Are you a person who loves doing your home improvement or repair projects without help?
If you answered yes, then you are not any different from me.
I too prefer to handle my improvement projects, the reason why I decided to research about staple guns. I have found these tools beneficial to me in a variety of ways since they help me tackle light-duty to heavy-duty tasks.
With a good staple gun, repairing cupboards, installing carpets, carpentry, and even decorating are usually straightforward tasks for me since I can handle my repairs fast, safely, and efficiently without having to spend a lot.
For this reason, I thought it would be valuable to share with you what I found out about staple guns, and better yet, provide the answers to the questions that most of us ask when trying to get the best staple gun.
Therefore, read on to discover these answers and avoid the struggle of making countless trips to and fro retail stores for replacements.
What is a Staple Gun?
The first question that we shall answer today is the real definition of a staple gun.
It is no doubt that guessing what a staple gun is quite simple, given that the name gives us an idea of what this is. Most of us are likely to guess that this is a device that works like a gun, only that it shoots staples, -which is quite okay.
However, what definition can we give a staple gun?
A staple gun also referred to as a powered stapler is a hand-held gadget used to drive heavy metal staples into wood, plastic, and even masonry.
This means that it is an essential tool for applications such as roofing, insulation, carpeting, wiring, among other home improvement projects.
As such, this is a tool that is worth having in your toolbox. After all, our homes are subject to occasional improvements and even repairs.
With that in mind, you will need to have an idea of the types of staple guns available for you to purchase. Hence, this leads us to the next question; What are the types of staple guns available on the market? Let’s find out.
Types of Staple Guns
Staple guns fall into three major categories (Source), and these are based on where they derive their power. These categories are:
- Manual staple gun
- Pneumatic staple gun
- Electric staple gun
1. Manual Staple Gun
As the name suggests, a manual staple gun is one that requires arm power to operate. While such a stapler seems disadvantageous due to causing a lot of fatigue, the staple gun also has its advantages.
For instance, you can take it anywhere considering that it does not require to be plugged for it to operate. This means that you will not have to deal with a cord, and better yet, you will not be limited to using it due to a power failure or a dead battery.
2. Pneumatic Staple Gun
Second is a pneumatic stapler. This device requires compressed air to operate. Unlike the manual type, they can enable you to handle long projects with an assurance of less fatigue. An air compressor is all that you will need, to get the gun ready to use.
3. Electric Staple Gun
Finally, we have the electric staple gun. This gun falls into two main categories, where we have the corded and uncorded type.
The corded staple gun needs to be plugged into an electrical outlet, while the uncorded requires a battery. The main advantage of this type is the ability to allow you to work for long hours with less fatigue.
Now that you have an idea of the available types of staple guns, why don’t we have a brief look at how staple guns work?
How Do I Use a Staple Gun?
The reason I love to use a staple gun is that you do not need a degree to use it. With any basic knowledge, you can be sure to use a staple gun and deliver the required results, whether it is air-operated, electric, or manual.
So, let’s have a look at the steps involved to operate a staple gun.
Determine The Item You Want to Staple, and Get Compatible Staples.
The essential part of operating powered staplers involves getting staples that are compatible with the type of the stapler.
After all, not all staples are compatible, and getting the wrong type will render the staple gun unhelpful. So, first determine what you want to staple since this will help you determine the appropriate size of the staples.
A quick tip to do this involves ensuring that the staple is wide enough to provide a secure hold, and ensuring that it is long enough to penetrate the top item. However, ensure that it is not too long to stick through the back of the second item.
Load The Staple Gun
Once you get compatible staples, it is now time to load the staple gun. Here, you will need to open the magazine and insert the staples into the staple tray.
When doing this, ensure that the electric stapler is unplugged or the pneumatic stapler is not connected to the air compressor. That will help you guarantee the safety of using the staple gun.
Connect The Staple Gun to The Source of Power
If you are using a pneumatic stapler, connect it to the air compressor valve. On the other hand, plug the staple gun into an electrical outlet if you will be using an electric staple gun.
Press The Gun on The Surface To Staple and Release The Trigger Lock.
This step applies to all types of staple guns. Here, you will be required to press the stapler against the surface you want to staple after which you will be required to release the trigger.
A point to note however is that you should not apply too much pressure when using a pneumatic stapler or an electric stapler.
Besides, you do not want the gun to get back to you due to much force. So, apply the necessary pressure when using the air and electric-powered staplers, and more when using the manual type.
Empty The Staples Tray and Store The Gun.
Repeat step 4 on all places you want to staple. Once the process is over, lock the trigger and unplug the electric or pneumatic staple gun. When this is done, empty the staples magazine and place the gun in the storage case.
Are Staple Guns Safe?
If I was to ask you this question on a personal basis, I believe that you could tell me that staple guns are safe. After all, these gadgets eliminate the accidents that result when you hit your fingers using a hammer, which definitely renders them safe.
However, how safe are powered staplers?
Like other powered tools, staple guns pose the threat of accidents when handled in the wrong way. As a matter of fact, they can be more disastrous while compared to a hammer, due to the force they use to drive the staples and nails, as in this case(Source).
Therefore, the answer to the safety question majorly depends on how you handle the gun. However, when you make use of the safety trigger mechanism and follow
the instructions to the letter, you can be sure to not only have a safe device, but one to eliminate fatigue and time wastage.
What are The Unique Features?
This is yet another puzzle that you will need to solve before deciding on the gun to buy.
After all, you will come across a range of staple guns all including different features, where you will be required to prioritize the features that you need. So, what should you look for in a powered stapler?
Here are the things to look for if you want to get the right staple gun.
1. Firing Depth Adjustment Feature
Are you in need of a staple gun that is applicable for different functions? If that is so, get a stapler with a firing depth adjustment feature.
Such a staple gun should let you increase or decrease the depth of the staples or nails, meaning that you can use it to fix materials with different lengths.
2. Air Exhaust Adjustment
Something else worth ensuring that your staple gun includes is an air exhaust adjustment designed to direct air away from the face.
So, to ensure that you can remain comfortable, ensure that you get a machine with this feature so that you can be sure to remain comfortable all through.
3. Power and Speed
How much power can the staple gun offer?
And, can it provide the speed that is required to get tough jobs accomplished?
A good staple gun ought to handle light duty and heavy duty tasks, especially where you have a lot of tasks to be handled. So, look for a pneumatic model that works at relatively high pressure.
On the other hand, opt for a manual stapler that does not require much force, yet one that can deliver the power to drive staples fast. That way, you can be sure to accomplish your projects fast and without a lot of effort.
4. Magazine Type and Capacity
Another feature that will let you determine the best stapler/nail gun is the magazine size/type. Here, you will want to get a stapler that features a magazine with a quick loading mechanism.
With such a stapler, you will not have to spend much time when you want to load or reload it with staples. Also, ensure that magazine features a large capacity so that it can hold a lot of staples as this reduces the need for refilling.
5. Service and Repair
Something else to help you get the right staple gun is obtaining that which is simple to service and repair. This means that it should be easy to get the repair parts and the better yet, a professional to repair it.
Therefore, get a staple gun that is not very complicated to work with, and also one that is compatible with readily available staples.
6. Other Features
Besides the features discussed above, there are other features that you will want your staple gun to incorporate. Some of these include a comfortable hand grip, lightweight design, durable structure, versatility/ compatibility with a variety of staples, among others. Therefore, do not forget to ensure that your staple gun includes such features too.
Now that you are in the light of what a staple gun is, the types, how to use one, and how to select the best, here are our best 15 picks. Have a look and be the one to determine the best, based on what we have just discussed.
Best Staple Gun For Upholstery
1. Porter-Cable US58 1/4-Inch to 5/8-Inch 22-Gauge C-Crown Upholstery Stapler
Starting off our list is the Portable-cable US58 upholstery stapler that requires a 70-120PSI air pressure for it to operate.
This means that it is compatible with most air compressors, making it a versatile stapler. More to that, the staple gun features a lightweight design so that it is comfortable to use and a steel top cap meant to enhance durability.
You can use the stapler with Senco type 22-gauge staples that are 1/4″ to 5/8″ long. In addition to that, you can use it when you want to staple in tight spaces due to the 1″ nose extension.
The stapler can hold up to 185 staples, in the bottom load magazine. As such, you can be sure that you will not be required to refill it frequently.
Once you get it, you should never worry about frequent jams due to the driver guide that moves back to help clear jams from the magazine. The stapler includes a rear exhaust port that channels air away from you so that it is comfortable to handle.
Pros
- A nose extension feature allows you to staple in tight spaces.
- A 70-120 operating pressure enhances versatility.
- Rear exhaust port helps to channel air from the user to enhance comfort.
Cons
- It does not include a trigger safety. Hence, this results in misfiring in due to an accidental trigger.
2. Stanley TR45K Light Duty Staple Gun Kit
For a staple gun that will meet every-day stapling needs, choose Stanley TR45K light duty staple gun kit. It is a lightweight gun that includes a convenient handle lock to enhance safe storage.
On top of that is a Quick-jam-clear mechanism so that you will not waste much time while working with it.
Due to the Chrome-plated steel construction, you can get it with an assurance of durability. Another pretty feature is its compatibility with Stanley TRA200 and Arrow JT-21 light duty staples. This means that it is ideal to handle a variety of stapling tasks.
Pros
- Handle lock enhances safe storage.
- Chrome-plated steel construction enhances durability.
- A lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver and use.
- Quick-jam-clear mechanism eliminates unnecessary time wastage.
3. Surebonder 9600B Pneumatic Heavy Duty Standard T50 Type Stapler
Our third pick is the Surebonder 9600B pneumatic stapler, which serves as the answer to a heavy-duty pneumatic stapler.
Its operating pressure ranges from 60psi to 100psi, while it uses narrow crown 18-gauge wire staples with a 5/16″, 17/32″, 3/8″ 1/2″ and 9/16″ length. As such, it is ideal when you need a stapler that can handle a variety of tasks.
What’s more, it is factory equipped with a male connector. This makes it easy to set up, while the included carrying case makes it easy to carry and store.
You can get the stapler when you want a safe performance, thanks to the reliable safety mechanism. In addition to that, it features a quick-release mechanism that holds up to 100 staples to enhance a fast loading and refilling.
Due to the convenient-view window on the staple gun, you can be sure to have an easy time tracking your staple supply.
The stapler is air-operated and highly recommended for upholstery projects. Besides upholstery, you can use it for small furniture repair, woodworking projects, light trim, crafting picture frames, carpet padding, finishing cabinet backs, among other projects.
Pros
- A safety mechanism prevents accidental firing.
- Quick-release magazine holds up to 100 staples to reduce the need for replenishment.
- Convenient-view window allows you to track the supply of the staples.
- Rubber grips and a well-balanced body to enhance comfort.
- An adjustable air exhaust allows you to direct air from yourself.
4. Stanley TR250 SharpShooter Plus Heavy-Duty Staple/Brad Nail Gun
If you want a staple gun that can be used as a cable tracker, brad nailer, or a wire tacker, this is the best product. It features an all-metal drive channel to guarantee better penetration.
On top of that is a Flush-nose design to help solve the problem of stapling in tight spots.
You can use the staple gun when you want to fix soft or hard materials, thanks to the high/low power level. Better yet, you can use it for a long time with an assurance of long-lasting durability due to the heavy-duty aircraft aluminum housing.
The nail gun is easy to use since it requires little force to squeeze, while it delivers more driving power. With it, staple identification shouldn’t be a difficult task due to the quick-view window that lets you see through. The stapler includes a lock-down handle to enhance safe storage.
What’s more is an easy-slide full staple load for easy staple loading and refilling. You can load the gun with Arrow T-50 heavy duty narrow crown staples or the Stanley SharpShooter TRA700 staples. The staples can either be 9/16″, 1/2″ or 5/8″ long.
Pros
- Flush-nose design makes it easy to staple in tight spots.
- Quick view window makes it easy to identify the staples.
- High/low power level for use with hard and soft materials.
- A lock-down handle enhances safe storage
- Heavy-duty aircraft aluminum housing enhances durability.
Cons
- It is a little stiff to trigger.
- The wire guide doesn’t lock into place.
5. Freeman PFWS Professional Fine Wire Stapler
If you need a stapler that will help to secure a roof, fix an upholstery gap or model craft projects, you will not go wrong once you get this stapler.
It uses a variety of 20-gauge staples ranging from 1/4″ to 9/16″. In addition to that, it is compatible with Generic fine wire staples and Arrow T50 staples. Hence, it is a perfect choice when you need a versatile tool.
Something else about the stapler is that it serves as an answer for those who need a lightweight and durable stapler. This is due to the anodized aluminum cylinder and magazine that not only makes it lightweight but also durable.
Better yet, it is an excellent choice when safety is concerned. This is due to the work contact element that helps to prevent accidental fires. You can get the stapler when you need to handle long projects since it holds up to 100 staples to reduce the need for refilling.
The stapler features a non-marring tip meant to protect work surfaces from scratches. On top of that is an ergonomically engineered body, and a 360-degree adjustable exhaust to enhance comfort. The stapler uses a compressor that adopts a 60-100PSI pressure.
Pros
- An anodized aluminum cylinder and magazine enhances durability.
- Staples loads easily, while the stapler uses a variety of staple length.
- Work contact element prevents accidental fires.
Cons
- It tends to jam but not regularly.
6. Fasco 11081F F1B 50-16 1/2-inch Crown 20 Gauge Duo-Fast 50 Series Upholstery Stapler
At only 2.5 pounds, this is a lightweight stapler that allows you to handle it with ease. It accepts staples that are similar to Duo-Fast 50 series, -those with a 1/4″ to 5/8″ leg length.
More to that, it features a bottom load magazine design. As such, it provides convenience and speed when you want to load, reload, or clear a jam.
You can use the stapler for upholstery or industrial operations, thanks to its design meant to deliver European reliability, power, and refinement.
Pros
- The stapler is small, yet it holds a lot of staples.
- It is easy to handle, and it runs smoothly.
- A rubber grip and a light aluminum housing enhance comfort.
Cons
- The safety tab takes some time before one gets used to it.
https://youtu.be/qSnbaIOgedQ
7. Surebonder Pneumatic 22G Narrow Crown Upholstery Staple Gun
Another product from Surebonder is the Pneumatic 22G Narrow Crown Upholstery Staple Gun that takes the seventh position in our ranking.
It features a design meant to guarantee safety, customer confidence, and peace of mind. The gun uses the 3/8” 5/16” 7/16”, 1/2” and the 5/8” leg length staples.
Better yet, it supports a pressure operation ranging from 60PSI to 100PSI. Therefore, you can get it when you need a stapler for use in a variety of projects.
Something else that makes this gun worthwhile is its trigger safety mechanism. This helps to prevent accidental firing, as such giving an assurance of handling your tasks with peace of mind.
The staple gun adopts a quick release magazine to enhance easy loading. Therefore, it is a perfect choice when you need to handle projects fast. Once you get this product, you will need an air compressor which you should purchase differently.
Pros
- Rubber grip enhances comfort.
- Quick release magazine makes it easy to load.
- A safety latch prevents the trigger from engaging when it is in the safety position.
- Compatibility with 3/8” 5/16” 7/16”, 1/2” and the 5/8” leg length staples enhances versatility.
Cons
- It does not include any staples.
- Gun is not perfect for heavy-duty tasks.
- The unit does not feature a pressure safety mechanism that prevents it from shooting when it is not pressed on anything.
Best Electric Staple Gun
8. Duo-Fast ENC-5418A Electric Stapler
With an urge to install carpets, assemble picture frames, or fix upholstery, you will find the Duo-Fast ENC-5418A Electric Stapler very helpful.
It features a compact, lightweight, and ergonomic design making it a perfect choice for long projects. More to that is a low tool height so that it is easy to use when you want to lay carpets on stairs.
Due to the included durable nickel-plated bottom loading magazine, you can get the stapler with an assurance that it will provide a long service life.
The magazine can hold up to 84 staples to reduce the urge of refilling. Some of the compatible staple sizes are the 3/18″, 9/16″, or 1/2″ length staples.
The stapler is a perfect choice for cold weather tasks, thanks to the power cord that remains flexible even in the cold. Also, it is powerful due to the 14AWG cord that allows for more power. With it, you can get the benefit of easy stapling placements due to the nose extension feature.
Pros
- Ergonomic design enhances an easy one-hand operation.
- The stapler includes a nose extension for easy stapling placements.
- Its magazine is nickel-plated for more prolonged use.
- The 14AWG cord remains flexible in cold weather.
- The stapler is easy to set up and load.
- Package includes a carry case and 5000 staples.
9. Roberts Model 10-600, 120-Volt, 15-Amp, Professional Electric Stapler
Perhaps you need an electric stapler that will help you get the job done in tight spaces. If that’s the case, Robert’s model electric stapler is a great choice.
It features a 6-3/4″ low profile head that allows you to staple in tight spaces, mainly the stairs. The stapler uses 9/16″ 20-gauge staples with 3/16″ crowns, where it holds up to 85 staples at a go.
It features a 15-Amp drive solenoid so that it can deliver reliable and operation. On top of that, it includes a quick-release bottom loading magazine so that you can have the assurance of fast loading.
You can use the stapler to secure a variety of flooring types including carpeting.
In addition to that, you can use it for long hours, thanks to the ergonomic non-slip rubber grip handle that enhances maximum comfort.
The unit comes with a large molded plastic case that features room for a box of staples. Therefore, you can get it when you need a portable stapler.
Pros
- 15-Amp drive solenoid enhances reliable operation.
- Quick-release bottom loading magazine enhances fast loading.
- An ergonomic non-slip rubber-grip handle for maximum comfort.
- Low profile head for stapling in tight spaces.
- It is stylish and fires quickly.
Cons
- Stapler accepts only one size of staples.
- Finding compatible staples is difficult.
10. Stanley TRE550Z Electric Staple/Brad Nail Gun
The answer to a heavy-duty electric stapler is Stanley TRE550Z. It features a heavy-duty design meant to deliver an outstanding driving power. More to that is a unique driving power lever so that you can use it with hard and soft materials.
Due to its Quick-jam-clear mechanism, you can get the stapler with an assurance that it will help save some time.
Better yet, you can get it when you need a brad nail gun for use in tight spots due to the flush nose design. The stapler is suitable for use in a variety of projects since it is compatible with 9/16″, 1/2″, and 5/8″ staples.
Its grip features a countered design to allow you to use it for long, and still benefit from extra comfort. You can load and reload the stapler fast and with ease, thanks to the low-brad indicator window that allows you to see through.
Pros
- Heavy-duty design delivers an outstanding driving power.
- A Quick-jam-clear mechanism enhances smooth stapling and time-saving.
- Gun includes 1,000 staples and a handy storage case
- Safety feature needs you to hold the stapler at the correct angle and pressure so that it can engage.
- A countered grip design enhances comfort.
- Low-brad indicator window lets you see through when loading staples.
Cons
- The stapler is quite hard to drive.
- The handle can pinch your skin if your hand rides up too high while pushing the gun against the surface you’re stapling.
11. Makita XTS01Z 18V LXT Crown Stapler
When you are in need of a cordless stapler, I would love to recommend Makita XTS01Z 18V LXT Crown Stapler. It is a lithium-ion cordless 3/8″ crown stapler that drives the 5/8”, 3/8”, 7/8” 3/4”, 1/4”, 1/2”, and 9/16”, length staples.
The staple gun can also use Arrow T50 type of staples, making it a perfect choice for a versatile stapler.
You can get the stapler when you need a staple gun for use over long projects. This is due to the lightweight design that aids in reducing operator fatigue, and the soft grip that enhances comfort.
Better yet, the stapler features a spring-loaded driving mechanism to enhance compactness.
What’s more? There’s is an easy-to-use depth control setting that can be adjusted with a single knob. Hence, you can use the stapler on soft and hard surfaces with an assurance of handling your projects with ease.
Another benefit of the stapler is a rugged aluminum magazine. This enhances durability and smooth loading/feeding of staples.
More to that is a convenient window on the magazine to show the number of remaining staples. You can take the stapler wherever you wish, thanks to the lightweight design and the compact size.
In addition to that, the unit features an ergonomic shape that fits like a glove with even pressure to enhance comfort.
Pros
- Lightweight design helps to reduce operator fatigue.
- Soft grip and ergonomic shape enhance comfort.
- Rugged aluminum magazine enhances durability and a smooth loading/feeding of staples.
- A convenient window on the magazine displays the number of staples remaining.
Cons
- Stapler doesn’t come with a case.
- The safety tip needs to be depressed so that it can shoot.
12. WEN 61720 3/4-Inch to 2-Inch 18-Gauge Brad Nailer
Are you searching for a pneumatic brad nailer that will serve as a perfect companion for any job? If so, I would want to recommend this nailer.
At only 3-pounds, it is a perfect product when you need a lightweight brad nailer to handle large projects. In addition to that, it features an aluminum body coupled with a comfortable grip so that it is comfortable to use.
Another plus is the brad nailer’s ability to shoot brads that are 3/4″ to 2″. Therefore, it is an excellent choice when you need a nailer that will allow you handle a variety of projects.
Better yet, it features a spacious magazine that can hold up to 100 brads at once. This assures you that you will not need to refill it soon.
You can operate the nailer at a pressure ranging from 60PSI to 100PSI. When using it, you do not have to worry about jamming, thanks to the quick-release design that enhances fast jam clearing. The gun includes a custom carrying case to enhance convenient storage between jobs.
Pros
- Light aluminum body reduces operator fatigue.
- Comfortable rubber grip enhances comfort.
- Quick release magazine enhances fast jam clearing.
- Depth adjustment wheel allows for customization of the depth of the fired nails.
- A carry case for convenient storage and carrying.
Cons
- Instructions to not give a hint about loading brad nails. Therefore, the loading/unloading procedure can be confusing.
13. Fasco 3G Electric Stapler by Maestri
With an ability to shoot 3G, 7C, and 71 series 3/8″ up to 5/8″ crown staples, this is the stapler to get when you want one to handle a variety of tasks. It is a portable electric stapler that comes with a hard case to enhance ease of carrying.
Pros
- Ability to shoots 3G, 7C, and 71 series crown staples enhances versatility.
- It includes a hard case for carrying and storage.
- Lightweight and easy to use.
14. Hitachi N5024A2 1″ Wide Crown Stapler
Benefit from; comfort, easy maneuverability, and reduced user fatigue once you get this stapler. It features a 4.7-pound weight and a rubber comfort grip so that it is lightweight and comfortable to hold for long.
More to that is a quick-clear nose with a tool-less jam release and an open magazine. With these, you can handle your stapling tasks fast and with fewer distractions -if any.
When using this stapler, you can observe the number of staples remaining through the open magazine that allows you to see through. In addition to that, you do not have to refill the stapler rapidly, due to its ability to hold up to 157 staples at a time.
The stapler features a durable aluminum die-casting cylinder valve firing mechanism and a top load magazine that features a plastic and stainless steel plating.
As such, it is a perfect choice when you need a durable stapler. On top of that, it is a tool-less depth adjustment so that it is easy to make quick changes, and better yet, drive a variety of materials.
You can use the stapler in a variety of applications including wire lathing and insulation sheathing. The tool features a 70PSI-120PSI operating pressure.
Pros
- Cylinder valve firing mechanism for rapid driving and quick response.
- Lightweight design and rubber grip enhance easy maneuverability and reduced operator fatigue.
- Stainless steel-plated magazine and a durable aluminum die-casting cylinder valve firing mechanism to enhance durability.
- A high capacity magazine holds up to 157 staples to reduce replenishments.
- Tool-less depth adjustment and tool-less jam release for quick changes and reduced downtime.
Cons
- It is a little bit pricey but worth the cost.
- The stapler is not compatible with most staple brands.
15. Bea 71/16-401 Fine Wire 22-Gauge Stapler
Concluding our list is Bea’s 22-gauge stapler. It holds up to 71 series staples, making it an excellent choice when you don’t want to keep replenishing. The stapler accepts Secro C style staples, and it is suited for use as an upholstery stapler.
Pros
- Solid heavy-duty construction for durability.
- The stapler can hold regular upholstery staples.
- The stapler includes an extended tip for use in hard-to-reach areas.
- Light and compact design enhance maneuverability and portability.
My Favorite Is…
The Porter-Cable US58 1/4-Inch to 5/8-Inch 22-Gauge C-Crown Upholstery Stapler. It is a pneumatic stapler that requires an operating pressure of 70 to 120PSI. Therefore, it can perform most light and heavy-duty tasks.
Asides from that, the gun is compatible with staples that are 1/4″ to 5/8″ long so that it can secure a variety of things to place. Better yet, it features a 1″ nose extension to enable you to staple into tight spaces.
Frequent jams are not an issue when it comes to this device due to the included driver guide. It includes a rear exhauster port to help channel air from you, as such providing a comfortable experience.
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