Tips on Choosing the Best Stapler

A reliable stapler is one of those basic office tools that often goes unnoticed until it you can't find it or it doesn't work properly. Here are a few tips on choosing the most reliable staplers and accessories for your office to help you focus on getting things done rather than getting your office tools to work.

Choosing a Stapler:

1. Maximum paper thickness: Heavy-duty staplers can handle more layers of paper or thicker sheets, like cardstock. The thickness of paper you need to fasten usually dictates the type of stapler and the size of staple you'll need. A regular handheld stapler can usually handle 10 sheets of paper or less. A packet of more than 10 sheets of paper or cardstock may require a heavy-duty office stapler and sturdier staples. If you decide a handheld stapler is best, choose a stapler with a flexible or cushioned top or a no-slip handle to help you apply enough force.

2. Frequency of use: If you only use office tools occasionally throughout the day, then a basic manual stapler is fine; but if you're putting together mass mailings or reports, then an electric stapler can really make things easier on your hands and hold up to consistent use better than a plastic handheld stapler. Push-button controls, foot pedals or automatic sensors can help you get just the type of control you want over the stapling action. Electric models can also use a bit more force when stapling, which means you can fasten more sheets at a time than with a typical manual stapler.

3. Type of stapling: Corner-stapling is usually not a problem for any stapler. If you're creating booklets or other materials, however, you may need to staple in the middle of a document which can be nearly impossible with a regular stapler on larger documents. In that case, you may need long-reach staplers.

4. Durable construction: How durable your stapler needs to be is largely related to the volume of stapling you'll be doing and the materials you work with. It's also important that you choose the right staples for the job. Tough materials and thick stacks of paper will wear out a small plastic stapler pretty quickly, and you may want heavier staples for such projects. Metal construction is generally superior, but even a sturdy stapler cannot drive tiny staples through materials that are too thick or tough.