I can't load my speargun! - Everything you need to know

I Can’t Load My Gun!

First we need to check you have the right rubber for the right gun.

Newer Aimrite guns have a sticker that tells you what gun size and type you have. For older models we need to work this out. To determine this we need to measure the length of the barrel (just the barrel, not the total length of the barrel, muzzle and handle).

For a:

Rollergun

Aimrite’s roller gun length is determined by barrel length + 5cm. I.e a 100cm barrel + 5cm is a 105 roller. The 5cm add-on compensates for the extra band stretch distance that the muzzle provides (the bands reach 5cm further forward before curving around the roller). 

Conventional Gun

Aimrite’s conventional gun length is determined by the barrel length + 2cm. So a 98cm barrel + 2cm is measured as a 100 length gun. The 2cm add-on compensates for the extra band stretch distance that the muzzle provides (the bands reach 2cm further forward from the barrel).

Machined Muzzle Gun (Integrated Muzzle in Barrel)

For King Venom and Vendetta King models (integrated, machined muzzle gun) you have to measure from the start of the barrel (handle end) to the start of the hole the bands go in. 

Double Rollergun

Aimrite’s double roller gun length is determined by the barrel length + 10cm. I.e a 105cm barrel is a 115cm double roller. The 10cm add on compensates for the extra band stretch distance that the muzzle provides (the bands reach 10cm further forward before curving around the roller. 

Once we know what gun we have, we can now determine if the rubbers on the gun are the correct length. 

Linked below is a chart that shows rubber length and pretension length for each size and type of gun

Aimrite Rubber Length Chart

View the chart and carefully measure the bands (and pretensions for roller guns). To measure the bands they should sit relaxed but straight along a tape measure. To measure the pretension cord, undo the sheet bend knots and lay the pretension straight on a tape measure. If these lengths do not match the ones specific to your gun let us know and we will help sort it out. Keep in mind, after some use it is normal for the bands to be 2-3cm longer as they stretch slightly over time. 

If your rubber is the correct length for your gun then the next step is proper loading technique. Never hip load your speargun. See the following video for correct loading technique.

 How to LOAD your Aimrite Rollergun??

If you have been doing the following and still can’t load your gun there are still a few things you can do.

1. For rollerguns you can use a Load Assist. This makes loading easier and can be stored in a wetsuit pocket or clipped to your gun.

2. You can lengthen the pretension cord for roller guns making them easier to load. Simply replace the dyneema pretension loop for one that is 10cm longer. If you still have issues, slowly increase that length until you can load the speargun. Keep in mind every time you lengthen this cord you reduce the power and range of the gun.

3. For conventional guns (and rollers as well) you can lengthen the rubber by 5-10cm or drop down to 14mm diameter bands. This will be easier to load but you may need to drop shaft diameter as well, (from 7.5mm to 7mm), if you don’t want to lose shaft speed and accuracy. 

Still have questions or need clarification? - Give us a call… we’re happy to help!

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