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Staple guns can be just the tools for jobs where a nail gun would be overkill. Staples can penetrate and fasten weaker materials like plywood, sheathing, screen, or fabric without tearing it apart. Whether you’re hanging outdoor holiday decorations, installing house wrap, laying carpet, or mounting delicate moldings, a staple gun can be indispensable for plenty of projects.
To help you choose the right model for your job, we performed hands-on testing with several top options. We also spoke to licensed contractor and owner of Blue Rise Roofing, Yaeir Moinzadeh, to get an expert’s opinion on using these tools.
Based on our tests and research, we voted the DeWalt Heavy-Duty Staple and Brad Tacker the best choice overall. It’s easy to load and boasts a lightweight yet quality build that can withstand frequent DIY or jobsite use. Still, several other options performed admirably and may be better suited to your specific needs. From standard manual models to high-powered pneumatic tools, these are some of the best staple guns for a variety of tasks.
- BEST OVERALL: DeWalt Heavy-Duty Staple and Brad Tacker
↓ Jump to Review - BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Arrow T50 Heavy-Duty Staple Gun
↓ Jump to Review - UPGRADE PICK: Stanley Heavy-Duty Steel Staple Gun
↓ Jump to Review - BEST ELECTRIC: DeWalt Heavy-Duty Electric 5-in-1 Multi-Tacker
↓ Jump to Review - BEST PNEUMATIC: Arrow PT50 Pneumatic Staple Gun
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR FINISH WORK: Bostitch 18-Gauge Pneumatic Finish Stapler Kit
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR CONSTRUCTION: Senco SNS41 2-Inch Construction Stapler
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR UPHOLSTERY: Porter-Cable 22-Gauge ⅜-Inch Upholstery Stapler
↓ Jump to Review
| Testing Stats | |
| Products tested | 8 |
| Hours/Weeks/Time spent testing | 8 hours |
| Tests performed | 6 |
| Price range | $20 to $200 |
Our Top Picks
Choosing the right staple gun might seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Below, we detail our test results and provide additional insights to help you select the right model.
Best Overall
DeWalt Heavy-Duty Staple and Brad Tacker
Product Specs
- Type: Manual
- Gauge: T50, 18
- Weight: 1.8 pounds
What We Like
- Lightweight yet durable for frequent use
- Suitable for heavy-duty projects and construction
- Easy to load compared to other staple guns
- Features a built-in viewing window
What We Don’t Like
- Works best with softer woods
When it comes to manual options, our choice for the best overall is Dewalt’s heavy-duty staple and brad tacker. This nailer fires standard T50 staples and 18-gauge brads, providing flexibility for many fastening projects. While its aluminum construction makes it a lightweight tool, we found it to be quite durable in our tests.
We also liked how easy it is to load staples for our tests, though we did struggle at first to figure out how to load the brads. Once loaded, however, this model drove them through moldings with ease. Its built-in view window made it easy to see when our fasteners were getting low, and the tacker’s attached belt clip was very sturdy.
What our tester says: “This model packed more punch than any other manual model. When I fired the longest staples the gun would hold into construction lumber, it resulted in a near-flush penetration. Also, compared to other options, this DeWalt’s build quality really stood out.”—Tom Scalisi, Product Reviews tester & writer
Read our full review: DeWalt Heavy-Duty Staple and Brad Tacker
Get the DeWalt staple gun at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Best Bang for the Buck
Arrow T50 Heavy-Duty Staple Gun
Product Specs
- Type: Manual
- Gauge: T50
- Weight: 1.96 pounds
What We Like
- Durable, all-steel construction
- Suitable for DIY or light professional use
- Affordable price point
What We Don’t Like
- Can be difficult to squeeze and load
DIYers looking for a value-forward staple gun with enough power to tackle most projects should check out Arrow’s heavy-duty staple gun. This manual model features chrome-polished, all-steel construction that’s both durable and rust-resistant. It shoots T50 staples and is useful for stapling house wrap, upholstery, signage, and more.
Testing revealed that this manual staple gun had decent power, though it was not the most powerful in the group. We liked its classic design and heavy-duty steel construction, but it was sometimes difficult to squeeze. It was also a little finicky to load, but at its very reasonable price tag, a couple of minor inconveniences aren’t enough to deter us from endorsing this option.
Get the Arrow T50 staple gun at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Walmart.
Upgrade Pick
Stanley Heavy-Duty Steel Staple Gun
Product Specs
- Type: Manual
- Gauge: T50
- Weight: 2.03 pounds
What We Like
- Ideal for DIYers and professionals
- Strong chrome-plated steel construction
- Features a jam-clear mechanism and handle lock
What We Don’t Like
- Staples are not included with purchase
Stanley’s steel staple gun will be a reliable, lightweight tool for any homeowner or DIYer, yet it’s also strong and well-made enough for use on a jobsite. Though it’s still a manual option, it has upgraded features like a convenient handle lock for safety and a jam-clear mechanism for consistently effective use.
The Stanley is constructed with chrome-plated steel, making it a suitable staple gun for wood, upholstery, plastics, and more. It accepts full-stick bottom-loading and holds T50 heavy-duty staples between ¼ and 9/16 inches. The only downside users should be aware of is that they’ll need to purchase staples separately before using this gun.
Get the Stanley staple gun at Amazon, Tractor Supply Co., Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, or Walmart.
Best Electric
DeWalt Heavy-Duty Electric 5-in-1 Multi-Tacker
Product Specs
- Type: Electric
- Gauge: 18
- Weight: 3 pounds
What We Like
- Electric functionality is ideal for extended use
- Comfortable rubber grip prevents hand strain
- Wire guide increases tacking accuracy
What We Don’t Like
- Slightly heavier than comparable options
The DeWalt 5-in-1 multi-tacker is the only electric staple gun to make our list. It can fire several sizes and styles of fasteners, including T50s and brad nails, and has a comfortable rubber grip. It also features an on/off switch for safety and a power regulator that makes it a great woodworking stapler.
DeWalt’s multi-tacker is a surprisingly affordable electric staple gun, given its ability to switch between staple styles and brads. This makes it a strong contender for homeowners looking to streamline tool purchases, as it can take the place of separate tools. It also includes a wire guide for safely stapling electrical wire in place—a handy feature for any job requiring even a little bit of wiring.
What our tester says: In our tests of the best brad nailers, staff writer and product tester Glenda Taylor notes, “The tool doesn’t feature a jam release, but it doesn’t need one—the brads and staples it shoots are short enough to access by dropping open the magazine and reaching in with a pair of needle-nose pliers. We fired the short brads into hard and soft wood and didn’t experience any jams.”
Get the Dewalt heavy-duty staple gun at Amazon, Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, or Blain’s Farm & Fleet.
Best Pneumatic
Arrow PT50 Pneumatic Staple Gun
Product Specs
- Type: Pneumatic
- Gauge: T50
- Weight: 1.57 pounds
What We Like
- Pneumatic firing is fast and effective
- Overmolded grip is comfortable during long projects
- Bump firing mechanism operates at up to 120 PSI
- Easy-load magazine enables quick fastener changes
What We Don’t Like
- Air compressor required for use
- Larger in size than comparable options
For those needing a substantial and heavy-duty staple gun for frequent or large-scale projects, the Arrow PT50 pneumatic staple gun might be a perfect fit. Though its bigger body makes it less portable than other options we tested, the PT50 is only 1.57 pounds, and its overmolded grip provides increased comfort during use.
This pneumatic model is also narrow enough to get into hard-to-reach areas, and its bump firing delivers quick stapling when paired with air compressors of up to 120 PSI. For added ease of use, it features an easy-load magazine for multiple sizes of T50 staples and an exhaust cover for quick reloading and safety. Plus, the fact that this model doesn’t need oil made it so much easier to test and use.
Get the Arrow staple gun at Amazon, Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, or Walmart.
Best for Finish Work
Bostitch 18-Gauge Pneumatic Finish Stapler Kit
Product Specs
- Type: Pneumatic
- Gauge: 18
- Weight: 3 pounds
What We Like
- Tool-free depth adjustment for safety and reliability
- Offers both sequential and contact firing depending
- Universal belt clip is perfect for construction work
What We Don’t Like
- Plastic components may not stand up to extended use
Anyone considering switching to staples for their finish work should check out this 18-gauge finish stapler from Bostitch. This heavy-duty pneumatic gun features a tool-free depth adjustment and an overmolded grip for comfort. Plus, it can switch from sequential to contact firing easily and works with 18-gauge staples ranging in size from ½ to 1½ inches. It comes with a handy carrying case to keep it safe when not in use and a universal belt clip that attaches to either side of the stapler.
We really liked how easy it was to position the tip of this tool in place, and we noticed how accurate our staple placement was as a result (which is very important in finish work). The staple holes this tool left behind were small and clean, allowing us to come behind with a bit of nail hole filler for a seamless finish. If we did have a complaint, it’s that this model is constructed using a fair bit of plastic. For that reason, it might be better suited to a DIYer than to the heavy-duty needs of a professional finish carpenter.
What our tester says: “The Bostitch passed all of our tests without breaking a sweat. I also found it very intuitive to use, and its built-in belt hook is a nice touch.”
Get the Bostitch staple gun at Amazon or Walmart.
Best for Construction
Senco SNS41 2-Inch Construction Stapler
Product Specs
- Type: Pneumatic
- Gauge: 16 and 17
- Weight: 4.6 pounds
What We Like
- Convenient 360-degree adjustable exhaust port
- Suitable for heavy-duty use
- Holds ample staples for added convenience
What We Don’t Like
- Heavier than comparable options
Senco’s construction stapler is a pro-grade model capable of firing 16- or 17-gauge staples up to 2 inches in length. It has an overmolded rubber grip for comfort and a 360-degree adjustable exhaust port that makes it easier to keep the target area clean.
It was obvious to us during testing that the Senco is a heavy-duty tool geared toward jobsite use. The powerful staple gun easily fired staples through plywood and construction lumber, creating a strong mechanical bond that was difficult to break. It also has a large capacity that holds more than two sticks of 16-gauge staples at a time. Also, we liked that the magazine doesn’t cover the staples, as we could always tell how many staples were left as we worked.
The Senco staple gun isn’t perfect, though. It doesn’t come with a hose fitting (you’ll need a ⅜-inch male fitting), and it did double-fire from time to time. That’s not a big deal with sheathing, but it could be an issue when installing fence slats or other visible work.
Get the Senco staple gun at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Best for Upholstery
Porter-Cable 22-Gauge ⅜-Inch Upholstery Stapler
Product Specs
- Type: Pneumatic
- Gauge: 22
- Weight: 2 pounds
What We Like
- Compact, lightweight design
- 1-inch nose extension offers added convenience
- Driver guide increases accuracy when stapling upholstery and other fabrics
- Compatible with air compressors of between 70 and 120 PSI
What We Don’t Like
- Doesn’t come with a storage case
Whether you are repairing furniture or building an outdoor pergola, this Porter-Cable b is an excellent option. With its 22-gauge design, the pneumatic tool can reliably secure any type of upholstery to any type of wood without issue. Plus, it has an easy-to-refill bottom-load magazine that stores 185 staples.
This small, lightweight staple gun is also easy to hold while tackling hard-to-reach areas. We found that its 1-inch nose extension delivered deep piercing, and its driver guide makes it easy to clear jams as needed. It requires an air compressor for use and is compatible with options between 70 and 120 PSI.
Get the Porter-Cable staple gun at Acme Tools.
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Tested the Best Staple Guns
I spent years working as a commercial maintenance technician and carpenter and have fired my fair share of staples. Based on my extensive experience in mind, I came up with real-life methods to challenge each type of staple gun I tested.
For the manual staple guns, I loaded each with the same T50 staples before firing them into a piece of scrap Douglas fir construction lumber. I evaluated the depth at which the guns drove the staples to judge their power. Then, I took a piece of scrap leather and stapled it to the lumber with each gun to further test staple penetration.
For the finish staplers, I used a similar method that employed 18-gauge fasteners, attaching a section of chair-rail molding to a piece of Douglas fir. I stapled in multiple locations to see how well the fasteners would penetrate cracks and knots. To test construction staplers, I used a scrap of ¾-inch plywood and construction lumber. I fired several staples as I would when sheathing a house, checking on the performance every few staples.
What to Consider When Choosing a Staple Gun
With the huge variety of staple guns available, it’s smart to get an idea of what to look for before shopping for a staple gun. The following sections highlight some of the most important considerations to keep in mind when hunting for the right staple gun.
Types of Staple Guns
Before you choose a staple gun for your project, evaluate which type of staple gun you need. The types of staple guns to choose from include:
- Manual staple guns: Handheld, spring-loaded manual staple guns fire staples when their levers are depressed. These simple tools are perfect for tasks like hanging outdoor string lights, making crafts, and performing DIY projects.
- Electric staple guns: A plug-in or battery-powered staple gun uses electricity to fire staples. These models are easy on the arm, so they’re well suited for carpet or upholstery jobs that require firing large numbers of staples. A cordless staple gun that uses a battery will be particularly convenient for moving from job to job.
- Pneumatic staple guns: These staple guns use air pressure to fire thick, heavy-gauge staples into framing materials and moldings. “Pneumatic staplers are 5 times faster than manual staplers, as they can fire up to 60 staples per minute,” says Yaeir Moinzadeh, licensed contractor and roofer.
- Flooring staple guns: Typically an air-operated staple gun, this type of professional gun fires staples into the tongue of a hardwood plank when struck with a mallet. Some versions of flooring staple guns are spring-loaded only.
Staple Gauges and Sizes
Staple thickness is identified by gauge; the lower the number, the thicker the staple. Common gauge sizes for all-purpose staple guns are 16, 18, and 20, while a staple gun for upholstery might fire 22-gauge staples. Staple guns also fire various widths and lengths of fasteners, with widths typically ranging from 7/32-inch to 7/16-inch and lengths extending up to 2 inches. An industrial staple gun may use staples outside these typical ranges.
“T50” is also a common staple type for many staple guns. This type of staple is a trademark of Arrow Fastener, and other manufacturers have designed their staple guns to operate using them. T50s are somewhat of the gold standard in staples.
Electric vs. Pneumatic
Manual staple guns will always be useful for a wide range of projects. However, they are not always the best option for heavy-duty work. A staple gun with a power source, whether electric or pneumatic, might be best when firing numerous staples or stapling through thicker materials.
When it comes to choosing between an electric and a pneumatic gun, there are reasons to consider both. Pneumatic staple guns tend to be the most powerful, sinking staples deep into tough materials. Their downside is that they require an air compressor to run. On the other hand, electric staplers simply plug into an outlet, but they pack less of a punch. If light-duty work is all that’s required or you don’t own an air compressor, an electric model may be the best staple gun for the job.
Safety Features
Since staple guns can cause serious damage if used incorrectly, some brands take precautions by including useful safety features. One of the most popular staple gun safety features is a rubber-grip handle that makes maneuvering and holding the tool more secure. Some staple gun models also include a wire guide for precise stapling during wiring projects and a handle lock to prevent unwanted stapling while working or storing.
Comfort and Ease of Use
One of the complaints about manual staple guns is discomfort. Some users with smaller hands or weaker grips find these tools awkward to hold or difficult to squeeze. In this case, an electric or pneumatic staple gun may be a better choice. These types of tools simply require users to depress the safety mechanism at the tip while pulling the trigger with one finger.
But it’s entirely possible for those with smaller hands to fire a manual staple gun. Most of these models have large lever-style triggers that sit in the user’s palm. All the user has to do is push the lever with their body weight.
Tips for Using a Staple Gun
Staple guns are reliable tools for tasks like wiring, DIY projects, and installing roofing. All that’s really required to use one is understanding how to reload a staple gun and how it fires. Read the manufacturer’s instructions before loading a staple gun or using one, as functionality may differ from model to model.
You will also want to wear a few pieces of protective clothing while using a staple gun, including gloves, safety glasses, and puncture-resistant footwear. Yaeir Moinzadeh, owner of Blue Rise Roofing, echoes this advice, noting, “When you are operating a staple gun, always use eye protection. This is mandatory when working with pneumatic models.” Also, ensure all the components are working properly and that there are no jammed staples in the mechanism.
Additional tips for using a staple gun safely are as follows:
- Never point a staple gun at yourself or anyone else around you.
- Do not use a staple gun as a substitute for tasks a hammer, screwdriver, drill, or nail gun is meant for. (See our guide on how to use a nail gun for more information.)
- When using a pneumatic model, always pair it with an air compressor that has a compatible PSI.
FAQs
Even with all that background on choosing a staple gun, some additional questions you’d like to sort through might pop up. The following collection of frequently asked questions aims to answer common staple gun queries.
Since they’re powerful enough to drive staples into hard materials, pneumatic staple guns tend to be best for wood. Several of the staple guns we tested would be good choices, including the Arrow PT50 Pneumatic Staple Gun, Senco SNS41 2-Inch Construction Stapler, or Porter-Cable 22-Gauge ⅜-Inch Upholstery Stapler.
You can, but make sure you use long enough staples to make it through the pile and that the staple gun has enough power to drive them into the wood. Otherwise, loose staples will find their way into bare feet. See our guide on how to install carpet for more information.
Construction staplers are definitely the most powerful. These models pack enough punch to fire thick, heavy-gauge staples into construction lumber.
The size and type of staples required for your staple gun will depend on its brand and model. To determine what staple size you need, check the tool’s packaging or contact its manufacturer.
The average staple gun can hold up to 210 staples.
The basic difference between a staple gun and a nail gun is that a staple gun fires staples, whereas a nail gun fires nails. Staple guns are often better used for lighter-duty projects or applications where a wider fastener would be ideal. Nail guns are typically geared toward heavy-duty tasks involving wood or construction. Yaeir Moinzadeh agrees, stating, “Staple guns are handy but they’re not always the best choice for structural work. For such tasks nails or screws are more efficient and appropriate.”
Meet the Tester
Tom Scalisi is a freelance writer specializing in the home design, construction, tools, and automotive industries. He has been involved in the trades for over 15 years as both a contractor and a commercial building mechanic. His work has been featured on This Old House, Family Handyman, and Forbes. He also owns and operates a pest control blog RiddaBugs.com. As a lover of all things tools, construction, and DIY, he’s always looking for new tools and techniques while also sharing his knowledge with the DIY world.
