Choosing the best glue gun

The hot glue gun is a handy tool that is very popular. It will come in handy not only in the workshop, but also at home. With this device, it is easy to perform a variety of tasks - from sealing construction seams to sewing children's fancy dress. The device is also applicable for decorating surfaces, creating crafts, making bouquets and souvenirs.

In order to choose the right gun, it is necessary to take into account many technical parameters and basic characteristics. What are the criteria for making a purchase and what models are in demand in 2020, discussed later in the article.

Types and features of the device

The thermal gun, which is colloquially called "hot glue", is an electromechanical device. Its main purpose is aimed at gluing various surfaces and parts.

The device consists of a body and a handle. The main elements are located in the body - a charge chamber, a feed mechanism, a guide sleeve, a heater, and a nozzle. The power cord runs through the holder and the trigger is installed.

There are two types of glue guns:

1. Professional. Designed for permanent use in conveyor production, as well as for large-scale construction, installation and repair work. The main differences are durability, high-quality components, wide functionality and high performance.
2. Household. Designed for home use, low temperature and limited functionality.

There is also a division into electrical models that are powered from the mains and battery devices. The peculiarity of the latter is the absence of a power cable, the device operates autonomously on batteries. The tool is convenient and allows you to work in any place, regardless of the presence of an outlet. The charge lasts up to two hours. There are also semi-autonomous devices in which the heater maintains temperature for 15 minutes after disconnecting the cord.

How the pistol works

Regardless of the model, the principle of the device is quite simple. The glue in the form of a polyurethane cylindrical rod is inserted into the inlet, the coupling is fed to a tubular electric heater (TEN), where it is melted to a viscous mass, which is fed through a nozzle by a lever to the surface intended for gluing. The melting point in a household appliance ranges from 105 to 200⁰C, in the professional - up to 500⁰C. All rods melt at 105⁰C. Temperatures above this mark simply speed up the process and increase the performance of the device.

Adhesive charges of several sizes are found in mass sale - 5, 7, 9 and 11 mm in diameter.For the embodiment of creative ideas, a pistol designed for a charge diameter of 5-7 mm, which melts faster, is suitable. Also, specially for needlework, they produce rods with glitters and a wide range of colors, which allows you to choose the glue for the material to be glued. When performing larger and more complex work, you should choose models designed for charges of 9-11 millimeters. With their help, it is more convenient to fill voids, seams, cracks, carry out restoration and plumbing work.

The length of the rods is not regulated and varies depending on the manufacturer. Since reheating is not critical, it is permissible to use a long charge with interruptions in work until the entire charge is used up.

The attachments play an important role. They allow you to dispense glue and shape the mass. Standard nozzles have round orifices of different diameters and the smaller the size, the more delicate work can be done.

What is the tool for?

The glue gun is a universal assistant, whose functions are limited only by the owner's imagination. It is used for modeling and design, manufacturing and restoration of furniture, repairing shoes, carrying out cosmetic repairs in the house, drawing up flower arrangements, creating jewelry, appliques, quilling and more.

With it, you can glue all kinds of materials:

• paper;
• wood;
• polyurethane;
• cardboard;
• glass;
• metal;
• Styrofoam;
• cardboard;
• natural and artificial leather;
• carpet;
• the cloth;
• ceramics;
• linoleum.

It is important to take into account that materials react differently to high temperatures. When working with such fragile parts as natural fabrics, paper, polyethylene, it is better to choose a device with either a low operating temperature or with a mode control function.

Also, glue rods must be selected for the material and the gun. They are distinguished by color, each of which indicates its own field of application. For example, tubes intended for glasses are marked with yellow, and transparent glue is considered universal. There is no single standardized system regarding color designation, therefore, before buying, you should read the instructions - for which materials this or that composition is intended.

How to use a thermo gun?

When working with the unit, you must follow the instructions that are indicated on the packaging or given in the accompanying documentation. In the absence of information, the standard recommendations should be followed:

1. Clean the work space and protect surfaces from glue contamination;
2. Place the unit on the support leg with the tip down;
3. Degrease with alcohol and dry the surfaces to be glued, clean if necessary. The metal needs to be preheated;
4. Turn on the appliance by inserting the plug into the socket and pressing the corresponding button;
5. Insert the rod from the back of the machine until it stops;
6. Wait 3-8 minutes for the heating element to warm up and melt the glue;
7. Determine the readiness of the tool for work by the drop of glue that has emerged on the nose;
8. Pull the trigger to dispense a portion of the product. Volume depends on the strength and frequency of pulling the trigger. The excess must be removed to avoid clogging of the nozzle;
9. After applying the glue, firmly and accurately, since adhesion occurs instantly, squeeze the parts to be joined for a few seconds;
10. Squeeze the parts to be connected firmly for 2-3 seconds;
11. If the replacement of rods of different colors is required, then, without disconnecting the device, it is necessary to grab the rod, turn it around its axis a couple of times and remove it from the pistol. Then insert a new one and use the trigger to squeeze out the remnants of the old glue until drops of a new color appear;
12. After completion of work, turn off the device, remove the remaining glue from the supply nozzle. The threads that have reached behind the nozzle can be easily removed after drying.

Tips for using a glue gun

When operating an electrical device, safety precautions must be observed. The device must be charged only with rods of appropriate diameter.The power cord must be in good working order, without bare wires, in a high-quality protective sheath and of sufficient length for various manipulations. Due to the high melting point during operation, the nozzle of the tool heats up, the adhesive mass can also be dangerous. Use rubber gloves to avoid burns.

It is important to ensure that the device is not dropped and not to use a damaged device, as there is a risk of fire if the contacts are broken. Disconnect the machine from the mains during long pauses in operation. The duration of continuous operation of the household model should not exceed one hour.

Proper care of the thermo gun is an important condition for the durability and serviceability of the device. There is no need to clean the inside of the device, as the glue residues from the heating chamber and the nozzle are removed when the device is warmed up and the trigger is pulled. If the glue drops have frozen on the outside of the nose, then after connecting the device to the network, you must wait until the residues melt, and then remove them with a piece of paper or a napkin.

Advantages and disadvantages of a glue gun

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Main technical characteristics

room	Characteristics	Recommendations
1	Manufacturer	The best manufacturers of professional models are German and American firms; low-cost pistols are produced in China.
2	Material	The tool is made of heat-resistant plastic, which prevents heat transfer from the heating chamber.
3	Power	For professional models, the power varies from 200 to 500 W; for semi-professional - from 60 to 80 W; for household needs and handicrafts, 15-20 watts are enough.
4	Performance	It is measured in the number of grams coming from the nozzle per unit of time and depends on the power and thickness of the rods used. For professional models, the feed rate of the cool composition is up to 30 g / min, for amateur models - up to 5-10 g / min.
5	Working temperature	Low-temperature models have an operating mode of 105 C and are suitable for working with sensitive materials - paper, textiles, polymers. Models with a maximum operating temperature of 160-300 C are suitable for working with heat-resistant materials - wood, metal, stone.
6	Power type	Electric models work from the mains, rechargeable ones - from replaceable power sources, semi-autonomous ones have the function of accumulating charge after disconnecting from the socket.
7	Basic set	The standard equipment includes the device itself and several universal rods. Some models are accompanied by additional attachments, storage case, nozzle holder, batteries.
8	Shelf life	The shelf life of glue cartridges is 2-3 years, the service life of the device depends on the manufacturer and on compliance with the operating rules.
9	Weight	Depending on the model - from 150 to 500 g.

What to look for when buying?

It is necessary to choose a tool based on the power, productivity, operating melting temperature and type of power supply of the device. In addition to the basic parameters, there are also additional functions that glue guns are equipped with:

• temperature switch - makes the device more versatile, allowing you to select a worker for different materials. The most primitive version of the regulator is the minimum and maximum mode. Advanced models have a wider temperature range.
• electronic temperature control - makes the unit safer, protecting it from fire and breakdowns as a result of overheating, for example, if the device has been forgotten while it is on. The device automatically reduces power consumption by going into standby state.
• ready indicator - built-in LEDs that signal that the device has warmed up to operating mode.
• off button - relevant in the absence of an electronic system, it allows you to turn off the device without pulling the cord each time.
• protective valve against glue dripping - reduces the amount of spontaneously released agent from the nozzle, but does not completely shut off the flow, so that excessive internal pressure does not form. Therefore, a "nose" support is required during work.
• viewing window - designed to control the integrity of the internal mechanisms and the rest of the charged rod.
• backlight - built-in flashlight that illuminates the work area, convenient when working with hard-to-reach places.
• leg-stand - serves as a support during operation, since it is not recommended to leave the device in the prone position.
• additional nozzles - increase the capabilities of the unit, allowing you to adjust the thickness and shape of the adhesive layer.
• maintainability - not all models are suitable for repair and have the same warranty period, this information must be checked with the seller.

Selection errors

The most common mistake when buying a thermal gun is not to take into account the specifics of the work that is supposed to be done.

Which model is better to buy depends on the tasks:

• for builders, professional and semi-professional devices with a power of 200 W, productivity from 20 g / min and an operating temperature of 160-300 are suitable⁰FROM;
• for carrying out work remote from the power source, a model with a power of up to 200 W will be comfortable;
• for handicrafts and creativity, a low-temperature device is required, which is provided for charges of 7 mm in diameter and melts the adhesive at 105⁰FROM;
• to work with a wide range of materials, a tool with a function for switching temperature modes is required;
• for an operating mode that includes long breaks in using the device, a model with automatic power control will be convenient.

Review of glue guns for professionals in 2020

Pro'sKit GK-368

Manufacturer: Taiwan

Specifications:

• supported diameter - 7.5 mm;
• power - 7 W;
• battery power - 4 AA batteries;
• continuous work - 45 minutes;
• glow time - 240 sec;
• weight - 208 g.

Price - 1420 rubles.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Ryobi R18 Glu 0 One +

Manufacturer: Japan

Specifications:

• supported charge diameter - 11 mm;
• runs on battery;
• temperature regime - 195⁰FROM;
• heating rate - 180 sec;
• packed in a box;
• weight - 390 g.

Price - 2390 rubles.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Bison Master 06850 60 12 Z02

Manufacturer: Russia

Specifications:

• productivity - 20 g / min;
• mains supply;
• maximum temperature regime - 193⁰FROM;
• heating speed - 30 sec;
• supported size of rods - 12 mm;
• power - 80 W;
• packed in a blister;
• weight - 400 g.

Price - 1230 rubles.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Hammer GN-06

Manufacturer: Germany

Specifications:

• supported diameter - 11.2 mm;
• incandescence speed 240 sec;
• productivity - 22 g / min;
• maximum heating - 150⁰FROM;
• packed in a case;
• power - 80 W;
• work from the network;
• weight - 472 g.

Price - 1400 rubles.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Metabo KE 3000

Manufacturer: Germany

Specifications:

• works from the network;
• device power - 200 W;
• maximum temperature regime - 200⁰FROM;
• packed in a box;
• supported diameter of glue charges - 11 mm;
• productivity - 18 g / min;
• glow speed - 360 sec;
• weight - 250 g.

Price - 2100 rubles.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

STEINEL Gluematic 3002

Manufacturer: Germany

Specifications:

• supported rod diameter - 11 mm;
• packed in a box;
• mains supply;
• productivity - 16 g / min;
• incandescence speed - 420 sec;
• device power - 200 W;
• maximum temperature regime - 206⁰FROM;
• weight - 320 g.

Price - 1740 rubles.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

BOSCH GluePen

Manufacturer: Germany

Specifications:

• supported diameter - 7 mm;
• power - 5.4 W;
• incandescence speed - 15 sec;
• battery powered;
• maximum temperature regime - 170⁰FROM;
• battery capacity - 3.6 A / h;
• packed in a box;
• weight - 142 g.

Price - 2940 rubles.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

ELITECH PCL 5015K

Manufacturer: China

Specifications:

• device power - 500 W;
• powered by electricity;
• heating speed - 300 sec;
• supported rod diameter - 11.2mm;
• productivity - 15 g / min;
• maximum temperature regime - 200⁰FROM;
• packed in a case;
• power cord - 1.5 m.

Price - 1240 rubles.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Glue Gun Dremel-940

Manufacturer: USA

Specifications:

• tool productivity - 18 g / min;
• heating speed - 300 sec;
• supported rod diameter - 11 mm;
• runs on electricity;
• maximum temperature - 195⁰FROM;
• packed in a box;
• weight - 300 g.

Price - 2390 rubles.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Bosch PKP-18-E

Manufacturer: Germany

Specifications:

• tool productivity - 20 g / min;
• incandescence rate - 420 sec;
• powered by electricity;
• supported diameter of glue charges - 11 mm;
• device power - 200 W;
• maximum heating - 200⁰FROM;
• packed in a box;
• weight - 350 g.

Price - 2600 rubles.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Budget models for home and needlework

Glue Gun Dremel-910

Manufacturer: USA

Specifications:

• supported rod diameter - 7 mm;
• maximum temperature regime - 165⁰FROM;
• device productivity - 5 g / min;
• powered by electricity;
• heating speed - 300 sec;
• packed in a box;
• weight - 240 g.

Price - 940 rubles.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Sparta 930125

Manufacturer: China

Specifications:

• maximum temperature regime - 180⁰FROM;
• power cord - 1 m;
• supported rod diameter - 11 mm;
• device power - 40 W;
• runs on electricity;
• incandescence speed - 300 sec;
• weight - 247 g.

Price - 193 rubles.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Bort BEK-18

Manufacturer: China

Specifications:

• device productivity - 12 g / min;
• power - 18 W;
• supported rod size - 11 mm;
• powered by electricity;
• heating rate - 300 sec;
• packed in a box;
• weight - 245 g.

Price - 350 rubles.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

FIT 14330

Manufacturer: China

Specifications:

• supported rod diameter - 8 mm;
• works from the network;
• power - 30 W;
• weight - 160 g.

Price - 259 rubles.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Stayer Master 2-06801-10-07-z-01

Manufacturer: China

Specifications:

• runs on electricity;
• device power - 10 W;
• supported charge diameter - 7 mm;
• incandescence speed - 300 sec;
• maximum temperature - 180⁰FROM;
• packed in a blister;
• weight - 150 g.

Price - 317 rubles.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

PROconnect 12-0103

Manufacturer: China

Specifications:

• powered by electricity;
• tool power - 40 W;
• supported diameter - 11 mm;
• packed in a blister;
• power cord - 1.5 m;
• weight - 300 g.

Price - 349 rubles.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

REXANT 12-0113

Manufacturer: China

Specifications:

• supported diameter of glue cartridges - 7 mm;
• power - 15 W;
• works from the network;
• packed in a blister;
• weight - 200 g.

Price - 309 rubles.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Hammer GN-05

Manufacturer: Germany

Specifications:

• device power - 80 W;
• supported size of adhesive charges - 11.2mm;
• productivity - 20 g / min;
• runs on electricity;
• incandescence speed - 240 sec;
• maximum temperature mode - 190⁰FROM;
• weight - 300 g.

Price - 500 rubles.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

ELITECH PCL 2013

Manufacturer: China

Specifications:

• works from the network;
• device power - 200 W;
• supported rod size - 11.2 mm;
• productivity - 13 g / min;
• works from the network;
• incandescence speed - 300 sec;
• temperature regime at maximum - 195⁰FROM;
• weight - 300 g.

Price - 550 rubles.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

kwb FL007

Manufacturer: China

Specifications:

• supported charge size - 11 mm;
• powered by electricity;
• the maximum power of the device is 70 W;
• productivity - 12 g / min;
• incandescence rate - 300 sec;
• maximum temperature regime - 195⁰FROM;
• packed in a blister;
• weight - 220 g.

Price - 850 rubles.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Where is it more profitable to buy?

It is better to purchase expensive professional equipment in specialized hardware stores, which give a guarantee for their products. The warranty period is usually 12 months. Budget category products can be ordered through online stores. Inexpensive tools are popular with Aliexpress, which offers a wide range of products from various brands at competitive prices. On the same site you can find the necessary rods.

In the category of professional devices, such companies as Dremel, Bosch, Steinel are popular. With regard to budget models, positive reviews are heard about pistols from Metabo, Elitech, Stayer manufacturers. The average cost of a professional tool is 3800 rubles, the average price of a device for household use is 450 rubles. In terms of price and quality ratio, such models as Bosch PKP-18-E, Glue Gun Dremel-940, Zubr Master 06850-60-12-Z-02, kwb FL007, ELITECH PKL 2013, Hammer GN-05 are leading.