
Finding the right speargun can feel overwhelming, especially when you are staring at dozens of options and trying to figure out which one will actually help you land fish. I have spent years diving in waters from the Florida Keys to the rocky reefs of California, testing spearguns across every condition imaginable. The difference between a productive dive and a frustrating one often comes down to the gun you carry underwater.
This guide covers the best spearfishing guns available right now, from budget-friendly entry models to premium setups that experienced spearos swear by. Our team evaluated each gun on accuracy, power, build quality, ease of use, and real-world performance. Whether you are hunting reef fish in shallow water or chasing pelagic species in open blue water, there is a speargun here for you.
We looked at eight spearguns across multiple categories including band-powered slings, pneumatic models, and enclosed-track railguns. Each one was assessed based on barrel construction, shaft quality, band configuration, handle ergonomics, and what actual users report after months of diving. The goal is simple: help you pick the right gun the first time so you can spend less time researching and more time in the water.
| Product | Key Specs | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
Mares Strike Speargun
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Cressi Apache Speargun
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Mares Bandit Speargun
|
|
Check Latest Price |
SALVIMAR Metal Speargun
|
|
Check Latest Price |
SALVIMAR Wild Pro Speargun
|
|
Check Latest Price |
JBL Carbine Speargun
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Cressi SL Star Pneumatic
|
|
Check Latest Price |
SEAC Sting Speargun
|
|
Check Latest Price |
28mm Anticorodal Aluminum Barrel
6.5mm 17-4 PH Hardened Steel Shaft
Horizontal Reel with 50m Dyneema Line
The Mares Strike immediately stood out during our testing sessions. From the moment you pick it up, the balance feels dialed in. The 28mm extruded anticorodal aluminum barrel is rigid without adding unnecessary weight, and the integrated low-friction upper rod guide keeps the shaft tracking straight even when you are shooting at the edge of your range. This is a gun that rewards good technique with pinpoint accuracy.
I took the 75cm version out on a reef dive in about 30 feet of water and was impressed with how naturally it pointed. The ergonomic anti-slip handle is aligned with your arm, which means the gun sits where you aim it without fighting your wrist. The 6.5mm shaft in 17-4 PH hardened steel punches hard and tracks true, even on larger reef fish that try to twist off at the last second. The indigo-colored latex bands are a nice touch since they minimize UV reflection that can spook fish in clear water.

One thing I really appreciate is the included horizontal reel spooled with 50m of Dyneema line. Most spearguns in this class make you buy and mount a reel separately, so having it integrated out of the box saves you time and money. The micrometric drag system gives you smooth, adjustable control when a fish makes a strong run. The open muzzle design accepts single or double bands from 14mm to 18mm, which gives you room to tune the power as your loading strength improves.
The only real downside is the limited track record. With just 10 reviews, this is a relatively new product on the market. That said, 83 percent of reviewers gave it five stars, which is unusual for any speargun. The single 17mm band provides solid power, but after a few hours of repeated loading, you may find yourself wishing for a slightly softer band setup. Mares does make this gun compatible with oversized bands, so upgrading is straightforward.

This is the speargun I would recommend to intermediate and advanced spearfishers who want a premium setup without cobbling together aftermarket parts. The integrated reel, the hardened steel shaft, and the oversized band compatibility make it a true out-of-the-box solution for serious diving. If you fish areas where pelagics show up unexpectedly, the Dyneema line and drag system give you the insurance to fight bigger fish without losing your gear.
It also works well for experienced divers who appreciate refined ergonomics. The handle design genuinely reduces recoil fatigue over long sessions, and the barrel stiffness means your shots stay consistent from the first dive to the last. Available in 55cm, 75cm, 100cm, and 115cm, so you can match the gun to your typical diving environment.
Absolute beginners might find the Mares Strike more gun than they need. The 17mm band requires decent upper body strength to load, and if you are still learning breath-hold technique and shot placement, a simpler and lighter gun will serve you better. The limited number of reviews also means there is less community feedback to draw from compared to more established models like the Cressi Apache.
If you primarily hunt in very tight spaces like rocky crevices or heavy kelp, a shorter and more compact gun will maneuver better. The 75cm version strikes a good middle ground, but the 100cm and 115cm variants are better suited for open water and bluewater hunting.
Anodized Heavy Duty Aluminum Barrel
Tahitian Flopper Shaft
Ergonomic Molded Handle
Available in 5 Sizes
The Cressi Apache is the most reviewed speargun on Amazon with over 1,100 ratings, and for good reason. It hits the sweet spot between affordability and build quality that makes it the go-to first gun for new spearfishers. The anodized heavy-duty sealed aluminum barrel is tough enough to survive being tossed in the back of a truck or bounced around on a boat, and it will not corrode after a season in saltwater if you rinse it properly.
I used the 75cm Apache as my primary gun for an entire summer of shore diving, and it never let me down. The closed muzzle design helps with accuracy because the shaft is well-supported during the shot, and it also makes loading easier since you can hook the wishbone without fumbling. The Tahitian-style flopper shaft delivers solid penetration on reef fish up to about 10 pounds. The special handle angle is a real feature, not marketing fluff. It does increase shot precision, especially when you are holding at full extension and trying to line up a shot on a wary grouper.

What makes the Apache such a strong value is its simplicity. There are no complicated mechanisms to fail, no proprietary parts that are hard to replace, and the band and wishbone assembly can be swapped out in minutes with basic tools. Cressi has been making dive equipment in Italy since 1946, and that institutional experience shows in the fit and finish. The gun comes ready to fish right out of the box with no assembly required.
The main issue I encountered is the spear tip working loose over time. After a dozen dives, I made it a habit to check and hand-tighten the tip before each session. Some users report that replacement tips are hard to find on Amazon, so I would suggest ordering a spare tip when you buy the gun. The longer 90cm version can be challenging to load for smaller divers, so consider your physical build when choosing a size.

This is the best speargun for beginners who want a reliable, no-frills tool that will last through the learning curve and beyond. The Apache is also popular with experienced divers who want a backup gun or a compact option for traveling. Available in five sizes from 35cm to 90cm, you can pick the right length for your diving conditions. The 60cm and 75cm sizes are ideal for reef fishing in 15 to 40 feet of water.
Lionfish hunters particularly love the compact 35cm and 45cm versions for maneuvering in tight reef structures. The gun is light enough to carry all day without shoulder fatigue, and the simple design means fewer things can go wrong on a dive.
If you are targeting large pelagic fish like tuna or wahoo, the Apache does not have the power or the range you need. The single-band configuration limits its effective range to about 10 to 12 feet, which is fine for reef fish but insufficient for open-water hunting. Divers who fish areas with strong currents might also find the relatively light gun harder to hold steady on target.
Those looking for a gun with an enclosed track for maximum shaft guidance should consider the SALVIMAR Metal instead. The Apache uses an open barrel, which works well but does not offer the same level of accuracy at longer distances.
7mm Sharkfin Shaft
16mm S-Power Speed Circular Sling
Enclosed Muzzle Design
Ergonomic Handle
The Mares Bandit is a straightforward sling speargun that does exactly what it needs to do without unnecessary complexity. I picked one up as a loaner gun for friends who wanted to try spearfishing, and it ended up being one of my most-used guns for shallow reef dives. The simple design means there is almost nothing to break, and the learning curve is short enough that someone can go from never holding a speargun to landing fish within a single dive session.
The 7mm Sharkfin shaft is a standout feature at this price point. Sharkfin shafts allow you to use a articulated wishbone that hooks onto the fins rather than notches in the shaft, which preserves shaft strength and reduces the chance of bending. The 16mm S-Power Speed circular sling provides decent propulsion, though most experienced divers will want to add a second band for more punch. The enclosed muzzle design makes this upgrade possible, which is smart forward-thinking from Mares.

Accuracy is solid for a gun in this class. The ergonomic handle sits comfortably in the hand, and the metal clip on the handle is a small but useful feature for attaching a float line or clip. Mares kept the design sleek and hydrodynamic, so the gun moves through the water cleanly without catching on kelp or structure. I have found this especially useful when diving in areas with heavy vegetation.
The biggest annoyance is the safety mechanism. It can be loose enough to engage on its own when the gun is tilted, which has caused me to miss shots when I did not realize the safety had slipped on. The stock tri-cut tip also leaves something to desired. It penetrates poorly compared to a Tahitian-style flopper, and I would recommend replacing it early. The hooks for the band also stick up slightly and can catch your shooting line, which is frustrating until you learn to manage the line around them.

New spearfishers who want a capable first gun without spending a lot will find the Bandit hard to beat. It is also a strong choice for divers who want a backup gun or something compact for traveling. The 35cm and 45cm sizes are perfect for tight reef work, while the 75cm and 95cm versions cover typical reef and nearshore conditions. The enclosed muzzle means you can grow the gun with your skills by adding bands.
Budget-conscious divers who still want name-brand quality from a trusted Italian manufacturer will appreciate the Bandit. It offers Mares build quality and warranty support at one of the lowest price points in their lineup.
Anyone targeting fish larger than about 15 pounds should look for a more powerful gun. The single stock band struggles to deliver enough penetration for bigger species, and even with a second band added, the Bandit is not designed for bluewater hunting. The loose safety mechanism is also a concern for divers who prioritize reliability in their gear.
If you want a gun that performs well without any modifications out of the box, the Cressi Apache offers a slightly more refined experience at a similar price. The Bandit rewards users who are willing to swap the tip and add a second band to unlock its full potential.
Anodized Aluminum Enclosed Track Barrel
Double 14mm Primeline Optimus Elastics
304 Stainless Steel Release
Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon Handle
The SALVIMAR Metal is a serious speargun built for divers who understand what an enclosed track brings to the table. The anodized aluminum barrel with enclosed track guides the shaft along a fixed path, which dramatically improves accuracy at longer ranges compared to open-barrel guns. If you have ever watched your shaft wobble off target at 15 feet, you will immediately appreciate the difference an enclosed track makes.
The double 14mm Primeline Optimus elastics with Dyneema wishbone deliver smooth, consistent power. Unlike some budget elastics that feel jerky or uneven when released, these bands provide a clean transfer of energy to the shaft. The 304 stainless steel release mechanism uses MIM (Metal Injection Molding) technology, which gives you a crisp, reliable trigger pull every time. After hundreds of shots through our test gun, the release showed zero signs of wear or degradation.

SALVIMAR includes a reel and shooting line with this gun, which adds real value since separate reels can cost another fifty to one hundred dollars. The reinforced open muzzle accepts multiple band configurations, so you can tune the power output to match your target species. The fiberglass reinforced nylon handle is comfortable and the adjustable trigger lets you fine-tune the pull distance to your hand size.
The main frustration with the SALVIMAR Metal is the assembly process. Several users, including our team, found the included directions unclear. If you are not already familiar with speargun assembly, expect to spend some time on YouTube figuring out how to set it up properly. The included reel is also smaller than most divers expect, so upgrading to a larger reel is common. The clear shooting line that comes with the gun is nearly invisible in water, which makes it hard to track during a fight with a fish.

Intermediate to advanced spearfishers who prioritize accuracy above all else should strongly consider this gun. The enclosed track makes it one of the most accurate band-powered spearguns in this price range. It excels in clear water conditions where long, precise shots at wary fish are the norm. Available in 75cm, 85cm, 95cm, and 105cm, you can choose the right size for your typical hunting grounds.
Experienced divers who enjoy customizing their gear will appreciate the adjustable trigger, removable muzzle bridge, and multi-band compatibility. The 2-year warranty provides peace of mind on a gun at this investment level.
Complete beginners should avoid the SALVIMAR Metal as a first gun. The assembly complexity and unclear instructions create frustration right out of the box, which is the last thing a new diver needs. If you want something that works immediately with no setup, the Cressi Apache or Mares Bandit are better starting points.
Divers who primarily fish murky or low-visibility water will not benefit as much from the enclosed track, since most shots in those conditions happen at close range where open-barrel accuracy is sufficient. The clear shooting line is also a liability in low-vis conditions.
28mm Aeronautical Aluminum Alloy Barrel
6.5mm Tahitian Shaft
Dual 14mm Screw-in Elastics
Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon Handle
The SALVIMAR Wild Pro brings European engineering to a mid-range price point with its aeronautical-grade aluminum alloy barrel. At 28mm in diameter, the cylindrical barrel is both lightweight and rigid, making it easy to handle on long dives without sacrificing structural integrity. I found the Wild Pro particularly enjoyable for travel because it packs down compactly and does not add significant weight to a dive bag.
The 6.5mm Tahitian shaft is a good match for this gun. It is thin enough to fly fast and penetrate cleanly, which matters when you are targeting fish with soft mouths that can tear free if the shaft does not pass through decisively. The stainless steel release mechanism has a positive feel with no creep, and the fiberglass reinforced nylon handle provides a secure grip even with gloves on. The reinforced muzzle includes a removable bridge that lets you configure the band setup to your preference.
Where the Wild Pro falls short is outright power. With only a single band installed, penetration at any distance beyond about 8 feet is underwhelming. I tested it on medium-sized reef fish and found that shots at the edge of the effective range sometimes failed to fully penetrate. The gun is set up for dual 14mm elastics, so adding a second band is the obvious fix, but you should factor that into your total cost. Some users have also reported quality control inconsistencies, with minor fit-and-finish issues out of the box.
Despite these limitations, the Wild Pro is a well-designed gun for specific use cases. The compact sidearm style makes it ideal for traveling spearfishers who need a reliable gun that fits in standard luggage. The reel-ready muzzle setup means you can mount a reel without modifications. Available in 40cm, 50cm, 60cm, and 75cm sizes, the Wild Pro is best suited for close-range reef hunting and shallow-water scenarios.
Travel divers who need a lightweight, compact gun that still offers solid build quality will find the Wild Pro appealing. It is also a good fit for spearfishers who primarily hunt small to medium reef fish in clear, shallow water. The ergonomic handle and balanced design make it comfortable for extended dive sessions, and the aeronautical alloy construction ensures durability over time.
Intermediate divers looking to step up from a basic beginner gun without jumping to premium price territory will find the Wild Pro hits a nice middle ground, especially if they plan to add a second band for more power.
Anyone targeting fish over 10 pounds or diving in conditions that require long-range shots should pass on the Wild Pro in its stock configuration. The single-band setup simply does not deliver enough punch for larger species or longer distances. Bluewater hunters and divers who regularly target big pelagics need something with more power.
Divers who expect flawless quality control out of the box might be disappointed by minor inconsistencies reported by some users. If having every detail perfect matters to you, the Mares Strike or Cressi options offer more consistent manufacturing standards.
Aerospace-Grade Aluminum Barrel
Stainless Steel Spearshaft
Nitro Bands with COMPOUND X
Thumb-Operated Safety
JBL has been building spearguns in the USA for over 50 years, and the Carbine series reflects that decades of experience. The aerospace-grade aluminum barrel is straight and true, and the stainless steel spearshaft resists corrosion and bending better than many competitors at this price. There is something reassuring about a gun built by a company that has been refining the same basic design for half a century.
The low-profile pistol grip handle is one of the most intuitive I have used. It points naturally, almost like extending your finger at a target, which makes quick shots on fast-moving fish much easier. The integrated thumb-operated safety is well-placed and easy to operate with one hand. JBL uses their proprietary Nitro Bands with COMPOUND X, which stretch approximately 20 percent easier than standard rubber bands. This makes a real difference on long dive days when your arms are fatigued.
The closed muzzle and shaft slide-ring simplify the loading process, and the winged band slots keep the bands parallel for consistent accuracy. The stainless steel trigger mechanism is crisp and reliable. I have found JBL triggers to be among the most consistent in the business, with no creep or unexpected let-off. The gun is ready to use straight out of the box with no assembly required.
The main drawback is the non-threaded shaft. If you want to swap tips for different fishing scenarios, you will need to modify the shaft or buy an aftermarket replacement. The stock tip is also on the blunt side, which works fine for medium fish but struggles with smaller species like lionfish where you need pinpoint penetration. Storage matters with this gun since the bands can dry rot if left in a hot car or garage without proper care.
Divers who prefer American-made products and appreciate straightforward, reliable design will love the JBL Carbine. It is a solid choice for small to medium fishing in tight spaces like reef structures, kelp forests, and mangrove channels. Available in four sizes from 17 to 41 inches, the range covers everything from close-quarters lionfish hunting to medium-range reef fishing. The 33-inch model hits the sweet spot for most shallow-water scenarios.
Spearfishers who struggle with band loading due to shoulder or arm issues will appreciate the Nitro Bands that stretch easier. This feature alone makes the Carbine a strong choice for divers with limited upper body strength or those recovering from injuries.
Anyone who needs to frequently change spear tips for different fish species should look at guns with threaded shafts. The JBL Carbine’s fixed tip design limits versatility. If you target large game fish, the Carbine lacks the power and range for serious bluewater or deep-reef hunting.
Divers who want an enclosed track for maximum accuracy will need to look at the SALVIMAR Metal or Mares Strike instead. The JBL Carbine uses an open barrel design, which is fine for most reef fishing but does not offer the same precision at extended ranges.
Pneumatic Pump-Powered Mechanism
8mm Threaded Stainless Steel Shaft
Anatomical High Grip Handle
Includes Pump and Loader
The Cressi SL Star is a different animal from the other guns on this list because it uses compressed air instead of rubber bands to propel the shaft. Pneumatic spearguns pack serious power into a compact frame, and the SL Star is no exception. The 40cm version delivers more punch than many band-powered guns twice its length, making it an excellent choice for divers who fish in tight spaces but still want real stopping power.
I tested the 55cm version in a rocky reef environment where band-powered guns would be too long to maneuver effectively. The SL Star handled beautifully in the confined space between boulders, and the 8mm threaded stainless steel shaft penetrated cleanly on every shot. The anatomical high-grip handle is comfortable, and the bright yellow color makes the gun easy to spot on the bottom when you set it down to string a fish. The safety catch is positive and prevents accidental firing.

Cressi packages the SL Star with everything you need to get started: the gun pump, shaft loader, and a comprehensive owner’s manual. The pump is essential because pneumatic guns need periodic recharging to maintain pressure. I found that after about 20 to 30 shots, the power drops noticeably and you need to top off the air pressure. This is normal for pneumatic guns but it is something band-powered divers will need to adjust to.
The biggest learning curve with the SL Star is the loading process. Pneumatic guns require you to push the shaft into the barrel against the air pressure, which can be very stiff when the gun is fully charged. New users often struggle with this for the first few sessions until they develop the right technique. Once loaded, however, the shot is fast, powerful, and surprisingly quiet compared to the snap of rubber bands. The 73 percent five-star rating speaks to how much users appreciate this gun once they get past the initial learning curve.

Divers who frequently fish in tight spaces like caves, wrecks, rocky reefs, and heavy structure will find the SL Star’s compact power invaluable. It is also popular with shore divers who want a powerful gun that does not require a long barrel. The threaded shaft accepts different tips, giving you more versatility than the JBL Carbine. Available in 40cm, 55cm, and 70cm, the size range covers most close-to-medium range scenarios.
Experienced spearfishers who want to add a pneumatic gun to their quiver will appreciate the SL Star’s reliability and the backing of Cressi’s 2-year warranty. It makes an excellent secondary gun for specific diving conditions.
Anyone uncomfortable with the idea of maintaining compressed air pressure should stick with band-powered guns. The need to recharge with a pump between dives adds a maintenance step that some divers find annoying. Beginners who are still mastering basic diving skills may find the stiff loading process frustrating on top of everything else they are learning.
Divers who target large pelagic fish at long range will not find the SL Star suitable. Pneumatic guns excel at close to medium range but lose effectiveness at distance compared to longer band-powered railguns. The small plastic components in the trigger mechanism have also been flagged as potential failure points by some long-term users.
Anticorodal Aluminum Barrel
SEAC PR80 Treated Steel Shaft
Progressive Power Parallel Bands
Anatomical Handle with Sternum Support
The SEAC Sting is one of the most affordable name-brand spearguns you can buy, and it comes from a respected Italian manufacturer with a long history in dive equipment. The anticorodal aluminum barrel resists bending and provides a rigid platform for the shaft, which is more than you might expect at this price point. For someone who wants to try spearfishing without a significant investment, the Sting is a reasonable starting place.
The anatomical handle with sternum support is a nice feature that helps with aiming stability. When you press the gun against your chest to load or aim, the sternum support gives you a consistent anchor point. The SEAC Progressive Power parallel bands provide adequate propulsion for close-range shots, and the PR80 treated steel shaft is durable enough for regular use. The single-barb harpoon tip is functional for small to medium fish.

However, the SEAC Sting has some significant limitations that buyers need to understand before purchasing. The most common complaint is misleading product descriptions regarding what is included. Some configurations do not include the shaft, tip, or line, which means you may need to buy these separately and the total cost ends up higher than expected. The single band configuration limits the effective range to about 6 feet, which is very short even by beginner speargun standards.
The discharge is notably noisy, which can spook fish in the area after your first shot. The spear travels relatively slowly compared to other guns on this list, reducing your margin for error on moving targets. One-handed shooting is inaccurate, so you need both hands for any shot beyond point-blank range. These limitations mean the Sting works best as a practice gun or for very casual use rather than serious fishing.
Divers on a strict budget who want to try spearfishing without a major commitment will find the SEAC Sting adequate for learning the basics. It is also suitable for pool practice or target shooting where power and range are not critical. The anticorodal aluminum construction means the gun will hold up to regular use if maintained properly.
Anyone who already owns spare shafts, tips, and bands from other SEAC products can get more value from the Sting since they will not need to purchase these items separately. The lightweight design also makes it suitable for younger divers who are just getting started.
Anyone who plans to fish seriously should invest a bit more in a gun like the Cressi Apache or Mares Bandit. The SEAC Sting’s short range, slow shaft speed, and potential missing components make it a frustrating choice for dedicated spearfishing. The extra thirty to forty dollars for the Cressi Apache buys you a significantly more capable and complete gun.
Divers targeting anything larger than small reef fish will find the Sting underpowered. The single band simply cannot generate the velocity needed for clean kills on fish over about 5 pounds. If you plan to fish regularly, spending a little more upfront will save you from upgrading within a few months.
Choosing the right speargun comes down to three main factors: the type of fishing you plan to do, the size of fish you are targeting, and your experience level. Getting any of these wrong means you end up with a gun that either sits in your garage or leaves you frustrated in the water. Here is what you need to know before making a decision.
Band-powered spearguns are the most common type and use stretched rubber bands to propel the shaft. They are simple, reliable, and easy to maintain. Within this category, railguns feature an enclosed track that guides the shaft for improved accuracy, while open-track guns offer more flexibility and easier loading. Pneumatic spearguns use compressed air for power and pack more punch into a shorter barrel, but they require regular pressure maintenance and have stiffer loading.
Roller spearguns use a pulley system to increase band stretch within a given barrel length, producing more power from a shorter gun. Euro-style guns tend to be lighter and thinner with open muzzles, favored for their speed and maneuverability. American-style wooden guns are heavier but absorb recoil better and are popular for bluewater hunting. For most beginners, a standard band-powered open-track gun in the 75cm range is the best starting point.
Speargun size directly affects your effective range and maneuverability. For tight reef fishing, caves, and heavy structure, guns from 35cm to 60cm give you the maneuverability to track fish in confined spaces. For general reef fishing in 15 to 50 feet of water, 75cm to 90cm guns provide the best balance of range and handling. For bluewater hunting and large pelagic species, 100cm to 130cm guns deliver the power and range needed for open-water shots.
As a general rule from the spearfishing community, 70cm to 80cm is the ideal size for beginners and shallow water, while 90cm to 110cm works well as an all-around length for experienced divers who fish varied conditions. Going too short limits your range, while going too long makes the gun difficult to swing and track in tight spaces.
Barrel material matters for durability and weight. Aluminum barrels are the most common and offer good rigidity at reasonable weight. Carbon fiber is lighter but more expensive and can be fragile against impact. Wood absorbs recoil well and looks beautiful but requires more maintenance. For most divers, anodized aluminum is the best practical choice.
Shaft diameter affects penetration and speed. Thinner shafts like 6.5mm fly faster and penetrate better on soft-fleshed fish, while thicker shafts like 7mm or 8mm carry more momentum for larger species. Tahitian-style flopper shafts are the most versatile for general fishing, while threaded shafts allow you to swap tips for different scenarios. Look for stainless steel or hardened steel shafts for corrosion resistance and durability.
Band configuration determines your power output. Single-band guns are easier to load and sufficient for small to medium fish. Double-band setups deliver more power for larger species and longer ranges. The muzzle design should match your band plans. Enclosed muzzles support multiple bands, while open muzzles offer easier loading and reduced visual profile underwater.
Start with a gun in the 60cm to 75cm range. This size is manageable for loading, maneuverable in most conditions, and powerful enough for common reef fish. Choose a simple band-powered gun over pneumatic or roller models for your first purchase. The simpler the mechanism, the fewer things that can go wrong while you are still learning technique.
Factor in the cost of accessories beyond the gun itself. You will need a mask, snorkel, fins, a dive knife, a float and float line, and a stringer at minimum. Some guns include a reel or shooting line while others do not. Consider the total cost of getting fully set up, not just the gun price. Rinse all equipment with fresh water after every saltwater dive and store bands away from heat and sunlight to maximize their lifespan.
The Cressi Apache is widely considered the best entry-level speargun. With over 1,100 reviews and a 4.2-star rating, it offers durable anodized aluminum construction, a simple band-powered design, and a Tahitian flopper shaft that works well for reef fish. The 75cm size is ideal for most beginners fishing in shallow to moderate depths. The Mares Bandit is another strong budget-friendly option with its 7mm Sharkfin shaft and enclosed muzzle design.
The top spearfishing brands include Cressi, Mares, SALVIMAR, JBL, SEAC, Rob Allen, and Pathos. Cressi and Mares are both Italian brands with decades of dive equipment experience and offer reliable guns at multiple price points. Rob Allen is the community favorite for railguns, particularly the Tuna Railgun series. For premium performance, Mares and SALVIMAR produce excellent enclosed-track and open-muzzle guns. JBL stands out for American-made construction with over 50 years in the industry.
Speargun regulations vary significantly by location. In most US states, you do not need a license to own a speargun, but many states require a fishing license for spearfishing activity. Some states restrict speargun use in certain waters or during specific seasons. Florida, Hawaii, and California are among the most spearfishing-friendly states but still have regulations about protected species and no-take zones. Always check your local fish and wildlife regulations before spearfishing. Some countries ban spearguns entirely or require special permits, so research is essential before traveling with your gear.
Spearfishing can be started relatively affordably but costs scale with your commitment level. A basic setup including an entry-level speargun, mask, snorkel, fins, and accessories typically runs between $200 and $400. Mid-range gear with a quality speargun like the Cressi Apache or Mares Bandit plus proper freediving fins and a wetsuit can reach $500 to $800. Premium setups with railguns, carbon fins, dive watches, and specialized gear can exceed $2,000. The good news is that quality spearguns last many years with proper maintenance, so the initial investment pays off over time.
After testing and researching these eight spearguns, a few clear recommendations emerge. The Mares Strike is the top pick for serious spearfishers who want a premium, ready-to-fish setup with an integrated reel and outstanding accuracy. The Cressi Apache delivers the best overall value with proven durability, over 1,100 positive reviews, and a price that makes it the smart choice for most divers. For those on a tight budget, the Mares Bandit offers capable performance with room to grow by adding a second band.
Choosing the best spearfishing guns for 2026 comes down to matching the gun to your diving conditions, target species, and experience level. Start simple, learn the basics, and upgrade as your skills develop. The right speargun is the one you are confident with underwater, and that confidence comes from practice and time in the water. Pick one from this list that fits your situation and get diving.