Glue gun. Purpose, types and recommendations for selection

Currently, a new type of tool is gaining popularity among users. This is a thermal gun for gluing different types of surfaces. The tool is designed for fastening and sealing different types of seams. Craftsmen use glue guns to make various decorated crafts, bouquets, and souvenirs. The product is suitable for use at home. In order to choose the right product, you need to decide what kind of work the tool will do. It is necessary to carefully study the rating of the best glue guns.

Device and types of devices

A thermal device is an electrical device. Workers who handle it regularly call it “hot glue.” The device securely bonds surfaces made of different materials. The tool has a handle and a base. All parts of the device are located in the housing. Inside it there is a nozzle, a heating element, a coupling, a feed mechanism and a filling chamber. The electrical cord passes through the holder. The trigger lever is also located here.

Two types of devices are manufactured:

Professional devices. They are used where there is a conveyor flow on an industrial scale, and where continuous installation and construction work is carried out. Such tools have a long service life, reliability, optional set and high performance.
Household appliances. They have a limited number of functions and are suitable for use at home. The device has a low temperature regime.

Devices are divided into network and battery devices. The first ones work from an outlet. The second power cable is not required. This option gives the maximum degree of freedom. The employee will not be limited by the length of the power cord. Charging the battery is enough for continuous operation for two hours. Semi-autonomous devices are manufactured. In such instruments, the heater maintains the required temperature for about 15 minutes after disconnecting the cable from the network.

Operating principle

All devices operate according to the same scheme. This principle is quite simple. The glue here is made in the form of a special cylindrical rod, which is inserted into the receiving niche. The coupling supplies it to a tubular electric heater. After this, the glue turns into a viscous mass, which is squeezed out through the outlet hole under the influence of a lever onto the plane to be glued. The temperature inside the gun ranges from 105 to 200 degrees. In some professional models this figure reaches 500 degrees. The glue sticks begin to melt, heating up to 105 degrees. A higher temperature speeds up the spreading process of the rod, which in turn increases the performance of the heat gun.

In stores you can see glue charges measuring 5, 7, 9, 11 mm in diameter. For simple operations, a device made for a charge diameter of 5-7 mm is suitable. Such consumables melt faster. For those who like to make decor, rods are sold in different colors. Sequined versions are available for sale. This makes it possible to select the adhesive for the material that needs to be joined. When performing more complex and time-consuming work, you should purchase more powerful devices. In this case, you will need a unit for charges of 9-11 mm. Such a device will help to carry out the work at hand faster and with better quality (filling voids, cracks, seams).

The rods come in different lengths. This parameter is not regulated, it all depends on the manufacturer. Long rods can be heated several times until all the glue is used up.

Attachments are of great importance in the operation of the gun. With their help, it is easy to dose the adhesive consistency and give the mass the required shape. Classic nozzles have a round outline. They have holes of different diameters for the glue to come out. The smaller the size, the more complex and delicate work you can do.

What is the device intended for?

A glue gun is considered a universal tool. With its help you can make a large number of interesting things, you just need to use your imagination. The product can be used for constructing models, restoring rare furniture, repairing shoes and clothes, repairing residential premises, creating flower appliqués, and making all kinds of jewelry.

The gun can be used for gluing the following materials:

paper;
wood;
polyurethane;
cardboard;
polystyrene foam;
metal;
glass;
carpet;
fabrics;
ceramics;
linoleum;
skin.

It is necessary to take into account the fact that materials react differently to the effects of high temperatures. For example, to glue fabric, paper or polyethylene, you will need a gun with low operating heat. A tool that has a temperature control mode is also suitable.

Glue sticks have different properties. Therefore, they will need to be selected for a specific type of material. The rods are made in different colors, each of which is suitable for a specific area of activity. For example, red color is useful for making flowers. The transparent mass is considered universal. It can be used in different areas. Even the most basic standards have not been developed for the manufacture of glue sticks. Therefore, before purchasing this product, you must carefully read the instructions. You need to find out what material the adhesive is intended for.

This is something to keep in mind

A person needs to decide on the characteristics of the instrument he is purchasing. You will need to look at the gun's power, performance, type of power supply and operating temperature. In addition to the basic options, there are additional functions that manufacturers install in the tool:

Type of food. Manufacturers make devices that operate both from an outlet and from a battery. If the product is required for home use, you can choose an inexpensive copy with a simple cable. A long cord will be necessary if the outlet is located at a great distance from the work site. The device with a battery is suitable for use on construction sites, cottages, and facilities where electricity is often turned off.
The device heats up quickly. The more powerful the product, the faster it gains temperature. In this case, it will be possible to begin the work being done faster. Tools designed for high volume bonding are an exception. Rods with a diameter of 11 mm are used here. Even at high temperatures they take a very long time to melt. To decorate household items, it is better to purchase a model with a power of up to 130 W. Household products are produced at 150-160 W. If a worker has to deal with wood, metal and glass, then a high-quality 200 W device is suitable.
Heating temperature and duration. This parameter determines which surface can be glued and after what period of time work can begin. Leather, plastic and paper can be held together with a gun, which has a melting point of 105 degrees. It is better to connect glass, metal and wood with a gun that heats up to 200 degrees. Devices with average performance transform the rod into a sticky mass with temperatures up to 165 degrees. The shortest waiting time for the device to warm up is around 1-2 minutes. Household tools reach operating temperature in 5-7 minutes. They have the longest heating time. However, such devices take longer to cool down and have excellent performance.
Types of rods. You need to select the adhesive element based on the melting temperature and diameter of the product. Experts recommend buying the most common rods with a circumference of 7 and 11 mm. The universal elements can be used to firmly connect leather, paper and cardboard. Colored adhesive mass is suitable for making decor and decorations. Black rods are usually used to seal seams, and yellow is used to hold glass surfaces together. The characteristics need to be clarified when purchasing a product in a store, since the composition and properties depend on the manufacturer.

Many people buy low melting point rods for high power pistols. However, it is better to use glue designed for high heating rates. Otherwise, the device may fail due to temperature mismatch.

Errors during purchase

When purchasing a heat gun, people often make mistakes. They do not take into account the specific nature of the work that will be performed. The purchase of a tool directly depends on the goal:

for production operations, semi-professional and professional devices with a power of 200 W and a heating temperature of 160-300 degrees will be required. C and productivity 20 g/min;
if the device is operated away from the power supply, then a gun with parameters up to 200 W is suitable;
for the manufacture of decorated and creative crafts, it is better to buy a unit with a low operating temperature (the adhesive mass spreads at 105 degrees) and a charge diameter of 7 mm;
if the work being performed involves different materials, you will need a model with manual heating adjustment;
a tool with automatic control will be necessary if there are long breaks during its operation.

What parameters to use to buy a pistol and the best brands that are popular with consumers in 2021 will be discussed below.

The Best Inexpensive Glue Guns for the Home

MATRIX 93015

This is one of the most popular glue guns among buyers and deservedly so. It attracts attention with its inexpensive price of 1,500 rubles and excellent level of assembly - there are no backlashes or parts that quickly fail. The tool is produced by a German brand, but the main production base is in China.

The power rating of the gun is 160 W, and it takes only 4 minutes to heat up. The maximum temperature is 200 degrees, the mode can be adjusted in accordance with the upcoming types of work.

Another plus is that the gun is safe to use - there is protection against glue leakage. The package includes: 3 glue sticks, their diameter is 11 mm, as well as a stand leg that folds and unfolds conveniently.

Characteristics:

Glue stick diameter, mm	11
Power, W	160
Productivity, g/min	20
Heating time, s	300

Advantages and disadvantages

fast heating;
the ability to adjust the temperature;
good equipment;
high level of assembly and quality of materials used.

The weight of the pistol is 1.15 kg, and therefore the hand of the master may get tired when working for a long time.

BOSCH PKP 18 E

This is a professional model of a glue gun with a power of 200 W. The manufacturer Bosch took care of the presence of a thin, long nozzle for dispensing glue. This is a convenient solution if you have to work with bottlenecks, and in general makes the tool practical and versatile.

The duration of the operating cycle is ensured by the presence of an overheat protection option. A shut-off nipple is also installed in the nozzle area, which prevents glue from leaking out during operation.

The build quality is at a high level. German engineers used reliable heat-resistant materials to produce the coupling, and also equipped a heating element that can withstand even multiple operating cycles. Reviews from PKP 18 E owners confirm that the gun is reliable, convenient and suitable for various types of tasks. It will definitely last for more than one year, and the price for it varies between 2,500 rubles.

Characteristics:

Glue stick diameter, mm	11
Power, W	200
Productivity, g/min	20
Heating time, s	420

Advantages and disadvantages

workmanship;
reliability and convenience;
price-quality ratio at the level;
high productivity – 20 g/min;

long heating - 7 minutes.

HAMMER GN-06

The TOP of the best continues with another German instrument, the cost of which does not exceed 1,300 rubles in Russian stores.
Assembly takes place in China. The case is equipped with plastic with excellent strength characteristics. There is protection against leakage provided by the presence of valves on the nozzles. The model operates from the mains, the power cord is of sufficient length - 1.5 m. The tool is small and fits comfortably in the hand. The set includes 6 rods, their diameter is 11.2 mm. There are also attachments for hard-to-reach places, large-scale and standard work. Delivery is carried out in a special case, which is convenient for storing the tool and transporting it.

Characteristics:

Glue stick diameter, mm	11
Power, W	80
Productivity, g/min	22
Heating time, s	150-200

Advantages and disadvantages

presence of a viewing window;
quick warm-up – 3 minutes;
excellent performance -22 g/min.

lack of temperature control;
There is no on/off button, this can only be done using the socket.

Glue guns, rating of the best

Today, glue guns are widely used at home. They are used in various types of hobbies, as well as for household needs. We choose the best one from the proposed list.

The best devices for home and household needs

Dremel Glue Gun 910

It has a power of 5 W, is lightweight and compact, the body is plastic, and quite durable. The long cord for connecting to the network does not limit movement due to its length, which is very convenient when working with the device. To ensure stability and protect the table surface from hot glue, the gun has a retractable stand.

The material consumption is regulated by a thin tip, provided with protection against leakage. The presence of the rod can be monitored through a special viewing window. For the device to be ready for use, it only takes 5 minutes to warm up. The model takes a leading place in the ranking of the best due to the best price-quality ratio.

Dremel Glue Gun 910

Advantages:

high quality at low price;
does not smell of plastic when heated;
during a pause, glue does not drip onto the work surface;
You can use any rods.

Flaws:

long heating period;
There is no temperature regulator.

PROconnect 12-0102

If the gun is used at home periodically: to make a craft with a child for kindergarten or to decorate gift wrapping for a holiday, then this ascetic unit will come in handy like no other.

A network device, consuming only 15 W, will melt a rod with a diameter of 7 mm in an average of 3 minutes. For ease of use, the gun is equipped with a stand. The price of the device is 200 rubles.

PROconnect 12-0102

Advantages:

Easy;
Compact;
Includes 2 rods.

Flaws:

No additional options (indicators, power buttons, etc.);
Not for intensive use.

MILITARY GN-11

Despite its light weight, only 230 grams, the gun is ready to glue for a long time and with high quality, without upsetting needlewomen with leakage, overheating or other problems. The operating temperature of the device is 170 degrees, the diameter of the rods is 11.2 mm. Consuming 40 W, the device produces a performance of 12 g/min. For 330 rubles, the user receives not only the device itself, but also two rods in the set.

MILITARY GN-11

Advantages:

Productive;
Easy;
Can glue large volumes.

Flaws:

No additional options;
There is no off button, i.e. It starts to heat up immediately after placing the plug in the socket.

The best professional devices

Kraftool PRO 06843-300-12

The case is made of shock-resistant and heat-resistant plastic, there is a steel stand and an ergonomic handle. Glue sticks for this model should have a diameter of 12 centimeters.

There are two modes: working and standby. In standby mode, the temperature is maintained at the same level. Heating is adjustable in the range of 120-230 degrees. The adjusting screw is designed for mechanical supply of the adhesive mass. If necessary, nozzles can be replaced. This model has a high readiness for work: within a minute the glue warms up to the required temperature.

The device is recommended for professional use as it is reliable and highly productive.

Kraftool PRO 06843-300-12

Advantages:

ability to select temperature conditions;
high performance;
availability of replaceable nozzles;
high power;
ability to select temperature;
high build quality.

Flaws:

high price;
heavy weight.

Metabo KE 3000

The lightest and most powerful device among professional models. Its weight is only 250 grams, power – 200 W. It takes at least 6 minutes to heat up to the required temperature. The kit includes 1 rod, a steel stand and a long permanent cord for connecting to the network.

This model can be recommended for professional work or for hobby use for more than 4-6 hours a day. The tool is much more powerful and reliable than budget devices. Its weight is also slightly heavier than other devices.

Metabo KE 3000

Advantages:

rods with a diameter of 11 mm are available for free;
light weight;
long cord;
power 200 W.

Flaws:

no attachments included.

Stavr Pk-11/100

The glue machine of this brand has a low price and excellent technical characteristics. Heats up to operating temperature in 1 minute. The weight of the device is 390 g, which allows you to hold it in your hand for a long time. The case is made of high quality plastic, the device itself is quite reliable.

To turn it on, there is a small lever on the case; a light indicator signals that the device is ready for operation. The equipment is slightly different from the traditional one: 2 glue sticks with a diameter of 11 mm and additional glass. After warming up, the tool consumes only 20 W of electricity to operate.

Stavr Pk-11/100

Advantages:

light weight of the device;
high-quality assembly;
short warm-up time;
reasonable cost;
stable design;
high strength.

Flaws:

lack of temperature controller.

RYOBI R18GLU-0 ONE+

This very convenient professional tool is valued for its two-finger trigger button and handle covered with non-slip material, which allows you to work with the device for several hours in a row. This model differs from previous themes; it is powered by a removable battery.

There is a mechanical switch on the device body that allows you to select the desired mode. The red light indicator will indicate that the device is ready for operation. The device has a reliable design and makes it possible to use it for a long time. The package does not include a charger; it must be purchased separately.

This reliable adhesive tool can be used at home, for work in the workshop or on construction sites.

RYOBI R18GLU-0 ONE+

Advantages:

presence of battery;
handle with anti-slip coating;
fast heating;
Convenient on/off button.

Flaws:

high price;
heavy weight;
does not have an auto-shut-off function;
Battery and charger are not included.

With temperature control and rods

Dremel Glue Gun 930

This model has two temperature settings: 105 and 165 degrees. To select the desired mode, there is a switch located at the base of the tool handle.

The case is made of reliable and durable plastic, there is a viewing window, a stand, and a long power cord. The package includes an additional three rods for each temperature mode and 12 colored rods for working with decorative elements.

Dremel Glue Gun 930

Advantages:

presence of two heating modes;
comfortable handle;
low price;
the presence of many rods in the kit.

Flaws:

The stand leg is unstable.

Steinel GLUEMATIC 3002

This model is characterized by a high heating temperature of 206 degrees. However, its performance is slightly lower than the previous device. The electric cord is 2 meters long, which means you don’t have to use extension cords even when working on a ceiling surface. The kit includes three spare glue sticks, and in stores you can buy replacement nozzles by choosing the desired size and shape.

The tool has a durable body and great versatility: it is ideal for both needlewomen and professional builders. For work, you can use low-temperature and high-temperature rods. This choice will determine how long it takes for the gun to heat up until it is ready.

Steinel GLUEMATIC 3002

Advantages:

versatility in work;
low cost compared to analogues;
possibility of replacing the tip;
long network cable.

Flaws:

lack of a case;
The electrical cord cannot be removed.

Budget options for guns with attachments

Hammerflex GN-05

Construction and installation tools for thermoplastic adhesive, manufactured in a housing made of strong synthetic material. The set includes a stand bracket, a reserve attachment, 2 rods 100 mm long and 11 mm in diameter. The device is connected to a 220 V network using a cord.

To protect the heating element from dirt and impurities, the viewing window is securely covered with clear plastic. The heat gun warm-up time is 4 minutes. at a power of 80 W. The device is equipped with a rubber cap that will protect against burns if touched inadvertently.

The time-tested, harmless Hammerflex GN-05 tool, whose productivity is 20 g/min, is recommended for use both for repair work and restoration, as well as for crafts and design of photo albums.

Hammerflex GN-05

Advantages:

safety of use, availability of an additional nozzle;
excellent installation quality;
operating temperature – 170-190˚С.

Flaws:

lack of power indicator, switch;
short electrical wire.

REXANT 12-0105

The set with a powerful construction and installation tool made of high-strength plastic includes an adhesive core with a diameter of 11 mm. For ease of working on suspended structures, the stand-bracket folds. In offline mode, it holds the device and prevents it from falling off and damaging the surface of the machine with heated glue.

The unit is equipped with an electrical cable of sufficient length. The adhesive composition melts in 35 minutes. at a power of 100 W. For those who constantly have to join large surfaces, a device with a moderate consumption of a glue stick (10 g/min.) – Rexant 12-0105 – is suitable.

REXANT 12-0105

Advantages:

has great power;
continuous operation time – 1 hour;
high temperature – 185-200˚С.

Flaws:

the device is not equipped with a display;
no shutdown button;
During operation, adhesive leakage occurs.

Best Battery Glue Guns

RYOBI R18GLU-0 ONE

The unit is used for fastening various materials: fabric, leather, paper, cardboard. Any cores with a diameter of 11 mm are suitable. One charge is enough to melt 60 thermoplastic rods. The device heats up in 3 minutes, which is considered an excellent speed for pistols of this type. For ease of use, the device is equipped with a wide stand, a trigger for 2 fingers, and a rubberized handle.

The charger and battery are not included in the kit; they must be purchased along the way, which increases the cost of the glue gun, which already costs from 2.5 thousand rubles. The tool is equipped with a viewing window.

RYOBI R18GLU-0 ONE

Advantages:

heats up quickly;
ergonomic.

Flaws:

Charger and battery are not included.

BOSCH Gluey

The most popular among handicraft tools are models from the Bosch brand, made in the form of a ballpoint pen. The tool is powered by two AA batteries. The glue supply channel heats up in 60 seconds to a temperature of 150˚C by turning on the button on the device. The green indicator eye indicates that the unit is ready for operation. BOSCH Gluey is an ideal option for minor repairs, handicrafts, and children's crafts.

Gluing work is carried out with rods 20 mm long and 7 mm in diameter. They are installed in the module and then heated by pressing the pusher. A fully charged battery is enough to melt 60 rods. The tool is equipped with a charger, AA batteries, and the set includes colored, transparent and shiny pins for testing the device.

BOSCH Gluey

Advantages:

warm-up time 1 min.;
runs on nickel-metal hydride batteries;
the glue is supplied in a thin, economical stream;
good equipment.

Flaws:

ENGY EGG-16CL

The hot glue stick tool is activated from the charger. The set includes 2 nozzles. The device is equipped with a collection for hot drops. You can glue metal, rubber and plastic surfaces.

The advantages include high mobility of the unit, a convenient trigger, and the presence of a stand.

ENGY EGG-16CL

Advantages:

charger included;
set includes 2 nozzles;
equipped with a collection for hot drops.

Flaws:

MILWAUKEE C18 PCG/310С

A distinctive feature is considered to be high efficiency at low melting temperatures. In addition, the feed speed can be adjusted.

MILWAUKEE C18 PCG/310

Advantages:

good maneuverability; presence of a stand, comfortable trigger.

Flaws:

Best Air Glue Guns

Buhnen HB 700 K Spray

The device is used in industry. Polyurethane glue is applied to the surface in the form of an aerosol. The device is equipped with an automatic heater, which makes it possible to set the required temperature with an accuracy of 1˚C. The handle has a digital screen built into it.

Buhnen HB 700 K Spray

Advantages:

automatic heater;
digital screen.

Flaws:

3M Polygun II

A universal device that operates over a wide temperature range. Therefore, it can work with any adhesive composition. The device is highly powerful and weighs less than 1 kg (860 g). The length of the melt strip is up to 4.8 m.

3M Polygun II

Advantages:

universal;
high power;
works with a wide temperature range.

Flaws:

METABO Power Maxx KP

Thanks to the fixed clamping pressure, the device also works with viscous adhesive compounds. The automatic reverse gear mechanism protects the device from leaks. The main feature of the gun is the pneumatic high-pressure glue supply system. This helps him work with viscous, viscous compounds.

METABO Power Maxx KP

Advantages:

battery operation;
high power;
practical thermal composition supply system;
glues large objects of different microtextures.

Flaws:

volumetric dimensions of the device.

How to choose a glue gun

When choosing, you should take into account the technical characteristics, cost and work available to such a device. The selection criteria will help you decide.

Buyers' opinions. The combination of frequent purchases and high ratings forms a product rating. Good models are always accompanied by satisfied reviews; in addition, you can read reviews on the Internet. Buyers conduct tests, take photos and videos of the tool in operation.
Performance. Professional devices are designed for power from 250 Watts, inexpensive ones operate in the range of 50-150 Watts, and semi-professional ones range from 150-250 Watts.
Options. Glue feed speed and melt temperature play an important role. The optimal operating temperature is 165 degrees; some guns have two modes (warming, stationary). The glue feed also varies between 5-35 grams per minute.

The price and appearance of the device, the purpose of use are separately considered.

Main advantages of a glue gun

The thermogun attracts builders, florists, lovers of creativity and handicrafts with its mobility and versatility. All the strengths of the device make it indispensable in everyday life, during repairs or when creating hand-made jewelry. Why is using such a pistol so beneficial?

Freezing time. The polyurethane mass, which melts during operation of the gun, sets within 1-3 minutes. You don’t have to hold the item you are attaching for a long time; after a few minutes you can fully use it.
Strength. Even slippery ceramics and earthenware are securely fastened both to another surface and to each other. With glass and leather everything is similar.
Environmental friendliness. The refill rods are made of harmless material, there is no unpleasant odor when it hardens, the material is safe.

Compatibility with most materials is a big plus. Rods of different colors give room for a flight of fancy; choosing a shade to combine with the interior will not be difficult.

In places where a mechanical fastening method such as drilling is not available, a heat gun is the best solution.

Design and principle of operation

Despite the ease of use, the device copes with many complex tasks. The heat gun allows you to fix even the smallest parts; a straight line along the seam seals it evenly. The components of the tool are interconnected, making the work simple and accurate.

The thermal chamber in the feed barrel provides heating; its power, together with the possibility of heating elements, regulates the amount of glue mass that is available for work. The guide coupling is responsible for the exit of glue only through the nozzle, preventing it from getting inside other mechanisms.

The nozzle (nozzle) forms a uniform layer of hot melt adhesive at the outlet. The feeding mechanism ensures smooth squeezing out of the molten consistency. Some devices have a built-in battery, and the housing is made of impact-resistant material.

How to use a gun

There is nothing complicated in using such a thing: the surface is cleaned and the tool is prepared. If the gun is powered by the mains, then before starting work it is plugged into an outlet; in the case of a wireless device, the battery is first charged. On the back side there is a compartment for rods that are inserted into the heating sleeve. After 3-5 minutes, it softens the material under the influence of current; pressing the “trigger” squeezes out the required amount of molten material.

The thickness of the layer depends on the force of pressure; after using the first rod, the next one is inserted and the procedure is repeated. The device is not heavy, it is easy to ensure that the glue hits the target accurately. You need to act quickly, the material sets instantly. But if you learn to use a heat gun correctly, construction work will go faster; in some places you can forget about a hammer and a hammer drill.

Recommendations for use

When working with an electrical appliance, you should follow safety rules. Use rods that comply with the technical specifications of the device. There should be no exposed areas on the electrical cable, and its length is convenient for carrying out the procedure. Gluing is carried out at a high melting point; the hot adhesive composition is hazardous to health, so you should work with rubberized gloves.

It is necessary to ensure that the unit does not fall; breaking the contacts can lead to spontaneous combustion of the device. The period of continuous operation of the device should not exceed 1 hour, then it must be disconnected from the network.

The main condition for long-term operation of the device is proper care of it. There is no need to clean the inside of the instrument. When the device warms up, the old composition is removed by pressing the trigger. If the adhesive has frozen on the surface of the nose part, remove it with a paper napkin after turning on the device and waiting for the drops to melt.