mahogany speargun, although it’s also available in an aluminum variant.

Key Features

• 3-band speargun
• 44” length
• 5/16” diameter shaft
• Rotating rock point speartip
• Mahogany or brown aluminum construction
• Stainless steel trigger and a guide shaft

The JBL 6W44 is an exceptionally well-crafted speargun, whether you’re looking for a quiet, heavy mahogany option or a lightweight aluminum option. Either way, the quality of the construction is impressive, and the 44-inch length is a good compromise between maneuverability and power.

Speaking of power, you won’t need to worry about taking a shot at a big grouper. The 6W44 features a three-sling design that’s powerful enough to haul in even the largest of undersea creatures, or, as we prefer to call them, dinner.

The trigger is crafted from stainless steel, along with the rest of its assembly, making it both rugged and corrosion-resistant. The pull and break are smooth, and the trigger actually comes with a lifetime warranty! Like the Biller, the 6W44 also features a stainless steel guide track for maximum accuracy.

Pros

• Beautiful wood design
• Stainless steel track for accuracy
• Rugged stainless steel trigger
• Smooth, easy trigger pull

Cons

• Expensive

Whether you value weight or silence, this spearfishing gun has got you covered.

3. Mares Sten

The Mares Sten is a compact pneumatic speargun that’s designed primarily for reef fishing.

Key Features

• Pneumatic speargun
• Available in 16”, 22”, 27.5”, and 39” lengths
• 5/16” diameter shaft
• Double flopper speartip
• Polymer construction
• Includes a pump and loader

The Mares Sten is only one of two pneumatic spearguns on our list. This style of gun is louder than a band-style gun, but they’re generally considered more reliable, both in terms of construction and in terms of accuracy. Depending on what size you buy, it can be a solid choice for reef fishing or for open water.

The downside of a pneumatic speargun is that it can be hard to pump up, especially if your arms are smaller than Dwayne Johnson’s. With the Sten, this isn’t a problem. It includes a pump and can fire around 6 shots before needing to be refilled. If you haven’t caught a few fish by then, you need to work on your aim instead of worrying about your gear.

The default shaft on this speargun is a smooth 8mm (5/16”), but it can also accept a threaded 7mm shaft if you prefer to put some spin on your spear. The included spear features a double flopper tip, so once it penetrates, the fish is going to have a heck of a time breaking free.

Pros

• Compact and lightweight
• Rugged construction
• Comes with everything you need for operation
• A fantastic choice for reef fishing

Cons

• Pricey

If you prefer a pneumatic gun to a band-style gun, this speargun is one of the best.

4. Hammerhead E2 Jurassic

The Hammerhead E2 Jurassic is a mid-sized, light-duty speargun that’s a good choice for beginners.

Key Features

• 1-band speargun
• Available in 29.5”, 35.4” and 43.3” lengths
• 5/16” or 3/8” diameter shaft
• Single Hawai’ian flopper speartip
• Polymer stock and stainless steel barrel
• Includes a left-handed handle
• Stainless steel barrel rail
• Reel-ready handle

The Hammerhead E2 Jurassic is a solid choice for two groups of people: beginners, and those who want to spearfish from a boat. For the former, it offers a light, low-recoil release that makes it easy to hit your target. For the latter, it offers a reel-ready handle, so you can mount a crank and reel if you want to go spearfishing without getting wet.

There’s a third group of people who will like this speargun: left-handed folks. This speargun includes both right and left-handed handles, so you can operate it either way without any ergonomics or safety issues.

Finally, this speargun also features a stainless steel barrel rail. While this rail requires washing after use to prevent corrosion, it provides a significant boost to your accuracy.

Pros

• Great choice for southpaws
• Versatile design
• Steel rail for accuracy
• Good choice for spearfishing from above the surface

Cons

• Steel barrel needs thorough rinsing after use

This speargun is reel-ready, so you can spearfish from the surface and crank in your catch just as you would with a traditional fishing rod.

5. Cressi Comanche

The Cressi Comanche is an entry-level speargun that’s easy to load and handle.

Key Features

• 1 to 2-band speargun
• Available in 23.6”, 29.5”, 35.4”, 39.3”, and 43.3” lengths
• 5/16” diameter shaft
• Single flopper speartip
• Polymer stock with aluminum barrel

The Cressi Comanche is a relatively powerful speargun that’s designed for beginners. Not only is it very reasonably priced, but loading and handling are easy, with an ergonomic grip and an easily manageable safety.

This speargun is rugged enough to be suitable for even the most experienced spearfishers. It won the 2004 world speargun championship, and it features a corrosion-proof anodized aluminum barrel and a polymer stock that’s tough enough to handle a lot of recoil and abuse. It won’t bend or break easily, and it will float to the surface if you lose your grip.

This is a very accurate speargun. The anatomical muzzle and the lower positioning of the bands allow for plenty of visibility since you won’t have to sight around a bunch of material. The only complaint we have is the trigger pull, which is very heavy.

Pros

• Accurate
• Easy to aim
• Affordable

Cons

• Heavy trigger pull

This beginners speargun isn’t just for newbies; it’s more than accurate enough for experienced spearfishing enthusiasts.

6. JBL 38 Special

The JBL 38 Special comes with a rock point speartip that won’t snap if you miss your shot and it bounces off rocks or coral.

Key Features

• 2-band speargun
• 42” length
• 3/8” diameter shaft
• Twin spinner rock point speartip
• Mahogany construction
• Extra-long butt extension

JBL 38 Special is a heavyweight mahogany speargun that’s on the pricey side, but relatively affordable for a gun with a wood stock. It comes with a pair of 9/16-inch bands, which provide plenty of power for snagging mid-sized and large fish. The overall length is 42 inches, making it a solid choice for fishing in a variety of circumstances.

This is a rugged, reliable speargun that will be your sidekick for years to come. The trigger assembly is constructed from stainless steel for maximum durability and precision, and the muzzle is forged from aluminum to keep the speargun from being too front-heavy. It also features a long butt extension, which allows for excellent balance and makes it easy to brace into your shoulder while reloading.

One other thing we should mention is that the 38 Special comes with a shock line. Most spearfishing guns come with a monofilament line, which can snap if you fire a total miss in open water. This line won’t break.

Pros

• Quiet operation
• Durable wood construction
• Easy to load

Cons

• Pricey

This speargun is constructed from mahogany, so it’s exceptionally quiet, and it won’t spook your fish.

7. Cressi Apache

The Cressi Apache is an affordable speargun that’s constructed from ABS plastic and aluminum.

Key Features

• 1-band speargun
• Available in 13.8”, 17.7”, 23.6”, and 29.5” lengths
• 5/16” diameter shaft
• Single flopper speartip
• ABS plastic stock and aluminum tube
• Ergonomic grip
• Tahitian-style shaft

The Cressi Apache is a short, stocky speargun that’s easy to maneuver in tight quarters. It’s also a solid choice for beginners because it’s lightweight and doesn’t cost as much as many spearguns. Both beginners and experts will appreciate the Tahitian-style spear shaft, with its grooved profile that provides excellent stability and a straight shot in the water.

This gun is a great choice for fishing around reefs, since it’s not too powerful, and you stand a decent choice of your spear surviving a hit with a rock. Then again, you’ll be limited to hunting relatively small fish, although that’s not necessarily a problem depending on what species you prefer to fish.

Another feature you may appreciate is the forward-slanted, ergonomic grip. This makes the Apache an excellent choice for single-handed shooting since it’s more comfortable to extend out in front of your body.

Pros

• Comfortable grip
• Compact and lightweight
• Affordable

Cons

• Flimsy spear

The ergonomic grip on this speargun makes it easy for beginners and experienced shooters alike to aim and fire.

8. Mares Bandit

The Mares Bandit features a Dyneema wishbone and reinforced trigger lock for extra safety.

Key Features

• 1-band speargun
• Available in 13.7”, 17.7”, 21.7”, 29.5”, 37.4”, 43.3”, and 47.25” lengths
• 5/16” diameter shaft
• Single flopper speartip
• Polymer stock and frame with anodized aluminum barrel
• Tahitian shaft
• Rubber line bungee

The Mares Bandit is designed specifically for safety, which makes it an excellent choice not just for beginners, but also for intermediate spearfishers who are trying out new techniques or fishing in a new environment. The Dyneema wishbone in particular features no sharp points or rough edges, and the sharp clip swivels out of the way, so you can attach your float line without the risk of cutting yourself.

One thing that every spearfisher of every experience level will appreciate about the Bandit is the rubber line bungee. This reduces recoil very effectively, not just taking some pain off of your shoulder but also increasing accuracy. The less likely you are to flinch before the shot, the more likely you are to hit your target.

This speargun is affordably priced, but don’t underestimate its quality. The stock and frame are constructed from a rugged polymer that’s a lot tougher than many spearguns on the market.

Pros

• Low recoil
• Easy to load
• Safe operation
• Affordable

Cons

• Relatively low power

The very low recoil on the Mares Bandit makes an excellent choice for beginning spearfishers.

9. JBL D5

The JBL D5 is a beginner’s speargun that features a secure twin barb speartip.

Key Features

• 2-band speargun
• Available in 16” and 32.5” lengths
• 5/8” diameter shaft
• Twin barb rock point speartip
• ABS plastic grip and anodized aluminum barrel
• Stainless steel trigger

The JBL D5 is constructed from aircraft-grade anodized aluminum, so it’s exceptionally rugged for the price. While the ABS plastic grip isn’t going to win any awards for beauty, it’s tough enough to get the job done. It’s a lightweight gun, so plan on using it for small to mid-sized species.

This speargun utilizes a pair of lightweight nylon bands, and the muzzle swings open easily for convenient, high-speed reloads. It’s also very accurate. Point it, pull the cold-forged stainless steel trigger, and rest assured that your spear is going to hit its target. All of this comes at a price that won’t break the bank.

Pros

• Durable construction
• Accurate
• Easy to load
• Affordable

Cons

• Relatively low power

If you’re just getting started with spearfishing, this easy-loading speargun is a great choice.

10. AB Biller

The AB Biller is an even beefier version of their original, albeit without the wooden furniture.

Key Features

• 2 to 3-band speargun
• 32” length
• 5/16” diameter shaft
• Dual barbed speartip
• Polymer stock and an anodized aluminum barrel
• Reversible ambidextrous safety
• Long butt extension
• Includes a spearfishing guide book

The AB Biller Redesigned Professional Speargun is just what its name implies. A powerful speargun that’s designed for professional undersea hunters who want to bring in the biggest fish they can wrangle. It features a dual barbed speartip that sets easily and won’t let go, so once you’ve scored a hit, that fish isn’t going anywhere.

This gun has a long butt extension, which is designed for bracing against your armpit while you reload. This makes reloads fast and easy, especially in the rush and excitement of a spearfishing trip. It also features a reversible safety, so left and right-handed people will be able to use it with equal ease.

Pros

• A great choice for big game
• Excellent power and range
• Great choice for southpaws
• Excellent balance

Cons

• A little pricey

If you want to spear a fish that’s as big as you are, this speargun will get the job done.

11. Beuchat Espadon

The Beuchat Espadon is ideal for fishing in low visibility and other short-range conditions.

Key Features

• 2-band speargun
• Available in 13.8”, 19.7”, and 29.5” lengths
• 5/16” diameter shaft
• Single flopper speartip
• ABS plastic handle and aluminum tube
• Tahitian shaft

The Beuchat Espadon is an entry-level speargun that comes at a price that fits what you’re getting. It’s not designed to last for years, and it’s not designed to stand up to a ton of abuse.

That said, if you’re looking for a good beginner speargun, the most important thing is to get one that works. This gun is not only well-designed for reef fishing, but the spear features a Tahitian shaft that allows for plenty of accuracy. And a pair of fat rubber bands ensure that your spear will punch through whatever it hits.

Is this the speargun you’re going to use for the rest of your life? No. But it’s a great way to get your feet wet – pun intended. It’s also a great way to learn what you like and don’t like in a speargun, so you’ll be able to make a confident decision when you buy your “forever” gun.

Pros

• Compact and lightweight
• Simple, no-nonsense design
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Relatively flimsy construction

This short, light speargun is ideal for beginners who want to go reef fishing.

12. Cressi Mohicano

The Cressi Mohicano fires a slender, ¼-inch shaft that’s deceptively powerful.

Key Features

• 1 to 2-band speargun
• Available in 23.6”, 29.5”, 33.4”, and 37.4” lengths
• ¼” diameter shaft
• Single flopper speartip
• Polymer grip with aluminum barrel
• Textured, rubberized grip
• Tahitian shaft
• Articulated wishbone for speed

The Cressi Mohicano has a camouflaged design that’s perfect for stealth fishing. We’re talking about creeping up along a shadowed reef, where a flash of sunlight is going to give you away in a heartbeat, and might just spook that perfect fish you’re stalking.

And speaking of reefs, the Mohicano is well-sized for reef fishing, with lengths ranging from 23.6 inches to 37.4 inches. At longer lengths, it’s also a reliable choice for open water fishing.

The Mohicano comes with a single band, and that’s enough to harvest most species of fish. But if you’re trying to haul in a more durable species like grouper, buy a second band and double your power. The one thing to be aware of on this gun is the articulated wishbone, which is finicky to use and makes it take longer to reload.

Pros

• Very powerful
• Easy to load
• Fast, accurate firing
• Relatively compact

Cons

• Finicky wishbone

If you’re trying to snag some heavyweight reef fish, this speargun will not disappoint.

13. Cressi SL Star

The Cressi SL Star is versatile that can be used for fishing reefs or in open water.

Key Features

• Pneumatic speargun
• Available in 15.75”, 21.5”, and 27.5” lengths
• 5/16” diameter shaft
• Single flopper speartip
• ABS plastic grip and an aluminum barrel
• Optional power reducer

If you’re looking for a speargun that can be used both near rocks and in the open ocean, the Cressi SL Star is what you want. Provided you buy the version with the power reducer, you’ll have a speargun that does both jobs. Turn the power reducer on for a lightweight shot that won’t snap your spear on a rock, or turn it off for long-distance power and big game performance.

That said, you’ll have a much easier time if you’re on the stronger side. This is a pneumatic gun, and it doesn’t include a pump, which means you really have to put your back into recharging it. It also doesn’t include a line, but the line is cheap, and you’ll want to upgrade to shock line anyway if you’re fishing in open water.

Pros

• Versatile design
• Ergonomic grip
• High-visibility design
• Compact and lightweight

Cons

• Does not include a pump or line

If you’re worried about dropping your speargun, the high-visibility yellow on the SL Star will help you retrieve it.

14. JBL 6W46

The JBL 6W46 is a powerful wooden speargun for sneaking up on bigger fish.

Key Features

• 1 to 3-band speargun
• 56” length
• 5/16” diameter shaft
• Rotating rock speartip
• Mahogany construction with a polymer grip
• A stainless steel trigger assembly

The JBL 6W46 is an extended, beefier version of the 6W44 we looked at earlier. It measures 56 inches in length, which makes it a bit long for reef fishing, but offers exceptional power for open water spearfishing. JBL claims you can bring in a big fish from 28 feet away with this beast, and we haven’t seen anything to make us question that.

You’ll also get plenty of accuracy, with a rotating rock speartip that spirals through the water like a football and won’t snap if you happen to strike a rock. You’ll also receive a rugged trigger assembly, and the silent, no-spook operation you’d expect from any wood speargun.

Pros

• Beautiful wood design
• Long and powerful
• Quiet operation

Cons

• Expensive

For long-range spearfishing, this speargun is an excellent choice.

15. Hammerhead Proteus

The Hammerhead Proteus is one of the few single-band spearguns on the market that’s suitable for shooting large fish.

Key Features

• 1-band speargun
• Available in 13.8”, 21.6”, 25.6”, and 29.6” lengths
• 5/16” diameter shaft
• Single Hawaiian flopper speartip
• ABS plastic grip and an aluminum barrel
• Reel-ready handle

The Hammerhead Proteus is one of the best beginner spearguns available on the market. It’s very reasonably priced, with an ABS plastic grip and aluminum barrel that aren’t the toughest on the market but are more than good enough as long as you don’t drop your speargun or handle it carelessly.

This gun is powerful enough to haul in even large fish, which is very unusual on a single-band speargun. It’s also reel-ready, so you can use it for fishing from the surface if you so desire. If you’re an experienced spearfisher and want a solid backup gun or a surface-fishing gun, the Proteus is a great choice.

Pros

• Powerful
• Easy to reload
• Compact design
• Affordable

Cons

• Flimsy construction

This speargun is versatile enough to be used by beginners and seasoned pros alike.

Bottom Line

Wow! That’s a lot of quality spearguns! But how do you choose the best?

If you’re a seasoned expert, you probably already know the difference between different types of spearguns, but if you’re a beginner the differences can be confusing. The most important thing to know for beginners is the difference between a pneumatic speargun and a band-powered speargun.

Pneumatic spearguns are powered by compressed air and need to be pumped up by the user prior to shooting. This method is reliable and accurate, but it can take a lot of strength to fully charge most guns. Band-powered spearguns work like an underwater slingshot, using nylon bands to propel your spear through the water.

These guns are typically more powerful than pneumatics. The more bands they have, the more powerful they’ll be.