Underwater gun, which is better: homemade, do it yourself, or professional Pelengas, Zelinka and Akula, what are the drawings of a crossbow for good fishing

The speargun has a direct impact on the success of the event, so its quality is critical. Experts do not recommend rushing to the first thing you come across, because an exciting adventure can turn into torment due to a poor device. Before selecting a weapon, it is better to get acquainted with all its varieties, find out their characteristics, pros and cons. Even then decide which underwater gun will be the best choice.

Sling

You can’t call a sling or a Hawaiian gun a gun, and from the outside it doesn’t look like one. However, this device itself became the ancestor of all underwater guns.

A sling is a metal tube with a movable tip attached to it. The other end has a spring or rubber band. To activate the device, a spring or rubber band is pulled to the middle of the tube. At this point, the hunter, holding it with his hand, releases the tube after aiming. The tension force will throw it sharply at the target. You can make such an underwater gun with your own hands without any problems, even at home.

Crosman Fury NP

In this 4.5 mm caliber spring-piston blowgun, the manufacturer installed a gas rather than a classic metal spring. Thanks to this design solution, the speed of the fired projectile was 365 m/s. It is worth noting that in the Makarov combat pistol this figure is slightly lower. A bullet fired from the rifle in question can travel 320 meters per second.

Crosman Fury NP has a pistol grip made of high quality rubberized plastic. The butt and fore-end are made of the same material. All other parts are made of reliable steel alloys. Since this weapon has a corrugated surface, it does not slip during use. A plastic muzzle is installed on the rifled barrel, thanks to which the “air” has increased combat accuracy.

This rifle uses a manual safety lever. The trigger is adjustable. According to reviews, this shooting unit is convenient to use in poor lighting.

The disadvantage of the rifle is that it is almost impossible to find spare parts for it if necessary. Some owners report in their reviews that cocking a weapon is very difficult to do without physical effort. In addition, the mounting bolts need to be tightened regularly. In the ranking, wind weapons take seventh place. The cost is 9 thousand rubles.

Spring shotgun

It is more widespread than all previous ones. It was especially popular until the middle of the last century, although some people still use it now. The gun has a powerful spring, under the influence of which the harpoon is thrown out of the barrel.

There are several modifications of this gun, with differences in the spring mechanisms, which:

Springs stretch;
The springs are compressed;
Two springs - the first is compressed, and the second is stretched.

In addition, one gun can be equipped with two springs of similar action, but different in diameter. A thin spring is placed inside a thick one, which increases the power of the gun.

Expanding springs are used in small models, while compression springs, on the contrary, are also more powerful. Double-spring - very strong, but difficult to charge.

The advantages of such products include simplicity of design, ease of operation, low cost and reliability.

Despite this, such guns are not advisable for beginners because they have:

Weak lethal force;
Low buoyancy;
Noisy during reloading and shooting;
Low shooting accuracy. The barrel is thrown upward.

TOP inexpensive, budget-breaking models

Baikal MP 43E 12×70 1.0/0.5 750mm beech

Small arms produced under the Baikal brand are popular among most hunters who are lovers of the classics. Inexpensive, cheap Baikal MP 43E is perfect for both experienced hunters and beginners.

The weight of this product varies within 3300 g. The caliber is 12x70, the number of barrels is 2, which are located horizontally, the operating principle is of the breaking type. The total length is 750 mm. The stock is made of beech. The country of origin of this model is Russia.

Advantages:

Availability (average cost is 21,900 rubles);
Quality of materials;
It has a simple design.

Flaws:

Build quality;
The standard stock will not suit every user (you may have to change it).

CZ Mallard 12×76

A popular brand of hunting weapons, which has been known to many hunting enthusiasts since Soviet times. However, despite the fact that the CZ Mallard's country of origin is the Czech Republic, this budget, inexpensive gun is actually made in Turkey.

The build quality of CZ Mallard is in no way inferior to its Russian counterparts. It has good weight distribution and replaceable chokes. The total weight of the product is 3350 grams. Caliber – 12x76. Equipped with two barrels, the length of which is 760 mm. The stock is made of wood. It has good mechanics that work great even after prolonged use.

However, it is worth noting that over time, after prolonged use, CZ Mallard will lose its attractive appearance and become covered with scratches. This is due to the fact that soft varnish is used in its manufacture. Also, this Turkish-made model has a fairly rigid trigger. Therefore, some owners, after purchasing it, use a needle file to independently adjust the trigger to ensure softer operation.

Advantages:

Low cost (41,599 rubles);
Good build quality;
Good fit of parts;
Good level of weight distribution, despite the long length;
Availability of replaceable chokes.

Flaws:

The wood from which the butt is made and the fore-end are covered with soft varnish, which is why it quickly loses its attractive appearance even if handled with care;
Hard trigger (in fact, for some users it may not be a significant drawback);
It is difficult to find spare parts and repair it.

MR (IZH) 27M 12x76 walnut, finely crafted. 725 mm

It is a popular, classic, affordable gun that is in demand among both experienced hunters and beginners. Produced at the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant. Has good balance, stable and reliable combat. In addition, this product has a simple and, in turn, reliable design. In terms of its technical characteristics, it is practically in no way inferior to more expensive analogues that belong to the premium class.

It is worth noting that the MP 27M is easy to handle and use. A high level of safety and long service life are ensured by:

High-quality steel is used in the manufacture of barrels;
The channels and chambers are chrome-plated, which ensures their increased level of resistance to corrosion;
The locking unit has a simple, reliable design;
There is a possibility of shockless descent.

The total weight of the product is 3.5 kg. The caliber is 12x76 mm. Equipped with two barrels, 725 mm long. The butt is made of wood. Butt color is brown. The fuse is designed to block the sear and has additional interceptors.

Advantages:

Quality of materials;
Simplicity of design;
Availability (price 24,999 rubles);
Several design options;
The channels and chambers are chrome plated.

Flaws:

Mediocre level of ergonomics;
Average build quality.

Hydropneumatic underwater gun

A powerful, but structurally complex speargun for underwater hunting. In its production, only high-quality materials must be used, because it is very demanding.

The design of this device consists of:

trunk;
muzzle;
Receiver;
Pistons for separating the hydraulic and pneumatic cavities;
The handles in which the trigger mechanism is located;
Harpoon.

Hydropneumatic guns have some advantages. With their help, you can hunt even at night in reservoirs that are completely overgrown with reeds. In addition, such a device can be fired completely silently.

Design and operating principle

According to the principle of operation, an underwater crossbow does not differ from its land-based counterpart. It works thanks to rubber elements that give speed to the arrow, making it fly straight to the target. The weapon consists of the following elements:

barrel (trunk);
head;
harpoon (arrow);
traction;
line discharge;
trigger (trigger mechanism).

The basis of the gun is rubber rods that secure the harpoon, which is held by the trigger mechanism. When the hunter shoots, the trigger releases the arrow and the string accelerates it. The barrel is made of aluminum profile, wood or rubber material. There are lightweight carbon or fiberglass models. The service life and weight of the weapon depend on the material of the barrel. A heavy crossbow can be very difficult to shoot.

Pneumatic gun

The gun is considered wasteless and operates on compressed air. The “Shark” underwater gun is one of the representatives of pneumatic guns. The presence of compressed air replaces the spring. The power of the shot is determined by the pumping. When firing, there is no release of compressed air; it will not leave the chamber.

The engaged trigger mechanism releases the harpoon from the couplings. The pressure created from the energy of the compressed air pushes the harpoon out of the barrel. Such devices can be recharged underwater.

Air guns have a wide variety of power, which directly depends on their size. Larger pneumatic devices are more powerful. Many systems have combat regulators. With their help, the force with which the harpoon will be allowed to fly out of the barrel is selected.

Pneumatic devices are produced mainly with 11-13 mm barrels, the thickness of the harpoons for them is 7-8 mm, respectively. 7 mm arrows fly out with high initial speed, but they are more likely to lose it due to the presence of less weight. Whereas 8 mm harpoons fly out with a low initial speed, but are capable of covering significant distances.

By the way, the Zelinka underwater gun is deservedly considered by many amateurs and underwater hunting professionals to be the best air gun in its class. Knowing the tactical and technical characteristics of this underwater weapon, experts recommend using sevens for hitting targets at short distances, and eights for hunting from a distance of several meters.

Some specialists will improve their devices by installing an additional pneumatic vacuum system on them. It will prevent the accumulation of water when loading in the barrel space. The underwater gun "Pelengas" is one of the representatives of pneumatic vacuum guns.

Advantages of air guns:

Efficiency is high;
Convenient use;
High maneuverability;
Good buoyancy;
Considerable power;
Adjustable stopping power;
Compact sizes.

Disadvantages:

Noisy shot;
Big recoil up;
The need to get used to the aiming process.

At the end of the spearfishing season, it is recommended to bleed the air from the chamber.

JBL Reaper 100

Model with a comfortable perforated carbon fiber handle. The energy of the shot is evenly distributed along the barrel, with minimal recoil. The rod is made of high-tech latex, which is highly resistant to wear. Kevlar hooks ensure secure fastening. Harpoons made of hardened spring steel do not bend or deform. The weapon fully lives up to its name “Reaper” and leaves no chance for the fish. The greater length does not affect the hunter’s maneuverability in any way.

Underwater crossbow

This type of weapon for underwater hunting is used mainly in sea water and under conditions of good visibility. The design of the crossbow is very simple and reliable. Because of this and for several other reasons, the spearfishing crossbow is now extremely popular.

Crossbows with a length of 500-1500 mm are popular on sale. It should be remembered that it is not the actual length that is taken into account, but the distance from the first hook of the harpoon to the places where the rods are attached, that is, the barrel (“barrel”) is measured. The actual size will exceed the stated size by approximately thirty-five percent.

Main advantages:

Accurate shooting;
Silent shooting;
Simple design;
Insignificant price.

Flaws:

Low rate of fire;
Poor mobility.

Criteria for choosing knives and types of sheaths

The main signs of a quality device that you need to pay attention to:

compliance with safety criteria - there should be no problems with cutting polypropylene, nylon, rope and similar materials used for the manufacture of nets and other possible underwater obstacles; double-edged blade - in an unusual situation there is often no time to figure out which side the knife is sharpened on

Basically, on one side there is a straight sharpening, on the other - a serrated sharpening; length – the cutting part must be of moderate length, not less than 10 cm; handle – preferably wide, fitting comfortably in the palm of your hand. Ideally, the handle is equipped with stops to prevent your hand from slipping onto the blade; material of manufacture - it is important to pay attention to this criterion. Most spearfishing knives are made of stainless steel. When making cheap models, manufacturers often use low-quality material that does not hold an edge well, especially when used in aggressive conditions, such as sea or river water.

Experienced divers advise using a special silicone lubricant. It will help maintain the sharpness of the cutting part.

In hunting stores you can find three types of scabbards:

Push-button;
Double fixation - on two buttons;
On a rubber ring.

In conditions of difficult visibility, it is important that the item is securely fixed in the case, but at the same time can be easily and quickly removed with any hand, even with thick gloves. For this, the best sheath options are with a rubber ring or double fixation.

Rules for choosing underwater guns

When choosing the underwater gun of “your dreams,” you will have to take into account the characteristics of the bodies of water where you plan to hunt: whether it will be the sea or a fresh body of water, what the level of the bottom and vegetation is there.

Thus, for hunting in reservoirs with densely overgrown vegetation, the presence of stones and snags, it is recommended to arm yourself with highly maneuverable short-barreled models. For deep-sea hunting with good visibility, it is recommended to arm yourself with long-barreled guns that have the most accurate fire.

What trophy is intended to be hunted will determine the choice of gun power. The larger the trophy is planned, the more powerful the shooting device should be. So, when hunting at short distances, you will need a silent gun.

Which bullets are best for hunting?

More often, bullets are intended for rifled barrels; they are usually made of lead. It should be noted that pneumatics must have not only good power, but also high accuracy. The following calibers of bullets are sold in Russia: 4.5; 5.5; 6.35 mm. You need to choose:

Maximum heavy bullets - this guarantees maintaining flight speed. But the heavier the bullet, the larger the caliber. For example, in a 4.5 mm caliber, the mass of a bullet ranges from 6 to 10.5 g.
The appropriate form. Pointed bullets don't fly well. They are recommended to be used at close range (up to 20 m). Flat-headed forms are not stable in flight due to air resistance.

Bullets from do not have good accuracy in terms of accuracy. For long distances, experts recommend purchasing better options from the RWS or Beeman brands.

For most air rifles, the speed of the ejected bullet is 120-250 m/s, but it can be up to 340-380 m/s.

The best spearguns for spearfishing

In terms of quality and popularity, some models stand out in particular, earning well-deserved fame and popularity among amateurs and professionals:

CressiSubSL Star 55. Good price-quality ratio. Simple and reliable;
It appeared relatively recently, but has already won over many admirers. The device has many useful innovations;
Seac Sub A convenient and practical shotgun, it has a reel and a regulator;
Mares Sten 11. Has good characteristics and low cost. By the way, most experienced hunters prefer to use this model;
Zelinka. It is one of the best and most expensive. The main advantage is the titanium body of the weapon.

It is not advisable to buy the cheapest Chinese devices, because the quality will most likely be appropriate. You shouldn’t go to extremes and think that the best speargun for spearfishing should only be the most expensive. The most acceptable option for a gun will most likely be a mid-price model, preferably from a well-known and time-tested manufacturer.

Popular models

Seac Sub Sting

An excellent crossbow model for a beginner would be the Seac Sub Sting crossbow from the Italian manufacturer Seac Sub. Its price ranges from 4000 – 5000 rubles.

Has the following qualities:

The length of the gun barrel is 45 – 60 cm, depending on the model;
The barrel is made of high-quality aluminum alloy, which is why it has sufficient strength and resistance to bending;
The head part is double; if necessary, an additional ring part can be used;
The line releaser, trigger and safety are made of impact-resistant plastic;
The trigger mechanism does not rust and is highly reliable;
The harpoon allows you to use any tip.

Seac Sub Sting reviews:

“An excellent gun for beginner hunters, not too long, so it’s easy to transport. Despite the price, the crossbow is reliable and easy to handle, ideal for fishing in shallow seas.” Sergey, Samara.

“The crossbow is not the worst, especially considering its price, but the trigger will not last long, so I immediately replaced it. I do not recommend installing additional traction on such a gun, because there is a high probability of self-inflicted gunfire. You can use it, but this weapon will not serve you for long.” Alexey, Sochi.

Omer Cayman

For those who are looking for higher quality models and have a sufficient budget, crossbows from the Omer Cayman series from Omer may be suitable. The price of such a gun is about 10,000 rubles.

For this price you get:

Length from 50 centimeters to a meter depending on the model;
Closed headband;
High-quality and long-lasting cords;
The trigger mechanism, line releaser, trigger and barrel are made of high quality materials that are resistant to any sea factors that damage the gun.

Reviews about Omer Cayman:

“It’s a good tool, I’ve been using it for three years, it works great, it’s never broken. The materials are high quality, it shoots accurately. The only drawback is that short models are not very convenient for hunting at sea, but the company is super.” Valentin, Nakhodka.

“I recently bought myself a Cayman 75, an excellent crossbow! On the first day I caught four large pike, the weapon is very comfortable to hold and it shoots accurately. The only drawback I noticed was that the compound trailer scratches the barrel when fired, but this is not critical. I recommend it to everyone." Nikolay, Tuapse.

Demka Ami II

A cross between the Seac Sub Sting and the Omer Cayman is a shotgun from a Greek manufacturer called the Demka Ami II. It costs around 8,000 rubles.

The characteristics are as follows:

The length of the gun is from 45 cm to 1 meter;
Comfortable handle with trigger lock;
Reliable and high-quality pistol-type fuse;
Possibility of targeted shooting at a distance of up to 4 meters;
Open head.

Reviews about Demka Ami II:

“I’ve been using it for two seasons now, no problems. It’s comfortable to shoot and the accuracy is good, the trigger is comfortable, even if you use it with thick gloves. Their disadvantages include not the greatest traction power.” Evgeniy, Moscow.

“Excellent workmanship, shoots accurately, is practically weightless in the water and is very convenient to shoot, but when loaded on the second hook, the flight of the harpoon is not visible. It’s my first crossbow, I’ve been using it for quite a long time and I’m not going to change it yet.” Igor, Astrakhan.

Those hunters who liked the above-mentioned crossbows can, in the future, use more expensive analogues, such as Demka ALC, Seac sub X-fire and OmerHFCamo 3D, which are highly reliable and have good shooting characteristics, as they are made of expensive materials.

The best shotgun manufacturers

Which company is better to choose the model that suits you? Prices for underwater equipment depend on the manufacturer. After all, only a worthy brand can provide a powerful and reliable weapon to the consumer. When the criteria for choosing a suitable device arise, it is necessary to turn your attention to manufacturers who have earned a worthy reputation not only among domestic but also among foreign audiences.

SALVIMAR

An Italian manufacturing company that has been producing equipment and accessories for underwater hunting on the world market for more than fifty years. The brand offers its consumers innovative and interesting designs that are developed and created by specialists in various fields using the latest technologies.

Advantages:

High-quality samples of equipment for spearfishing;
Innovative technologies.

Flaws:

Cases of sale of counterfeits.

MARES

A well-known brand whose popular models of diving and underwater fishing equipment are in great demand all over the world. The range of products from this company is very diverse, so both a beginner and a professional underwater hunter can choose the right equipment for themselves.

Advantages:

High-quality and reliable equipment;
Huge range of products.

Flaws:

High price for the product.

PELENGAS

A well-known Ukrainian brand specializing in the production and production of equipment for underwater hunting. The company is constantly improving its models, striving to bring them to the ideal. Its reliable and ergonomic weapons are created using high-quality materials and undergo strict final quality control.

Advantages:

Reliability and ergonomics of produced samples;
New technologies in creating models.

Flaws:

Our country traditionally loves fishing, hunting and active recreation. Recently, spearfishing, which combines all three of these components, has become very popular in our country.

Spearfishing is a sport, so, like any sport, there are rules and restrictions. For example, the use of breathing devices is prohibited almost everywhere. Hunting must be done while holding your breath, otherwise it is considered poaching. The exceptions are the USA, Costa Rica and Norway, where those interested can scuba hunt for fun.

All over the world, spearfishing attracts many fans. This sport requires not only enormous physical training, but also a lot of knowledge about the habits of fish, their habitats, fishing methods, etc. The hunter must constantly practice holding his breath, because at the World and European Championships, which have been held since the 1950s, they often have to hunt not only in the coastal strip, but also at a depth of 30-50 meters.

A unique tradition of spearfishing has developed in the post-Soviet space. Unlike the rest of the world, where it is carried out at sea, in the countries of the former USSR (primarily Ukraine, Russia and Kazakhstan) underwater hunters prefer the more familiar lake and river environment.

Main principles

The skill of an underwater hunter must develop over the years. The instructor can show the basic techniques of hunting, talk about some of its nuances and, in general, set the training on the right course. But you can learn to feel part of the aquatic environment and clearly build strategies only by going from a beginner to a professional. We can say that this type of leisure is ideal for phlegmatic people. The underwater world is silent, quiet and calm. Any imbalance here is perceived as a potential danger.

The ability to swim and dive silently is one of the fundamental factors for successful fishing. Experienced hunters know that any vibration can scare away fish, so when swimming they practically do not create vibrations in the water. Beginners often make serious mistakes by hitting the water hard with their fins and making sweeping movements with their free hand. In order to learn to move smoothly underwater, lead bracelets with weights are sometimes used, worn on the ankles.

The next quality important for spearfishing is the ability to be underwater without a supply of air. Good results can be achieved through breathing training and frequent diving. Staying at a depth of 8-10 meters for several minutes is a remarkable indicator that you should strive for.

Successful and safe spearfishing contains certain secrets. The hunter must have the following underwater skills:

track prey, pursue it and shoot accurately;
take a lead before shooting, take into account the refraction of water: it seems that the fish is larger in size and is much closer than in reality;
be careful: do not make sudden movements, do not make noise, do not move your flippers again, do not wave your gun or arms;
Do not exhale again in the water, as air bubbles scare the fish.

Spearfishing methods and their secrets

Diving shooting. The underwater hunter is on the surface of the water, face down. And when he spots a fish, he dives and holds his breath, takes a horizontal position under water and shoots at the target. You can also make a shot from the surface of the water, but the chance of getting hit is minimal, so it’s better to dive. You need to aim at the head or side of the fish. A shot in the head is fatal to a fish, but a shot in the side only immobilizes it. If the fish is strong enough, it can tear its body when the harpoon hits the wrong center and go to depth. You need to swim up to the fish at a distance of up to 5 meters. Only experienced hunters can make a well-aimed shot from a greater distance with an underwater gun.

Hunting from cover . Its secret is that you need to sneak up on the fish, hiding behind the shadows of stones and vegetation. The hunter's position underwater and the shooting distance are the same as when shooting underwater.

Hunting for fish in the grotto. The hunter’s task is to examine rock crevices, caves, grottoes, stones and other objects under water where fish may be standing. There are fish that disappear from their shelters, and after some time they find themselves back in their original place. Many fish camouflage themselves to remain undetected, for example the flounder uses the color of its scales to blend in with the seabed.

The fish buries itself in the sand. A real underwater hunter must be able to notice such traces in order to reliably determine the location of the fish.

Small fish gather in schools to protect their own safety. When any threat appears, the flock scatters sharply in different directions, leaving the hunter bewildered. In this case, it is advisable to use a harpoon with a fork tip. If you shoot in the middle of a school, then with such a harpoon you can hit several small fish at the same time.

The best distance for hunting in this way is 2-4 m. When aiming, you need to look at the target with your eyes, and not at the front sight. The position of the gun is pressed to the shoulder or with outstretched arms in front of you.

Hunting with artificial fish . This is a little-known, but the most effective way of spearfishing. Almost all fish belong to the schooling class, so they love to play, hunt together, and look for a partner for reproduction. Hunters skillfully use this. They make an artificial fish that is as similar as possible to the one they are going to catch, attach a heavy sinker to it and lower it to the bottom. The hunter himself camouflages himself at a distance of five meters from the bait, maintaining silence.

Live fish swim up to such an imitation and play with it, not caring about their safety. At this time, the hunter fires a shot. Usually a large specimen swims to the bait - up to a meter long.

Since you need to stay under water for a long time without making any noise, this method of hunting requires additional equipment: - weights on the legs, to weigh them down and prevent them from floating up; - a tip on the breathing tube so that air bubbles from breathing do not frighten the fish, but remain at the bottom of the tip. A suitable sized plastic bottle can serve as it; — plates that are attached to a rope with bait. A screw is inserted into this plate at the ends of the holes. The killed or wounded fish is put on it through the gills and secured on the reverse side with a nut. This garland serves as an additional bait for fish.

These methods and secrets will help you properly prepare for successful underwater hunting. With proper preparation, success is guaranteed. But you must definitely remember about safety precautions, swim well both at great depths and in waist-deep water, carefully check your equipment before diving, and do not drink alcohol at least two days before spearfishing.

If you are seriously interested in the idea of spearfishing, then you just need to carefully choose equipment that meets all safety criteria.

The success of this endeavor will largely depend on the correct selection of equipment. Do not forget that spearfishing is an extreme sport in which there are no trifles, and your safety also primarily relies on the competent selection and fitting of all elements of equipment.

What spearfishing equipment should you buy?

Spearfishing most often occurs with the use of an underwater gun or a sling (pike), however, some amateurs choose less common equipment. The arrow usually has a gaff-type trident at the end, or with a spring tip, which, piercing the fish through, opens, preventing the prey from flying off the tip. Thus, some hunters prefer a pneumatic underwater gun, which is fired using compressed air, and hunting with a crossbow is considered especially chic. In addition to weapons, the equipment of an underwater hunter includes a mask, snorkel, wetsuit, as well as a knife, compass, buoy and sometimes a depth gauge with a watch or a computer replacing it.

Let's take a closer look at all the elements of an underwater hunter's equipment.

Wetsuit. Hunting usually lasts several hours, so without a wetsuit you will freeze even in very warm water. A wetsuit will allow you to hunt all year round; the main thing is to choose the right thickness in relation to the prevailing water temperature in the region where you are going to use it.

You should only choose “hunting” neoprene wetsuits of the “wet” type. They are worn on a naked body and, unlike “divers”, do not have any zippers or fasteners.

Neoprene, from which “hunting” suits are made, usually has an outer coating of nylon, which protects the delicate material from damage. The inner surface is a so-called “open pore” - that is, “naked” neoprene, which, due to its porous structure, seems to stick to the skin, ensuring that your body heat is retained. This feature requires a special technique for putting on the suit: if you don’t pull it on “dry,” you’ll tear it. You can put on an open-cell wetsuit only after thoroughly wetting it from the inside with a soapy solution. There is another way - the so-called “water hammer” putting on: you need to pull on the suit while in the water. Naturally, this method is applicable only in the warm season or in the tropics.

There are other types of hunting wetsuits, for example, with titanium coating inside, which makes it easier to put on and is claimed by manufacturers to increase thermal insulation properties. An internal nylon lining may also be used, making the suit more durable but less elastic.

Professionals who practice deep-sea hunting typically use suits made of “naked” neoprene, that is, without coating both inside and outside. Such suits wear out very quickly, but they are very soft and elastic and do not create additional friction on the water when diving - when we are talking about diving to 30-40 meters, such nuances become of great importance.

Despite all the wealth of choice, a beginner should opt for a regular hunting suit with nylon on the outside and an “open cell” on the inside - this is the most common type of suit, has all the necessary qualities, and at the initial stage it will not disappoint you.

Standard gradations of wetsuit thickness are 3, 5, 7 and 9 mm. For the tropics and in the midst of summer (water temperature 24-25 ° C and above), a 3 mm suit is suitable. In late spring and early autumn (up to 18 ° C), the optimal neoprene thickness is 5 mm. A 7-mm wetsuit will save you from cold water (6-18 °C), but for extreme sports enthusiasts who do not stop hunting in the depths of winter at water temperatures of 6 °C and below, suits are made from 9-mm neoprene.

The correct selection of size plays a very important role: if the wetsuit is too big for you, the thermal insulation properties will be reduced to nothing, since water will rinse freely under it, washing away the heat. If the suit is small, it will restrict movement and compress the chest, which is unacceptable, given the fact that underwater hunting is always carried out without breathing apparatus, while holding your breath. If you can’t find your size perfectly, it’s better to have a wetsuit that’s a little too big—neoprene tends to shrink a little over time. The size range corresponds to clothing sizes - 48, 50, 52 and so on, but some companies use markings 2, 3, 4, 5, where 2 = 48-50, 3 = 50-52, 4 = 54-56, 5 = 56 -58. Before ordering, it is better to check with the seller about the size range of suits from the manufacturer you have chosen.

Mask. Without a mask, an underwater hunter will not be able to correctly perceive and control the underwater environment. The fact is that light rays are refracted under water, which is why the organ of vision begins to interpret them differently. Objects become blurry, distant, curved, enlarged, etc. It is simply impossible to hunt in such conditions. For the picture to be correct, an air gap is needed. Without it, it will be impossible to accurately determine directions, distances, sizes and other physical quantities. It should be understood that for serious diving you need a mask, not underwater goggles. They are suitable only for short swims at a depth of up to 1.5 meters. If you dive deeper into them, the hunter will experience the full force of water pressure. At best, he will end up with uncomfortable sensations in the eye sockets; at worst, he will get a hemorrhage on the cornea of the eyeball.

A number of requirements are put forward for a spearfishing mask, on which the comfort of the catch and the result of the dive depend. First of all this:

Tightness (obturation). The mask must fit snugly enough to the face and not let water in, otherwise it automatically becomes a burden. Sealing is ensured by a special elastic layer made of soft material. There can be two options: 1) ordinary rubber - used in the cheapest products intended for tourism, which quite often fail inexperienced hunters; 2) silicone composite - fits perfectly to the skin, does not allow leaks, lasts a long time, does not cause allergic reactions.

Reliable glass. This is the most important element of the mask, which must withstand not only high water pressure, but also contact with various hard objects (snags, stones and others). Porthole glasses are made of tempered glass or plastic. When destroyed, such material crumbles into miniature fragments and does not injure the eyes. Glass that has undergone the tempering procedure is designated by the term “Safety” or “Tempered”.

Fastening system. To secure it on the head, the mask is provided with an elastic fastening strap made of silicone, rubber or rubberized fabric. A high-quality strap has rotating buckles, with which you can fix the mask at the desired angle, as well as a special mechanism that allows you to adjust the equipment directly in the water (loosen or tighten).

Additional functions. Some models have a so-called poppet valve installed in the nasal pressure area. Thanks to this device, the catch has the ability to blow water out of the submask space without floating to the surface. There are also masks on sale with additional side windows, but they are not popular among underwater hunters. The reason is a lot of strain on the eyes and, as a result, rapid fatigue.

A tube. The breathing tube allows the hunter to breathe while his face is in the water. Without this device, it is impossible to correctly assess the situation and control the behavior of the shot fish. It is advisable that it be equipped with a comfortable mouthpiece, a corrugated insert and a top valve that holds back water in case of deeper immersion.

the plastic tube itself .

Mouthpiece - located at one end of the tube and helps keep the tube in your mouth.

A valve is an element of a tube that prevents water from entering it. There are top and bottom valves. The top valve directly performs protective functions against water entering the tube. The bottom valve allows water to be released from the tube if it gets there. Instead of the top valve, a splash trap can be installed in the tube. This part performs the same function as the top valve, i.e. prevents water from getting inside the tube.

In addition, many snorkel models have a corrugated insert for better comfort and a plastic clip to attach to the mask to prevent it from being lost underwater.

An ordinary tube has a length of 40 cm and a diameter of 2.5 cm. By the way, this is the best option for a tube. Why?

When diving underwater, breathing becomes difficult due to the increasing pressure of water on the lungs. At the same time, the amount of air inhaled remains at the same level as when a person is outside. Therefore, it is recommended to use tubes closer to the surface of the water. Many people believe that it is better to buy a longer tube and then water will definitely not get inside. But in this case, the volume of water that needs to be blown out of the tube when rising from the water increases. The wide tube also leads to a large leakage of water when surfacing. In addition, a high concentration of carbon dioxide accumulates in the submariner’s lungs, which can lead to carbon dioxide poisoning. Therefore, the optimal size of the tube for spearfishing was established.

There are tubes for diving and for spearfishing. The diving tube has a corrugation, which makes it possible to switch to the regulator. In turn, the spearfishing tube does not have corrugation or valves. In this case, the mouthpiece should be soft and comfortable, and the tube itself should not be long and smooth.

Spearfishing tubes can be soft or hard. The choice of one or another tube depends on the hunting conditions. Soft or semi-soft tubes are used for hunting in sea water, as well as when hunting between rocks and in a grotto. If you need to go under a rock, the tube will simply bend and then straighten out again. If you use it in the reeds on the river, it will bend, get tangled in the grass or sink into the water. The soft tube is securely attached to the mask and mouthpiece, i.e. it will not break out of the mouthpiece, get stuck and tear off the mask. For hunting on rivers and lakes, a rigid tube is used. This tube is not deformable and you can swim with it in thickets and reeds.

The tubes also vary in color. For different types of diving, it is worth choosing colored tubes so that the top edge is clearly visible. For spearfishing, preference should be given to dark colors.

When choosing a snorkel for hunting, you should pay attention to the presence of valves (upper and lower), a mouthpiece and a clip that allows you to attach the snorkel to the mask. All this makes spearfishing comfortable. Although many diving experts argue that the simpler the tube, the better. That is, the presence of valves or the same clamp does not make using the tube comfortable. For example, the presence of an upper valve reduces the diameter of the tube and water will not spit out through it. The presence of a bottom valve does not guarantee complete release of water upon exit, and if this does not happen, the submariner has to frequently exhale or choke on water. This all leads to certain inconveniences and spoils the hunting experience.

In addition, the valves tend to become clogged with various grass and other debris found in a river or lake. Despite some disagreements regarding valves, for your own safety you should still choose a tube with a valve, or rather with poppet valves with lower and middle placement. They help reduce the effort when releasing water. These valves perfectly release water and air and do not let water back in.

When choosing a pipe, pay attention to the mouthpiece, or rather, whether it is comfortable to hold in your mouth. An incorrectly fitted mouthpiece can result in water getting into your mouth or straining your mouth and causing chafing of your lips and gums. To avoid discomfort, it is recommended to check the comfort of the mouthpiece while still in the store.

When choosing a tube, pay special attention to the places where the elements are connected. A loose connection can result in either water leakage or loss of the tube during a hunt. For example, if the connection between the main tube and the mouthpiece is poor, you may be left with only one mouthpiece in your mouth.

When buying a handset, it is worth remembering that there is a specific model designed for specific conditions. For example, if you are going hunting at depth, you can take any tube, but it is better to take a model with an upper and lower valve. The simplest model, without any valves, is recommended to be used in small and overgrown reservoirs, so that the lower valve does not become clogged with water or various small grass or algae. Subsequently, the person begins to have difficulty breathing and even suffocate. When hunting at medium and deep depths, it is worth using a tube with a valve. In this case, the valve does its job perfectly. It does not clog and actively clears the tube of water.

Flippers. Many underwater hunters mistakenly think that maximum attention when preparing equipment should be paid only to the choice of a gun and a wetsuit. However, experienced divers know that a lot depends on how to choose fins for spearfishing. First of all, speed of movement, maneuverability and energy consumption. And this affects oxygen consumption, the need to emerge from an ambush to the surface and the efficiency of swimming in the water column. Therefore, a hunter who has chosen the right fins for scuba diving has a much better chance of returning with a rich catch than a diver who has paid less attention to this issue.

The main characteristic that influences how to choose fins for spearfishing is the model’s material :

Thermoplastic. This material is best suited for beginners, as the models are relatively inexpensive and at the same time they provide maximum strength even with a side impact on the water. The disadvantage of thermoplastic is its excessive rigidity, so when moving in the water column, more forces will be expended and you will have to float to the surface more often.

Fiberglass. Thanks to the addition of fiberglass, this material is much softer and more effective than thermoplastic. However, the cost of models made from this material also increases. Therefore, the advisability of purchasing fins from this material is a matter of choice for the hunter based on his experience and preferences.

Carbon and carbon fiber. This material is ideal for making elastic, optimally rigid and comfortable fins for spearfishing. The surface of the models is equipped with special bulges, ribs, and grooves to increase efficiency and minimize the effort to move through the water column. The cost of carbon fins is appropriate and most often scuba diving professionals can afford them. Among the disadvantages of the models is their relative fragility in the face of side impacts, so it is best for beginners to opt for thermoplastic models.

In addition to the material, the comfort in fins is also influenced by the design features of the models .

Depending on the possibility of replacing the blades, there are:

Fins in which the blades are detachable. They make it easy to change the characteristics of the model by simply purchasing a new replacement blade. This will allow you to save money and hunt in bodies of water of different temperatures.

One piece fins. These are usually inexpensive models for beginner hunters.

Depending on the shape of the fins there are:

Models in which the heel is closed . They are more comfortable because they fit more tightly on the foot and there are no special fastenings. However, such fins are more difficult to select in size, and they are not suitable for hunting in water bodies of different temperatures.

Galoshes in which the heel is open . They are easier to choose according to your foot size, especially for non-standard options. Such models are lighter, take up less space and are well adapted both for wearing on bare feet in warm water conditions, and over boots or neoprene socks during winter hunting.

When choosing fins, the conditions under which they will be used are of great importance. Searches for fish can take place in both warm and cold water bodies with different vegetation - all this must be taken into account.

River hunting in reservoirs dominated by reeds. A deep, solid galosh should be of optimal rigidity. It is desirable that it sits lightly and tightly on the leg and does not create discomfort. You should not choose fins with slots.

Hunting in water bodies without vegetation or at great depths. In this case, models that will help you reach maximum speed are better suited. For example, long fins of optimal rigidity with slots.

Hunting in cold waters in winter. For this entertainment, it is better to choose short, soft models or fins of optimal rigidity. Many experts advise choosing one-piece options in which the heel is closed, but several sizes larger - to be able to lift up neoprene socks.

Experienced hunters and divers advise:

The rigidity of models can be determined by their color: the darker they are, the more rigid they are.
For beginners, it is best to purchase shorter options, and each subsequent fins should be longer than the previous ones. Otherwise, it will be more difficult to get used to the new thing.
When putting on fins, they should fit snugly along the entire length of the foot and not “loop around”.
For underwater hunting, you should not choose options shorter than 0.7 m.
Before hunting, you should definitely try out new fins in a comfortable environment, such as a swimming pool.

The right choice of fins will allow you to comfortably stay in the water for a long time without surfacing and spend less energy, which means hunting more efficiently. Therefore, the choice of this equipment should be given a lot of attention. Models in which the heel is closed and have the ability to change blades are considered a good option for hunting. This design will allow you to adapt the fins to different conditions and feel comfortable.

Weight belt. This simple and very useful device provides zero buoyancy, that is, it does not allow water to push a person to the surface. The hunter can easily sink to the bottom, rise to the upper horizons, or hang in the depths. The weight belt is made in the form of a wide belt with lead weights attached to it. In some models, the function of the load is performed by small bags filled with shot.

Kukan . The cherished dream of every novice underwater hunter is to catch a huge catfish or other large fish that you are not ashamed to show to your colleagues. But the first trophies of beginner fishermen will definitely not be giant catfish; students “get their teeth” on smaller fish. Therefore, you will need a kukan - a special device for storing the catch. With it you can swim several kilometers along a section of the river with a heavily overgrown bank, and then return back to the place where there is a convenient exit from the water. As a rule, the kukan is attached to the belt at the back.

In addition to the direct fishing gear, a novice underwater hunter must have one more weapon with him - a sharp knife . In practice, this item has saved dozens, maybe hundreds of lives. Most often, he helps out when a hunter accidentally falls into a poacher's net and becomes entangled in ropes. The knife will also be needed for other purposes. It helps free arrows caught in snags, finish off flailing fish, it can serve as a handle for an air gun... in general, you can’t go anywhere without it.

Weapon. The result of underwater fishing largely depends on the correct choice of weapon. The use of harpoons and guns of various types is permitted. For beginners, it is best to purchase crossbows with a rubber striker. This type of weapon is affordable and quite easy to use. Air rifles are more suitable for professional hunters. It is worth remembering that fishing with gunpowder guns and dynamite is an impermissible technique in underwater hunting. When choosing an underwater gun, you must take into account the characteristics of the reservoirs where you plan to hunt: will it be the sea or a fresh reservoir, what is the level of the bottom and vegetation there.

There are certain types of guns for this type of hunting. The modern market has devices made by different companies, but you may also come across a homemade underwater gun. Let's look at the most common types of spearfishing weapons.

Sling. You can’t call a sling or a Hawaiian gun a gun, and from the outside it doesn’t look like one. However, this device itself became the ancestor of all underwater guns. A sling is a metal tube with a movable tip attached to it. The other end has a spring or rubber band. To activate the device, a spring or rubber band is pulled to the middle of the tube. At this point, the hunter, holding it with his hand, releases the tube after aiming. The tension force will throw it sharply at the target. You can make such an underwater gun with your own hands without any problems, even at home.

Pneumatic gun . The gun is considered wasteless and operates on compressed air. The presence of compressed air replaces the spring. The power of the shot is determined by the pumping. When firing, there is no release of compressed air; it will not leave the chamber. The engaged trigger mechanism releases the harpoon from the couplings. The pressure created from the energy of the compressed air pushes the harpoon out of the barrel. Such devices can be recharged underwater.

Advantages of air guns:

Efficiency is high;
Convenient use;
High maneuverability;
Good buoyancy;
Considerable power;
Adjustable stopping power;
Compact sizes.

Disadvantages:

Noisy shot;
Big recoil up;
The need to get used to the aiming process.

At the end of the spearfishing season, it is recommended to bleed the air from the chamber.

Underwater crossbow . This type of weapon for underwater hunting is used mainly in sea water and under conditions of good visibility. The design of the crossbow is very simple and reliable. Because of this and for several other reasons, the spearfishing crossbow is now extremely popular.

Main advantages:

Accurate shooting;
Silent shooting;
Simple design;
Insignificant price.

Flaws:

Low rate of fire;
Poor mobility.

That's basically all you need for spearfishing for beginners.

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