Some DIY tasks require you to fasten materials together using small nails or tacks. Rather than using a hammer to drive the nails in, one option is to use a powered device called a hammer tacker.
It’s kind of similar to a staple gun, but it can handle the smaller nails and tacks. You’ll still need to use two hands to operate it, but the hammer tacker will do most of the work for you.
This handy tool makes your work easier, and it can help you to avoid hand and wrist fatigue. In this article, we’ll show you how to use a hammer tacker, and we’ll explain some of the different types that are available.
In this article, we’ll explain what a hammer tacker is and how it works, as well as some tips on how to use one.
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What’s a hammer tacker stapler?
A hammer tacker is a hand-held tool, resembling a stapler, that is used to fasten materials together by driving small nails or tacks through the material.
This type of tool is often used in woodworking, upholstery, and carpet installation.
The hammer tacker consists of a handle, head, and magazine. The head is where the nails or tacks are housed, and the magazine holds the nails or tacks until they are ready to be fired. When the trigger is pulled, the head moves forward and drives the nail or tack into the material.
Think of the hammer tacker as a one-handed stapler. It is a great tool for quickly attaching materials together without having to use two hands.
If you need to attach materials together quickly and efficiently, consider using a hammer tacker. This tool will make your life easier and save you time.
How does a hammer tacker work?
A hammer tacker works by using a handle, head, and magazine to drive small nails or tacks through the material.
When a hammer tacker strikes a solid object, the mechanism can be forced upwards, as opposed to pushing the top part into the bottom like a conventional staple gun or stapler. Many conventional staplers can be utilized in the same manner as hammer tackers, albeit with less durability.
What kind of staples does a hammer tacker use?
Most hammer tackers use T50 staples. These are also known as A11 staples with 1/4″ – 3/8″ lengths.
The T50 staple is the most common size and is used for a variety of applications, including woodworking, upholstery, and carpet installation.
There’s a G11 type, too, with 5/16 and 3/8 inches.
What is hammer tacker used for?
Hammer staplers are excellent tools for situations in which a heavier-duty tool, such as a hammer, is not required.
In a number of instances, a lighter and more ergonomic tool, such as a hammer stapler, is just as effective and causes less user strain.
A few tasks involving lighter materials are better suited for a hammer stapler. These are some common materials for which hammer staplers are used:
- plywood (the thinner kind)
- felt
- fabric
- heavy-duty cardboard
- carpet
- thin plastic
- thicker paper sheets
- flooring
How to use a hammer tacker
This stapler is not particularly difficult to use, as it operates similarly to a standard hammer. To ensure that the tool is utilized as intended, I’ve compiled a few usage guidelines.
- You must first ensure that you are using the proper staple. If you don’t have your guide on hand, you can look up the model of your stapler online to see what is recommended. Before beginning a DIY project with your hammer tacker, select the appropriate staple size. Most hammer tackers permit the insertion of staples between 8 mm and 10 mm deep.
- Always choose the shortest staple that will adequately secure the material you intend to install when selecting a staple size.
- Once you have your staples, you will load them into the stapler’s magazine by releasing the internal spring mechanism. As the magazine is now empty, you will insert the staples with their faces up. Then, you will carefully reinstall the spring until you hear a click.
- Once the stapler is loaded, hold it parallel to the area to be stapled and strike the staple with a wrist flick.
- Similar to using a conventional hammer, you must aim and strike the material in the right location in order to insert the staple. Try to keep the head of the hammer tacker level and straight as you strike the material’s surface. You should get the hang of it after a few swings, and then you can easily drive the staples into the material you’re working with.
- Ensure that you are applying sufficient force for the staple to fully penetrate the material. You should become acquainted with the motion after a few attempts. After that, the procedure will be extraordinarily effective.
While the actual process of stapling is simple, you will achieve the best results when you use a dependable tool that was designed with optimal results in mind.
Here’s something to keep in mind: the shallower the staple, the better its grip on the surface of the material.
Hammer tacker vs staple guns: what’s the difference?
There are numerous commercial and industrial applications for staple guns and hammer tackers, and each device has its own advantages.
The primary difference between the two devices is that a hammer tacker is generally used for lighter materials, while a staple gun is better suited for heavier projects.
Just look at the shape as well:
A hammer tacker will typically be considerably slimmer and have a more straightforward mechanism than a staple gun. It looks like a hammer!
Staple guns can provide more precise stapling, but hammer tackers can quickly secure an object when precise placement is not necessary.
Typical applications for hammer tackers include installing carpet padding quickly, hanging insulation, and securing roofing paper.
Staple guns, on the other hand, might be used for tasks such as repairing upholstery or installing molding.
When deciding between the two, it is essential to consider the weight and thickness of the material that needs to be fastened.
If you are working with a light or delicate material, a hammer tacker is probably the better option. If you need to staple heavier materials, a staple gun will likely get the job done more effectively.
In some cases, both a hammer tacker and a staple gun might be necessary to complete a project.
Conclusion
A hammer tacker is a versatile and convenient tool that can be used for a variety of projects.
Remember to select the appropriate staple size and use the device correctly to achieve optimal results.
When in doubt, opt for a shallower staple—it will provide a better grip on the material you’re working with.
Finally, keep in mind that a hammer tacker is generally best suited for lighter materials, while a staple gun is better for heavier projects.
With these tips in mind, you’re ready to tackle your next project with ease!