Add Bob Vila (opens in a new tab) More information Adding us as a Preferred Source in Google by using this link indicates that you would like to see more of our content in Google News results. .acf-product-table-block]:pt-9 [&>.acf-product-table-block]:pb-0 [&>.acf-product-table-block]:mb-0"> Best Overall DeWalt Heavy-Duty Staple and Brad Tacker Buy at The Home Depot Buy at Ace Hardware Best Bang for the Buck WorkPro 6-in-1 Manual Staple Gun Buy at Amazon Buy at Walmart Buy at WorkPro Best Cordless Milwaukee 2447-20 M12 ⅜-Inch Crown Stapler Buy at Ace Hardware Buy at The Home Depot Buy at Northern Tool + Equipment Photo: Michelle Larson for BobVila.com We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn More ›
Staple guns are ideal for projects where a nail gun would be overkill. Staples can penetrate and fasten weaker materials—like plywood, sheathing, screen, or fabric—without tearing them apart. Whether you’re hanging outdoor holiday decorations, installing house wrap, laying carpet, or mounting delicate moldings, a staple gun can be essential for a variety of tasks.
To help you choose the right model, we performed hands-on testing with several top options and spoke with a licensed contractor for expert insights. 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 has 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 the best staple guns for a wide range of jobs.
Choosing the right staple gun might seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Below, we detail our test results to help you select the right staple gun for fencing, upholstery, or general tacking tasks.
When it comes to manual options, our choice for the best overall is Dewalt’s heavy-duty hand stapler and brad nailer. This stapler and nailer combo unit 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 quite durable in our tests.
We also liked how easy it was to insert staples into this model, though we did struggle at first to figure out how to load the brads. Once they were in place, however, this metal staple gun drove them through moldings with ease. Its built-in view window made it simple to see when our fasteners were getting low, and the tacker’s attached belt clip was very sturdy. Also, the palm-squeeze trigger made one-handed operation convenient, which allowed us to apply steady pressure even when stapling overhead or in tight spaces.
What our tester says: “This DeWalt packed more punch than any other manual model. When I fired the longest staples the gun holds into construction lumber, it resulted in a near-flush penetration. Also, compared to other options, its build quality really stood out.”—Tom Scalisi, Product Reviews tester and writer