In this article, I will not only tell you how to load a staple gun or how to put staples in a staple gun, but also how to use a staple gun properly to get the most out of it. It doesn’t matter which brand you have — you’ll get your answer. That’s my promise.
Last update on 2026-03-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you’re searching for “how do I load a staple gun,” you’ve probably just picked one up for the first time. Before you start firing staples, there are a few things worth knowing — how to stay safe, how to set it up correctly, what you can use it for, and how to fix common issues like jamming or staples not holding. I’ll cover all of that here, so let’s get into it.
What’s Inside!
Understanding the Staple Gun
A staple gun is a handheld tool designed to fasten materials together using staples. When you squeeze the handle, it releases a spring-loaded mechanism that drives a staple forward into the material. The spring then advances the next staple automatically, so the cycle repeats with each squeeze. This makes it fast and precise for repetitive fastening tasks.
There are three main types: manual, electric, and pneumatic. Manual guns are great for lighter tasks. Electric and pneumatic versions offer more power for heavy-duty projects.
Choosing the Right Staples
Choosing the right staples is crucial — the wrong size can cause jams, weak holds, or surface damage. Every gun has a specific range of staple sizes it supports. Check the gun body or user manual for this information.
A staple has three parts: the crown, the legs, and the points.
Crown Size
The crown is the horizontal bar at the top of the staple connecting the two legs. A narrow crown gives a more discreet finish. A wider crown spreads the holding force over a larger area, making it better for securing heavier materials.
Leg Size
Leg length determines how deep the staple penetrates. Longer legs grip thicker materials more securely. Shorter legs suit lighter materials or situations where you want a low-profile fastening. Thicker legs also add strength — useful for heavy-duty applications.
Point Type
Sharp points penetrate cleanly and hold firmly — good for most standard materials. Blunt points are gentler on delicate surfaces where a sharp tip might cause damage.
Always stay within your gun’s specified staple range — forcing the wrong size is the most common cause of jams.
Safety Precautions
Always wear safety glasses and gloves. Work in a well-lit, organised space. Never place your hand in the path of the staple exit — even when the gun appears unloaded. And never point it at anyone, even as a joke. A staple gun fires with very little resistance; treat it accordingly.
How to Load a Staple Gun
After reviewing user manuals from Stanley, Arrow, DeWalt, Hart, Powershot, Bostitch, Craftsman, Mastercraft, Rapid, and Blue Ridge, I found that most modern guns use a bottom-loading mechanism. Older models typically use top-loading. Here’s how to handle both.
1. Top Loading (older models):
- Locate the loading latch on the back of the gun.
- Press it, slide it downward, and release it.
- Pull the loading latch out to open the channel.
- Insert the staples into the channel.
- Reinsert the latch, push it in, and slide it back up until it clicks.
2. Bottom Loading (modern models):
- Hold the gun upside down.
- Pinch the loading latch on the back and pull it out.
- Load the staples into the bottom channel with the legs pointing upward.
- Press the latch back in until it clicks and engages properly.
The gun is now loaded and ready to use.
How to Use a Staple Gun Properly
Keep a firm grip on the handle and press the gun down firmly against the surface before firing. This prevents the gun from bouncing and keeps your staples straight.
Adjust the depth setting for your material. Too shallow and the staple won’t hold; too deep and you’ll damage the surface. A few test shots on a scrap piece will help you find the right setting quickly.
Always keep your free hand well away from the staple exit point, and work in a well-lit area.
What Can You Use a Staple Gun For?
More than most people realise. Here are the most common uses:
- Carpets and flooring — fixing carpet to floors or walls, including soundproofing applications.
- Upholstery — tightening fabric on sofas and chairs for a neat, crease-free finish.
- Home repairs and carpentry — fastening wood panels, boards, or fabric materials.
- Decorating — framing artwork or repairing window and door frames.
- Construction — from small birdhouses to larger structural work (electric or pneumatic guns for heavy-duty tasks).
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Q1: Why are my staples not holding securely?
Check that you’re using the correct staple size for your material and adjust the depth setting. If the staple is sitting proud of the surface, you need a deeper setting or a longer leg size.
Q2: My staples aren’t penetrating the material — what’s wrong?
The material is likely too thick for your staple size or gun type. Try longer-legged staples first. If the problem persists, you may need an electric or pneumatic gun for that material.
Q3: Why does my staple gun keep jamming?
Most jams are caused by the wrong staple size, a bent or damaged staple in the chamber, or a dry mechanism. Clear the jam following the manufacturer’s instructions, then check your staple size and lubricate if the manual recommends it.
Q4: Why are my staples bending or breaking?
Usually a staple quality issue — cheap staples bend easily under load. Switch to a reputable brand and make sure your depth setting isn’t pushing too hard for the material thickness.
Conclusion
Loading and using a staple gun is straightforward once you know your gun’s mechanism and the right staple size for the job. Whether you have a top-loader or a bottom-loader, a Stanley or a DeWalt, the principles are the same — right staple, right depth, firm pressure.
If this helped, consider subscribing to the NootanCrafts YouTube channel — I cover this and plenty more hands-on workshop topics. Until next time, keep crafting!
