The Pathos introduces the new speargun from the Saragos series, the Evo Pro 2023 version; I received the 90 model. It's a range of spearguns designed for white fish hunting, as evidenced by its lightweight, unelaborated construction, and overall simplicity. The 2023 version has been revisited and improved with some new features. Structured in three detachable parts, it's worth noting that every replacement part is meticulously crafted, in keeping with the Hellenic brand's tradition. The aesthetic now leans towards a dark brown, almost black coloration. It features a new handle, still called D'Angelo II, like the original one from a few years ago, but it has actually undergone significant technical restyling, further enhancing its functionality and overall performance. 

This excellent stock has been made easier and safer to rest against the chest during loading, thanks to an extended and enlarged buttplate, while the narrow and raised grip geometry now absorbs recoil better. The white knob is detachable, a process made easier with new locking clips. The stainless steel reverse mechanism interacts with a new safety button, and the trigger release (right or left) is connected to the 28mm tubular barrel made of aluminum alloy, with integral double rail guide. The small open head is made from the same tough plastic material as the stock and all other parts, presenting a tapered and generously relieved design. 

The propulsion system relies on a double circular 14mm Pathos Tnt red rubber, tied and with an inserted drill that allows for secure and orderly positioning and changing of the textile spearhead. The shaft is a 6.5mm Sandvich stainless steel Tahitian, 1250mm long, equipped with 3 medium TW Shark barbs, a single fin, and a trident tip. It comes in 6 lengths: 50, 60, 75, 82, 90, 100. 

The speargun I received came with a double pass of monofilament. I missed having a reel and, in the absence of one, a shock absorber to better manage the line tension. Otherwise, the Pathos Team wetsuit, 5mm split, Fireblade Carbon fins, and Amara Metalite gloves were used. Sea conditions were slightly choppy with a Maestrale wind decline, surface temperature at 27.5 degrees Celsius. 

As soon as I unpacked the Saragos Evo Pro 90, I got some 1.40mm nylon monofilament and two spearshaft sleeves. While setting up, I quickly realized that the new speargun is well-designed for organizing shooting lines; they fit neatly, and the shaft stops quickly thanks to the ambidextrous hooks. Even the Tahitian spearhead attachment is immediate, despite the very compact size of the stainless steel box containing the inverted release mechanism. 

The Saragos Evo Pro is a simple, unelaborate design that conveys practicality and ease of use; it's evident from the start that it's the work of a fisherman, a champion like Giacomo De Mola. 

I organized a shore dive and asked Gianluca, a friend who lives nearby, if he wanted to accompany me and be an underwater model, taking advantage of a Maestrale wind decline. The water was fairly clear, with some suspension. We exchanged the speargun during the dive to provide the most objective assessment possible. 

Arming the Saragos Evo Pro 90 doesn't require much effort: the 14mm rubbers stretch easily, and once the textile spearheads are attached to the white drills, you appreciate the significant elongation and compactness of the rubber package adhering to the barrel; it barely protrudes. 

I left the loaded speargun to evaluate its balance: the butt descends before the spearhead. Essentially, the speargun is well-balanced, with no need for significant compensating weight. Horizontal movements are smooth. I felt some friction when making rapid movements, but it's manageable. The high grip and aiming down the sights at a school of salmons along the coast made it clear that the targeting view is exceptionally clean. 

I passed the speargun to my companion, and while I was handling the camera case, I saw him lower the speargun to the seabed, extend his arm, and fire! I felt a muffled "snap" in the surge. The spearshaft shot like lightning, and the beautiful sea bass was hit squarely! I rushed to Gianluca, and he told me that he saw the school in the foam, took his shot, and a couple of fish broke off to investigate. The speargun performed great, he happily said! Smooth and immediate release, no recoil was felt, the gun's retraction was straight, the spear didn't rise, and the shot was extremely precise! 

We took some photos; sunset was approaching. I took the opportunity to do some spearfishing, passing the camera to my friend. We encountered some dorado bream. The pregnant female was large, surrounded by smaller fish. I stretched the rubbers progressively, and they worked well as a mix. I checked the fin, and it remained slightly raised, but I understood that it doesn't close completely unless pushed down with fingers – a clever design choice to prevent the spear from slipping out of the fish. 

I aimed at a sea bass on the outskirts of the group and followed its movement for a moment. My eye moved above the sternal foot, over the castle between the thin TNTs, which were as thin as grissini sticks. Excellent sightline. The index finger was well positioned as a trigger interlock; I sensed the trigger's crescent and pressed it. The shot went off; the spear flew with a pronounced "snap." The perceived recoil was minimal, and the high hand grip absorbed it well. The fish was on the nylon line, struggling; the sensation, even though it was hit at a not overly long distance, was of excellent range. 

In conclusion, we both had a great experience. Of course, the seasonal period, with numerous schools of dorado bream, can bring some predators close to the coast, and without a reel... 

Overall Rating: 

Construction Technique: A simple, relatively Spartan design, but well-constructed with sturdy materials. 8 

Finishing Level: Decent. The markings on the rubber wore off after a few shots, and the stickers are removable. 7 

Balance: Slightly negative. Nevertheless, the arm and wrist do not tire even after several hours in the sea. 7.5 

Maneuverability: Rapid movements on the horizontal plane are quite smooth, and the rubber package remains compact along the Tahitian shaft axis. However, it's preferable to "guide" the speargun and not force rapid lateral aiming. 8 

 Performance: Excellent. Minimal recoil, great accuracy, and long range. Difficult to ask for more.  

Value for Money: List price is €180. 8