A lot of people ask us, “What is the best glue gun for woodworking?” The answer to this question is not always easy. Different factors need to be taken into account when deciding which glue gun will work best on a particular project. In this blog post, we’ll talk about what makes a good hot glue gun, and review our top five picks for the best hot glue guns for woodworking.
Table of Contents
Gorilla 104987 Full Size Hot Glue Gun and Sticks, 45, Orange
The Gorilla Dual Temp Full-Size Glue Gun is perfect for home projects and crafts that require more volume and glue output. Plus, the included pack of Full Size Glue Sticks: 4″ Long, 45 Count will help you get started right away!The high-temperature Gorilla hot glue sticks are weather-resistant for indoor and outdoor use, safe for both high and low-temperature glue guns, have a 45 second working time – ensuring your project stays in place – and impacts tough.
Ryobi P305 One+ 18V Lithium Ion Cordless Hot Glue Gun w/ 3 Multipurpose Glue Sticks
Cordless power with no compromise on performance, that’s what you get with the Ryobi P305. This hot glue gun is powered by One+, their universal battery system, so it’s compatible with all of your Ryobi tools.Plus, the cordless design means you can take this anywhere without worrying about finding an outlet. The P305 also features a comfortable rubber hex grip and 3 hours of runtime on a 4 amp hour battery. Whether you’re a crafter or need to do some heavy-duty gluing, the Ryobi P305 is up for the job.
AdTech Industrial Strength Full Size High-Output Hot Melt Glue Gun
Looking for a top-quality, high-output hot melt glue gun? Look no further than the AdTech 0189 Pro200. This professional-grade tool is perfect for light industrial, commercial, and DIY applications. Featuring a powerful 200 Watt PTC Heating system, it quickly reaches an operating temperature of 410°F/210°C. The gun can output up to 3. 5 lbs of glue per hour, making it ideal for large projects. With its comfortable 4-finger trigger and durable high-quality shell, the Pro200 is built to last. Plus, the sturdy base stand means you can work on your project for hours on end without having to worry about fatigue.
Hot Glue Gun Full Size (Not Mini) Dual Power High Temp Heavy Duty 60 & 100 Watt
This Hot Glue Gun Full Size (Not Mini) Dual Power High Temp Heavy Duty 60 & 100 Watt is perfect for small and large projects! The 1.5-inch precision nozzle allows for a better vision of what you are doing, while the extended 7-foot cord provides more flexibility when working. The sturdy anti-tip stand helps to prevent accidents, and the copper nozzle with pressure valve heats up quickly and prevents dripping. Comes with 12 premium five-inch glue sticks that are shorter and easier to manage!
Hot Melt Glue Gun Kit Professional Industrial High Temperature Hot Glue Gun
If you’re in need of a quality glue gun, look no further than this Hot Melt Glue Gun Kit Professional Industrial High Temperature Hot Glue Gun. This premium product comes with a high-end hot glue gun with a trigger and fast-heating nozzle for precision glue application. The dual function 60/100W thermal glue gun is also easy to use, making it perfect for a variety of purposes. Plus, you’ll love the money-saving value you get with this kit together with 15 pieces of clear, transparent 11*220mm hot glue sticks!
Buyer’s Guide
Are Hot Glue Guns Good for Wood?
Hot glue guns are great for woodworking because the adhesive dries quickly and bonds well to wood. The bond is also relatively strong, which makes it a good choice for small projects. However, it’s important to note that hot glue guns should not be used on finished surfaces as they can leave behind visible marks.
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to attach two pieces of wood together, then a hot glue gun is a good option. The adhesive will set within minutes, so you won’t have to wait long before you can start using your project. In addition, hot glue is less likely to cause damage to the wood than other adhesives such as nails or screws.
Hot glue guns are also a good choice for repairing wooden furniture. If you have a piece of furniture that’s starting to look old and worn, you can use a hot glue gun to restore it. The adhesive will hold the wood together tightly, so it won’t fall apart over time.
If you’re new to woodworking, then a hot glue gun is a great tool to start with. It’s easy to use and doesn’t require any special skills or knowledge. Plus, the adhesive is non-toxic so it’s safe to use indoors.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind when using a hot glue gun. First of all, the adhesive can be quite messy, so you’ll need to be careful not to get it on your clothes or skin. It’s also important to make sure that the surface is clean and free from dirt and dust before applying the adhesive.
Finally, always use caution when handling a hot glue gun as the heat can easily cause burns. Make sure you keep children and pets away from the gun while it’s in use.
What To Look For When Choosing Glue Gun For Woodworking
Glue Guns For Woodworking are very handy tools to have in your workshop. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, with different wattages and features. So, which one should you buy?
Here are some things to consider when choosing a glue gun for woodworking:
Wattage
The first thing to consider is the wattage of the hot glue gun. This will affect how quickly the glue is melted and how strong the bond will be. Most hot glue guns have a range of wattages, so it’s important to choose one that has enough power for your needs.
There are three main types of wattages: low-wattage, high-wattage, and dual-temperature. Low-wattage glue guns typically have a power output of around 20 watts or less. These are good for basic projects or when you need a low heat setting. High-wattage glue guns have a power output of 50 watts or more and can be used for heavier projects. Dual-temperature glue guns have two settings – a low temperature for delicate materials and a high temperature for thicker materials.
Understanding the wattage and settings of a glue gun will help you choose the best one for your needs:
- Low-wattage: Good for basic projects or when using delicate materials such as paper, ribbon, lace, felt, balsa wood, and other thin craft items. Also recommended if you’re new to hot gluing because it is less likely than high-wattage glue guns to cause burning accidents. A low-temperature setting can also be useful when making crafts with children due to their sensitive skin.
- High-wattage: Ideal for bonding heavier objects like wood pieces together quickly and efficiently which minimizes heat exposure time (and therefore, the risk of burning).
- Dual-temperature: Good if you need to bond a variety of materials such as wood and fabric. Some dual-temperature glue guns can be set to high or low temperatures for maximum control over their application. If using thicker objects like leather it’s best to choose a hot glue gun with two settings so that you can use both low and high heat options depending on your needs.
Power Source
The next thing to consider when purchasing a glue gun is the power source. The majority of hot glue guns operate using electricity; however, there are also options that use compressed air or butane gas (for both indoor and outdoor uses).
Electrical glue guns are by far the most popular type. They typically have a cord that plugs into an outlet, and they come in both standard and mini sizes. Cordless glue guns use batteries to power them, which makes them more portable. However, they also tend to be less powerful than electric models.
Compressed air glue guns are designed for heavy-duty applications such as bonding metal or plastic together. They usually require a compressor, which can be expensive to purchase and maintain. Butane gas glue guns are another option for outdoor projects since they don’t produce any fumes.
It is up to you to decide which power source is best for your needs. If you are a professional user, then it makes sense to purchase an air compressor and butane gas glue gun so that you have the most options available when working on the job site.
If you want a simple solution for occasional use in your home or office, then electrical models may be more suitable since they will not require any additional purchases. Even though cordless versions don’t supply as much heat, they can still perform all of the basic functions just like their electric counterparts.
In addition to choosing between different types of glue guns based on their power sources, there are also portable vs . stationary units to consider:
- Portable glue guns are small and lightweight, making them easy to take with you wherever you go. However, they don’t have the same power as stationary models and typically can only hold a limited amount of glue.
- Stationary glue guns are larger and heavier, but they also offer more power and tend to last longer than portable ones. They usually come with a stand or some other type of support so that they can be set down while you’re working.
Size and Cord Length
Size is another important consideration when choosing a hot glue gun. There are three sizes of guns: mini, standard, and industrial. Miniguns are the smallest and have the lowest heat output. They’re perfect for small projects or detailed work. Standard-sized guns have a medium heat output and are good for most applications. Industrial-sized guns have the highest heat output and are best for heavy-duty use.
Size can affect the gun’s cord length. The longer the cord, the more flexibility you have in your work area and with any protective gear or ventilation equipment that may be needed.
When selecting a size, consider what type of project you will be using it on. If you’re working with smaller pieces of wood, a minigun is ideal. If you need to attach large pieces or want faster drying times, go with a standard or industrial gun.
In addition to size, you’ll also want to consider cord length. Longer cords are generally better because they give you more freedom of movement while working on your project. However, keep in mind that shorter cords can be easier to work with around tight corners or other obstructions since the gun is closer to where it needs to be for optimal use.
Cordless hot glue guns are another option if you don’t have access to an outlet nearby but aren’t as powerful and often take longer to heat up than their plugged-in counterparts so this isn’t always a viable solution depending on what you need them for.
Temperature Range
Another aspect that you should keep in mind is the temperature range. The standard hot glue gun will have a high of around 200 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of about 100 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are looking for a glue gun that can handle higher temperatures, then you should consider one with a temperature range of up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
On the other hand, if you need a glue gun that can handle lower temperatures, then there are models available that have a temperature range of as low as 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
If your project calls for different temperatures, then you might want to consider getting one that has more than two settings or an adjustable setting where it can be changed according to what type of material you are using it on.
The temperature Range depends on the material and the project.
Glue Stick Size
What size glue sticks should you be using in your hot glue gun? The answer is usually a standard .07 inch one. However, there are some exceptions to this rule and it really depends on the type of glue gun that you have. If you have a high-temperature glue gun, then you can use a .06 inch or even a .05 inch diameter glue stick. If you have a low-temperature glue gun, then you should stick with the standard .07 inch diameter glue stick.
The reason for this is that the high-temperature glue guns can handle the thicker sticks better because they generate more heat. This means that they will be able to melt the adhesive faster and create a stronger bond. The low-temperature glue guns won’t be able to handle the thicker sticks as well, so it’s best to use the standard size ones in those cases.
But if your hot glue gun is low-temperature, then using anything smaller than a .07 inch diameter glue stick will result in poor bonding and might not work at all. Additionally, the size of the nozzle on your hot glue gun also comes into play when choosing the right size for your sticks. So always double-check to make sure that the diameter of the stick is compatible with both your hot glue gun and its nozzle.
The size of the glue stick should always be compatible with the size of the nozzle.
Ease of use
The next aspect of the best hot glue gun is how easy it is to use. If you are a beginner or don’t often use an adhesive, this might be more important than other factors like insulation and power output.
How hard is it for you to control? Most cordless models have triggers that allow the amount of glue coming out at once to be adjusted easier but can also limit coverage area. You will want something with few settings if you only use the tool occasionally as anything more complex may overwhelm some people who need simplicity in their tools. The most basic types such as those used on fabric do not even require electricity so they could make good choices for occasional gluing needs too!
Ease of use also depends on the shape of the gun. Some are designed to be held like a pistol while others have a more traditional form factor. If you’re used to welding tools that way, it may take some getting used to if your new hot glue gun is shaped differently.
On the other hand, more experienced woodworkers might want something with more power and features. One such feature that is worth looking for is a lock-on button. This will keep the trigger held down so you don’t have to hold it down the entire time which can get tiring if you are using it for a long period especially on bigger projects. Additionally, an insulated nozzle will help protect your hands from accidental burns since these guns reach very high temperatures!
Stand
The stand is a solid base for any hot glue gun. If you want to apply the best adhesion, it is important that your glue gun has a stable position where it can be used without falling or moving around while working on an object.
The stand isn’t just about stability though-it also helps keep messes under control by preventing melted adhesive from sticking onto surfaces below your work area, which saves time and money spent cleaning up after projects are done!
A stand with a larger surface is ideal because it lets you use both hands-free when gluing two objects together. This means having one hand free to hold each of the pieces in place (or using clamps if necessary), plus one hand available to operate the trigger mechanism instead of needing someone else there holding the trigger down the whole time!
If you’re looking for a stand that doesn’t take up too much room or weigh a lot, then a clamp style with a small footprint is an ideal choice. These stands can be used on all different types of projects from kitchen cabinets to signs and crafts, so they are useful in any work environment! For those who have trouble keeping their desk space clean and organized, it’s also nice not having extra equipment taking up desk space as well.
Price
One more important factor to consider when purchasing a hot glue gun is the price. You don’t want to break the bank, but you also want a quality product that will last.
There are a few different price points for hot glue guns. The most basic ones start at around $15 and go up from there. If you are looking for something with more features, such as an automatic shut-off or interchangeable tips, the price can jump up to $50 or more.
The price depends on the features of the hot glue gun. It is important to consider what you need in a hot glue gun before making your purchase. If you know you will only be using it for small projects, a basic model should do the trick. But if you plan on using it for larger projects or heavy-duty use, then you may want to invest in a more expensive option.
It really depends on what you need and what your budget is. Just be sure to read reviews before making your final purchase so you know you’re getting a good deal.
Some of the best hot glue for woodworking falls into the $30 to $40 range. They have all the features you need, such as an automatic shut-off and interchangeable tips, without breaking the bank.
FAQ
What is the best hot glue for wood?
Hot glue can be used for both woodworking and wood repair. It is important to understand that hot glue does not adhere well to many wooden surfaces, especially porous ones like pine or poplar. Hot glue works best on harder woods such as oak, maple, hickory, etc., but even then it may take some trial and error before you find the right glue and application method for your project.
There are a variety of different hot glues on the market, each with its own set of pros and cons. The most popular type of wood glue is polyurethane-based which has high strength and good water resistance. Cyanoacrylate (CA) or superglue is another popular choice and is known for its quick drying time.
How strong are hot glue guns?
Hot glue guns can reach temperatures of about 300° F, which is hot enough to melt the stick. As soon as you pull the trigger on your gun and start applying it, adhesive flows out onto your surface where pressure bonds the bond in seconds. Hot glue has very little initial adhesion compared with other glues so many people use clamps to keep the pieces together while the glue sets. This is why hot glue guns are not as strong as other adhesives like wood screws or nails.
Can I use 7mm glue sticks in an 11 mm glue gun?
No, the two sizes are not compatible. The smaller diameter glue stick will not fit in the larger gun, and the larger diameter glue stick may jam or break in the smaller gun. Use only sticks of the same size as your gun.
How long does a glue stick last?
This varies by brand and type, but generally, a standard glue stick will last for around 15 to 20 minutes of continuous use. If the glue stick is not used for a while, it may start to dry out and will no longer be effective.
What temperature should the surface be to use a hot glue gun?
Ideally, your workpiece should be around 50°F (or as close as possible) for best results. Hotter surfaces will cause the glue to melt too quickly and not bond properly. If you are working in colder temperatures or low humidity, first warm-up and wet the surface a bit with water to help the glue adhere better.
What is the best way to clean up hot glue?
Hot glue can be very difficult and time-consuming to remove from most surfaces, especially wood. For small amounts of dried glue on non-wood materials like metal or plastic, let it dry completely and then break apart with a chisel or scraper tool. If you don’t want to damage your surface, use a blow dryer or heat gun on a low setting to help soften the glue and make it easier to remove. For larger areas of dried hot glue, use boiling water as this is effective at breaking apart even very tough glues.
How do I repair warped wood with hot glue?
Hot glue can be used to temporarily repair warped wood. First, wipe the surface clean with a damp sponge or cloth and let it dry completely. Then use clamps to hold down each side of your piece while you apply hot glue along the length of one side at a time. Let the glue set for an hour before removing the clamps so that it has adequate time to cure.
What are some other uses for hot glue?
Hot glue can also be used for a variety of crafting and home repair projects, such as:
- Bonding fabric to wood or metal
- Attaching decals or stickers
- Fixing broken glasses or figurines
- Creating molds and forms
- Holding jewelry findings together
Video Tutorial: What Can You Do With a Gluegun
Final Thoughts
The best hot glue gun for woodworking will make your work easier. Choose the right one and enjoy using it! Make sure you get a cordless option so that nothing is holding you back from completing your project. If you’re looking to speed things up when gluing pieces of plywood together, choose a higher wattage glue gun such as an 80W or 100W model. For smaller jobs like crafts and household repairs, any standard 20-watt unit should do just fine.
Now you know all about hot glue guns and how they can benefit your woodworking projects. If you need a tool to make quick repairs, do not hesitate to pick up a good gun from the list above!
So depending on your needs, there is definitely a hot glue gun out there waiting for you! Make sure to consider all of the factors involved in order to make the best decision possible.
We hope you enjoyed this article and found it helpful. And as always, happy gluing!