Speargun

Abstract

A speargun, comprising (a) a handle assembly including a finger trigger; (b) a stock defining a butt end, a leading end, a lower surface and an upper surface and including: (i) a spear track for a spear; (ii) a spear retaining means for holding the spear and releasing the spear when the finger trigger is actuated; (iii) a handle support member for receiving the handle assembly, the handle support member defining a first position for the handle assembly at which the finger trigger cannot be operated to release the spear from the speargun and a second position for the handle support member at which the finger trigger can be operated to release the spear from the speargun; and (c) a trigger assembly for actuating the spear retaining means upon operation of the finger trigger.

Description

[0001] Speargun

[0002] Field of the Invention

[0003] This invention relates generally to spearguns and more particularly concerns spearguns with improved safety and ease of use. The present invention also relates to handle assemblies for spearguns.

[0004] Background of the Invention

[0005] Most spearguns have a safety feature that allows the gun to be placed in a safe or safety (unable to fire) mode. These safety features are often a switch, button, latch or toggle and function adequately provided they are properly engaged. However, users often forget to engage or disengage a safety feature.

[0006] Furthermore, with some safety features it is not easy for a user to determine the status of the safety feature. In this regard, in terms of a visual check, many spearguns do not have markings indicating the safety status and those that do have markings, such markings or symbols can be confusing and are also prone to wear away over time.

[0007] Another problem with safety features is their unintentional operation to either turn them off or on. In this regard, during use it is quite easy for a safety switch or the like to be knocked on or off as they are situated on the handle where unintentional operation can occur.

[0008] Finally, safety switches and the like are prone to wear and this wear, can have a deleterious impact on their operation. For example, safety switches have a level of activation friction built into them or have locating positions to hold them in position. However, over time, grit and sand and / or corrosion can interfere with the working parts of the switches causing them to operate unintentionally.

[0009] In terms of ease of use, existing spearguns often require the use of tools to adjust and / or remove components such as handles. The need for a tool hampers the convenient use of the speargun including the ability to make adjustments during use, such as when a user is in the water. The present invention seeks to provide a speargun that addresses or at least partially ameliorate one or more of the problems with existing spearguns. At the very least, the present invention seeks to provide a useful alternative to currently available spearguns.

[0010] Summary of the Invention

[0011] According to a first aspect, the present invention provides a speargun, comprising

[0012] (a) a handle assembly including a finger trigger;

[0013] (b) a stock defining a butt end, a leading end, a lower surface and an upper surface and including:

[0014] (i) a spear track for a spear;

[0015] (ii) a spear retaining means for holding the spear and releasing the spear when the finger trigger is actuated;

[0016] (iii) a handle support member for receiving the handle assembly, the handle support member defining a first position for the handle assembly at which the finger trigger cannot be operated to release the spear from the speargun and a second position for the handle support member at which the finger trigger can be operated to release the spear from the speargun; and

[0017] (c) a trigger assembly for actuating the spear retaining means upon operation of the finger trigger.

[0018] According to a second aspect, the present invention also provides a handle assembly for a speargun, the handle assembly comprising:

[0019] (a) a finger trigger;

[0020] (b) a means for removably attaching the handle assembly to the speargun in a first position at which the finger trigger cannot be operated to release a spear from the speargun and a second position at which the finger trigger can be operated to release the spear from the speargun. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021] Figures 1 a to 1 e are side views of a speargun according to an embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention where Figure 1a depicts the speargun in a “safe” configuration where it cannot be fired, Figures 1 b to 1d show the speargun in configurations where it can be fired and Figure 1e is a magnified view of the butt end of the speargun showing the handle assembly in the first position (see Figure 1a) and two of the second positions (see Figures 1 b and 1c);

[0022] Figure 2a is a perspective view, from below, of a handle assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the second aspect of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 2b is a rear view of the handle assembly of Figure 2a;

[0024] Figure 2c is a front view of the handle assembly of Figure 2a;

[0025] Figure 2d is a bottom view of the handle assembly of Figure 2a;

[0026] Figure 2e is a perspective view, from below, of a part of the stock of the speargun in Figures 1a-1e showing the handle support member for receiving the handle assembly in Figures 2a-2c as well as parts of the trigger assembly and the loading butt;

[0027] Figure 3a is a side view of the handle assembly in Figure 2a showing internal components related to the finger trigger assembly;

[0028] Figure 3b is a top view of the handle assembly in Figure 2a showing internal components related to the finger trigger assembly;

[0029] Figure 3c is a more detailed view of the finger trigger assembly components in Figures 3a and 3b shown with the finger trigger in the resting position (not actuated);

[0030] Figure 3d is a more detailed view of the finger trigger assembly components in Figures 3a and 3b shown with the finger trigger in the firing position (actuated);

[0031] Figures 4a to 4d are side views of the spear retaining means, that forms part of the speargun in Figures 1 a-1 e, where Figures 4a and 4b are side views showing the spear retaining means holding a spear (Figure 4a) and releasing the spear (Figure 4b) and Figures 4c and 4d are top views of Figures 4a and 4b, respectively; Figure 5a is a perspective view, from below, of a handle assembly according to another embodiment of the second aspect of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 5b is a bottom view of the handle assembly of Figure 5a;

[0033] Figure 5c is a perspective view, from below, of part of a stock of a speargun, according to another embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention, that is compatible with the handle assembly of Figure 5a, showing the handle support member for receiving the handle assembly in Figure 5a as well as parts of another form of the trigger assembly and the loading butt;

[0034] Figure 6a is a side view of the handle assembly in Figure 5a showing internal components related to the finger trigger assembly and the transfer member in the form of the strip member;

[0035] Figure 6b is a top view of the handle assembly in Figure 5a showing internal components related to the finger trigger assembly;

[0036] Figure 6c is a more detailed view of the finger trigger assembly components in Figures 5a and 5b shown with the finger trigger in the resting position (not actuated);

[0037] Figure 6d is a more detailed view of the finger trigger assembly components in Figures 5a and 5b shown with the finger trigger in the firing position (actuated); and

[0038] Figures 7a to 7d are side views of the spear retaining means, that forms part of a speargun according to an embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention that includes the handle assembly of Figure 5a and the stock in Figure 5c, where Figures 7a and 7b are side views showing the spear retaining means holding a spear (Figure 7a) and releasing the spear (Figure 7b) and Figures 7c and 7d are top views of Figures 7a and 7b, respectively.

[0039] Detailed Description of the Invention

[0040] The present invention provides a speargun, comprising

[0041] (a) a handle assembly including a finger trigger;

[0042] (b) a stock defining a butt end, a leading end, a lower surface and an upper surface and including: (i) a spear track for a spear;

[0043] (ii) a spear retaining means for holding the spear and releasing the spear when the finger trigger is actuated;

[0044] (iii) a handle support member for receiving the handle assembly, the handle support member defining a first position for the handle assembly at which the finger trigger cannot be operated to release the spear from the speargun and a second position for the handle support member at which the finger trigger can be operated to release the spear from the speargun; and

[0045] (c) a trigger assembly for actuating the spear retaining means upon operation of the finger trigger.

[0046] Applicant has found that having a first position of the handle support member at which the speargun cannot be fired confers improved safety when operating the speargun relative to prior art spearguns that do not have a safety feature or rely on a safety button, latch, toggle or some other means that are actuated to place the speargun into a “safe” configuration where it cannot be fired.

[0047] Preferably, when the handle assembly is in the first position, the finger trigger is physically isolated from the trigger assembly.

[0048] Preferably, the handle assembly is adapted to be detached from the speargun.

[0049] Preferably, the handle assembly defines a contact surface for the handle support member.

[0050] Preferably, the handle assembly defines a pair of contact surfaces for the handle support member.

[0051] Preferably, the contact surface for the handle support member is located on the underside of the outer lateral edges of the handle assembly.

[0052] Preferably, the handle assembly is adapted to slide on the handle support member.

[0053] Preferably, the handle assembly includes a handle assembly locating member for releasably locating the handle assembly at the first and second positions. Preferably, the handle assembly locating member is adapted to move between a deployed position at which it projects beyond an upper surface of the handle assembly and a retracted position.

[0054] Preferably, the handle assembly locating member comprises a spring loaded pin.

[0055] Preferably, the handle assembly locating member comprises an indexing plunger.

[0056] Preferably, the handle assembly locating member is hand or finger operable.

[0057] Preferably, the handle assembly locating member is adapted for toolless operation.

[0058] Preferably, the handle assembly locating member is operable via a knob or ring portion.

[0059] Preferably, the finger trigger forms part of a finger trigger assembly.

[0060] Preferably, the finger trigger pivots around a finger trigger mounting point.

[0061] Preferably the finger trigger assembly comprises a lower arm that pivots around a first pin and is operably connected to the finger trigger such that operation of the finger trigger causes movement of the lower arm around the first pin. Preferably said movement of the lower arm results in the lower arm being displaced upward.

[0062] Preferably, the finger trigger assembly comprises an upper arm that pivots around a second pin and is operably connected to the lower arm such that upward displacement of the lower arm causes upward displacement of the upper arm.

[0063] Preferably, the finger trigger has a resting position and a firing position and is biased towards the resting position.

[0064] Preferably, the finger trigger is biased towards the resting position via a finger trigger return means that forms part of the finger trigger assembly.

[0065] Preferably, the finger trigger return means comprises a spring.

[0066] Preferably, the finger trigger return means is connected to the upper arm. Preferably, the upper arm is adapted to extend through an aperture in an upper surface of the handle assembly to contact the trigger assembly when the finger trigger is in the firing position.

[0067] In another form of the invention, the finger trigger assembly may comprise a finger trigger that is operably connected to a push rod or arm such that operation of the finger trigger causes movement of the push rod or arm towards the butt end of the speargun.

[0068] Preferably, the rearward movement of the push rod or arm causes it to extend through an aperture in an upper surface of the handle assembly to contact the trigger assembly when the finger trigger is in the firing position.

[0069] In this form of the invention it is preferred that the finger trigger return means is connected to the finger trigger.

[0070] Preferably, the stock is a housing for other components of the speargun such as one or more of the spear track, spear retaining means, handle support member and trigger assembly.

[0071] Preferably, the stock includes a compatible aperture in the form of a first aperture for the handle assembly locating member when the handle assembly is in the first position.

[0072] The stock may include another compatible aperture such as a second, third or fourth aperture for the handle assembly locating member when the handle assembly is in a second position.

[0073] Preferably, the spear track is located in a channel in the upper surface of the stock.

[0074] Preferably, the spear retaining means comprises a sear.

[0075] Preferably, the sear is adapted to be locked in position.

[0076] Preferably, the spear retaining means is adapted to move towards the lower surface of the stock to release the spear.

[0077] Preferably, the spear retaining means is adapted to move away from the lower surface of the stock when it contacts the spear inserted into the speargun to retain the spear. Preferably, the spear retaining means comprises a contact surface for the spear that is shaped so as to be compatible with a spear contact surface on the spear. Preferably, the contact surface for the spear comprises a ridge or male member and the spear contact surface comprises a groove, indent or female member.

[0078] Preferably, the handle support member is elongate.

[0079] Preferably, the handle support member comprises a rod member, track member or a rail member.

[0080] Preferably, the handle support member is located at the lower surface of the stock.

[0081] Preferably, the handle support member extends along the lower surface of the stock.

[0082] Preferably, the handle support member extends away from the lower surface of the stock.

[0083] Preferably, the handle support member hangs from the lower surface of the stock.

[0084] Preferably, the handle support member comprises a T-track or T-slot for the handle assembly.

[0085] Preferably, the handle support member defines an insertion point for the handle assembly.

[0086] Preferably, the insertion point is adapted to slidingly receive the handle assembly.

[0087] Preferably, the insertion point is located at the end of the handle support member proximal to the butt end of the stock.

[0088] Preferably, the handle support member extends from the butt end of the stock for a distance equivalent to about 30-40% of the length of the stock.

[0089] The handle support member may include a compatible aperture in the form of a first aperture for the handle assembly locating member when the handle assembly is in the first position. The handle support member may include another compatible aperture such as a second, third or fourth aperture for the handle assembly locating member when the handle assembly is in alternate second positions.

[0090] Preferably, the handle support member defines a third position for the handle assembly at which the finger trigger can be operated to release the spear from the speargun. When the handle support member defines a third position it may also include a third aperture for the handle assembly locating member when the handle assembly is in the third position.

[0091] Preferably, the handle support member defines a fourth position for the handle assembly at which the finger trigger can be operated to release the spear from the speargun. When the handle support member defines a fourth position it may also include a fourth aperture for the handle assembly locating member when the handle assembly is in the fourth position.

[0092] Preferably, the trigger assembly comprises a transfer member for transferring movement from the finger trigger to the spear retaining means.

[0093] Preferably, the transfer member is adapted to be actuated by the finger trigger assembly.

[0094] Preferably, the transfer member comprises an elongate body.

[0095] Preferably, the elongate body comprises a bar, a rod or a strip member.

[0096] Preferably, the transfer member extends along the stock and is located adjacent to the second position for the handle assembly.

[0097] Preferably, the transfer member is adapted to move away from the lower surface of the stock upon actuation by the finger trigger assembly.

[0098] The transfer member may also be adapted to move along the length of the stock upon actuation by the finger trigger assembly. Even more preferably, the transfer member is adapted to move forward and rearward along the length of the stock. Preferably, the transfer member is adapted to move a predetermined distance along the length of the stock. Preferably, the transfer member includes at least one contact point for the finger trigger assembly.

[0099] Preferably, the contact point comprises an indent, groove or an edge of an aperture in the transfer member.

[0100] Preferably, the indent, groove or aperture is shaped so as to be compatible with a part of the finger trigger assembly such as the upper arm.

[0101] The transfer member may comprise an abutment member for actuating the spear retaining means to release the spear from the spear retaining means upon actuation of the finger trigger assembly. In this regard, the abutment member may be operably connected to the transfer member.

[0102] Alternatively, the transfer member may be arranged so as to actuate the abutment member, wherein the abutment member is separate from the transfer member. In this regard, in a preferred form of the invention, the transfer member defines an aperture to receive a portion of the abutment member.

[0103] The transfer member may be supported in the stock. Preferably, the transfer member is supported in the stock in a cavity or guide located therein that is sized and shaped to receive the transfer member and allow its movement during the operation of the speargun.

[0104] Preferably, the abutment member is adapted to move away from the lower surface of the stock to actuate the spear retaining means to release the spear.

[0105] The abutment member may be adapted to pivot about a pivot point to actuate the spear retaining means to release the spear.

[0106] Preferably, the abutment member comprises an abutment member return means that returns the abutment member to a starting position after the spear has been released.

[0107] Preferably, the abutment member return means comprises a spring.

[0108] Preferably, the abutment member is adapted to contact the sear.

[0109] Preferably, the speargun further comprises a loading butt. Preferably, the loading butt is adapted to be attached to the stock.

[0110] Preferably, the loading butt is located adjacent to the insertion point for the handle assembly.

[0111] Preferably, the loading butt is located adjacent to the handle assembly, when it is in its first position, to impact a user’s hand when they grasp the handle assembly wherein the impact on the users hand signals to the user that the speargun is unable to be fired.

[0112] Preferably, the loading butt is removeable.

[0113] Preferably, the loading butt comprises an attachment means that allows the loading butt to be removably attached to the stock.

[0114] Preferably, the attachment means comprises a male member and a female member.

[0115] Preferably, the male member is supported from the stock.

[0116] Preferably, the male member comprises a spring loaded pin.

[0117] Preferably, the male member comprises an indexing plunger.

[0118] Preferably, the female member is supported from the loading butt.

[0119] Preferably, the female member is an aperture in the loading butt adapted to receive the male member.

[0120] Preferably, the attachment means is hand or finger operable.

[0121] Preferably, the attachment means is adapted for toolless operation.

[0122] Preferably, the attachment means is operable via a knob or ring portion.

[0123] Preferably, the loading butt further comprises a mounting means.

[0124] Preferably, the mounting means comprises a locating pin or projection that is adapted to fit in a compatible aperture in the stock. When the loading butt comprises a mounting means, the attachment means may be provided as part of the mounting means. In this regard, the female member of the attachment means may be supported from the locating pin or projection and the male member of the attachment means may be supported from the stock.

[0125] The present invention also provides a handle assembly for a speargun, the handle assembly comprising:

[0126] (a) a finger trigger;

[0127] (b) a means for removably attaching the handle assembly to the speargun in a first position at which the finger trigger cannot be operated to release a spear from the speargun and a second position at which the finger trigger can be operated to release the spear from the speargun.

[0128] Preferably, the handle assembly is adapted to be slidably mounted on the speargun.

[0129] Preferably, the means for removably attaching the handle assembly to the speargun is toolless.

[0130] Preferably, the handle assembly defines a contact surface for slidably mounting it on the speargun.

[0131] Preferably, the handle assembly defines a pair of contact surfaces for slidably mounting it on the speargun.

[0132] Preferably, the contact surface or contact surfaces are located on an underside of an outer lateral edge of the handle assembly.

[0133] Preferably, the handle assembly includes a handle assembly locating member for releasably locating the handle assembly at the first and second positions.

[0134] Preferably, the handle assembly locating member is adapted to move between a deployed position at which it projects beyond an upper surface of the handle assembly and a retracted position.

[0135] Preferably, the handle assembly locating member comprises a spring loaded pin.

[0136] Preferably, the handle assembly locating member comprises an indexing plunger. Preferably, the handle assembly locating member is hand or finger operable.

[0137] Preferably, the handle assembly locating member is adapted for toolless operation.

[0138] Preferably, the handle assembly locating member is operable via a knob or ring portion.

[0139] Advantages

[0140] Whilst not limited to the following applicant believes the present invention and embodiments thereof have a number of advantages including one or more of the following:

[0141] (i) the correlation between the safety status of the speargun and the position of the handle assembly is easier to use and provides a user with a more direct indication, via visual and touch cues, of the safety status of the speargun;

[0142] (ii) the ability for the trigger assembly to be physically isolated from the finger trigger imparts a higher level of safety on the speargun;

[0143] (iii) in terms of ease of use, the speargun of the present invention is amenable to toolless operation and adjustment;

[0144] (iv)a removable handle assembly eases the storage, transport and safety; and

[0145] (v) a handle assembly that can be easily moved along the stock, without the use of a tool, allows for the speargun to be adapted to suit different or changing dive conditions.

[0146] General

[0147] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention described herein is susceptible to variations and modifications other than those specifically described. The invention includes all such variation and modifications. The invention also includes all of the steps and features referred to or indicated in the specification, individually or collectively and any and all combinations or any two or more of the steps or features.

[0148] Each document, reference, patent application or patent cited in this text is expressly incorporated herein in their entirety by reference, which means that it should be read and considered by the reader as part of this text. That the document, reference, patent application or patent cited in this text is not repeated in this text is merely for reasons of conciseness. None of the cited material or the information contained in that material should, however be understood to be common general knowledge.

[0149] The present invention is not to be limited in scope by any of the specific embodiments described herein. These embodiments are intended for the purpose of exemplification only. Functionally equivalent products and methods are clearly within the scope of the invention as described herein.

[0150] The invention described herein may include one or more range of values (e.g., size etc). A range of values will be understood to include all values within the range, including the values defining the range, and values adjacent to the range which lead to the same or substantially the same outcome as the values immediately adjacent to that value which defines the boundary to the range.

[0151] Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

[0152] Other definitions for selected terms used herein may be found within the detailed description of the invention and apply throughout. Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs.

[0153] The present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which preferred embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. In the various Figures the same reference numerals have been used to identify similar elements. Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

[0154] A speargun according to an embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention is depicted in Figures 1 a-1d and generally indicated by the numeral 10. The speargun includes a spear 12 and a power band 14 formed of a suitable elastic material which is shown in position prior to being attached to the spear 12 via tab 16a or 16b on the spear 12. Spear 12, power band 14 and tabs 16a, 16b and a number of other features are only referenced on Figure 1 a even though they are present in Figures 1 b-1 d.

[0155] In Figure 1a, the speargun 10 is depicted in a “safe" configuration where it cannot be fired and each of Figures 1 b to 1d show the speargun 10 in configurations where it can be fired, assuming the power band 14 is attached to the spear 12.

[0156] The speargun 10 includes a handle assembly 20, according to a preferred embodiment of the second aspect of the present invention, including a finger trigger 24 and a hand grip 25 as well as a stock in the form of housing 26. The housing 26 is elongate and defines a butt end 28, a leading end 30, a lower surface 32 and an upper surface 34. The upper surface 34 includes a spear track (not shown) located in a channel (not shown) for the spear 12. At the butt end 28 is mounted a loading butt 29

[0157] The speargun 10 further comprises a spear retaining means 40 including a sear 42 (see description of sear below in relation to Figures 4a-4d) for holding the spear 12 and releasing the spear 12 when the finger trigger 24 is actuated.

[0158] When the speargun 10 is in a configuration where it cannot be fired (see Figure 1a), the handle assembly 20 is in a first position, mounted in the housing 26 and located at the butt end 28 adjacent to the loading butt 29. When the handle assembly 20 is in the first position the finger trigger 24 is physically isolated from the trigger assembly.

[0159] When a user grasps the handle assembly 20 when it is in the first position, its close proximity to the loading butt 29 means that the user’s hand contacts the loading butt 29 and provides a physical cue to the user that the speargun 10 is in a safe configuration where it cannot be fired.

[0160] The handle assembly 20 is adapted to be slidably mounted to the housing 26 via a pair of contact surfaces in the form of rails 50a, 50b located on the underside of the outer lateral edges of the of the handle assembly 20. Rails 50a, 50b contact and slide along the handle support member in the form of a track member or track that is supported from the lower surface 32 of the housing 26 and defines track portions 52a, 52b that contact 50a, 50b when the handle assembly 20 slides in the housing 26 between the first position (see Figure 1a) and a second position (see Figures 1 b-1 e).

[0161] The handle assembly 20 includes a handle assembly locating member in the form of a spring loaded indexing plunger 60 that includes a ring portion 62 to ease its operation by a user. The indexing plunger 60 is biased towards a deployed position such that, unless it is blocked from doing so, a portion 64 of the indexing plunger projects above an upper surface 66 of the handle assembly 20. Thus, when the handle assembly 20 is moved along the housing 26 on track portions 52a, 52b to the first position, it reaches a compatible aperture in the form of aperture 68 in housing 26 and the indexing plunger 60 deploys and the portion 64 extends into aperture 68. With the indexing plunger 60 deployed in aperture 68, the handle assembly 20 is releasably locked in the first position.

[0162] To move the handle assembly 20 from the first position (see Figure 1a) to any of the second positions (see Figures 1 b-1 d), the ring portion 62 of the spring loaded indexing plunger 60 is pulled to retract the portion 64 of the indexing plunger and the handle assembly 20 is then free to move along the housing 26 on track portions 52a, 52b until it reaches a second position where another compatible aperture such as aperture 70 in housing 26 is located allowing the indexing plunger 60 to deploy and the portion 64 to extend into aperture 70. With the indexing plunger 60 deployed in aperture 70, the handle assembly 20 is releasably locked in a second position.

[0163] When in a second position the finger trigger 24 can be operated to release the spear 12 from the spear gun. As best seen in Figures 1 b to 1e and 2e, when handle assembly 20 is in a second position and the finger trigger 24, which forms part of a finger trigger assembly (see Figures 3a to 3d), is operated by a user, the finger trigger 24 pivots around a finger trigger mounting point 80 and pushes a lower arm 82 that in turn moves towards the upper surface 34 of the housing 26 and pivots around a first pin in the form of lower arm pin 84. Movement of the lower arm 82 towards the upper surface 34 of the housing 26 in turn causes an upper arm 86 to move towards the upper surface 34 and leading end 30 of the housing 26, beyond the upper surface 66 of the handle assembly 20 and pass over the top of finger trigger mounting point 80. This results in a portion 88 of the upper arm 86 projecting above the upper surface 66 of the handle assembly 20 (see Figure 2c). Upper arm 86 is connected to a return spring 90 so that when a user releases finger trigger 24 it returns to its resting position.

[0164] When the portion 88 of the upper arm 86 projects above the upper surface 66 of the handle assembly 20 it interacts with the trigger assembly via a transfer member in the form of a rod 100 that is supported in a channel and extends along the length of the housing 26 (see Figure 2e). When the handle assembly 20 is in the first of the second positions (see Figure 1b) the portion 88 of the upper arm 86 impacts the underside of rod 100 at a contact point in the form of indent 102 and when the handle assembly 20 is in the second of the second positions (see Figure 1 c) the portion 88 of the upper arm 86 impacts the underside of rod 100 at another contact point in the form of indent 104. Regardless of which indent (102, 104) impacted, rod 100 is pushed away from the lower surface 32 of the housing 26 and an abutment member 106 at one end of the rod 100, that retains the sear 42 in a position where it holds the spear 12, moves up to release the sear 42 , allowing the sear 42 to move downwards and release the spear 12 from the speargun 10.

[0165] After the spear 12 is released from the speargun 10, a return means in the form of spring 108 returns the abutment member 106 to its position where it can retain the sear 42, so that when the spear 12 is reloaded into the speargun 10 and contacts the sear 42 to return it to its starting position, the abutment member 106 again retains the sear 42 in a position where it holds the spear 12.

[0166] The handle assembly 20 and the butt assembly 29 can be detached from the speargun 10. In this regard, and best seen in Figures 2a and 2e, when the butt assembly 29 is detached from the speargun 10, the handle assembly 20 can be detached by a user operating the indexing plunger 60 to retract the portion 64 allowing the handle assembly 20 to slide freely in the housing 26 on track portions 52a, 52b. This allows the handle assembly 20 be detached by sliding it rearwards and beyond the ends of track portions 52a, 52b.

[0167] The butt assembly 29 is removably retained in the housing 26 adjacent to the insertion point for the handle assembly 20 (best seen in Figure 2e). The butt assembly 29 is retained in the housing 26 via an attachment means in the form of a female member or aperture 120 located in a stem portion 122 of the butt assembly 29. The stem portion 122 of the butt assembly 29 is sized and shaped to insert into a corresponding aperture 3 in the housing 26 and, once inserted, the butt assembly 29 is retained in the housing 26 via an indexing plunger 127 that is spring loaded and includes a male member in the form of a pin that inserts into aperture 120.

[0168] A speargun according to another embodiment of the present invention includes an alternate finger trigger assembly that is depicted in in Figures 5a-5c, 6a-6d and 7a-7d. Apart from the finger trigger assembly, this speargun is operated by a user in the same way as the speargun depicted in Figures 1 a-1 d and thus is capable of being configured so it cannot be fired i.e. the handle assembly 120 is in a first position, mounted in the housing 126 and located at the butt end 28 adjacent to the loading butt 29. When the handle assembly 120 is in the first position the finger trigger 124 is physically isolated from the trigger assembly and when a user grasps the handle assembly 120 when it is in the first position, its close proximity to the loading butt 129 means that the user’s hand contacts the loading butt 129 and provides a physical cue to the user that the speargun is in a safe configuration where it cannot be fired.

[0169] Features of the embodiment depicted in Figures 5a-5c, 6a-6d and 7a-7d that correspond to features in the other embodiment in earlier figures include the same reference number but include a prefix numeral that is “1”. For example, the handle assembly 120 in Figure 5a corresponds to handle assembly in 20 in Figure 2a. Where a feature is identical in both embodiments the same reference numerals are used. For example loading butt 29 appears in both embodiments.

[0170] The handle assembly 120 is adapted to be slidably mounted to the housing 126 via a pair of contact surfaces in the form of rails 50a, 50b located on the underside of the outer lateral edges of the of the handle assembly 120. Rails 50a, 50b contact and slide along the handle support member in the form of a track member or track that is supported from the lower surface 32 of the housing 26 and defines track portions 52a, 52b that contact 50a, 50b when the handle assembly 120 slides in the housing 126 between the first position (see Figure 1a) and a second position (see Figures 1 b-1 e). The handle assembly 120 includes a handle assembly locating member in the form of a spring loaded indexing plunger 60 that includes a ring portion 62 to ease its operation by a user. The indexing plunger 60 is biased towards a deployed position such that, unless it is blocked from doing so, a portion 64 (see Figure 6b) of the indexing plunger projects above an upper surface 66 of the handle assembly 120. Thus, when the handle assembly 120 is moved along the housing 126 on track portions 52a, 52b to the first position, it reaches a compatible aperture in the form of aperture 68a in housing 126 and the indexing plunger 60 deploys and the portion 64 extends into aperture 68a. With the indexing plunger 60 deployed in aperture 68a, the handle assembly 120 is releasably locked in the first position.

[0171] To move the handle assembly 120 from the first position (see Figure 1a) to any of the second positions (see Figures 1 b-1 d), the ring portion 62 of the spring loaded indexing plunger 60 is pulled to retract the portion 64 of the indexing plunger and the handle assembly 120 is then free to move along the housing 126 on track portions 52a, 52b until it reaches a second position where another compatible aperture such as aperture 70a in housing 126 is located allowing the indexing plunger 60 to deploy and the portion 64 to extend into aperture 70a. With the indexing plunger 60 deployed in aperture 70a, the handle assembly 120 is releasably locked in a second position.

[0172] It will be noted that there are additional compatible apertures 68, 70 and 71 located on the opposite side of the housing 126 relative to compatible apertures 68a, 70a and 71 a. This allows for the housing 126 to receive the handle assembly 120 with an indexing plunger 60 located on the opposite side from that depicted in Figure 5a and thus allows for left and right handed handle assemblies 120 to be fitted to the housing 126.

[0173] When in a second position the finger trigger 124 can be operated to release the spear 12 from the spear gun. As best seen in Figures 1 b to 1e and 5c, when handle assembly 120 is in a second position and the finger trigger 124, which forms part of a finger trigger assembly (see Figures 6a to 6d), is operated by a user, the finger trigger 124 pivots around a finger trigger mounting point 180 and pushes a push rod or arm 182 that in turn moves rearward to contact the edge of an opening 183 in the upper surface 66 of the housing 126. This results in a portion of the push rod or arm 182 projecting above the upper surface 66 of the handle assembly 120 (similar to that shown as feature 88 in Figure 2c) and contacting a transfer member in the form of a strip member 200 (this is described in more detail below). Push rod or arm 182 is connected to a return spring 190 so that when a user releases finger trigger 124 it returns to its resting position.

[0174] When the portion 88 of the push rod or arm 182 projects above the upper surface 66 of the handle assembly 120 it interacts with the trigger assembly via the strip member 200. Strip member 200 is supported in a channel 202 (best seen in Figure 5c) that extends along the length of the housing 126 and includes a plurality of apertures 185a, 185b or 185c for receiving the push rod or arm 182 when the handle assembly 120 is located at one of its second (or firing) positions and the finger trigger 124 is actuated. When the finger trigger is actuated, the push rod or arm 182 abuts a cross member 187a, 187b or 187c located along the length of the strip member 200 and causes the strip member 200 to move rearward. Rearward movement of strip member 200 actuates an abutment member 206 that includes a part 208 that extends into an abutment member receiving aperture 210 in the strip member 200. The abutment member 206 retains the sear 42 that holds the spear 12 and when it is actuated it pivots about point 212 and release the sear 42, allowing the sear 42 to move downwards and release the spear 12 from the speargun 10.

[0175] After the spear 12 is released from the speargun 10, a return means in the form of spring 108 returns the abutment member 206 to its position where it can retain the sear 42, so that when the spear 12 is reloaded into the speargun 10 and contacts the sear 42 to return it to its starting position, the abutment member 206 again retains the sear 42 in a position where it holds the spear 12. The movement of the abutment member 206 caused by the return spring to its position where it can retain the sear 42 also results in the return of strip member 200 to its starting position.

[0176] It will be appreciated from figures that when the hand assembly 120 is in its first position or safety position, the finger trigger assembly is physically isolated from the strip member 200, being located rearward of the end of the strip member 200, and hence operation of the finger trigger assembly cannot result in contact between push rod or arm 182 and strip member 200 and firing of the speargun.

Claims

Claims1. A speargun, comprising(a) a handle assembly including a finger trigger;(b) a stock defining a butt end, a leading end, a lower surface and an upper surface and including:(i) a spear track for a spear;(ii) a spear retaining means for holding the spear and releasing the spear when the finger trigger is actuated;(iii) a handle support member for receiving the handle assembly, the handle support member defining a first position for the handle assembly at which the finger trigger cannot be operated to release the spear from the speargun and a second position for the handle support member at which the finger trigger can be operated to release the spear from the speargun; and(c) a trigger assembly for actuating the spear retaining means upon operation of the finger trigger.

2. A speargun according to claim 1 wherein the handle support defines two or three second positions.

3. A speargun according to claim 1 or 2 wherein, when the handle assembly is in the first position, the finger trigger is physically isolated from the trigger assembly.

4. A speargun according to any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the handle assembly is adapted to be detached from the speargun.

5. A speargun according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the handle assembly defines a contact surface for the handle support member.

6. A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the handle assembly defines a pair of contact surfaces for the handle support member.

7. A speargun according to claim 5 or 6 wherein the contact surface or pair of contact surfaces for the handle support member are located on the underside of the outer lateral edges of the handle assembly.

8. A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the handle assembly is adapted to slide on the handle support member.

9. A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the handle assembly includes a handle assembly locating member for releasably locating the handle assembly at the first and second positions.

10. A speargun according to claim 9 wherein the handle assembly locating member is adapted to move between a deployed position at which it projects beyond an upper surface of the handle assembly and a retracted position.

11. A speargun according to claim 9 or 10 wherein the handle assembly locating member comprises a spring loaded pin.

12. A speargun according to any one of claims 9 to 11 wherein the handle assembly locating member comprises an indexing plunger.

13. A speargun according to any one of claims 9 to 12 wherein the handle assembly locating member is hand or finger operable.

14. A speargun according to any one of claims 9 to 13 wherein the handle assembly locating member is adapted for toolless operation.

15. A speargun according to any one of claims 9 to 14 wherein the handle assembly locating member is operable via a knob or ring portion.

16. A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the finger trigger forms part of a finger trigger assembly.

17. A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the finger trigger pivots around a finger trigger mounting point.

18. A speargun according to claim 16 wherein the finger trigger assembly comprises a lower arm that pivots around a first pin and is operably connected to the finger trigger such that operation of the finger trigger causes movement of the lower arm around the first pin.

19. A speargun according to claim 18 wherein the movement of the lower arm around the first pin results in the lower arm being displaced upward.

20. A speargun according to claim 18 or 19 wherein the finger trigger assembly comprises an upper arm that pivots around a second pin and is operably connected to the lower arm such that upward displacement of the lower arm causes upward displacement of the upper arm.

21. A speargun according to claim 20 wherein the upper arm is adapted to extend through an aperture in an upper surface of the handle assembly to contact the trigger assembly when the finger trigger is in the firing position.

22. A speargun according to claim 16 wherein the finger trigger assembly comprises a push rod or arm wherein operation of the finger trigger causes movement of the push rod or arm towards the butt end of the speargun.

23. A speargun according to claim 22 wherein operation of the finger trigger also causes movement of the push rod or arm beyond the upper surface of the handle assembly.

24. A speargun according to claim 22 or 23 or wherein movement of the push rod or arm towards the butt end of the speargun results in the push rod or arm extending through an aperture in an upper surface of the handle assembly to contact the trigger assembly when the finger trigger is in the firing position.

25. A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the finger trigger has a resting position and a firing position and is biased towards the resting position.

26. A speargun according to claim 25 wherein the finger trigger is biased towards the resting position via a finger trigger return means that forms part of the finger trigger assembly.

27. A speargun according to claim 26 wherein the finger trigger return means comprises a spring.

28. A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the stock is a housing for other components of the speargun.

29. A speargun according to any one of claims 9 to 28 wherein the stock includes a compatible aperture in the form of a first aperture for the handle assembly locating member when the handle assembly is in the first position.

30. A speargun according to any one of claims 9 to 29 wherein the stock includes another compatible aperture such as a second, third or fourth aperture for the handle assembly locating member when the handle assembly is in a second position.31 .A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the spear track is located in a channel in the upper surface of the stock.

32. A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the spear retaining means comprises a sear.

33. A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the spear retaining means is adapted to move towards the lower surface of the stock to release the spear.

34. A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the spear retaining means is adapted to move away from the lower surface of the stock when it contacts the spear inserted into the speargun to retain the spear.

35. A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the spear retaining means comprises a contact surface for the spear that is shaped so as to be compatible with a spear contact surface on the spear.

36. A speargun according to claim 35 wherein the contact surface for the spear comprises a ridge or male member and the spear contact surface comprises a groove, indent or female member.

37. A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the handle support member is elongate.

38. A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the handle support member comprises a rod member, track member or a rail member.

39. A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the handle support member is located at a lower surface of the stock.

40. A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the handle support member extends along the lower surface of the stock.41 . A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims where the handle support member extends away from the lower surface of the stock.

42. A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the handle support member hangs from the lower surface of the stock.

43. A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the handle support member comprises a T-track or T-slot for the handle assembly.

44. A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the handle support member defines an insertion point for the handle assembly.

45. A speargun according to claim 44 wherein the insertion point is adapted to slidingly receive the handle assembly.

46. A speargun according to claim 44 or 45 wherein the insertion point is located at the end of the handle support member proximal to the butt end of the stock.

47. A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the handle support member extends from the butt end of the stock for a distance equivalent to about 30-40% of the length of the stock.

48. A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the handle support member includes a compatible aperture in the form of a first aperture forthe handle assembly locating member when the handle assembly is in the first position.

49. A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the handle support member includes a second, third or fourth aperture for the handle assembly locating member when the handle assembly is in the second position.

50. A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the trigger assembly comprises a transfer member for transferring movement from the finger trigger to the spear retaining means.

51. A speargun according to claim 50 wherein the transfer member is adapted to be actuated by the finger trigger assembly.

52. A speargun according to claim 50 or 51 wherein the transfer member comprises an elongate body.

53. A speargun according to claim 52 wherein the elongate body comprises a bar or a rod or a strip member.

54. A speargun according to any one of claims 50 to 53 wherein the transfer member extends along the stock and is located adjacent to the second position for the handle assembly.

55. A speargun according to any one of claims 50 to 54 wherein the transfer member is adapted to move away from the lower surface of the stock upon actuation by the finger trigger assembly.

56. A speargun according to any one of claims 50 to 54 wherein the transfer member is adapted to move along the length of the stock upon actuation by the finger trigger assembly.

57. A speargun according to claim 56 wherein the transfer member is adapted to move forward and rearward along the length of the stock.

58. A speargun according to any one of claims 50 to 57 wherein the transfer member includes at least one contact point for the finger trigger assembly.

59. A speargun according to claim 58 wherein the contact point comprises an indent, groove or an edge of an aperture in the transfer member.

60. A speargun according to claim 59 wherein the indent, groove or aperture in the transfer member is shaped so as to be compatible with a part of the finger trigger assembly.

61. A speargun according to claim 60 wherein the part of the finger trigger assembly is the upper arm, push rod or arm.

62. A speargun according to any one of claims 50 to 61 wherein the transfer member comprises an abutment member for actuating the spear retaining means to release the spear from the spear retaining means upon actuation of the finger trigger assembly.

63. A speargun according to claim 62 wherein the abutment member is operably connected to the transfer member.

64. A speargun according to claim 62 wherein the transfer member is arranged so as to actuate the abutment member, wherein the abutment member is separate from the transfer member.

65. A speargun according to claim 64 wherein the transfer member defines an aperture to receive a portion of the abutment member.

66. A speargun according to any one of claims 50 to 65 wherein the transfer member is supported in the stock in a cavity or guide located therein that is sized and shaped to receive the transfer member and allow its movement during the operation of the speargun.

67. A speargun according to any one of claims 62 to 66 wherein the abutment member is adapted to move away from the lower surface of the stock to actuate the spear retaining means to release the spear.

68. A speargun according to any one of claims 62 to 67 wherein the abutment member is adapted to pivot about a pivot point to actuate the spear retaining means to release the spear.

69. A speargun according to anyone of claims 62 to 68 wherein the abutment member comprises an abutment member return means that returns the abutment member to a starting position after the spear has been released.

70. A speargun according to claim 69 wherein the abutment member return means comprises a spring.71 . A speargun according to any one of claims 62 to 70 wherein the abutment member is adapted to contact the sear.

72. A speargun according to any one of the preceding claims further comprising a loading butt.

73. A speargun according to claim 72 wherein the loading butt is adapted to be attached to the stock.

74. A speargun according to claim 72 or 73, as appended to any one of claims 44 to 47, wherein the loading butt is located adjacent to the insertion point for the handle assembly.

75. A speargun according to any one of claims 72 to 74 wherein the loading butt is located adjacent to the handle assembly, when it is in its first position, to impact a user’s hand when they grasp the handle assembly wherein the impact on the users hand signals to the user that the speargun is unable to be fired.

76. A speargun according to any one of claims 72 to 75 wherein the loading butt is removeable.

77. A speargun according to claim 76 wherein the loading butt comprises an attachment means that allows the loading butt to be removably attached to the stock.

78. A speargun according to any one of claims 77 wherein the attachment means is hand or finger operable.

79. A speargun according to claim 77 or 78 wherein the attachment means is adapted for toolless operation.

80. A speargun according to any one of claims 72 to 79 wherein the loading butt further comprises a mounting means.

81. A speargun according to claim 80 wherein the mounting means comprises a locating pin or projection that is adapted to fit in a compatible aperture in the stock.

82. A handle assembly for a speargun, the handle assembly comprising:(a) a finger trigger;(b) a means for removably attaching the handle assembly to the speargun in a first position at which the finger trigger cannot be operated to release a spear from the speargun and a second position at which the finger trigger can be operated to release the spear from the speargun.

83. A handle assembly according to claim 82 adapted to be slidably mounted on the speargun.

84. A handle assembly according to claim 82 or 83 wherein the means for removably attaching the handle assembly to the speargun is toolless.

85. A handle assembly according to claim 83 or 84 wherein the handle assembly defines a contact surface for slidably mounting it on the speargun.

86. A handle assembly according to claim 85 wherein the handle assembly defines a pair of contact surfaces for slidably mounting it on the speargun.

87. A handle assembly according to claim 85 or 86 wherein the contact surface or contact surfaces are located on an underside of an outer lateral edge of the handle assembly.

88. A handle assembly according to any one if claims 82 to 87 wherein the handle assembly includes a handle assembly locating member for releasably locating the handle assembly at the first and second positions.

89. A handle assembly according to claim 88 wherein the handle assembly locating member is adapted to move between a deployed position at which it projects beyond an upper surface of the handle assembly and a retracted position.

90. A handle assembly according to claim 88 or 89 wherein the handle assembly locating member comprises an indexing plunger.

91. A handle assembly according to any one of claims 88 to 90 wherein the handle assembly locating member is adapted for toolless operation.

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