Hey fella's,
I've been spearfishing key west for about a year now. My JBL 40 has done me well, but Its time to upgrade. I shopped around for a gun, and didn't really fall in love with anything production. after seeing some work from a local gun builder (impaler spearguns) I decided I have to build.
Like I said, I live in key west. I don't have the resources to build down here, but I have access to a complete wood shop back in Michigan. I'm going to keep collecting parts until I can make it home, then try and put it all together that week (minus the blank.) For starters, I ordered some padauk from the local exotic wood depot. The plan is to plane the wood down to half an inch, then laminate 4 across, and one on top. I am going to use a UHMW enclosed track, with a Riffe 9/32" x 57" Hawaiian shaft I picked up locally. I really like the Neptonics tuna mech, and elite handle. I also plan on utilizing (2) 5/8" bands, and some 300# mono. (So far, I own the spear, and some padauk.)
My only source of information was opinions from a few local guys, and now of course, speardiver, so I am very open to advice or criticism. The guns primary purpose will be around patch reefs, but I don't want to limit myself... I have been having an irresistible urge to try hunting blue water.
I still have a few questions before I start:
- First and for most, I am worried about the finish. The gun doesn't need to be a show piece, but I would like it to look professional, and most of all stay water tight. I don't want something that requires a ton of maintenance, and it needs to be durable. I am also worried a coating will alter the dimensions of the slot for the mech, pin holes, etc.
- Secondly, I have a set of dove tail router bits at the house. does any one have a size, or part number to identify the correct bit for the small 9/32" neptonics UHMW track?
- Finally, does (2) 5/8" bands, and 300# mono seem appropriate for the size and purpose of the gun? I don't have an overall dimension yet, but like I said... The spear is 57"
I just realized how I am starting to ramble, so I guess I'll wait and see what SD has to add. if you made it this far, thanks for your patience :thumbsup2:
-Kyle.