Wagner Furno 500 Heat Gun Review

Editor Rating: 4.5/5

Outstanding

Wagner Furno 500

Reviewed by: Sean Masri

Last modified: Jul 24, 2023 @ 7:26 am

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Wagner Furno 500 Review Summary:

Boasting twelve temperature settings — from 150 to 1200 degrees Fahrenheit — the Wagner Furno 500 heat gun is a multifunctional machine that will suit the dedicated DIY enthusiast.

This unit incorporates a novel LED graphic display — offering a unique alternative to the traditional rocker switches, dials, and LCD screen controls.

Featuring an integrated support stand, rubberized handle grips, and a hanging loop — the Wagner 500 can tackle such diverse projects as restoring automobile trim, stripping paint, and drying spackle.

This unit is an intermediate machine in the Wagner heat gun range — a step above the dual temperature Furno 300, and below the LCD-screened Furno 700. Coming from a brand with over 70 years of power tool experience, you have the peace of mind and customer support of a major industry player.

Pros:

N
Unique graphic LED display.
N
Temperature range of 150 to 1200 degrees Fahrenheit.
N
1500-watt output.
N
Includes two additional nozzles.
N
Protective side-bars.

Cons:

N
The display concept may not appeal to all users.
N
At 2.25 pounds, it’s a relatively heavy heat gun.

Features and Benefits of Wagner Furno 500


Time to drill down into the detail and discover what this highly popular machine can offer the serious DIYer.

Variable Temperature Settings


The Wagner 500 provides a variable temperature range of 150 to 1200 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat selection is controlled by substantial rubber buttons on the graphic console.

This gives you the choice of twelve different temperature possibilities — allowing you to tailor the heat to your current project.

Twin Fan Settings


This gun has two fan settings — again adjustable from the graphic console. Hence — in addition to the temperature level — you can also decide on the heat delivery intensity.

Graphic Display Screen


At the heart of this machine is the graphic display — which is perhaps the standout feature of this heat gun.

This integrated management system controls the on/off function, temperature, fan speed, and cool-down mode.

Unlike digital units — which give information feedback through an LCD screen, the 500 Furno Wagner shows current settings in the form of images. Backlit by LEDs, it shows which of the two fan settings you are using — and provides heat setting detail through a series of incremental bars.

Admittedly, this unique feature may not appeal to LCD screen enthusiasts. However, for those people who struggle with the relatively dark screens of a liquid crystal display — or are challenged in the visual department — I suggest this graphic LED console may offer a novel solution.

Cool-Down Mode


This useful characteristic of the 500 Furno allows the heat gun to steadily drop in temperature once you have finished your work for the day.

By providing a uniform decrease in heat, it protects the heating coil from dramatic changes in temperature, which should — theoretically — increase its lifespan.

Protective Sidebars


Unlike the heat gun — you’re not a machine.

Thus from time to time, you need to take a break to have that all-important sip of coffee — meaning you need to put your hot air gun down. The Wagner heat gun 500 incorporates protective sidebars, allowing you to lay the unit on your desk while it’s still switched on. These barriers prevent the hot nozzle from touching your workbench — preventing scorches, burns, and accidental fires.

Soft Grip Handle


The Wagner 500 possesses cushioned soft grips on both the front and rear of the handle. These should help to reduce hand fatigue during longer projects — allowing you to work more efficiently.

Furthermore, being made from rubber and with a molded texture — this should elevate grip, even with oily or perspiring palms.

Hands-Free Use


The rear of the heat gun includes two fins — enabling you to stand the unit on its end — therefore delivering a vertical stream of air.

This gives you two free hands to manipulate material above the heat plume — useful for such projects as molding pipes or bending plexiglass.

Additional Nozzles


While the standard two-inch nozzle is perfect for jobs such as stripping paint or varnish — for more niche projects you may need to adjust the heat focus.

So, it’s pleasing to see that the Wagner 500 comes complete with two additional nozzles. Firstly, there’s a fantail (flare) nozzle, designed to evenly distribute heat over a larger area. Secondly, the glass protector nozzle allows you to soften putty or caulk without the risk of cracking fragile glass.

Hanging Loop


While a robust unit, the internal components — especially the crucial heating element — are delicate. Hence, safe storage is crucial to protect the life of your machine.

This is why I welcome the inclusion of a hanging loop on this heat gun — giving you the ability to suspend the machine on your pegboard.

What Users Say About The Wagner Furno 500


In my eyes, the Wagner 500 Furno is a flexible tool for the complete DIY enthusiast, offering a different take on operational control and feedback.

But, is this machine — with its unique graphic console — more a novelty than a serious hot air option?

In order to gauge what others thought, I sought the views and opinion of industry experts and owners of this heat gun.

Overwhelming, the feedback was positive. Users lauded its clear and easy-to-read display, welcomed the protective sidebars, and enjoyed the comfort of the soft-grip handle. Admittedly, there were some users who considered the backlit LED console inferior to an LCD screen. However, that seems more personal preference than a criticism of this machine’s ability to function as a heat gun.

Alternative to Wagner Furno 500


I understand that the 500 Furno will not set everyone’s interests alight. Hence, for those who are looking for something a little different — consider these alternatives.

Wagner Furno 700


Should you consider the graphic console something of a gimmick — yet still demand precise temperature control, this may be the gun you’re after.

The Furno 700 incorporates a large LCD screen, together with substantially-sized buttons to adjust heat settings, cool-down mode, and fan speeds.

  • A higher price point than the Furno 500.
  • An upper temperature of 1300 degrees Fahrenheit, 100 degrees greater than the Furno 500.
  • Like the 500 model, it also comes with two additional nozzles.

Milwaukee 2688-20


If your work or DIY takes you away from power outlets — you need a cordless heat gun. Should this sound like your project, then consider the Milwaukee.

An 18-volt lithium battery gives 45 minutes of use from one charge — freeing you from the constraints of power cable tethering. Compact, it can reach into smaller areas than the Furno, such as under basins and in engine bays.

  • Features an LED light for dark area illumination, not a feature of the Furno 500.
  • Substantially harder on the wallet than the Wagner 500 Furno.
  • Unlike the Furno, it has no additional nozzles.

Black and Decker HG1300


For some users, the twelve temperature settings of the Furno Wagner 500 may be considered overkill. Hence, if you’re seeking a more basic unit — this gun could appeal.

The Black & Decker HG1300 offers two heat settings, adjusted by a handle-mounted rocker switch. While lacking the versatility of the Furno 500, these temperature levels are suitable for the majority of household projects.

  • Lower price point than the Wagner 500.
  • Unlike the Wagner, the HG1300 has no additional accessories.
  • Lower upper temperature than the Furno 500, at 1000 degrees.

Conclusion


With a broad temperature spectrum, twin fan speeds, and a longevity-boosting cool-down mode, this heat gun should appeal to the committed DIYer who demands precise control.

Furthermore, its inventive graphic display console offers a new take on information feedback — and may tempt those who are visually impaired.

Agreed, some hot air stalwarts may consider it more of a gimmick than an aid — and may wish to choose an LCD alternative.

But, for users who want novelty with flexibility — the Wagner Furno 500 heat gun could be the ideal solution.

Wagner Furno 500 FAQs

Q: What’s the Difference Between the Wagner Furno 300 vs Furno 500?

The main difference between these two heat guns is that the Furno 500 offers a variable temperature range — between 150 and 1200 degrees Fahrenheit — while the 300 model offers just two heat levels — 750 and 1100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Q: How Do You Remove the Cord From a Wagner Heat Gun?

The manufacturer indicates that once you have attached the power cable for first use, you shouldn’t remove it.

That being said — if damage to the cord requires you to replace it — depress the button near the cable/handle attachment — and you can easily remove it.

Q: How Hot Does a Wagner Heat Gun Get?

The Wagner 500 has a broad temperature spectrum of 150 degrees Fahrenheit minimum, through to 1200 degrees Fahrenheit maximum. As a variable temperature machine, you can select twelve different heat settings in this range.

Q: Will The Furno 500 Work for Encaustic Wax Melting?

Yes. Set the Wagner 500 to a mid-range temperature level, and first test on an inconspicuous area of wax. Should this heat be insufficient, begin to raise the temperature in small increments.

Q: How Much Does the Wagner 500 Furno Cost?

The Furno 500 from Wagner is a flexible tool, featuring an innovative graphic control console. To check out the current cost of the Wagner Furno 500.

Q: What Are the Wagner 500 Furno Uses?

As a variable temperature heat gun that possesses twin fan speeds and a choice of nozzles — the Furno 500 can be used in a wide range of applications. Typical uses include:

  • Softening and stripping paint.
  • Bending copper and plastic pipes.
  • Forming plexiglass.
  • Lifting laminate flooring.
  • Rapid drying of paint.
  • Refreshing old plastic.
  • Shrink wrapping.
  • Removing bumper stickers.
  • Restoring auto trim.
  • Drying spackle.
  • Waxing snowboards.
  • Removing glue.
  • Thawing pipes.
  • Lighting BBQs.
  • Making soap.
  • Applying tint to car windows.
  • Shrinking wire sheaths.
Q: Can the Wagner 500 Melt Putty?

Yes. Use the Wagner Furno on a mid-range temperature setting, together with the glass protector, to gently warm up the putty. Then, as it softens, use a scraper to remove.

Q: Can I Use the Wagner Heat Gun 500 in the USA?

Yes. The Furno 500 is rated for 120 volts — and therefore suitable for use with a US mains supply.