An Introduction to Heat Guns
No, a heat gun isn’t the latest weapon from the upcoming Star Wars movie. But if you aren’t familiar with this specialty adhesive tool, this guide will introduce you to the world of heat guns and how they are useful in range of projects.
Heat guns operate much like a hairdryer, giving you control over a stream of hot air. Typically, heat guns blow hot air warmed up to 200-1000 degrees Fahrenheit, so this isn’t your average dryer. Thanks to these guns’ handheld design, trigger activation, and tapered nozzle, you have similar control to your airstream that you would when using a traditional adhesive gun.
Depending on the types of features and functionality you need, you can choose from a wide range of heat guns to fit any project and budget.
Common Applications of Heat Guns
Heat guns are useful in a wide variety of home, professional and industrial projects. Depending on the specific operating temperature and airflow, heat guns can be used to strip paint, shrink tubing and film, activate shrink wrap packaging, soften adhesives or accelerate their set times, dry damp work spaces and materials, and more.
Because of the many uses for heat guns, it's important to do your due diligence to select the heat gun that will best fit your needs. Here is a list of some great heat guns to choose from depending on your needs.
Best Entry-Level Heat Gun:
Steinel SV 803 Variable Temperature Heat Gun
This simple, plug and play tool comes with a handful of temperature and airstream controls. The no frills design is easy to set up and use while boasting a streamlined ergonomic grip for easy maneuvering and prolonged use. At this price, it’s the perfect entry-level gun while you’re exploring the benefits of a heat gun, while delivering all the key functionality you expect from a Steinel product.
Best Workbench Heat Gun:
Steinel SV 750 High Output Heat Gun
This lightweight, durable heat gun is built with today’s craftsmen in mind. The ultra strong body can withstand harsh working environments and a little friendly wear and tear along the way. Never miss a beat by keeping this gun near your workbench thanks to its removable stand and sleek design. In addition to standard temperature and airstream controls, the SV750 also delivers a cool air setting for added versatility.
Best Powerhouse Heat Gun:
Steinel HB 1750 Professional Heat Gun
Get those adhesives ready, because this professional grade heat gun is ready to start accelerating your cure times. The HB 1750 was designed specifically to optimize its drying capabilities by adding 30% more airflow to the gun’s output. Use the gun as a handheld tool or set it up for stationary operation using the gun’s portable stand. The gun’s power can be adjusted as necessary for precise use on any project, making it one of the most versatile and powerful tools on the market.
Best Perfectionist’s Heat Gun:
Steinel HL 2010 E Heat Gun with Temperature Display
Tackle even the most sensitive projects with the HL 2010. With bright LCD temperature display, you can adjust your output within 10°F increments for exceptional control and responsiveness. The gun’s patented Duratherm™ technology delivers this precision (and supports longer gun life) through microprocessor temperature control. For the perfectionist, there is no better gun.
Best Detail Heat Gun:
Steinel HG 2300EM Heat Gun with Electronic Thermocouple Control
Boasting many of the features found in the HL 2010, the HG 2300EM then takes control to the next level. Adjust both the temperature and airflow of the gun to sizes as small as a pinpoint for ultra fine detail work. This high-performance, industrial grade gun won’t disappoint and will enhance even your most nuanced work.
In Conclusion
We only offer one point of warning. Once you start using a heat gun, you may never want to go back.
Choosing the right heat gun can be a daunting task, but we are here to help. If you have questions regarding heat gun selection or application, contact us, and we will work with you to find the tool that will work best.