First Speargun on a budget

[deepdiver7]

I've been freediving for about 3 yrs now, but I'd like to get into spearfishing this summer. I'm a student on a budget, and I was looking at this gun:

[ame=http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Nemrod-Classic-75cm-Speargun-New-/230622495470?pt=UK_SportingGoods_Scuba_SnorkellingEquipment_SM&hash=item35b22c02ee#ht_1815wt_906]Nemrod Classic 75cm Speargun - New!! | eBay UK[/ame]

Any thoughts? I've seen this gun (or one that looks very similar) on other brands, and was wondering if it would be suitable, or just a waste of money?

Secondly, would a 75 or 90cm euro gun be better in the UK? I usually dive in the South West, and North Wales. I shoredive 90% of the time, and at 6'7" I've got quite a long reach.

Any help much appreciated

 

[azapa]

if you are serious get a cheap but powerful and accurate gun. Let the limiting factor be you (skills that you can improve upon) but not your gun. the standard omer cayman is very accurate for 120 US$ Omer Cayman 2000. Fusiles Fusiles, precios en Scubastore.com ,buceo

 

[andycornish]

I'm a student as well and started spearing 3 years ago now, and when i first started and went to a local shop and got their advice on what to get, ended up with a Mares Instinct Pro 75.
I would agree that its better to spend a bit more and then not having to replace it in a year or so's time, as im more than happy with what I have only just got a new gun now which is a 55 for nightfishing and flatties, and will still be using my 75 for the rest of times.

Mares Instinct Pro Speargun

I dive in Cornwall and South Wales shore dives and have yet to be in a situation where I have needed anything more than a 75, have seen people with longer but they have been going out on boats.

 

[deepdiver7]

Thanks for your input, I've decided on a Cressi Apache 75 for £60. It looks like good value to me. I couldn't spend much more, I need to get a new custom made wetsuit too! :/

 

[andycornish]

Thanks for your input, I've decided on a Cressi Apache 75 for £60. It looks like good value to me. I couldn't spend much more, I need to get a new custom made wetsuit too! :/

I had the same problem with wetsuits (im 6'4") and luckily managed to find an of the peg wetsuit (excel 5mm) that fits pretty well all over. Its 5-6 years old now and starting to show its age but due to the difficulty in finding one that does not have to be custom made has stuck with it and just put neoprene vest and shorts under.

 

[Andre Lopes]

How did the apache work out for you? What's the range with stock bands?