Ranking of the best glue guns for 2020

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 a glue gun to make various decorated crafts, bouquets, and souvenirs. The product is useful for home use. In order to choose the right product, you need to decide what kind of work the tool will perform. It is necessary to carefully study the ranking of the best glue guns.

Device and types of devices

A thermal device is an electrical device. The workers who constantly handle it call it hot glue. The device reliably bonds surfaces made of different materials. The tool has a handle and base. All parts of the device are in the housing. It contains a nozzle, a heating element, a coupling, a feed mechanism and a filling chamber. The electrical cord runs through the holder. The trigger is also located here.

There are two types of devices:

1. Professional devices. They are used where there is a conveyor flow on an industrial scale, as well as continuous installation and construction work. Such tools have a long service life, reliability, optional kit and high performance.
2. Household appliances. They have a limited number of functions and are suitable for home use. 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 provides the maximum degree of freedom. The worker will not be limited by the length of the power cord. The battery has enough charge for continuous operation for two hours. Semi-autonomous devices are manufactured. In such tools, the heater keeps the required temperature for about 15 minutes after disconnecting the cable from the network.

Operating principle

All devices function according to the same scheme. The principle is pretty simple. The glue here is made in the form of a special cylindrical rod, which is inserted into the receiving niche. The clutch feeds it to a tubular electric heater. After that, the glue turns into a viscous mass, which is squeezed out through the outlet hole under the influence of a lever onto the glued plane. The temperature inside the pistol 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. Higher temperatures accelerate the spreading process of the rod, which in turn increases the performance of the thermal gun.

In stores you can see glue charges of 5, 7, 9, 11 mm in diameter. For simple operations, a device made for a charge diameter of 5-7 mm is suitable. These consumables melt faster. For those who like to make decor, rods of different colors are sold. Available in sequins. This makes it possible to choose the glue for the material to be joined. When doing 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 front of work faster and better (fill in 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 adhesive is consumed.

The tips are of great importance in the action of the gun. With their help, it is easy to dispense the adhesive consistency and give the mass the necessary shape. Classic nozzles are round in shape. They have holes of different diameters for the glue to escape. The smaller the size, the more complex and delicate work will be done.

What is the device for?

The glue gun is considered a versatile tool. With its help, you can make a large number of interesting things, you just need to turn on your imagination. The product can be used for designing models, restoring and restoring rare furniture, mending shoes and clothes, repairing a living room, creating floral appliques, making all kinds of jewelry.

The gun can be used for gluing the following materials:

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

It is necessary to take into account the fact that materials perceive the effects of high temperatures in different ways. For example, to glue fabric, paper or polyethylene, you need a gun with a low working temperature. 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 field of activity. For example, red is useful for making flowers. A transparent mass is considered universal. It can be used in various fields. 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 for which material the adhesive mass is intended.

This must be borne in mind

A person needs to determine the characteristics of the purchased tool. You will need to look at gun power, performance, power type and operating temperature. In addition to the basic options, there are additional functions that manufacturers install in the instrument:

1. Type of food. Manufacturers make devices that operate both from the outlet and from the battery. If the product is required for home use, you can pick up an inexpensive copy with a simple cable. A long cord will be needed if the outlet is at a great distance from the work site. The device with a battery is suitable for use on construction sites, summer cottages, facilities where electricity is often turned off.
2. The speed of heating the device. The more powerful the product, the faster it gains temperature. In this case, the work being performed can be started faster. Tools designed for high volume bonding are an exception. Here, rods with a diameter of 11 mm are used. Even at high temperatures, they melt for a very long time. For decorating household items, it is better to purchase a model with a capacity of up to 130 watts.Household products are produced at 150-160 watts. If the employee has to deal with wood, metal and glass, then a high-quality 200 W machine will do.
3. Heating temperature and duration. This parameter determines which surface can be glued and after what period of time you can start working. Leather, plastic and paper can be sealed with a gun with a melting point of 105 degrees. It is better to connect glass, metal and wood with a gun that heats up to 200 degrees. Medium devices turn the rod into a sticky mass with a temperature of up to 165 degrees. The shortest waiting time for the working warm-up of the device fluctuates 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.
4. Types of rods. The choice of an adhesive element should be based on the melting temperature and the diameter of the product. Experts recommend buying the most common rods with a circumference of 7 and 11 mm. Universal elements can be used to firmly bond leather, paper and cardboard. Colored adhesive mass is suitable for making decor and ornaments. Black rods are usually used to seal the seams, while yellow is used to hold glass surfaces together. The characteristics need to be clarified when buying a product in a store, since the composition and properties depend on the manufacturer.

Many people buy low melting point rods for heavy duty pistols. However, it is best to use an adhesive that is rated for high heat. 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 specifics of the work to be performed. Buying 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. With 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 performed is related to different materials, you will need a model with manual heating control;
• a tool with automatic control will be necessary if there are long interruptions during its operation.

By what parameters to buy a pistol and about the best brands that are popular with consumers in 2020, will be discussed below.

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 from the proposed list.

The best devices for home and household needs

Dremel Glue Gun 910

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

The material consumption is regulated by a fine drip-proof tip. The presence of the rod can be monitored through a special viewing window. The device needs 5 minutes of warming up to be ready for use. The model takes a leading position in the ranking of the best due to the best price-quality ratio.

• high quality at a low price;
• has no plastic smell when heated;
• during a pause, glue does not drip onto the work surface;
• any rods can be used.

• long heating period;
• no temperature regulator.

PROconnect 12-0102

If the pistol is used periodically at home: to make a craft for a kindergarten with a child or decorate a gift wrapping for the holiday, then this ascetic unit will come in handy, like not one other.

A network device, consuming only 15 W, will melt a 7 mm rod in an average of 3 minutes. For the convenience of work, the gun is equipped with a support leg. The price of the device is 200 rubles.

• Easy;
• Compact;
• Includes 2 rods.

• No additional options (indicators, power buttons, etc.);
• Not for heavy 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 delivers a performance of 12 g / min. For 330 rubles, the user receives not only the device itself, but also two rods in the set.

• Productive;
• Easy;
• Can glue large volumes.

• There are no additional options;
• There is no shutdown button, i.e. begins to warm up directly upon placing the plug in the outlet.

Best professional devices

Kraftool PRO 06843-300-12

The body is made of shock-resistant and heat-resistant plastic, there is a steel stand and an ergonomic handle. The glue sticks for this model must be 12 centimeters in diameter.

There are two modes: working and waiting. In standby mode, the temperature is kept at the same level. Heating is regulated in the range of 120-230 degrees. The adjusting screw is intended for mechanical feeding of the adhesive mass. The attachments can be replaced if necessary. The readiness for work in this model is high: after a minute, the glue heats up to the desired temperature.

The device is recommended for professional use as reliable and high-performance.

• the ability to select a temperature regime;
• high performance;
• the presence of replaceable nozzles;
• high power;
• choice of temperature;
• high build quality.

• high price;
• great weight.

Metabo KE 3000

The lightest and most efficient machine among professional models. Its weight is only 250 grams, power is 200 watts. It takes at least 6 minutes to heat up to the required temperature. The kit includes 1 rod, steel stand and a long non-removable power cord.

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

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

• lack of 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 device weighs 390 grams, which allows you to hold it in your hand for a long time. The body is made of high quality plastic, the device itself is quite reliable.

There is a small lever on the case to turn it on; the indicator light signals that the device is ready for operation. The complete set 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 watts of electricity for operation.

• low weight of the device;
• high-quality assembly;
• short warm-up time;
• acceptable cost;
• stable construction;
• high strength.

• lack of a temperature controller.

RYOBI R18GLU-0 ONE +

A very convenient professional tool is appreciated for the presence of a two-finger trigger button and a handle covered with non-slip material, which allows the device to be operated for several hours in a row. This model differs from the previous topics, it runs on a removable battery.

There is a mechanical switch on the body of the device that allows you to select the desired mode. The red light indicator will inform you 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 is bought separately.

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

• the presence of a battery;
• anti-slip grip;
• quick warm-up;
• Convenient on / off button.

• high price;
• heavy weight;
• does not have an auto-off function;
• does not include battery and charger.

Temperature controlled and with rods

Dremel Glue Gun 930

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

The case is dressed in reliable and durable plastic, there is a viewing window, a stand, a long power cord. The package includes additionally three rods for each temperature regime and 12 colored rods for working with decorative elements.

• the presence of two heating modes;
• convenient handle;
• low price;
• the presence of a set of rods.

• the support leg is unstable.

Steinel GLUEMATIC 3002

This model is characterized by a high heating temperature - 206 degrees. However, its performance is slightly lower than the previous device. The power cord is 2 meters long, so you don't need 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, choosing the desired size and shape.

The tool has a robust body and great versatility: it is ideal for both needlewomen and professional builders. You can use low temperature and high temperature rods for work. This choice will determine how long the gun will heat up to readiness.

• versatility in work;
• low cost in comparison with analogues;
• the ability to replace the tip;
• long power cord.

• lack of a case;
• the electric cord cannot be removed.

Budget options for pistols with nozzles

Hammerflex GN-05

The construction and assembly tool for thermoplastic glue is made in a housing made of strong synthetic material. The set includes a bracket-stand, a backup nozzle, 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 closed with clear plastic. Warm-up time of the thermo gun - 4 minutes. with a power of 80 watts. The device is equipped with a rubber cap that protects against burns if you accidentally touch it.

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

• safety of use, the presence of an additional attachment;
• excellent quality of installation;
• working temperature - 170-190˚С.

• lack of an on / off indicator, switch;
• short electric wire.

REXANT 12-0105

The set with a powerful construction and assembly tool made of high-strength plastic includes a glue core with a diameter of 11 mm. For the convenience of working on suspended structures, the bracket-stand folds. In stand-alone mode, it holds the device, does not allow it to break off and damage the surface of the machine with heated glue.

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

• has great power;
• time of continuous work - 1 hour;
• high temperature - 185-200˚С.

• the device is not equipped with a display;
• no shutdown button;
• in the process of work, adhesive leaks.

Best Battery Powered Glue Guns

RYOBI R18GLU-0 ONE

The unit is used for bonding 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 this type of gun. For ease of use, the device is equipped with a wide stand, a trigger for 2 fingers, a rubberized handle.

The charger and the battery are not included in the kit, they must be bought 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.

• heats up quickly;
• ergonomic.

• charger and battery are not included.

BOSCH Gluey

The most popular among needlework 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 feed channel heats up in 60 s to a temperature of 150˚C by turning on the button on the device. The readiness of the unit for operation is indicated by a green indicator peephole. BOSCH Gluey is ideal for minor repairs, handicrafts, making children's crafts.

Bonding works are 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 full charge of the battery is enough to melt 60 rods. The instrument is equipped with a charger, AA batteries, the set includes colored, transparent and shiny pins for testing the device.

• warm-up time 1 min;
• Powered by NiMH batteries;
• the glue is supplied with a thin, economical jet;
• good equipment.

• not.

ENGY EGG-16CL

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

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

• included charger;
• in a set of 2 nozzles;
• equipped with a collection for incandescent drops.

• not.

MILWAUKEE C18 PCG / 310C

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

• good maneuverability;
  the presence of a stand, a convenient trigger.

• not.

Best Air Glue Guns

Buhnen HB 700 K Spray

The device is used in industry. The polyurethane adhesive is sprayed onto the surface. The device is equipped with an automatic heater, which makes it possible to set the required temperature with an accuracy of 1˚С. A digital screen is mounted in the handle.

• automatic heater;
• digital screen.

• not.

3M Polygun II

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

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

• not.

METABO Power Maxx KP

Thanks to the fixed contact pressure, the device also works with viscous adhesives. The automatic reverse gear mechanism protects the device from dripping. The main feature of the gun is a pneumatic high pressure glue system. This helps him to work with viscous, viscous compounds.

• work from a rechargeable battery;
• high power;
• practical system for supplying thermal composition;
• glues large objects of different micro-textures.

• volumetric dimensions of the device.

Recommendations for use

When working with an electrical appliance, you should adhere to safety rules. Use rods that match the specifications of the device. There should be no exposed areas on the electric cable, and its length is convenient for the procedure. Bonding is carried out at a high melting temperature, the hot glue composition is hazardous to health, so you should work with rubberized gloves.

It is necessary to ensure that the unit does not fall, a violation of the contacts is fraught with 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 the 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 pulling the trigger. If the adhesive has frozen on the surface of the nose, it is removed with a paper towel, after turning on the device and waiting for the drops to melt.