Pneumatic Spearguns

Pneumatic Spearguns

Pneumatic Spearguns are defined by their air-pressure based propulsion system, as opposed to rubber power-band style spearguns.  Pneumatic spearguns are loaded by inserting the shaft and then applying pressure (typically against a rock, or with a Pneumatic Load Assist) to build internal pressure until the shaft locks into the mechanism.

There are many advantages to pneumatic spearguns but also disadvantages, as with everything, so in choosing a speargun, it's best to consider your hunting methods, not how cool a gun looks.

Read our blog on Rubber vs Pneumatic Spearguns

Pneumatic Speargun Pros and Cons

• Great for using in caves and coral overhangs as there are no rubbers which may be cut on sharp coral and rocks
• Popular with scuba divers, in territories where spearfishing on scuba is legal, as they are small and compact
• Simply pump to the specified pressure and the gas, concealed in a chamber, allows for multiple reloads
• Great for spearing crayfish (where this is legal). Especially with compressed air guns that have adjustable power settings to prevent spears being jammed or damaged in caves.
• More powerful than rubber powered speargun in shallow water (less than 5m) due to ambient/relative pressure.

• Lose their power at depth - due to relative pressure
• Can be difficult to load, especially sizes larger than 70cm. Spearguns larger than 90cm can be very difficult to load
• Pneumatic spearguns will need servicing about every two years depending on the frequency of use and how well they have been cleaned and maintained - just like replacing your power bands & shooting lines.
• Not all dive shops are able to service and repair pneumatic spearguns and some will need to be sent away to specialists for repairs