Chad,
Should we assume you want to hunt only on scuba? There is quite a difference for freediving.
Wood has advantages over metal when it comes to spearguns for either style of hunting, in my opinion. They are quiet, possitively buoyant without plugs, easily sealed with polyurethane, have no corrosion, last for decades and are acceptable of accessories like shaftholders, light holders, etc.
I started with a Voit/Swimmaster (JBL) in the early 70s, and moved to mahogany Aussie Seahornets for decades. Biller sold them for many years, then created their own version called the A.B. Biller Seahornet. Now Spearfishing Specialties has the Aussie guns, and has added features to their models too. These production 48" to 54" guns will shoot very well as freeshaft guns, and ok as line guns, but mostly at moderately close range, (2 strong bands maximum.)
If you want a really fast, long shooting line gun you need to look beyond them.
Custom guns handle this area far better. They also can enhance freeshaft shooting. Since last year I've moved on to Daryl Wong guns from 50" to 57.5", for both freediving and scuba shooting. The enclosed track is Wong's strongest feature. They are amazingly accurate guns and can be customized to your exact need. (You can see the entire line at
www.wongspearguns.com )
Obviously this kind of gun will cost substantially more than a production gun.
Which ever way you decide to pursue, you should ask lots of questions from experienced shooters in your area and all across the state. Try to line up a gun demo if possible.
I need to divulge a business connection. I now distribute Wong spears in Florida. As a favor to Daryl Wong I show 3 of my personal guns to his interested customers. There is also a possibility of a demo. (Formerly a 20+ year dealer for Biller & JBL.)
Chad
www.mobilescuba.com
727-423-7775