What is a Hand Speargun? And Why You Should Try One

What Exactly Is a Hand Speargun?

A hand speargun (also known as a Hawaiian sling or pole spear) is the simplest form of underwater hunting weapon. Unlike rubber-powered spearguns that use a trigger mechanism, a hand speargun relies on elastic bands that you pull back by hand and release to propel the spear forward.

Think of it like an underwater bow and arrow — minimal gear, maximum connection to the ocean. It's the way spearfishing was done for thousands of years, and it's still one of the most effective methods for reef hunting in Australia.

Why Choose a Hand Speargun Over a Traditional Speargun?

If you've ever tried manoeuvring a full-sized speargun through tight reef formations, you know the struggle. Here's why hand spearguns are becoming the go-to choice for Australian reef divers:

1. Compact & Manoeuvrable

Hand spearguns are typically 60–110cm long, compared to 100–160cm for rubber-powered guns. This makes them perfect for:

• Tight reef crevices and cave systems
• Kelp forests along the Victorian and Tasmanian coasts
• Shore dives where you need to swim through surf zones
• Freediving in shallow reef (1–8 metres)

2. Silent & Stealthy

No trigger mechanism means no click sound. Fish are incredibly sensitive to noise underwater, and hand spearguns give you a stealth advantage. You can get closer to your target without spooking it.

3. Affordable to Start

A quality hand speargun like the Reef Hunter 75 starts at $89 — that's a fraction of what you'd pay for a rubber-powered gun with similar build quality. It's the perfect entry point if you're new to spearfishing.

How to Use a Hand Speargun

Using a hand speargun is straightforward, but technique matters. Here's the basic process:

1. Grip the handle firmly with your dominant hand, keeping your arm extended.
2. Pull back the elastic band with your free hand until you feel full tension.
3. Aim slightly below the fish (light refracts underwater, making fish appear higher than they are).
4. Release the band smoothly — don't jerk or snap it.
5. Follow through by keeping the spear pointed at your target.

[Blockquote] Pro tip: The key to accuracy is patience. Wait until the fish is within 1–2 metres before you shoot. Hand spearguns are short-range weapons — trying to shoot from 3+ metres will result in missed shots.

Best Species to Target with a Hand Speargun

Hand spearguns excel at targeting reef-dwelling species that hide in structure:

• Flathead — Sit on sandy bottoms near reef edges
• Bream — Found in shallow reef, perfect hand speargun targets
• Luderick (Blackfish) — Graze on weed-covered rocks in NSW
• Morwong — Slow-moving and curious, great for beginners
• Crayfish/Rock Lobster — Use the spear to guide them out of holes

Choosing the Right Size

The length of your hand speargun depends on where and what you're hunting:

• 60–75cm — Best for tight reef, caves, and abalone diving. Maximum manoeuvrability.
• 75–90cm — The all-rounder. Good for most Australian reef diving conditions.
• 90–110cm — More range and power for open reef and larger species.

Get Started

The beauty of hand speargun fishing is its simplicity. You don't need expensive gear or years of experience. Grab a hand speargun, a mask and snorkel, and head to your nearest reef. Start shallow, be patient, and respect the ocean. You'll be landing fish in no time.