Guys,
Below is what I received from Rob Allen:
My question here is there any way to set up the reel to be in standby mood (assembled on the gun but not connected to the shooting line) and connect it when needed?
The reel can be taken off the gun completely if not in use. There is a small screw (if fitted) locking it onto the barrel attachment slide.
The shooting line will then just be set up as per normal with a gun bungie. If the reel is needed, clip it on, slid it forward to lock, no need to put the locking screw. Then undo and remove the gun bungie and just tie the reel line to the mono shooting line. Personally I prefer this tie on system better than a clip. It is quick to release as it is a slip knot. See picture below.
The problem here is that the line release pin in the handle is behind the place where the reel assembles, so if the reel is in place it will cause and obstruction to the shooting line.
The line release is still usable even with the reel in place. Yes it is a little awkward to set the line up on the line release but it is do able :>)
Maybe you can look into moving the line release pin to the side of the handle or a bit down the barrel towards the muzzle.
This is only an option when we make a new handle, not possible with this existing handle. We are developing a new handle but this is still a long time off.
Can I install the reel on the right hand side of the handle along the barrel to keep the path open to the line release pin? although that might disturb the gun balance in the water?
I have never tried this but would see it as being difficult. For one, the bracket is easy to retro fit without disturbing the internal buoyancy (sealed air chamber) If the bracket was set in the side, it would have to move forward and this would mean the internal plug would have to move as well.
Second: break-away mechanism
Do the circular eyed screw replace the 2 screws originally assembled on the gun holding the handle to the barrel?
Yes.
Do I have to change any of the gun's internal parts while assembling the break-away?
No, you just have to drill out the holes a little larger to take the threaded pin.
The reason behind my question here is that the break-away comes with a line release pin?
The reason we supply this is because, sometimes the line release can be over loaded so it is better to have a stainless steel line release. If your gun already has a stainless steel line release, no problem.
We do have a slightly less complex break away we have just developed but it can slip off if you are not careful. This method means no drilling to fit the ring. This is the bungie.
This is how it fits.