Review of Mako Spearguns GEAR (suit, light, knife, fins, pole spear, gloves, booties, and more)

[NoVizKid]

Topic:
I just received a bunch of spearfishing gear that I bought from Mako Spearguns. I'd like to share my findings and review the gear that I purchased. I am not associated with the company in any way. They did not approach me to do this review nor did they supply any of the gear free of charge to influence me. All of the gear was bought and paid for by me, NoVizKid.

Gear List:
YAMAMOTO REEF CAMO 2 PIECE OPEN CELL WETSUITS
suit slide wetsuit lubricant
California kevlar dive gloves
Yamamoto dive socks 5mm

3 In 1 Traveler Pole Spear
Pole Spear Adapter
12 inch single flopper tip
5 prong paralyzer tip
pole spear resting hook
MAKO COMPETITION FIBERGLASS FINS (GREEN CAMO)
Free dive weight belt (rubber)
680 lumen dive light
Kona Kill Knife

About the conditions the gear will be in:
I live in Northern California where the ocean is cold (even during summer months) and challenging to get to. Lots of cliffs to hike just to access the water. The plan is to keep my gear stored in a pack that will be carried to and from the dive location; we're looking for portability. Most of the game that I will be going after will be rock and kelp dwellers.

About Me:
I'm 34 years old, have a little belly, grew up swimming, I hike and fish the High Sierra during the summer months, Hunt deer and wild pig when I get the time during the seasons (I know pig is year round so don't get all crazy), I was a commercial diver over in the Gulf when there was work, now I'm an Engineering student, I abalone dive during the seasons, and recently discovered Static apnea training and started with a 2 minute breath hold. A week later I'm at 3 minutes plus some change. Lets make this clear, I am not a professional free diver nor am I claiming to be. I actually just started freediving/spearfishing within the past year. Being that I came from working the subsea oil fields in the gulf, I never really thought of free diving for leisure. I have been missing out! I comfortably spend my time on bottom around 30 FSW or so. I could probably go deeper but my priority isn't seeing how big my dick is, its about how I use it. Nah mean. Cruising around and seeing the sights is good enough for me, depth is not that important. Sometimes I end up deeper, most of the time I get caught up where I first get drawn to.

Gear upon arrival:
So this is the start of the Review. I have not tried any of the gear. I just received it from Mako so this will cover how the gear was packaged and what are the first thoughts on observation. I made two orders about 2 weeks apart.
Each order came in a single box (so 2 boxes came you math genius). Both orders were very well packaged. All the gear inside was wrapped in plastic and some items came with instructions or tips on how to use. The wetsuit came with a signed document verifying that there are no defects in the suit. Mako's staff even put a strip of cardboard under the packing tape just in case someone went to town with their knife opener I was very please and took notice of the care that went into shipping.
The first order was for the 2 piece 7mm suit XXL, pole spear, and gloves XXL. The original plan was just to upgrade my gear but I also didn't want to empty the piggy bank. Mako was making some big claims on their website so i decided to get some of the essentials for cold water diving. My 3/2 scuba suit was reducing my bottom time. Mako doesn't offer to many size variations. I'm average hight with a belly. The only suit that i figured would fit was the XXL. I figured my weight would better translate into the snugness if you know what I mean. The XXL bottoms were to long. The XXL gloves were also a little long in the fingers but fit in snugness. I have average size worker hands if this helps.
The pole spear comes in 3 sections and with the 5 prong paralyzer. The machining and fit up of all the parts is absolutely perfect. I was very impressed with it when I put it all together. It was very rigid and straight. The connection points felt solid and the knurling machine work really helps when you're twisting things together with gloves on.
I called Mako customer service to see if they would do anything about the Long items (suit bottoms and the gloves) that I order incorrectly. The guy I spoke to came across as genuine and professional. I regret not remembering his name. He asked what my issues were and didn't hesitate to come up with ways of bettering the situation. He did not ask me anything about when I bought it or have I done this to it or is it under warranty or have I gotten a speeding ticket within the last year or so. It pretty much went down like this...
MAKO[ The bottoms are to long but the top fits just right and the gloves are long in the fingers.] ME { yup} MAKO[I'll send you different size gloves and we might have to do something we don't usually do as far as the bottoms go. Let me see if there is a returned 2 piece with the top busted and the bottom good that will fit you] ME{I'm like fuggin sweet} MAKO[we have a bottom but it has been repaired. the repair is small and not really noticeable. If you say yes to the repaired bottom, i'll give you a discount.] ME{Instead of a discount, can i have something off of the website?} MAKO[Sure] ME{one bottle of suit lube please} MAKO[one bottle of lube wouldn't be fair, you can do better bradah!] ME{one 12inch single flopper tip and the 3in1 tip adapter} MAKO[you got it!] ME{I love you}.
I didn't say that last part, I was just joshin. That whole experience turned out to be pleasant and worry free. My bottoms have arrived along with the replacement gloves. Both items fit like they should. My pole spear is ready for some action.
I placed a 2nd order for more stuff once I realized the quality of the items and shipping and staff interaction with the 1st order. I will write more about the 2nd order but i'm going to post this one first since it is stupid long already.
The 2nd order also contained the replacement bottoms and gloves and MAKO did this without me asking them too.

More to come on the 2nd order and its contents. I will also talk about the fit of the items as well as the construction quality. Now, I'm off to MDR myself to sleep. PEACE!!!

 

[NoVizKid]

Gear List:
YAMAMOTO REEF CAMO 2 PIECE OPEN CELL WETSUITS
suit slide wetsuit lubricant
California kevlar dive gloves
Yamamoto dive socks 5mm

3 In 1 Traveler Pole Spear
Pole Spear Adapter
12 inch single flopper tip
5 prong paralyzer tip
pole spear resting hook
mako competition fiberglass fins (green camo, soft, 85cm)
Free dive weight belt (rubber)
680 lumen dive light
Kona Kill Knife


Second order arrival:
So, the second order arrived with all the other items that I purchased (dive light, Kill knife, FG fins, pole spear resting hook, rubber weight belt) as well as the replacement items (XL suit bottoms and XL Dive gloves). I will say this about the gear even before I have ever used it, everything looks extremely well built. The shipping packaging was well done and the safety layer to protect against knife slashes was in place under the tape.

The Gear:
-The wet suit looks great out of the box. The seems appear well constructed(glued and stitched) when the suit is flipped inside out. The seems look straight and the glue is flexible and rubbery. When I put the suit on, the seems are not noticeable against my skin. The Yamamoto neoprene is very stretchy and seals nicely against my body. It is comfortable to walk around and the open cell 2 piece 7mm's of neoprene is noticeably thinner than my 2 piece 7mm scuba suit.
-The suit slide is very slippery. It comes in a spray bottle. The lube is not mixed, you have to fill the remaining space in the bottle with water. I used a chopstick to mix it up, shaking it wasn't doing the job well enough. Try not to get any on your hands when dawning your suit or it'll be very difficult to maintain a grasp. Clip your finger nails for sure.
-The California Kevlar Gloves fit me really really well. The gloves are constructed in a way that promotes a snug and even fit. The fingers are constructed with the natural curve that your resting hands take (You know, that slight cupped posture). Anyone that has used their hands extensively on a dive with bad gloves knows that it's really easy to suffer hand and forearm fatigue from fighting against the ill fitting gloves. These gloves are very comfortable and once again are designed to fit snugly around your hand; they are not designed to have to stretch open due to your hand boring through them. The seems are stitched and heavily glued! They look like they're going to do just fine grabbing switchblade yielding lobsters
-The Yamamoto dive socks also appear to be well built, but they also look like the many other neoprene socks that I've owned. The Yamamoto Neo does slightly feel less constricting especially since I have 5mm socks. They fit well, the little traction dots on the bottom are neatly patterned. I'll post if they wear out and fall off like all the other neo-socks I've tried, this isn't a big deal to me but I gotta be thorough if someone does care. The Yamamoto socks are lined. No need for suit lube when putting them on. Once again all the seems are glued and stitched and look strong and sturdy.
-I'm excited about the resting hook. I've used a lot of pole spears on aggressive problem fish while working in the gulf. Holding against the bands tension isn't bad on a dive but when you're doing it over and over all day it's easy to become fatigued. The hook has no sharp edges and is very sturdy. I have a feeling it's going to be a great addition.
-The FG fins are very handsome. The foot pocket fits my 5mm wrapped foot very snuggly. I've heard good and bad reviews on the Mako foot pockets but I have yet to determine how i feel about them. I need to use them in the water before I say anything on that. The blades come fully installed in the foot pockets upon delivery. The blades seem like they are going to work nicely but once again I should try them before I say more. I ordered the soft 85cm green camo.
-I was skeptical of the rubber dive belt. It seemed to me that the buckle would be hazardous and counter to everything that I was taught as far as weight belt safety goes. After examination, the quick release spring loaded arm works flawlessly. One quick pull and the belt is gone. There is no belt loop like on your leather belt that you use with your silver tab jean shorts. The excess belt hanging out of the buckle dangles just like any scuba belt I've used. The rubber has just the right rigidity and stretch to make it function properly. You just grab the dangly and pull and the quick release arm flips open, One handed operation. The belt is plenty long. Remember, I have a belly and weigh 230lbs. The belt comes purposely long with plenty of buckle holes, you just trim the excess to make the desired dangle. I plan on using my standard scuba weights with this belt but haven't tried it yet. I'll post how that goes on the next one.
-The 680 dive light is solid. It has a hand size diameter that I believe will be comfortable to hold without having to clasp down to much. I own several Surefire hand lights and I dare to say that this light is constructed just as well if not better. This light has double o-rings going into the battery compartment. The threads are superbly machined producing a smooth twist during fit up. There is a nice wrist lanyard included and as well as a lanyard loop on the bottom of the light. The on off switch sits down in a recess to protects against accidental activation. My Thumb naturally comes to rest on top of the power switch which is well placed and easy to find without looking. The knurling doesn't produce the purchase that I would like to have. The light feels slippery in my barehand. I'm going to put a wrap of grip tape over the knurling. There was also a piece of paper instructing the user to not store the light with batteries inside it OR if you do twist the battery compartment at least a quarter turn open to break the circuit. If you don't do any of these things, the light will eventually drain the batteries even though its not powered on. The light takes cr123(surefire batteries) which are pricy but thats what you gots to do if you want big lumens. This light is very bright and is a single hand operator. Looking forward to trying it on bottom.
-The kona kill knife looks cool. It fits in it's hard plastic sheath nicely although i wish there was more of a positive click or snap or pop or something when it's seated but it works. The knife is held in the sheath with a stretchy rubber loop that goes over the handle. Two rubber straps are included but I might go with some heavy duty velcro straps. Not sure yet, I'll post more on that as well as any potential corrosion issues. I'm not saying the knife is going to corrode (with or without post dive maintenance), gonna post once I know. The blade is a great length for dispatching your speared food (not hazardously long as to become a self inflicting issue). The blade is nicely pointed with roughly a 3 inch length. The handle is plastic and has a lanyard loop if that is important to you.
-The 12 single flopper looks like it can stand up to some abuse. It's heavy duty inspired shaft diameter looks like it'll hold up to rock strikes. I'm going to keep a file with my gear for touching up the point post dive. I'll post more once i try it out.
-The 5 P paralyzer comes with the 3 and 1 spear. It threads onto the shaft sections cleanly. the prongs are sharp and barbed. I'm fully expecting the individual prongs to get beat up and bent and dulled from use. Thats perfectly ok, it's not a swiss watch, I'm going to bend the prongs back with a good enough craftsman eye and call it good. The file will also be applied to the 5 P paralyzer when needed. I might even bend down the barbs to lessen damage to the animal when hunting in the rocks. I can pin the prey against the rock and slide the it off the prongs without ripping it up. I respect my prey dead or alive, plus I like to use as much of the animal as possible.
-The adapter is exactly what it says it does. It works, and like everything else that I've purchased from Mako, it is constructed by a true craftsman or T1000 or something.

Final thoughts on first impression:
I am very please with what I've seen so far. Like I mentioned earlier if you managed to read through everything, Mako Spearguns makes some big claims on their website. So far, it all appears true. Their gear looks and feels top shelf. I have not tried any of it in the water which can change my view greatly but from the box I get a strong sense that this gear is going to be some of the best gear I will own. I'm aware that it's not good to go into a review with partial feelings but I can't help it. I'm impressed. I'll post as soon as i get back from my first trip which should be in a few days.

Extra:
When I placed my second order, I wrote in the comment box that asks if there is anything else we need to know about my order next to where you enter your payment info, "Hot sauce please, for all the sweet fish tacos this gear is going to bring". Someone at MAKO added some tortillas, fish taco sauce and spice mix in with my order. Well done MAKO. That gesture brightened my day and let me know that you do listen to your customers and you treat them like your dive buddies. Right on!

 

[NoVizKid]

Thanks for the reply Broseidon. I promise you that my review of all of these Mako products have no connection with the company. I am not in anyway affiliated with Mako or have been influenced by the company.

Like you said "economy of scale...I'd guess that it's all mass produced Chinese junk...", I don't want to guess, I want to know.

My goal is to try out some of the gear, plain and simple. I will share my findings on this forum for anyone wondering the same things that I was wondering. Mako claims some big things on their website and I want to see if they are true. Their prices are incredibly enticing and I'm going to look into it. I promise you brotha, I am not trying to promote any of these products.

As far as their spearguns, I have not experienced enough guns to give a proper review of any of the like. If you look at the gear list I don't have one listed because I did not buy one to review. The products that I intend to review are listed in the gear list.

As far as who I am I am a new member to the forum, but that has nothing to say about my ability to dive. I'm a diver just like you my man and I simply want to help out anyone with the same questions about Mako that I have.

Hopefully this clears up some things, and doesn't close your ears. I don't want to come across as defensive or aggressive. I just want to help out. Stay safe and Happy Diving.

 

[Stephan Whelan]

Thanks for sharing NoVizKid - appreciate you taking the time. Please continue to share your reviews and observations.

 

[Pinniped72]

TL;DR

A new member with 5 posts... every single post about Mako products... Hmmm... right...

I'm not sure what to think of Mako - they've got a big range of products but economies of scale being what they are, I'd guess that it's all mass-produced Chinese junk with a brand name stamped on. I may be wrong but the stuff I've seen up close didn't look amazing.

I was always told that the guns are just rip-offs of old Rabitech products... are they built under licence or are they just a copies? The one I looked at looked a bit like a cheap version of a Rob Allen.

I have never seen a Mako speargun up close, Broseidon, in which way did it seem cheap compared to a Rob Allen, looking at the specs they have stainless triggers and line release, can come with open muzzles and shark fin spears? On the website they say that they use the same factories as other manufacturers and that makes sense to me from an economic point of view, but say that they have their own moulds for various items. You obviously weren't impressed by the gun that you saw up close, may I ask why? Thanks in advance.

 

[NoVizKid]

So I have gone on several dive trips with all of my Mako gear since my last post. There have been some good discoveries and some bad discoveries. I will start off by saying that all of my Mako gear has lasted and does NOT show any sign of rips or breaks. I have come across a few small design flaws that make usability a little difficult. I am mostly happy with all of my gear so far. Let's talk about the gear.

-YAMAMOTO REEF CAMO 2 PIECE OPEN CELL WETSUITS

The yamamoto rubber does not disappoint. I love the fit. I love the comfort. I love the warmth. The suit is an absolute a steal at the price. I've used the suit on abalone dives and while pole spearfishing. The water in NorCal is cold but you wouldn't know it if you dive in this suit.
The one concern I have with this suit is the knife pocket. I do put the Mako Kona Kill Knife and sheath in the knife thigh pocket that is designed into the suit. I have never had the knife fall out or even begin to slip out but The top of the pocket does flip behind the top of the sheath. It's a little difficult to describe. The knife and sheath slide into the pocket through the little cut resistant hole. The top of the sheath is held in place by the top of the knife pocket. On my suit the pocket slips back behind the top of the sheath. The only thing holding the knife and sheath in place is the rest of the pocket squeezing the body of the sheath. Once again, the knife and sheath have never slipped out. Like all free divers, I go inverted when I descend and the knife hasn't slipped. It just makes me think about it and I find myself reaching back to check the knife often.
The cut resistant opening does it's job. I do have to be careful when I put the knife away. I wear Mako's 5mm thick California Kevlar Dive gloves. The cut resistant material only protects a couple of inches around the opening and securing the knife can be difficult, especially when your in open water holding onto your spear and a fresh kill.

It would be nice if the knife pocket was a little more worry free, better fit and more cut protection when wearing the bulky California Kevlar Dive gloves.


-SUIT SLIDE WETSUIT LUBRICANT

The stuff just works. No complaints.


-CALIFORNIA KEVLAR DIVE GLOVES

The gloves work great as dive gloves. They can be a pain in the ass to put on.

Putting the gloves on in the water is irritating. The little loop guide for the strap is very small and difficult to thread the strap through. The gloves go on fine when your dry and standing on the beach. I don't get to put my gloves on when on the beach. My Mako Competition fiberglass fins are tight fitting. I can't get my fins over my 3mm booties when I'm wearing my California Kevlar gloves. I have to take my gloves off and put my fins on while in the water. It's very rocky where I dive so walking in with my fins on is a no go.

Mako, please make the strap loop keeper bigger. It's a cheap and easy fix.

The gloves as gloves work great! The kevlar palm really gives me piece of mind. Every dive I grab half a dozen urchins for eating on the beach when I swim back in. I'll hold the urchin in my hand and knock off the spines with my Ab Iron or Kona Kill Knife. No punctures rips or tears yet. I'll often pull myself along bottom and the gloves are holding up great.


-YAMAMOTO DIVE SOCKS 5MM

Sadly, I have not been able to use these dive socks on a dive. My fins will not fit when I wear these dive socks. I can't send them back to Mako either. I walked in them to the beach and wore them in the ocean. This is when shopping online can be a pain.


-3 IN 1 TRAVELER POLE SPEAR

I had to get used to using this spear. The spear is very robustly built.

I do not see this spear breaking anytime soon. The thicker diameter tubing is very stiff and solid. The threaded connections are also very solid and firm. I do not use the multi-pronged paralyzer tip the spear comes with. I use the 12" single flopper and adapter. Once again, This spear is very robust and stout.

I was not used to the thicker diameter tube. The knurling around the threaded connection points would rub on my tacky glove palms. This would slow down the spear resulting in misses. (This is totally my fault, Not Mako's.) It just took a few dives to get used to the thicker diameter tube.



-POLE SPEAR RESTING HOOK

I love this little invention. It is simple and effective. I "load" the spear at the surface and swim to bottom ready to make a shot. I find that I get more shots since my spear is always ready. I don't have to strain to hold my spear at the ready under tension. I just simply use my thump to free the resting hook then let the spear loose. I love this little device.


-MAKO COMPETITION FIBERGLASS FINS (GREEN CAMO)

Other than the tight foot pockets, I love these fins. Another steal at the price. I purchased the extra long soft blades and I absolutely love how I fly through the water like a boss. The blades are solidly built too. I have banged'em against rocks, dropped them on rocks, dropped abalone onto them, and dropped my ab-grab ab iron on them and nothing. They do have some scuffs now but the way I see it, War Stories. It was my fault that I order the wrong size and I have accepted that.


-FREE DIVE WEIGHT BELT (RUBBER)

This is another fine piece of gear provided by Mako. I have no complaints. It fits nicely and comfortably. I've tried three different dive weight manufactures and they all slid onto the belt without trouble. The rubber is holding up, no cracks or tears.


-680 LUMEN DIVE LIGHT

I love this light.

There is a very under-appreciated feature to this light. It has a double o-ring seal. Anyone that has flooded their single o-ringed pelican light will understand. This light is button operated but to save the battery when stored, you must twist the body to deactivate. If you forget to twist it shut before getting into the water, you run the risk of flooding your light. Trust me, you will forget! I did forget but the double o-ring seal saved my light. Twice! I'm not one to forget but it's easy to do when you're standing on a rocky beach with surf crashing all around and you're trying to time the set. The last thing on your mind is "did I twist my light shut".

The light is plenty bright for looking into nooks and crannies. The operation button sits on a flattened side of the light and is easy to find blindfolded. The light is the perfect length for my hand. This is a fantastic piece of gear. I'm still on the original set of batteries. Just don't forget to twist the light to off after your dive. Save your batteries.


-KONA KILL KNIFE

This item was a surprise to me.

I own several high end knives. Being that I am a commercial diver, I've seen my fair share of shitty and awesome knives. This knife falls in the very very good to excellent category. The knife came very sharp and nicely pointed for dispatching struggling fish. The sheath could be better but at the price, I wouldn't complain to loudly. If Mako could offer a quick release sheath instead of the rubber keeper ring, I would say this knife is definitely top shelf.

The blade is salt water durable. This blade has been on several multi-day dive trips so far and All I Have Done To Maintain The Blade Is Fresh Water Rinse it off after each dive. I have never oiled the blade or sharpened it. Three pinhead sized "rust" specks have appeared but I took a clean finger to them and they wiped away. A month later they have not reappeared. Maybe they were fish blood, I will never know. The blade is still rust free and sharp as shit!



CONCLUSION:
I am more than happy with all of my Mako gear. It is a bummer that I can't use my 5mm booties but the sales price I paid for all of my gear has been more than fair. Ordering fitted items online is inherently risky! You would think that paying such low prices for spearfishing gear would result in bargain style quality but I am saying straight up, You Are Getting top Tier Gear for discounted prices! All of the gear works, some of it has some small design flaws but it still functions at its purpose flawlessly. I'm willing to say that if someone can come up with a true gripe about Mako's gear that was reviewed here, they must be a pro-freediver or something. I'm even willing to say that if a pro was to try out Mako's gear, they would say the gear is great and works. It might not be the best but it's not that far off.

Bold of me to say I know, but I have to be honest with my Mako experience. I am not in anyway tied to Mako. I bought all of this gear with my own money.

Maybe someday I'll try one of their spearguns. Gotta save up for that one. Used all my funds on all of their other shit!

 

[MAKO Spearguns]

TL;DR

A new member with 5 posts... every single post about Mako products... Hmmm... right...

I'm not sure what to think of Mako - they've got a big range of products but economies of scale being what they are, I'd guess that it's all mass-produced Chinese junk with a brand name stamped on. I may be wrong but the stuff I've seen up close didn't look amazing.

I was always told that the guns are just rip-offs of old Rabitech products... are they built under licence or are they just a copies? The one I looked at looked a bit like a cheap version of a Rob Allen.

Hey Broseidon,

A couple of things here. First, I totally dig your Avatar. “Lord of the Brocean” is too cool!

Second, I very much appreciate your comments. You are doing me a huge favor, as this tells me that I need to do a better job of telling people about my company and how I conduct myself as a person.

To begin with, I did not ask NoVizKid to post anything. Although NoVizKid seems like an awesome guy who I would like to dive with, I don’t even know him. Your suggestion that I am using NoVizKid to spam the board tells me that you don’t know anything about me as a person. So, perhaps I should make myself more available to people like you who have questions about how I conduct myself.

Regarding my products, I use the exact same factories as the more expensive brands.

In some cases, the more expensive brands sell the exact same products that I sell. The only difference is the name on the products and of course the price. In these cases, they are not copies. They are the exact same products, made by the exact same factories.

My prices are lower because I sell direct to divers instead of through dive shops.

Here are some more examples:
http://www.makospearguns.com/the-mako-direct-story-a/292.htm

Well, thanks again, Broseidon for your comments. This is really helpful to me. If you have any further questions about and the way I conduct myself and my business, please feel free to contact me at any time. I very much appreciate your time and consideration.

Dive safe,
dano

 

[MAKO Spearguns]

Hey NoVisKid,

Thanks for taking time to post an honest review of your experience with MAKO Spearguns.
I truly appreciate your positive comments as much as I appreciate your recommendations for product improvements.

Regarding the California Kevlar Gloves, I am in the process of getting rid of the plastic part used to form the Velcro loop and I will adopt a simpler method. Thank you for mentioning this.

I will also see what I can do to make the knurling on the flashlight more pronounced.

Regarding the fish taco ingredients, I hope you liked them. I was headed to the store to get some Avocados when your order came through.

Regarding your Yamamoto 5mm socks that did not fit, please give me a call when you get a chance. I am sure I can do something for you.

Well, thanks again for the kind words, NoViz Kid.

Dive safe,
Dano

 

[Broseidon]

Hey Broseidon,

A couple of things here. First, I totally dig your Avatar. “Lord of the Brocean” is too cool!

Second, I very much appreciate your comments. You are doing me a huge favor, as this tells me that I need to do a better job of telling people about my company and how I conduct myself as a person.

To begin with, I did not ask NoVizKid to post anything. Although NoVizKid seems like an awesome guy who I would like to dive with, I don’t even know him. Your suggestion that I am using NoVizKid to spam the board tells me that you don’t know anything about me as a person. So, perhaps I should make myself more available to people like you who have questions about how I conduct myself.

Regarding my products, I use the exact same factories as the more expensive brands.

In some cases, the more expensive brands sell the exact same products that I sell. The only difference is the name on the products and of course the price. In these cases, they are not copies. They are the exact same products, made by the exact same factories.

My prices are lower because I sell direct to divers instead of through dive shops.

Here are some more examples:
http://www.makospearguns.com/the-mako-direct-story-a/292.htm

Well, thanks again, Broseidon for your comments. This is really helpful to me. If you have any further questions about and the way I conduct myself and my business, please feel free to contact me at any time. I very much appreciate your time and consideration.

Dive safe,
dano

From looking at your post history, every single post you make has either a link to your website or one of your videos - I've never seen you post dive reports or in fact anything that does not directly involve you pushing Mako equipment. You run a business and you're here to make money - that's cool - it's a necessity of life and by all accounts, you seem to be doing a good job and providing products that people like - but it's easy to come to the wrong conclusion, when you see another account that just posts about Mako products... I didn't mean to hurt your feelings.

Anyway, as you're posting, are your guns the same as Rabitech? The handles look identical, even down to the grip. Are they build under licence from them? I'm not being a dick - I'm just genuinely interested.

 

[Pinniped72]

TL;DR

A new member with 5 posts... every single post about Mako products... Hmmm... right...

I'm not sure what to think of Mako - they've got a big range of products but economies of scale being what they are, I'd guess that it's all mass-produced Chinese junk with a brand name stamped on. I may be wrong but the stuff I've seen up close didn't look amazing.

I was always told that the guns are just rip-offs of old Rabitech products... are they built under licence or are they just a copies? The one I looked at looked a bit like a cheap version of a Rob Allen.

"mass produced Chinese junk".......... just as well were not thinking of asking them to have anything to do with our nuclear power stations then.................

 

[MAKO Spearguns]

Hey Broseidon,

Man, now that you put it like that, you are right. I too would think the guy was just posting stuff for MAKO. And, since I am not a very public person, it is easy to think that I might be the kind of guy to use people to spam the board. So, no hard feelings. And, like I said, you are actually doing me a huge favor.

As for posting trip reports, you are right about this too. I should do some trip reports, but like I said, I don’t feel comfortable promoting myself. I am very fortunate to live minutes from the Ocean. I dive or surf almost every day. If there is vis, I dive. If there are waves, I surf. Occasionally, there is both vis and waves and I go crazy and do both! However, I have a special relationship with my dive buddies. And, I don’t want to jeopardize that. When I am with them, it is all about friends, diving and hanging out and having a good time. The moment I start using our dive trips as promotional material for my business, it takes away from that that special thing that I can’t explain, but I am sure you know what I am talking about.

Anyway, I get what you are saying and I fully agree.

Regarding the Rabitech thing, again, you are doing me a huge favor in mentioning this. If there are still guys out there that don’t know the full story, then I need to re-visit the subject from time to time.

So, here is the deal with the Rabitech guns…

Rabitech does not and never did make their guns. They were always and continue to be made by a Taiwanese engineer from Australia. Rabitech simply bought the guns from the manufacturer, who put the name Rabitech on them. They were and continue to be good guns and Rabitech built a good name selling them. About 8 years ago, there was a guy in the USA who was a reseller of the Rabitech guns. However, he only did it on a part time basis and the manufacturer wanted someone to devote more time promoting his guns in the USA, and he asked me to do it. So, I started selling the same guns (not copies) under the name, MAKO, in the USA. The only difference between the Rabitech and MAKO guns is my shafts have sharkfin tabs which cost more, while the Rabitech spears are notched. I think this is just because of the economics involved with his markets. Additionally, I incorporate an enclosed track barrel, designed by a couple of guys from Louisiana, who I pay a royalty to for each gun I sell.

As part of my licensing agreement for the guns, I can sell the guns anywhere in the world, except for South Africa, Australia and New Zealand which is exclusive Rabitech territories. Well, that’s basically it. No Knock offs…No underhanded stuff. Just a manufacturer using two companies (MAKO and Rabitech) to sell his products.

As for my other products, I use the exact same factories that my well respected competitors use. And, in some cases, we sell the exact same product under a different name. But, because I sell direct, instead of through dive shops, my prices are much lower. Here are a few examples:

Riffe and Omer sell the exact same knife as the MAKO Kona Kill Knife for $40.00 more than me. This knife is made in Italy from 420 Stainless Steel and is teflon coated. It may LOOK similar to inexpensive knives manufactured in other countries, but some of those knives use lesser quality materials.. Believe me, I know - we have tested them.

Rob Allen, JBL and Sea Sniper all use the same factory that makes the MAKO Yamamoto wetsuits. There suits cost at least $100.00 more.

Cressi sells the exact same fins as the MAKO Freedive Hunter fins. There fins cost about $50.00 more and they are the exact same fins.

The Rob Allen adult fins are the exact same fins as my “los ninos fins” that I sell for kids for about ½ the price.

My Competition Freediver fins are made by the same factory that makes the Omer fins.

Rob Allen also sells the same latex tubing as me. He calls it Rob Allen latex tubing. It is made by Primeline Industries. It is the best in the world. I just call mine, “Primeline Industries Latex Tubing”.

Daryl Wong sells the same shafts and slip tips as the MAKO spears and slip tips.

Salvimar sells the exact same mask as my MAKO Minimus Mask. It is the exact same mask, but it’s $45.00 more expensive.

These are all the exact same, high quality products, made by the exact same factories. But, because I sell direct, my prices are much less.

Well, thanks again for taking time for posting your thoughts. As I mentioned, this is very helpful to me and I very much appreciate it.

If you are ever in Virginia or, the Outer Banks of NC, please let me know. I have some killer places to dive and an awesome group of dive buddies who would love to have you join us.


Dive safe,

dano

 

[Okis]

"Rob Allen, JBL and Sea Sniper all use the same factory that makes the MAKO Yamamoto wetsuits. There suits cost at least $100.00 more."

Doesnt Rob Allen have their own factory of both wetsuits,guns,carbon,shafts, 3d printer for other kinds of materials e.tc?

Im pretty sure i've seen a clip from the factory which among other things shows locals from their city in SA that cuts and sew the suits.

I remember that since that was one among other things that attracted me to RA, that they make most of their stuff on their own and employ locals for fair salerys.

Not trying to participate in the arguments in this thread by anyway but i couldt hesitate to question that lol

 

[Pinniped72]

Hey Broseidon,

Man, now that you put it like that, you are right. I too would think the guy was just posting stuff for MAKO. And, since I am not a very public person, it is easy to think that I might be the kind of guy to use people to spam the board. So, no hard feelings. And, like I said, you are actually doing me a huge favor.

As for posting trip reports, you are right about this too. I should do some trip reports, but like I said, I don’t feel comfortable promoting myself. I am very fortunate to live minutes from the Ocean. I dive or surf almost every day. If there is vis, I dive. If there are waves, I surf. Occasionally, there is both vis and waves and I go crazy and do both! However, I have a special relationship with my dive buddies. And, I don’t want to jeopardize that. When I am with them, it is all about friends, diving and hanging out and having a good time. The moment I start using our dive trips as promotional material for my business, it takes away from that that special thing that I can’t explain, but I am sure you know what I am talking about.

Anyway, I get what you are saying and I fully agree.

Regarding the Rabitech thing, again, you are doing me a huge favor in mentioning this. If there are still guys out there that don’t know the full story, then I need to re-visit the subject from time to time.

So, here is the deal with the Rabitech guns…

Rabitech does not and never did make their guns. They were always and continue to be made by a Taiwanese engineer from Australia. Rabitech simply bought the guns from the manufacturer, who put the name Rabitech on them. They were and continue to be good guns and Rabitech built a good name selling them. About 8 years ago, there was a guy in the USA who was a reseller of the Rabitech guns. However, he only did it on a part time basis and the manufacturer wanted someone to devote more time promoting his guns in the USA, and he asked me to do it. So, I started selling the same guns (not copies) under the name, MAKO, in the USA. The only difference between the Rabitech and MAKO guns is my shafts have sharkfin tabs which cost more, while the Rabitech spears are notched. I think this is just because of the economics involved with his markets. Additionally, I incorporate an enclosed track barrel, designed by a couple of guys from Louisiana, who I pay a royalty to for each gun I sell.

As part of my licensing agreement for the guns, I can sell the guns anywhere in the world, except for South Africa, Australia and New Zealand which is exclusive Rabitech territories. Well, that’s basically it. No Knock offs…No underhanded stuff. Just a manufacturer using two companies (MAKO and Rabitech) to sell his products.

As for my other products, I use the exact same factories that my well respected competitors use. And, in some cases, we sell the exact same product under a different name. But, because I sell direct, instead of through dive shops, my prices are much lower. Here are a few examples:

Riffe and Omer sell the exact same knife as the MAKO Kona Kill Knife for $40.00 more than me. This knife is made in Italy from 420 Stainless Steel and is teflon coated. It may LOOK similar to inexpensive knives manufactured in other countries, but some of those knives use lesser quality materials.. Believe me, I know - we have tested them.

Rob Allen, JBL and Sea Sniper all use the same factory that makes the MAKO Yamamoto wetsuits. There suits cost at least $100.00 more.

Cressi sells the exact same fins as the MAKO Freedive Hunter fins. There fins cost about $50.00 more and they are the exact same fins.

The Rob Allen adult fins are the exact same fins as my “los ninos fins” that I sell for kids for about ½ the price.

My Competition Freediver fins are made by the same factory that makes the Omer fins.

Rob Allen also sells the same latex tubing as me. He calls it Rob Allen latex tubing. It is made by Primeline Industries. It is the best in the world. I just call mine, “Primeline Industries Latex Tubing”.

Daryl Wong sells the same shafts and slip tips as the MAKO spears and slip tips.

Salvimar sells the exact same mask as my MAKO Minimus Mask. It is the exact same mask, but it’s $45.00 more expensive.

These are all the exact same, high quality products, made by the exact same factories. But, because I sell direct, my prices are much less.

Well, thanks again for taking time for posting your thoughts. As I mentioned, this is very helpful to me and I very much appreciate it.

If you are ever in Virginia or, the Outer Banks of NC, please let me know. I have some killer places to dive and an awesome group of dive buddies who would love to have you join us.


Dive safe,

dano

Ask a straight question, get a straight answer

 

[Broseidon]

Hey Broseidon,

Man, now that you put it like that, you are right. I too would think the guy was just posting stuff for MAKO. And, since I am not a very public person, it is easy to think that I might be the kind of guy to use people to spam the board. So, no hard feelings. And, like I said, you are actually doing me a huge favor.

As for posting trip reports, you are right about this too. I should do some trip reports, but like I said, I don’t feel comfortable promoting myself. I am very fortunate to live minutes from the Ocean. I dive or surf almost every day. If there is vis, I dive. If there are waves, I surf. Occasionally, there is both vis and waves and I go crazy and do both! However, I have a special relationship with my dive buddies. And, I don’t want to jeopardize that. When I am with them, it is all about friends, diving and hanging out and having a good time. The moment I start using our dive trips as promotional material for my business, it takes away from that that special thing that I can’t explain, but I am sure you know what I am talking about.

Anyway, I get what you are saying and I fully agree.

Regarding the Rabitech thing, again, you are doing me a huge favor in mentioning this. If there are still guys out there that don’t know the full story, then I need to re-visit the subject from time to time.

So, here is the deal with the Rabitech guns…

Rabitech does not and never did make their guns. They were always and continue to be made by a Taiwanese engineer from Australia. Rabitech simply bought the guns from the manufacturer, who put the name Rabitech on them. They were and continue to be good guns and Rabitech built a good name selling them. About 8 years ago, there was a guy in the USA who was a reseller of the Rabitech guns. However, he only did it on a part time basis and the manufacturer wanted someone to devote more time promoting his guns in the USA, and he asked me to do it. So, I started selling the same guns (not copies) under the name, MAKO, in the USA. The only difference between the Rabitech and MAKO guns is my shafts have sharkfin tabs which cost more, while the Rabitech spears are notched. I think this is just because of the economics involved with his markets. Additionally, I incorporate an enclosed track barrel, designed by a couple of guys from Louisiana, who I pay a royalty to for each gun I sell.

As part of my licensing agreement for the guns, I can sell the guns anywhere in the world, except for South Africa, Australia and New Zealand which is exclusive Rabitech territories. Well, that’s basically it. No Knock offs…No underhanded stuff. Just a manufacturer using two companies (MAKO and Rabitech) to sell his products.

As for my other products, I use the exact same factories that my well respected competitors use. And, in some cases, we sell the exact same product under a different name. But, because I sell direct, instead of through dive shops, my prices are much lower. Here are a few examples:

Riffe and Omer sell the exact same knife as the MAKO Kona Kill Knife for $40.00 more than me. This knife is made in Italy from 420 Stainless Steel and is teflon coated. It may LOOK similar to inexpensive knives manufactured in other countries, but some of those knives use lesser quality materials.. Believe me, I know - we have tested them.

Rob Allen, JBL and Sea Sniper all use the same factory that makes the MAKO Yamamoto wetsuits. There suits cost at least $100.00 more.

Cressi sells the exact same fins as the MAKO Freedive Hunter fins. There fins cost about $50.00 more and they are the exact same fins.

The Rob Allen adult fins are the exact same fins as my “los ninos fins” that I sell for kids for about ½ the price.

My Competition Freediver fins are made by the same factory that makes the Omer fins.

Rob Allen also sells the same latex tubing as me. He calls it Rob Allen latex tubing. It is made by Primeline Industries. It is the best in the world. I just call mine, “Primeline Industries Latex Tubing”.

Daryl Wong sells the same shafts and slip tips as the MAKO spears and slip tips.

Salvimar sells the exact same mask as my MAKO Minimus Mask. It is the exact same mask, but it’s $45.00 more expensive.

These are all the exact same, high quality products, made by the exact same factories. But, because I sell direct, my prices are much less.

Well, thanks again for taking time for posting your thoughts. As I mentioned, this is very helpful to me and I very much appreciate it.

If you are ever in Virginia or, the Outer Banks of NC, please let me know. I have some killer places to dive and an awesome group of dive buddies who would love to have you join us.


Dive safe,

dano

Dano - wow - what a fascinating and honest insight into your business. I never expected anything like that, I really appreciate you taking the time to put that together.

I feel bad that I've inadvertently made you share so much but such transparency is very rare and I think it paints you in an incredibly positive light. I was never very trusting of Mako as a brand as someone told me years ago that the guns were just rip-offs of old Rabitechs. To actually find out the truth of the matter, I feel really bad for being so down on you. It's crazy how such a tiny piece of mis-information and ignorance can colour your views.

You sound like you have an incredible lifestyle of which I am eternally jealous! Maybe showing off some of your adventures using your own gear would be the perfect platform for generating wider social media interest and traction for the brand, gaining trust and securing future sales. I for one am converted. If I were in the US, I would certainly be a customer.

 

[NoVizKid]

Outstanding honesty Dano. I'm glad I decided to buy your gear. Not many business would share that kind of info.

 

[NoFair]

I think some of the issue here is that European brands are priced up quite a bit in the US compared to here in Europe. Omer, Cressi, Mares and Salvimar can easily be fond at lower prices than what we usually see in the US.

 

[MAKO Spearguns]

Hey Guys,

Thanks for allowing me to participate in this discussion.

Hey Okis,

In my opinion, RA is one of the leaders in innovation, design and manufacturing. The advantages Rob has in manufacturing his products in South Africa, combined with his experience as an accomplished freediver makes him even more qualified to produce high quality products that divers want. Having said that, I think it might be difficult, even for Rob, to produce every piece of gear under one roof. If anybody can do it, it would be Rob, but the equipment and technology needed to produce certain dive products would be substantial.

Therefore, contracting with a factory that specializes in a specific arena would be better. And, if you are going to contract with a factory to make specific goods for you, it would be prudent to work with a factory that already has a highly successful track record of making high quality products, even if that factory also makes the same products for your competitor. At the end of the day, it is the quality that matters.

And, Rob Allen certainly knows quality, as does JBL, Omer, Cressi, Salvimar and Sea Sniper. Speaking of Sea Sniper, have you ever seen a Sea Sniper gun? That should tell you something about quality.

Hey NoVisKid,

Thanks again for your support. Don’t forget to call me about those socks. I have a free loaner program for active military personal and I can use them for my inventory. I will trade you for another size.

Hey Broseidon,

Thanks again for your honesty. Perhaps I should make a few posts from time to time. If you make it to the States, please come visit. I have plenty of room for you.

Thanks again for this opportunity, guys.

Dive safe,

dano

 

[Okis]

Im sorry but that awnser was so weird man =/
I never said they produced everything, i said they produce alot of things by their own including the wetsuits and earlier you was telling people rob allen suits actually was yamamoto suits.

As i said earlier, im not parcipating in any kind of argument. Just couldnt hesitate to question that rob allen suits suppose to be yamamoto suits when they infact are made in SA by locals. So no need to go on the defensive here with "but rob allen doesnt make everything on his own" "those brand do that and that" e.tc. You just ignored the content/point of my post and started talking about other things that i never said or mentioned...

 

[Broseidon]

Just couldnt hesitate to question that rob allen suits suppose to be yamamoto suits when they infact are made in SA by locals.

Ummm... I think at this point someone should point out to you that "Yamamoto" is a premium type of neoprene... not a manufacturer of wetsuits. So I think what Dano is saying is that normal RA suits are made in SA but their premium, Yamamoto suits are made in a different factory that specialises in Yamamoto neoprene, which makes pretty good sense!

 

[Okis]

That makes much more sense, thanks for the clarification