The hot glue gun has two great advantages: the versatility of use and speed of application. The operation of the gun with hot glue is effortless. A glue stick is inserted at the rear end. The internal resistance of the gun melts the glue that escapes in liquid form from the front.
The hot glue gun contact with air dries in a few seconds, leaving enough time to place the pieces or adjust the parts to be glued. This feature allows us to proceed to work in a short time. In addition, it is cheaper and easier to apply than a traditional glue or glue stick.
Press lightly with your fingers for drying so that the two surfaces stick together. The hot glue gun works perfectly, even with different materials. For example, we can glue wood to plastic, ceramics on wood, etc. The glue is also waterproof and also acts as an electrical insulator.
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How to choose a hot glue gun: Types and Characteristics
Let’s see the main features that can guide us in choosing the right gun. First of all: professional hot air gun or DIY and small repairs? This is the first question to ask to purchase the correct gun.
A professional gun is equipped with more features. It is more suitable for precision work and is designed for longer use. It minimizes overheating, while a hot glue gun will be cheaper and more immediate.
Here are the details we need to consider when buying:
- A current or battery: Most gluing guns connect to the electrical outlet. In this case, it is helpful to consider the length of cable that can facilitate the work. Hot-melt guns are also available and have less battery life but are perfect for doing small jobs outside the home, like outdoor DIY jobs.
- Nozzle: The hot glue gun works with a temperature between 170 and 200°. The nozzle from which the glue comes can cause burns, so it is coated with silicone in professional glue guns to avoid accidental wounds. Another feature to keep in mind is the precision of the nozzle. If we work with small parts, we need a smaller diameter to consider a Glue Pen, the smallest one. Some gun models also provide interchangeable nozzles of different diameters and lengths.
- Bracket: We will need to rest for a gun during work. The bracket is essential to avoid dirtying or heating the surface on which it will place.
- Dosage and anti-drip: The glue must stop dripping once the button is released. This depends on both the nozzle and the mechanical advancement. Being able to dose accurately is essential to have a clean, precise, and professional glue application, and we will avoid unnecessary waste. The glue also reaches very high temperatures and is scalding if it comes in contact with skin, so the dosing capacity makes the job safer.
- Heating time: The faster the heating time, the easier it will be to use a gun. Generally, this corresponds with a cooling time as fast and important as putting the gun away immediately after finishing. For example, the best hot glue gun is ready in 15 seconds. Others need a few minutes.
- Temperature: A lower temperature is useful for gluing paper or textiles, while a high-temperature glue gun is better for gluing the most resistant materials, such as glass or ceramics. Selecting and working at two different temperatures in more advanced gun models is possible.
Duration and Maintenance
Unless you have a special release mechanism, do not try to remove the hot glue stick left inside the gun. Do not strain the button when the gun is not ready for use. Never place the still-hot gun on furniture or surfaces, but place it on a bracket until it cools.
We use a parchment paper sheet if it does not have a stirrup or horizontal. Never leave a gun switched on when not in use. Finally, always keep the nozzle clean and free of residues. Just clean it with aluminum or parchment paper when a gun is switched on, removing the glue when it is liquid.
The best hot glue gun for Repairs, Hobbies, and DIY
These hot glue guns cost between $5 and $20. They lend themselves to professional work but also to DIY. They last over time. They are equipped with accessories and guarantee great precision.
On the other hand, simpler guns are available for occasional small jobs starting from $9-$11, less robust but fully functional for hobby jobs.
The top 10 best hot glue guns available on the market with related characteristics and prices are listed below.
Product prices and availability are subject to change. Therefore, any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to purchasing any products.