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The Retro Gun is a modernized take on a classic ‘80s big wave board—an accessible yet powerful step-up designed for tackling unruly surf with confidence and control. Originally shaped from Matt Biolos’ own personal templates from the late '80s, this "working man’s gun" blends traditional volume and rocker lines with updated construction and design refinements. It’s loved by professionals like Kolohe Andino and Luke Davis, yet designed with the everyday surfer in mind.
Built for surfers who typically ride high-volume hybrids or fish designs but need something dependable when the surf gets serious, the Retro Gun excels in big, bumpy, or windy conditions where control and confidence are key. A flatter deck and steep, full rails provide a solid platform, while the continuous vee bottom (with deep double concave through the tail) helps a larger board sit lower in the water and engage the rail without ever feeling sluggish.
The low entry rocker, paired with a beak nose and rolled vee, allows for easy paddling and early entry into waves, while the accelerated tail rocker provides responsiveness in critical moments. Built with a strong 4-ply redwood stringer, quad/thruster fin options, and resin-tinted 6+4oz glassing, it’s as durable as it is beautiful.
Key Features:
Low entry rocker, with a classic beak nose for paddle power and glide.
Rolled vee to double concave and tail rocker for control and rail-to-rail engagement.
Full, steep rails and flat deck reminiscent of ‘80s gun design, updated for modern performance.
Versatile fin setup (Thruster/Quad).
Durable glassing and stylish resin tints, with minimalist model-specific logos.
Pros:
* Excellent in big, open-ocean, or wind-affected conditions.
* High-volume shape without sacrificing performance.
* Easy paddle-in and early entry into waves.
* Suited for surfers who want more control in heavy surf without needing a long, narrow gun.
* Proven by both top-level pros and everyday riders alike.
Cons:
* May feel bulky or slow to surfers used to ultra-refined, modern step-ups.
* Not ideal for small, playful waves.
* Retro aesthetics may not appeal to purists of modern shortboard design.
Summary:
The Retro Gun is a no-nonsense, confidence-boosting big wave board built for the realities of imperfect conditions. It offers a throwback design with modern refinements, perfect for the surfer who usually rides high-volume boards but needs something more controlled when the waves turn on. While the pros love it, this board truly shines in the hands of the everyday surfer—offering paddle power, control, and style in heavy surf. In short: it’s a gun for the people.