Harpoons And Spears Patents (Class 43/6)
  • Publication number: 20080263932
    Abstract: A simple efficient novel design fishing spear assembly for sport fishing includes a spear point pivotally mounted to the upper end of a spear shaft. The spear point swivels from 0 degrees to 180 degrees. The spear point and shaft is mounted onto a long handle to support under water spear fishing, wade fishing, spear fishing or gig fishing from vessel. The ranges of rotation support the spear point between an insertion position, a retaining position, and a withdrawal position. A ball cooperatively engaging with a locking mechanism secures the spear point within the desired position. The long handle can range from a few feet to several feet depending on the application or need.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2007
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventor: Ramion Clayton Butler
  • Publication number: 20080236019
    Abstract: A game fish disabling device, and method of disabling a game fish. The game fish disabling device is preferably configured as a pole type device with a sliding “hammering” action to generate and transmit a disabling force or blow to the game fish, in particular the head of the game fish.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventor: Robert Gollahon
  • Publication number: 20080060250
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a spear stopper adapted to be used in conjunction with a spear. The stopper comprises: a main body adapted to be slid onto a spear shaft, at least one wing pivotally connected to the front end of the main body, a threaded sleeve connected to the back end of the main body, a breaking clip being threaded over the threaded sleeve, and a locking nut connected to the breaking clip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Inventor: William May
  • Patent number: 7331108
    Abstract: A knife includes a handle, a blade and a trigger. The handle has an internal cavity containing a compressed gas source and the blade is affixed to the handle. The blade has an internal bore running along a longitudinal axis from the handle to a point proximate a tip. The blade further has an aperture extending from a first edge to the internal bore at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of between 15° and 75°. The trigger has a depressed position and a not depressed position. When in the depressed position, the internal bore communicates with the compressed gas source and when in said not depressed position, the internal bore is blocked from the compressed gas source. When a creature is pierced with the knife, the trigger is depressed injecting compressed gas into the creature greatly enhancing the incapacitating effect of the knife.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Inventor: Gregory T. Rondinone
  • Patent number: 7316621
    Abstract: A handheld device for incapacitating dangerous suspects without endangering nearby civilians. The user holds the handgrip which has a trigger connected to a source of thrust, such as an air cartridge. When the user pulls the trigger, the air cartridge is fired and extends a shaft outwards, which has an end piece at the other end for catching suspects. The end piece unfolds into a flat surface and has needles with retractable barbs attached to the flat surface. These retractable barbs engage the suspect and incapacitate him. A cam inside of the end piece can be operated to retract the barbs and release the suspect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Inventor: Baldwin D. Tufts
  • Patent number: 6883264
    Abstract: The telescoping fishing harpoon is a harpoon that allows for a variety of lengths to be utilized by a user. The harpoon includes a telescoping body constructed from two hollow tubes that are detachably engaged to each other through the use of a spring detent and a series of corresponding holes. Attached to the telescoping shaft is a standard harpoon shaft with a tapered head for receiving a standard harpoon dart. The telescoping shaft also incorporates a weighted dowel that assists the user in accurately spearing a desired target. The harpoon further incorporates a series of hand grips and line clips for increased control and safety for the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Inventor: Bruce S. Gimbel
  • Patent number: 6811503
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a double spear gun comprising: a first spear gun having a top side and a bottom side; a second spear gun having a top side and a bottom side; a mounting means adapted to combine the two spear guns, the mounting means comprising: an upper mounting block having a top side and a bottom side, the upper mounting block top side adapted for releasably engaging the bottom side of the first spear gun, the upper mounting block further including a fastening means; a lower mounting block having a top side and a bottom side, the lower mounting block bottom side adapted for releasably engaging the top side of the second spear gun, the lower mounting block further including a fastening means; wherein the fastening means of the upper mounting block is releasably engaged with the fastening means of the lower mounting block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Inventors: William May, Carl Sciabarra
  • Publication number: 20040187375
    Abstract: A harpoon includes a handle to be grasped by a user for placing the harpoon and a shaft having a proximal end connected to the handle. A distal end of the shaft has a pin receiving passageway formed therein. The pin receiving passageway may include a releasing portion and a retaining portion in communication therewith. The manual harpoon may also include a harpoon tip having an open proximal end for being received over the distal end of the shaft, and a pin carried by the open proximal end of the harpoon tip. The pin may cooperate with the pin receiving passageway to retain the harpoon tip on the shaft when the pin is in the retaining portion of the pin receiving passageway, and to release the harpoon tip from the shaft when the pin is in the releasing portion of the pin receiving passageway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Inventor: Christopher A. Holler
  • Patent number: 6789346
    Abstract: A harpoon includes a handle to be grasped by a user for placing the harpoon and a shaft having a proximal end connected to the handle. A distal end of the shaft has a pin receiving passageway formed therein. The pin receiving passageway may include a releasing portion and a retaining portion in communication therewith. The manual harpoon may also include a harpoon tip having an open proximal end for being received over the distal end of the shaft, and a pin carried by the open proximal end of the harpoon tip. The pin may cooperate with the pin receiving passageway to retain the harpoon tip on the shaft when the pin is in the retaining portion of the pin receiving passageway, and to release the harpoon tip from the shaft when the pin is in the releasing portion of the pin receiving passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Inventor: Christopher A. Holler
  • Patent number: 6711772
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a survival tool that can be used as a spear, a crutch, a walking stick, or in pairs as a stretcher. The present invention discloses an elongated rod like device being segmented with each segment having a specific purpose or use. Segments are provided to serve as a spear, a flare, a strobe light, and, for other purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Inventor: Al Grassi
  • Patent number: 6678989
    Abstract: Hollow cylinders include forward, rearward and intermediate cylinders. A hollow coupling tube is in the forward portion of each cylinder except for the forward and next adjacent cylinder. Each tube is received in an adjacent portion of each adjacent cylinder. A first washer has a small axial aperture positioned into an intermediate region. A second washer has a small axial aperture positioned into an intermediate region. An elastic cord has a rearward extent through the small first axial aperture with a securement knot at its rearward end. The elastic cord has a forward extent through the small second axial aperture with a securement knot at its forward end. The intermediate extent passes through the cylinders to insure the retention of each cylinder to the next adjacent cylinder. The cylinders are adapted to be coupled into a long linear spear through the coupling action of the cylinders, tubes, plugs and cord.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Andrew D. Lowe
  • Patent number: 6550178
    Abstract: A spear assembly for fishing underwater and inside undersea structures includes an elongated hollow shaft filled with rigid plastic foam material to inhibit entry of water and to rigidify the shaft and has a rear portion and a forward portion, which may include a metallic rod to add weight and strength to the punch delivered by the spear, and a rear portion rigidly connected to the forward portion, a repleacable sharp spear tip for piercing the fish is located at a proximal end of the forward portion, an elastic band for propelling the shaft when the band is released is carried on a movable mechanical means to enable a diver to quickly adjust the tension power of the band by moving it close to the spear tip while keeping the shooting hand indexed in the same release position near the forward portion of the spear. The proximity of the elastic band and the spear tip enables the diver to maneuver the forward portion inside and around undersea structures to spear the nearby fish.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventor: William H. Rogers
  • Patent number: 6484432
    Abstract: An improved flounder gig comprising, in combination, a handle, a spear carried at one end of the handle having a pair of outwardly biased legs at the distal ends of which are diverging sharp prongs, and an elongated guide plate having a pair of spaced apart apertures slidably receiving said legs. The guide plate is moveable from a retracted position nearer the lower end of the handle in which the legs and prongs are allowed to assume an outwardly diverging relationship under the influence of the biased legs and a terminal position nearer the prongs in which the prongs are maintained in a closer relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Inventor: Fred L. Walger, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6453596
    Abstract: Procedure for electro-stunning and/or electro-sacrifice, for industrial application to marine ichthyological species in floating cages having a floating cage (12) with tuna fish (6) two divers are introduced, the hunter (1), who uses a rifle with a harpoon with a Teflon head and metallic tip (4), joined to equipment for transforming electric potential (3) on the boat (7) and also connected to a plate (5) submerged and the controller (2) that activates the equipment (3), which sends an electric stunning signal or a signal that kills the fish (6) to the two terminals of the plate (5) and tip (4), the fish is lifted from the water by the crane (10), and equipped with a collar or identifying plastic label (11), the rifle and the harpoon are recovered towards the boat (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Gines Mendez Espana, S.L.
    Inventor: Garcia Martinez Marco
  • Patent number: 6357163
    Abstract: Methods of capture, recognition, detection, identification or quantitation of nucleic acids and diagnostics uses generally are described in which are used: (a) a peptide nucleic acid (PNA) comprising a polyamide backbone bearing a plurality of ligands at respective spaced locations along said backbone, said ligands being each independently naturally occurring nucleobases, non-naturally occurring nucleobases or nucleobase-binding groups, each said ligand being bound directly or indirectly to a nitrogen atom in said backbone, and said ligand bearing nitrogen atoms mainly being separated from one another in said backbone by from 4 to 8 intervening atoms; or (b) a nucleic acid analogue capable of hybridizing to a nucleic acid of complementary sequence to form a hybrid which is more stable against denaturation by heat than a hybrid between the conventional deoxyribonucleotide corresponding to said analogue and said nucleic acid; or (c) a nucleic acid analogue capable of hybridizing to a double stranded nucleic aci
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Inventors: Ole Buchardt, Michael Egholm, Peter E. Nielsen, Rolf H. Berg
  • Publication number: 20010032409
    Abstract: A finger release sling holder for a sling spear comprising a sling holder adapted to receive a spear shaft, said sling holder is notched to receive and hold the spear sling when tensioned until it is removed from the sling holder when ready to fire. The sling holder may be attached to the spear shaft in a variety of ways; however, once the sling holder is attached, the sling is placed therein. Now the sling spear is in a cocked position, allowing the user to lightly carry the weapon, making maneuvering through the water easier and more enjoyable. Once the prey is observed, the sling is removed from the holder and the holder is used as a handle improving the fisherman's ability to hold onto the spear during firing. Releasing grasp of the holder, while retaining the sling, allows the sling to propel the spear through the water towards the target.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2001
    Publication date: October 25, 2001
    Inventor: Harry Nicolai
  • Patent number: 6244261
    Abstract: A hand-held apparatus for projecting a line across an intermediate span includes a launching tube having one end connected to a source of propellant gas energy for launching a projectile, the other end forming an open muzzle adapted to receive and fire a line deploying projectile. The projectile is releasably attached to one end of the line attached to a source of line connected to the launch tube and containing a supply of line to be payed out during the flight of the projectile. An axially-mounted laser sighting device connected to the launch tube for sighting the tube in on a remote target for the projectile is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Inventor: David A. West, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6055761
    Abstract: A fish tag harpoon which contains a shock absorbing cap on the harpoon end, and contains a sonic signal-emitter secured by elastomeric bands to the harpoon, with the emitter secured by a line to a releasable retention dart at the end of the harpoon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: East Coast Tuna Association
    Inventor: William C. Chaprales
  • Patent number: 5943806
    Abstract: A shark gun injects a sharpened projectile into a predator and thereafter forces compressed gas into the predator. The shark gun is comprised of a compressed gas holding cylinder, a firing chamber having a plunger that bears the sharpened projectile and a valve that selectively permits the compressed gas to act on the plunger. A trigger actuates the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Inventor: John V. Underwood
  • Patent number: 5600914
    Abstract: A fish penetrating tool for killing fish which have been previously caught by the user. The tool has both an opened and a closed orientation. In its broadest context, the tool includes a handle with a hollow interior and a fish penetrating needle. The needle can be secured to the handle in a first sense with the needle extending outwardly from the handle and a second sense with the needle secured within the hollow interior of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1997
    Inventor: George E. Tatar
  • Patent number: 5570530
    Abstract: An arrowhead apparatus includes an elongate rigid cylindrical body formed with an arrow tip receiving bore directed through a forward end of the body, with the arrowhead body including a slot contained within the body, with the slot including a slot axle spaced from a forward end of the slot and wherein the axle pivotally mounts a plurality of blade members, wherein each blade member includes an abutment leg that is in abutment with a threaded boss of the arrow tip projecting into the slot in a first position, wherein the arrow boss is threadedly displaced from the slot in a second position permitting interfolding of the blades in an adjacency configuration relative to the body to permit ease of removal of the arrowhead relative to a game fish.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1996
    Inventor: Richard D. Lee
  • Patent number: 5566858
    Abstract: A compressed air safety gun for use underwater, having a handle and an elongate barrel extending therefrom, the handle including a valve therein being operable between open and closed position, by a trigger on the handle. A substantially flexible pneumatic hose connects at opposite ends between the handle and a pressurized air supply source for directing pressurized air flow to the valve in the handle, wherein operation of the trigger to open valve serves to direct the flow of pressurized air through the gun barrel and out from a distal end thereof. A coupling connectable to the distal end of the barrel is structured and disposed for attachment of various tools thereto, such as a nozzle for directing the flow of air from the barrel end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1996
    Inventor: Andrew L. Ducker, III
  • Patent number: 5553413
    Abstract: A device for bow fishing which renders less likely an arrow will pass completely through an impaled fish. A sliding-stop is oriented on an arrow shaft forward of a drawn, cocked bow. Upon contact with the fish, a pointed head of the arrow passes into the fish, pushing the sliding-stop rearward on the shaft of the arrow, ultimately contacting a fixed stop disposed at a trailing portion of the shaft. Fishing line connects the arrow to the bow to retrieve the fish impaled on the arrow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1996
    Inventor: Gregory T. Gannon
  • Patent number: 5499619
    Abstract: A gun for projecting a dart underwater to inject a gas into an underwater animal. The inventive device includes a gun body having a barrel projecting therefrom. A dart having a pressurized propellant is punctured by the gun and caused to exit the gun barrel. Upon striking a fish, the dart injects a volume of gas into the fish to disable and render buoyant the fish for capture. The device can be utilized for self defense, as well as for hunting and capturing of underwater animals and/or fish.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1996
    Inventor: Joseph A. Tarta
  • Patent number: 5482271
    Abstract: A human restraint or hobble includes an elongated rigid pole having a handle at one end and a clasp at the other end. The clasp is operative to provide a locking grip upon a targeted subject's appendage such as a hand or ankle and once locked thereon, provides secure attachment. In several embodiments, the clasp utilizes a plurality of inwardly extending tines on either side of a U-shaped or V-shaped channel which permit the easy attachment of the clasp while frustrating attempts to remove the clasp. Embodiments are shown utilizing both rigid and flexible tine arrangements. In a still further alternate embodiment, a trigger mechanism is operatively coupled to the tine which releases the tine upon touching the subject thereby locking the clasp to the subject's appendage. In a still further alternate embodiment, the clasp utilizes a pair of pivotally supported jaws together with a trigger release mechanism which provides swift closure of the jaws when the clasp is brought into contact with the user's appendage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1996
    Inventor: Dennis M. McNutt
  • Patent number: 5335439
    Abstract: An apparatus for spearfishing includes a fishing rod having a whip-like casting portion and a rigid handle section that secures a reel which holds a spirally wound line. The free extremity of the line is attached to a collar having a centered bore. A spear is slidably engaged by the bore of the collar. The spear includes a shaft having a barbed forward extremity, and a rearward extremity having stabilizing flights or feathers. Forward and rearward stops positioned on the shaft serve as abutments to limit sliding travel of the collar. The spear is intended to be cast forwardly, during which action the collar rests upon the forward stop. When the spear is retrieved, the collar rests against the rearward stop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1994
    Inventor: Randolph Horton
  • Patent number: 5243778
    Abstract: The removable spearpoint is spring loaded onto the ejector by a flexible and resilient split ring seated in an annular groove formed in the ejector. A tethering cable looped at either end to hold the spearpoint is looped over the ejector and passed through an intermediate support so as to be removably fixed to the pole, holds the spearpoint to the pole until removed by the operator and is removable from the fish by pulling the cable from the spearpoint and passing the loop remote from the spearpoint through the wound of the gigged fish.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1993
    Inventor: Frank S. Henley
  • Patent number: 5174057
    Abstract: A fish roping device, having a relatively U-shaped spring member with two arms, a rigid handle connected to the base section of the U-shaped spring member, a first arcuate member having a first end and a second end, the first arcuate member being pivotably connected near its second end to one arm of the spring member, a second arcuate member having a first end and a second end, the second arcuate member being pivotably connected near its second end to another arm of the spring member, a hinge for connecting together the second ends of the first and second arcuate members so that the arcuate members pivot relative to one another, the first and second arcuate members being movable between an open position in which the arms of the U-shaped member are pushed apart from a rest position, and a closed position which is entered when an impact is imparted on the hinge so that the arms of the U-shaped spring member return to the rest position, a rope having one end releasably connected to the first end of the first arc
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1992
    Inventor: Hans N. Sienel
  • Patent number: 5163242
    Abstract: A spear structure is defined by an elongate truncated conical body formed with a forward section and rear section intercommunicated by a frangible hollow sleeve arranged for separating the forward section relative to the rear section upon impact. A spring member directed through the sleeve and secured at its upper and lower distal ends to the forward and rear sections secures the forward and rear sections together upon such separation to preserve the rear section for reuse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1992
    Inventor: Daniel L. Smith
  • Patent number: 5119579
    Abstract: A fishing apparatus is provided wherein an archery bow mounting a fishing reel thereon includes a tether line of fishing string wound from the reel to an arrowhead member, wherein the arrowhead member is releasably mounted to a shaft for securement within a target fish for separation of the shaft to secure the fish permitting reeling in of the shaft, fish, and arrowhead assembly. A modification of the invention includes the arrowhead pivotally mounted to the shaft structure and a central shaft housing mounting an inflatable balloon member inflated to bring a target fish to the surface in a fishing situation for ease of sighting and retrieval of the fish.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1992
    Inventors: James W. Hullihen, James W. Hullihen, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5094464
    Abstract: A bowfishing arrow includes a nock assembly that is readily manipulated to allow for the quick removal and re-attachment to the rear end of the same or another arrow shaft. The nock assembly is provided with a forwardmost elongated plug insertable within a socket or bore within the rear of the arrow shaft while guidance and locking together of the components is achieved through a radial pin on the nock assembly plug engageable within a multi-directional slot arrangement. Short of achieving a fully assembled condition, a compressible member is engaged and thereafter produces a constant biasing force that in addition to assuring a rigid, rattle-free attachment, also maintains the components in a locked position. Removal of the nock assembly requires a positive forward displacement of the nock assembly relative the arrow shaft against the force of the compressible member prior to a compound angular and axial movement between the components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1992
    Inventor: John Musacchia, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5086749
    Abstract: An arrow gun and method for propelling arrows or harpoons in which the gun includes a compressed gas source such as compressed air or CO.sub.2, a handle and trigger arrangement, and a high pressure air passageway system for linking the barrel to the gas source to propel or discharge the arrow. The arrow or harpoon is hollow and is slid over the barrel of the gun so that the barrel guides the arrow upon firing. The air passageway system is responsive to the actuation of the trigger such that the gun when loaded is not subject to pressure build-up and thus avoids accidental discharge hazards. Arrows with or without fletching may be used and are held in place when loaded without latching or locking. Arrows without fletching are held in the loaded position by a gripping means arranged in the vicinity of the point where the barrel connects to the gun, while arrows with fletching are engaged in a shroud cover which surrounds the barrel at the gun handle end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1992
    Inventor: Glen Ekstrom
  • Patent number: 5058306
    Abstract: A fish roping device, having a relatively U-shaped spring member with two arms, a rigid handle connected to the base section of the U-shaped spring member, a first arcuate member having a first end and a second end, the first arcuate member being pivotably connected near its second end to one arm of the spring member, a second arcuate member having a first end and a second end, the second arcuate member being pivotably connected near its second end to another arm of the spring member, a hinge for connecting together the second ends of the first and second arcuate members so that the arcuate members pivot relative to one another, the first and second arcuate members being movable between an open position in which the arms of the U-shaped member are pushed apart from a rest position, and a closed position which is entered when an impact is imparted on the hinge so that the arms of the U-shaped spring member return to the rest position, a rope having one end releasably connected to the first end of the first arc
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1991
    Inventor: Hans N. Sienel
  • Patent number: 5048221
    Abstract: An apparatus for releasibly grasping objects has an elongated handle having a first end with a pair of grasping hands and a second end. Each hand has a stem end pivotally connected to the first end of the handle and a grasping end. Closer force means is operably connected to the handle and the grasping hands for selectively exerting a force tending to bring together the grasping ends of the grasping hands. Trigger means is operably connected to the grasping hands for selectively opposing the force means and holding the grasping ends of the grasping hands apart. The trigger means is responsive to contact with an object located between the grasping ends of the grasping hands to cease selectively opposing the force means and to permit the grasping ends to pivot rapidly toward each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1991
    Inventor: Vincent J. Kunkel
  • Patent number: 5033220
    Abstract: A metal arrowhead has a ferrule section for permanent attachment to the distal end of an arrow shaft and a point section selectively joined to the ferrule section. A spring catch assembly disposed in the ferrule section permits the point section to be quickly disconnected from the arrow shaft. Barbs on the point section captivate a fish and permit a tether line attached to the arrow to permit the fish to be landed. When the point section is removed from the shaft, the shaft may be pulled from the fish and the point section quickly re-attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1991
    Inventor: J. Gary Phelps
  • Patent number: 4982523
    Abstract: A novel spear-head and shank assembly for spearfishing small fish with a speargun or compound flashing bow wherein the spear-head is pivotally mounted to the shank. Cooperative engagement means on the proximal end of the spear-head and the distal end of the shank enables the spear-head to automatically release from a normal, striking position upon striking a fish and gathering in a cable attached to the spear such that the spear-head will pivot to assume a position which prevents the fish from withdrawing from the spear prematurely. The spear-head may be manually pivoted to a release position wherein the fish may be easily removed from the spear, and then back to its normal, striking position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 8, 1991
    Inventor: John B. Garton
  • Patent number: 4934089
    Abstract: A clamping device suitable for clamping objects such as large fish which includes clamps disposed in scissor-like fashion pivoting about a common point and biasing means such as a rubber band which biases the clamps in a normally closed position. A locking assembly is provided to releasably lock the clamps in an open position and which is released by contacting the clamps against the object to be clamped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 19, 1990
    Inventor: Robert Samar
  • Patent number: 4924619
    Abstract: An improved arrow tip with locking barb is shown. The tip is drilled by two spaced holes, and a spring wire is folded into four segments. A long segment is the wire barb, the next is a rotational portion for positioning in one of the holes and the last two segments position a lock tab in the second hole to assure positive barb locking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 15, 1990
    Inventor: Glen W. Dowell
  • Patent number: 4905397
    Abstract: A game or fish stop comprises a block of rubber-like material having a passage therethrough frictionally gripping an arrow shaft adjacent the point end. One embodiment includes a forward frustoconical face and a second embodiment includes a forward planar face. The passage includes an enlarged forward end at least as large as the arrow shaft and a substantially smaller rearward end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 6, 1990
    Assignee: Wade L. Grassedonio
    Inventor: James E. Juelg, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4901467
    Abstract: The invention is embodied in an arrow tip for use in bowfishing. The tip is comprised of a tip body having a bore in one end designed to receive the shaft of an arrow. The arrow is attached to the tip with a fixed non-rotative connection. The body has a threaded end opposite the bore, and a replaceable point is rotatably attached to the threaded end. A pivotable retainer or blade is held in a slot formed in the body, and the replaceable point is used to hold the blade in a plurality of positions, one being a fish retention position, and another being an arrow removal position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1990
    Inventor: Ritch A. Stolpe
  • Patent number: 4896450
    Abstract: An underwater spear assembly, including a shaft and a detachable sharpened tip, and an extension tip which is slidably attachable to the sharpened tip, a flexible cable attached between the extension tip and a releasable clamp slidably mounted on the shaft and which cable can be readily detached from the clamp to remove the spear tip assembly from a fish by pulling the free end of the cable through a hole in a fish made by the spear assembly. The clamp includes a 45.degree. angled inclined portion which provides a bending of the cable and the required tension on the cable to inhibit the tip from falling off the spear during firing thereof from a spear gun. The clamp includes a compression spring between the inclined portion and the sleeve so that the cable stop may be released upon movement of the inclined portion away from a passageway through a lateral flange of the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1990
    Assignee: Sea Search, Inc.
    Inventor: William H. Rogers
  • Patent number: 4890597
    Abstract: An arrow gun and method for propelling arrows or harpoons in which the gun includes a compressed gas source such as compressed air or CO.sub.2, a handle and trigger arrangement, and a high pressure air passageway system for linking the barrel to the gas source to propel or discharge the arrow. The arrow or harpoon is hollow and is slid over the barrel of the gun so that the barrel guides the arrow upon firing. The air passageway system is responsive to the actuation of the trigger such that the gun when loaded is not subject to pressure build-up and thus avoids accidental discharge hazards. Arrows with or without fletching may be used and are held in place when loaded without latching or locking. Arrows without fletching are held in the loaded position by a tapered seating gap arranged at the point where the barrel connects to the gun, while arrows with fletching are engaged in a shroud cover which surrounds the barrel at the gun handle end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1990
    Assignee: Swivel Machine Works, Inc.
    Inventor: Glen Ekstrom
  • Patent number: 4885862
    Abstract: A gaff for hooking a target such as a fish, an animal, or an object. In one embodiment the gaff has a handle, a hook, a spring mechanism connected to the hook, a tensioning device for stretching the spring, an automatic trigger actuable to release the spring and move the hook into the target, a manually actuable trigger, a safety device for preventing unwanted automatic actuation of the gaff, a weight scale and a fish scale. In other embodiments, gaffs according to this invention have one or more, but not all, of these aspects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1989
    Inventor: Timothy Thayer
  • Patent number: 4854067
    Abstract: A hydropneumatic harpoon has an arrow, a base and a body with a hydraulic chamber. In the rear end of the chamber is a pneumoaccumulator, the front of which rests against a rubber membrane whose front part is placed on a discharge grid while its rear part is mounted on a mobile barrel that is sealed by a rubber ring. Perpendicularly to the axis of the discharge grid is mounted a trigger valve. The barrel is connected through intermediate barrels with an attachment in which is placed a seal for the arrow. The arrow is composed of a basic stem and a point that are connected through one or more intermediate stems. The inner diameter of the barrel and those of the intermediate barrels are equal. The diameter of the basic stem and the diameters of the intermediate stems are also equal. A principal advantage of this harpoon is the ability to modify its length and thus to obtain a harpoon with a small, medium or large killing force when used in submarine fishing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1989
    Assignee: Stiemge
    Inventors: Kostadin G. Tersiev, Mitko V. Kamenov
  • Patent number: 4839979
    Abstract: A tip assembly for an underwater spear, the assembly including a shaft and a sharpened tip which is slidably disassemblable from the shaft, a flexible cable attached between the tip and shaft which can be readily detached from the shaft to remove the spear tip assembly from a fish by pulling the free end of the cable through a hole in a fish made by the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 20, 1989
    Assignee: Sea Search, Inc.
    Inventor: William H. Rogers
  • Patent number: 4823492
    Abstract: An expendable explosive accessory device to be placed on the forward tip of a spear for underwater fishing which includes a molded plastic outer tubular receiver having a forward closed end, a rearward open end, and an interior cavity to receive an explosive cartridge activated by a percussion cap in its base. An inner tubular receiver has a closed end positioned slidingly into the open end of the outer receiver behind the cartridge to waterproof seal the cartridge, and having an inner cavity adapted to receive the tip of a spear. A frictional ring means is provided to maintain all components in snug fitting relationship with each other and with the spear tip and a safety pin means is provided to prevent premature firing of the cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 25, 1989
    Assignee: Sea Search, Inc.
    Inventor: William H. Rogers
  • Patent number: 4819360
    Abstract: An arrowhead for attachment on an arrow shaft for use in bowfishing. The arrowhead includes a collar portion attachable to the shaft end and a point end that is threadedly received in the collar portion. The point end includes oppositely disposed, pivotally affixed barb vanes that include cam and flat edges for positioning the barb vanes in respective attack and quiver positions, and the barb vanes include a twisted wing tip end portion that functions to provide rotational motion to the arrow during flight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 11, 1989
    Inventor: Larry Thomas
  • Patent number: 4807382
    Abstract: An archery arrow is disclosed herein for use in shooting and catching fish which includes an elongated shaft having a notch on one end and pointed penetration member on the other end. The pointed member includes a multiple sided, tapered point detachably connected to a hook element carried on the end of the shaft. A pair of barbs forming the hook are pivotally carried on the hook element and terminate in a pointed flair. The hook element further includes a bendable portion useful in maintaining a caught fish hooked, and an arrow removal sleeve is provided for effecting release of a caught fish from the barbs of the hook.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1989
    Inventor: Larry Albrecht
  • Patent number: 4785568
    Abstract: A specific arrow for fishing in shore, the arrow is shot farther from shore by a bow for a good catch of fish. It provides a closed arrow sleeve tube connected to the body of an arrow and a ring is positioned at the front end of the closed arrow sleeve tube, the ring can spin relative to the closed arrow sleeve tube to prevent the body of the arrow from becoming entwined by fishline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1987
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1988
    Inventor: Anthonyo Wang
  • Patent number: 4774887
    Abstract: An underwater powerhead which consists of an outer barrel which houses an explosive cartridge. This powerhead slips over a pointed spear tip and is ready to use immediately. The point of the spear tip acts as a firing pin to activate or "fire" the cartridge. Upon impact with the fish, the cartridge explodes, enters the fish, and kills it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1987
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1988
    Inventor: Denise A. Frain