Best Upholstery Staple Gun in 2024 — Buyers Guide, Review, and Comparison

Targeting the furniture restorer, collector, and manufacturer — an upholstery staple gun delivers fine wire crown staples that provide strength combined with inconspicuousness. While available in electric and manual formats, the majority of units are pneumatic — ensuring brawny delivery combined with rapid performance.

Upholstery Staple Gun Comparision Table

IMAGE PRODUCT DETAILS
Surebonder 9615A Upholstery Stapler with Carrying Case
  • Weight: 3.0 pounds
  • Dimensions: 3.0 x 11.0 x 9.0 inches
  • Material: Metal
  • Staple size: 22 gauge - 0.3125 to 0.625 inches

Features

  • Accidental firing prevention system.
  • 60-100 PSI.
  • Arrives with a carry case, oil, and a wrench.

Product Rating: 4.2/5

Check Price at AmazonSurebonder 9615A Upholstery Stapler with Carrying Case Review Surebonder 9615A Upholstery Stapler with Carrying Case Review
Fasco 11081F F1B 50-16 50 Series Upholstery Stapler
  • Weight: 2.8 pounds
  • Dimensions: 6.25 x 0.82 x 0.51 inches
  • Material: Aluminum
  • Staple size: 20 gauge - 0.25 to 0.625 inches

Features

  • Single shot stapling.
  • Bottom loading.
  • Rubber comfort handle.

Product Rating: 4.2/5

Check Price at Amazon Fasco 11081F F1B 50-16 50 Series Upholstery Stapler Review Fasco 11081F F1B 50-16 50 Series Upholstery Stapler Review
Porter-Cable US58 C-Crown Upholstery Stapler
  • Weight: 1.8 pounds
  • Dimensions: 14 x 10.5 x 3.25 inches
  • Material: Steel, aluminum, and plastic
  • Staple size: 22 gauge - 0.25 to 0.625 inches

Features

  • One-inch long narrow nose.
  • Rear exhaust.
  • Lightweight build.

Product Rating: 4.8/5

Check Price at AmazonPorter-Cable US58 C-Crown Upholstery Stapler Review Porter-Cable US58 C-Crown Upholstery Stapler Review
Unicatch USC71/16L (US2238AL) Long Nose Upholstery Stapler
  • Weight: 2.54 pounds
  • Dimensions: 10.0 x 6.0 x 2.0 inches
  • Material: Metal and plastic
  • Staple size: 22 gauge - 0.375 inches

Features

  • Bottom loading magazine.
  • Elongated nose.
  • Holds 178 staples.

Product Rating: 4.4/5

Check Price at AmazonUnicatch USC71/16L (US2238AL) Long Nose Upholstery Stapler Review Unicatch USC71/16L (US2238AL) Long Nose Upholstery Stapler Review
Freeman PFWS Professional Fine Wire Stapler 20 Gauge
  • Weight: 2.2 pounds
  • Dimensions: 9 x 2 x 6.75 inches
  • Material: Anodized aluminum
  • Staple size: 20 gauge - 0.5625 inches

Features

  • Incorporated belt hook.
  • Drives crown staples for DIY projects.
  • Seven-year warranty.

Product Rating: 4.6/5

Check Price at AmazonFreeman PFWS Professional Fine Wire Stapler 20 Gauge Review Freeman PFWS Professional Fine Wire Stapler 20 Gauge Review
3PLUS H7116SP 22 Gauge Pneumatic Upholstery Stapler
  • Weight: 2.07 pounds
  • Dimensions: 9.29 x 6.97 x 2.01 inches
  • Material: Aluminum, steel, and rubber
  • Staple size: 22 gauge - 0.625 inches

Features

  • Lightweight aluminum build.
  • 60-100 PSI.
  • Single shot firing.

Product Rating: 4.2/5

Check Price at Amazon3PLUS H7116SP 22 Gauge Pneumatic Upholstery Stapler Review 3PLUS H7116SP 22 Gauge Pneumatic Upholstery Stapler Review

Best Upholstery Staple Gun Buying Guide

If you’re planning on building, restoring, upcycling, or repairing furniture — you need an upholstery staple gun.

These project-focused staplers are designed to rapidly drive narrow gauge fasteners to attach foam, fabrics, and padding to furniture frames — providing a clean and unobtrusive finish that doesn’t detract from the overall aesthetic.

Although available in manual and electric formats, the vast majority of professional and prosumer models are pneumatic — ensuring powerful, deep penetration and fatigue-free operation on larger jobs.

Due to their furniture-targeted features — such as single shot firing, narrow gauge compatibility, and elongated heads — most upholstery stapler units aren’t designed for other DIY projects. Therefore, if you’re planning on fitting carpets, laying laminate, or installing paneling, check out our general stapler machines instead.

However, if you need a furniture staple gun, consider the following when choosing your ideal unit:

  • Safety features.
  • Head size and length.
  • Compressor size.
  • Comfort and balance.
  • Magazine capacity.
  • Staple gauge.

How To Choose the Best Staple Gun for Upholstery


Before you decide to buy a particular furniture staple gun, you have to consider as many elements as possible — so you avoid overpaying or buying an unsuitable product.

Many people make the mistake of rushing their purchases just to end up with a unit that doesn’t meet their expectations. That’s why we’ve made this list of things you should consider when choosing the best gun — ensuring you end up with a fabric stapler that addresses your requirements and the demands of your projects.

Here are a few things you should think about:

Safety Features


Safety is of utmost importance with these tools, especially the pneumatic ones. Because there’s a lot of force and power involved, stray staples can cause injury if the unit suddenly misfires or you use it incorrectly.

Many upholstery guns have integrated safety mechanisms to keep you safe — look for machines that include:

  • Trigger lock.
  • Safety switch.
  • Anti-jam.
  • Twin button depression for firing.

Head Size and Length


A true upholstery stapler will have a narrow head, permitting you to effortlessly staple inside tight spaces. This is crucial if you’re a furniture restorer, repairer, or builder — allowing you to hide the fasteners from view.

Furthermore, some of the best staplers for upholstery have an elongated head — meaning you can reach even further into constricted areas.

things to consider

Compressor Size


As the ultimate upholstery staplers are pneumatic — you need a compressor to drive these fastening tools.

It’s important to ensure that your current compressor, or a compressor you plan to purchase, has enough power to drive the stapler. Most upholstery guns require around 60-90 PSI at 4.0 CFM (cubic feet per minute) — check the manufacturer’s gun specifications to ensure compressor compatibility.

upholstery gun tips

Comfort and Balance


Reupholstering furniture can take a significant amount of time, require you to wield the gun at awkward angles, and need some strength to handle the repetitive recoil. Therefore, choose a machine that boasts features that makes operation pleasurable and comfortable.

Aspects that can enhance user enjoyment and satisfaction include:

  • Lightweight body.
  • Textured grip.
  • Rubber or cushioned handle.
  • Balance.
  • Belt hooks.

Magazine Capacity


The greater the magazine capacity of your furniture stapler, the fewer times you’ll need to reload — allowing you to complete your projects more rapidly.

Furthermore, some units offer quick bottom-loading, meaning that when you do need to replenish your machine, it’s effortless and tool-free.

However, remember that the higher the number of staples in the cartridge, the greater the risk of the machine jamming.

Staple Gauge


Upholstery projects require narrow staples — as no one wants to see a massive steel fastener holding their furniture together.

Therefore ensure that your prospective stapler can deliver 20 or 22-gauge staples — even if the manufacturer describes the unit as suitable for upholstery.

Our Top Rated Staple Guns for Upholstery


With a multitude of machines on the market, choosing the best upholstery stapling gun can be challenging — so, I’ve done the hard work for you!

Below are my top six picks of what I consider to be the ultimate upholstery staplers currently available. With a variety of functions and capabilities, and targeting a mixture of stapling pros and novices — there’s a machine for every project and experience level.

Surebonder 9615A Upholstery Stapler with Carrying Case


Surebonder-9615A

Our Rating: 4.2
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

With everything you need to start upholstering straight from the box — apart from a compressor — in my opinion, the Surebonder 9615A is the ultimate furniture stapling kit. As, in addition to the unit, you receive a hard carrying case, adjustment wrench, and tool oil.

Ideal for DIYers and power-fastening newbies, this stapler offers effortless operation, versatility, and most importantly — an affordable price. Although admittedly, the design is somewhat standard, with few novel or innovative features. And, while it’s not designed for massive projects, it’s suitable for small to mid-sized jobs.

One welcome feature is the safety mechanism — preventing accidental firing through a trigger-mounted latch. Furthermore, its textured rubber handle increases grip and comfort — crucial for longer projects.

The Surebonder is compatible with 22-gauge staples and requires a compressor that can deliver 60-100 PSI at 4.0 CFM.

Surebonder-9615A

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Fasco 11081F F1B 50-16 1/2-inch Crown 20 Gauge Duo-Fast 50 Series Upholstery Stapler


Fasco-11081F-F1B-50-16

Our Rating: 4.2
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Fasco 11081F F1B 50-16 1/2-inch Crown 20 Gauge Duo-Fast 50 Series Upholstery Stapler


Our Rating: 4.2
No-nonsense and back to basics, the Fasco 11081FF1B is a pneumatic gun that offers straightforward operation for upholsterers that don’t need frills or unnecessary features.

Weighing 2.8 pounds — it’s one of the lightest around. As you can assume, it comes in handy if you have issues with fatigue and hand pain.

The non-slip handle offers a firm grip, especially for those who tend to get sweaty hands. What’s more, safety should always be a priority, and this particular model does well in this department with its incorporated trigger lock.

While it’s recommended for upholstery, it can tackle other more demanding tasks. For example, installing roof panels or fixing your laminate is possible with this particular model.

Bottom loading enables rapid 20-gauge staple replenishment, while single-shot firing ensures accuracy.

Porter-Cable US58 1/4-Inch to 5/8-Inch 22-Gauge C-Crown Upholstery Stapler


Porter-Cable-US58

Our Rating: 4.8
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price
Boasting a one-inch narrow nose head, the Porter Cable US58 can access areas other staplers cannot reach — making it ideal for upholsterers who demand the perfect finish.

Working at 60 to 100 PSI, this upholstery staple can be used with the majority of compact home-use compressors. And, weighing 1.8 pounds, it promises stamina-boosting operation on your more time-lengthy projects.

The US58 from Porter Cable is compatible with narrow 22-gauge staples and incorporates a welcome steel cap that promotes durability. Furthermore, its efficient rear-mounted exhaust directs waste gasses away from your face — boosting operating comfort.

Its magazine can hold 185 staples and is rapidly replenished with its bottom-loading feature. And, arriving with an NPT 0.25-inch connector, you can operate the tool straight from the box — as long as you own a compressor.

Porter-Cable-US58

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Unicatch USC71/16L (US2238AL) Long Nose Upholstery Stapler 22 Gauge 3/8″ Crown


Unicatch-USC7116L

Our Rating: 4.4
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Unicatch USC71/16L (US2238AL) Long Nose Upholstery Stapler 22 Gauge 3/8″ Crown


Our Rating: 4.4
Reliability, capacity, and good performance are the elements you should look for in any staple gun — the Unicatch USC71/16L has all three of these parameters and poses a great solution for many DIY enthusiasts.

First of all, the reliability is at a high level. It means you don’t have to worry much about the misfires and safety. The second thing you might like is the long nose which makes it great for getting into hard-to-reach places.

The good news is that it doesn’t need a fancy compressor — any affordable one that can output up to 100 PSI should be more than enough, as this upholstery stapler operates on 60 to 80 PSI.

The tool fires 22-gauge staples, rapidly replenished through a bottom-loading magazine feature. And, with an adjustable exhaust, it ensures that gas, debris, and moisture aren’t blowing into your face.

Freeman PFWS Professional Fine Wire Stapler 20 Gauge


Freeman-PFWS

Our Rating: 4.6
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price
While compatible with upholstery-grade 20-gauge fasteners, the Freeman PFWS can also drive standard T50 staples of 0.25 to 0.5625 inches — making it ideal for DIY tasks too. So apart from being great at upholstery, it also performs well in other projects like insulation, crafts, roofing, and more.

The design is slick and modern. The rubber non-slip grip comes in handy, especially if you suffer from perspiration. It has a well-engineered reload system — meaning replenishment is rapid and straightforward.

An incorporated belt hook may appeal if your stapling projects take you up ladders or scaffolding — permitting you to carry the unit while freeing your hands. And, with its 360-degree adjustable exhaust, you’re shielded from unpleasant fumes.

Running at 60-90 PSI, the Freeman upholstery stapler is compatible with most six-gallon home compressors. And, with a lengthy seven-year warranty, promises reassuring durability.

Freeman-PFWS

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

3PLUS H7116SP 22 Gauge Pneumatic Upholstery Stapler


3PLUS H7116SP

Our Rating: 4.2
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

3PLUS H7116SP 22 Gauge Pneumatic Upholstery Stapler


Our Rating: 4.2
With its generously proportioned rubber handle complete with heavy tread, the 3PLUS H7116SP upholstery stapler delivers a confident grip combined with impressive comfort — making it ideal for lengthy projects.

It knocks out fine-mesh 22-gauge staples from 0.25 to 0.625 inches working from a 60-100 PSI compressor. Its single-shot feature ensures user accuracy, while a substantial and rotatable 360-degree exhaust promises operator comfort.

With a quick-clear jam release, your costly downtime is reduced. Furthermore, the stapler’s effortless bottom magazine loading ensures rapid replenishment of upholstery fasteners.

The H7116SP stapler from 3PLUS incorporates a narrow head to penetrate into the tighter recesses of your furniture projects — and its lightweight 2.07-pound build helps to stave off fatigue.

The conclusion


Dealing with upholstery isn’t always easy — especially if you don’t have the right tools. However, my top picks of the ultimate upholstery staple guns make repairs, restorations, and erections effortless.

Whether you go for the versatile Freeman PFWS, the comfort-boosting 3PLUS H7116SP, the narrow nose Porter-Cable US58, or the complete kit Surebonder 9615A — there’s an upholstery staple gun above for every furniture-loving DIYer, prosumer, or trade expert.

Upholstery Stapling Guns FAQs

Q: What Type of Staples Do Upholstery Staple Guns Use?

Delivering fine wire fasteners that are crucial for furniture aesthetics — most pneumatic upholstery staple guns knock out 20 or 22-gauge staples with lengths from 0.25 to 0.625 inches.

Q: Are Upholstery Staples Different From Regular Staples?

Upholstery staples are fine wire — not just making them inconspicuous in the final furniture finish, but also ensuring the minimum of damage to wood frames. In most circumstances, they are 20 or 22 gauge.

Q: Can I Use a Regular Staple Gun For Upholstery?

You can use a general DIY stapler for furniture repairs and recovers — but the results may be disappointing. Many standard staplers lack the brawn to penetrate hardwood and aren’t compatible with fine wire 20 or 22-gauge fasteners.

Q: What Are the Advantages of Using an Upholstery Staple Gun?

Typically pneumatic, an upholstery stapling gun has the brawn to penetrate dense woods, a narrow head for confined spaces, and compatibility with fine wire staples. They ensure a smooth and strong finish.

Q: What Size Compressor Do I Need for an Upholstery Stapling Gun?

The majority of stapling guns for upholstery require between 60-95 PSI at 4.0 CFM. This means that most upholstery staple gun machines are compatible with consumer-grade six-gallon compressors.

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