Alcedo "Hydra" hydropneumatic gun

On eBay the very first version of the Alcedo "Hydra" is being offered for auction, starting at 699 euros (!), although unfortunately this example is lacking its forward barrel. https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/ALCEDO-HYDRA-I-1955-tutto-in-metallo-VERDE-fucile-SUB-VINTAGE-ultra-rare/254272200513?_trkparms=aid=888008&algo=DISC.CARDS&ao=1&asc=20140109134348&meid=a4b3d04a19684234b5798e5098bc7d58&pid=100042&rk=1&rkt=1&sd=254186840806&itm=254272200513&_trksid=p5713.c100042.m2062

This gun operates in the same way as the more common "Hydra II", but does not have the auxiliary hydropump that sits on top in the compressor version of the guns. Probably the long barrels can get bent as it is not uncommon to see these guns offered without them.

It is interesting to reflect on these powerful and relatively complex guns being used in a period when modern spearfishing (with guns) was in a sense just crawling up out of the primordial ooze and that someone saw fit to offer them to the relatively small market at very high prices then and stratospheric prices now for what are incomplete and often non-functioning guns.

Here is a modified Alcedo “Hydra Sprint 62” which has had a lever fitted to the hydropump. The gun in question appeared on the "Sea Hunt" TV program in one episode and has been purchased by collector Alec Peirce. The video shows how the gun works, but my guess is that Alec does not realise that it is a hydropump and that the gun is pressurized separately via a hand pump before the season starts. The lever mechanism is a neat addition as it would make the hydropump easier to operate in the water due to the mechanical advantage.

Alcedo Hydra from Sea Hunt TV show

Here is a still frame showing the hydropump in action. This additional lever system is a good modification, but adds more weight to an already heavy gun. Also something to snag line on when everything goes pear-shaped as any free line in the water always seems to seek out any rearward facing hook or projection.

Another "Hydra" being offered on eBay which is unusual in having a reel. Unfortunately no spear or hand pump, but "only" 495 euro including shipping. Looks a bit scuffed and oddly lacks the bypass collar that slides as a ring at the base of the front barrel which would make it an early "Hydra II". Trigger is also missing as it usually pokes forwards in the grip.

This is the sliding collar referred to above.