Encyclopedia

of Home Improvements

*Staple Guns*

Staple guns may be driven by muscle power, electricity, or compressed air. Power staple guns can set staples at a somewhat quicker rate than hand-powered models, but their main advantage is that they can be used continuously for hours with comparatively little fatigue.

Some staple guns have a long nose that allows the staples to be applied into recessed corners. The "forward action" staple gun has a handle that points toward the trigger end - in the opposite direction of the traditional staple gun. These tools are easier to squeeze and better place pressure at the front of the tool where the staple is ejected. For the best penetration of the staple, raise the rear of the gun slightly off the work and put pressure on the front end to prevent recoil when operating.

If the wood is very hard and the staple is not driven flush, load your staple gun with a shorter staple. A shorter staple will hold better in hardwood than a longer staple in a soft wood.

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