The elegance of detail, the power of innovation. A phrase that captures, better than many words, the essence of this speargun—undoubtedly one of the most intriguing new entries on the market this year. We tested the 95 model in the Vela configuration
Nilo Mazzarri
When you dive deep, everything resets. time, sound, thought. Only instinct remains. In that suspended moment, every movement matters, every detail makes a difference. It’s precisely there that a tool becomes an extension of yourself. The Cetma Shark Vela is built to be your companion in that moment. It’s not just a speargun—it’s a precise, silent ally.
I tested it in the waters south of Elba Island, in far-from-ideal conditions: heavy swell, murky water, strong currents. A "real" environment where every piece of gear is pushed to its limits without mercy. And not only did the Shark Vela rise to the challenge—it redefined expectations.
Built to Last: Materials and Design
At the heart of the project lies a blend of precision engineering and structural solidity. The barrel, oval in shape, is made entirely of 316L stainless steel—underscoring Cetma’s industrial and professional approach. This type of steel, known for its excellent resistance to marine corrosion, ensures outstanding torsional rigidity and unmatched shooting stability.
Compared to a traditional cylindrical tube, the oval shape minimizes axial flexing and improves maneuverability. The result is smooth tracking, quick return to aim, and the feeling of holding a single, vibration-free piece.
Balance was one of the most surprising aspects. It’s not a light speargun, but thanks to its weight distribution and hydrodynamic profile, it remains neutral in water even with accessories attached. This translates to reduced fatigue and greater control during action.
Vela System: Adaptability Without Compromise
The true revolution of the Shark lies in the muzzle. The name “Vela” (Sail) is more than aesthetic—it’s a statement of versatility. The weapon can be configured in three main ways:
Single band: for hole hunting or dynamic conditions;
Double band: for balanced ambush hunting;
Full Vela system: pulleys, X-block, and Dyneema—ideal for long, progressive shots without the mechanical complexity of a roller.
During my test, I used the Vela Ready configuration, with a 7mm Tahitian shaft, double band, and pulleys. The result was a powerful yet fluid, progressive shot—ideal for almost any situation. The release is silent, increasing your chances for a follow-up shot.
And if a more agile approach is needed, just remove one band to adapt the speargun for shooting inside tight spaces or at close range. Full modularity.
The Corvina on the horizon
At the tip of Capo Stella, the seafloor transforms. Boulders vanish into the depths, light filters obliquely between cracks, and the blue stretches outward like a silent invitation. I slide down along the wall, following its jagged line as it fades into the depths. I know this spot—it’s challenging, but sometimes, the sea rewards you in places like this.
At 17 meters, between two large boulders, there’s a shaded area I often use for ambush. I stop, sheltered by the rock’s profile, and slow everything: thoughts, breath, heartbeat. The Shark Vela rests neutrally in my hands. It doesn’t float up or sink. Perfectly balanced. The carbon monocoque barrel doesn’t vibrate, doesn’t flex. It seems made to be there—as if it had found its place.
I remain still. Then, a barely noticeable movement: a corvina emerges from the darkness of a crevice. It advances in jerks—decisive, yet wary. It pauses halfway between light and shadow, as if evaluating something. I barely rotate my wrist. The speargun is already aligned, offering no resistance. The Roller Evo system is silent, powerful, ready. No metallic noise, no strain.
The shot is released. Precise, surgical. At the base of the gill plate. No recoil—like I never even pulled the trigger. The 7mm shaft pierces cleanly. The corvina doesn’t resist—hit in just the right spot, at just the right moment.
I ascend slowly, leaving behind the shadow of the cape. On the surface, the sun reflects concentric rings on the water. And I think—it’s in places like this, with weapons like the Shark, that spearfishing becomes something simple again. Something essential.
Ergonomics and Mechanics: Intuitive and Precise
The grip, slightly angled, ensures a firm hold even with thick gloves. The chest-loading pad is wide, allowing you to load the bands easily—even without a loading pad.
The release mechanism, made entirely of 316L steel, is among the smoothest I’ve ever tested: no sticking, no hesitation. The integrated shaft guide ensures straight trajectories even at long range, while the Cetma reel (included in the Vela configuration) stays compact and offers quick retrieval.
Two Configurations, One Soul
Cetma offers the Shark in lengths from 72 to 105 cm, with two main configurations:
Shark Anti-Recoil: for those looking to start with a versatile, simple yet solid tool. Ready to use, with Tahitian shaft, band of choice, and upgrade potential.
Shark Vela Ready: the top-tier version, complete with the Vela system—pulleys, Dyneema, reel, X-block. Maximum performance with no compromises.
What’s really interesting is the truly complete modularity—allowing you to adjust the setup in the future, with always-available spares and technical support from Cetma (including video tutorials).
All backed by a two-year warranty and a 100% Made in Italy supply chain, ensuring extremely high construction standards and top-tier after-sales support.
Conclusion
The ally that makes no noise. That’s how the Shark Vela could be described. Silent, precise, adaptable. In that shooting moment—when every action must be natural, every millimeter under control—it’s there, ready to give its best.
This is a speargun that welcomes customization but already delivers high performance right out of the box. Designed for those who want a reliable companion in every situation (ambush, hole, wait-and-shoot) and who demand build quality and consistent support.