Speargun bands typically run about 13mm to 16mm in diameter, and thicker or multiple bands add power at the cost of some accuracy. The Apache uses a single 13mm band for quick, precise close-range shots, while the Victory's triple 14mm bands with a Dyneema wishbone add serious power for open-water hunting. The Comanche Rail ships with one 16mm band but has a closed muzzle built to accept a second band, so you can add power later without buying a new gun.

Loading a band-powered speargun means stretching the bands over the muzzle notches and shaft while the gun points safely downward, then locking the shaft into the trigger mechanism. Pneumatic guns load differently, sliding the shaft into the barrel to compress air instead of stretching bands. Cressi builds in shortcuts for this: the Cherokee Power's magnetic muzzle helps line up the shaft for loading, and the Mach's side rod release simplifies reel loading and operation. Always load with the muzzle pointed at the water and never at another person.