Arrow T50 Staple Gun Review: Rugged but Limited
A surprising takeaway from digging through hundreds of user reports is how many people have stuck with the Arrow T50 Heavy Duty Staple Gun for decades—often replacing an old unit with the same model rather than switching brands. Scoring an 8.7/10 across platforms, it’s seen as a rugged, reliable manual stapler that excels in household and professional settings, but not without quirks that some users wish Arrow would address.
Quick Verdict: Conditional — Strong buy for general repairs, upholstery, and light construction, but may frustrate users with smaller hands or those seeking adjustable depth control.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Durable all-steel, chrome-plated construction | No depth adjustment feature |
| Jam-resistant rear-load magazine | Handle can be stiff for some users |
| Compatible with multiple staple sizes | Lacks safety release mechanism |
| Comfortable high-leverage grip | Performance drops in prolonged heavy-duty use |
| Staple viewing window for reload visibility | Can be chunky for users with smaller hands |
| Proven longevity—50+ million units sold | Not ideal for large-scale projects |
Claims vs Reality
Arrow markets the T50 as “America’s best-selling staple gun” with “jam-resistant mechanisms” and “heavy-duty performance.” While these claims are largely supported, users provide nuanced feedback.
The company’s claim of jam resistance generally holds. A verified buyer on Amazon noted: “Reloading was easy and quick… something I have struggled with in the past!” However, ToolNerds observed that while it’s “designed so that it prevents jamming,” occasional jams do happen, with the fix being as simple as reseating the magazine.
Arrow also emphasizes the high-leverage handle for comfort. Reddit user feedback often praises ease of use, with one saying: “Easy to use and works well! Did not have to read the instructions.” Yet, several reviewers, including D.A. Childs Joinery on ToolTalk, mention that “it is quite chunky so maybe a bit difficult to use if you have smaller hands.” This shows a gap between marketing’s universal comfort claim and actual ergonomics for certain users.
Finally, Arrow touts the T50 as suitable for heavy-duty applications. While it can staple into hardwoods like oak and plywood, ToolNerds cautions it’s “not recommended for large-scale tasks” due to potential performance drop over extended use. This conflicts slightly with the “heavy-duty” branding, pointing to the need for users to match the tool to realistic workloads.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Durability is the standout theme. Across Reddit, Trustpilot, and Amazon, users repeatedly highlight the all-steel construction and chrome finish. Pegasus Pest Solutions on ToolTalk praised its resilience, noting it “will take the knocks of day-to-day use.” For professionals, this means fewer replacements; for DIYers, it’s a long-term investment.
Ease of use for straightforward tasks is another win. Several owners report decades of trouble-free operation. A Reddit user shared: “This is only the 2nd stapler I’ve owned in 35 years and both were Arrows.” That level of loyalty suggests consistent performance over time.
Its versatility in staple sizing—handling 1/4” to 9/16”—also earns praise. Verified buyers on eBay and Amazon appreciate being able to switch between upholstery, insulation, and light trim projects without changing tools.
Common Complaints
The absence of depth adjustment is the most frequent gripe. D.A. Childs Joinery pointed out that firing into 18mm OSB left some staples proud, with no way to fine-tune depth. For finish work or materials with varied density, this can be frustrating.
Handle stiffness crops up in multiple reviews, especially from female users or those with limited hand strength. ToolNerds notes “more than a few female customers have reported difficulties with pushing the lever.”
Safety concerns also emerge—specifically, the lack of a safety release mechanism. While many don’t see it as a dealbreaker, ToolNerds flags it as “significant” given the potential for accidental firing in certain work environments.
Divisive Features
The jam-resistant design splits opinion. Many praise it, while others still encounter jams, albeit infrequently. The resolution process is quick, but it’s a reminder that “jam-proof” doesn’t mean “jam-free.”
Weight perception is another split. At around 1.9 pounds, some call it light for a steel tool, reducing fatigue. Others find it “quite chunky,” especially in prolonged overhead or awkward positioning tasks.
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot and Reddit comments suggest a high level of brand trust. The fact that many customers repurchase the same model decades later is rare in tools. One Reddit user emphasized: “Love them and would recommend them to everyone.”
Long-term durability stories are common. Owners reference using the T50 for years without mechanical failure. The hardened steel parts, fired in a 1,500-degree furnace, seem to stand up to both professional and home abuse.
No scam concerns were found; eBay listings show consistent pricing and descriptions, and sellers maintain high feedback ratings.
Alternatives
While no direct competitors were heavily discussed, the pneumatic Arrow PT50 appears in related conversations. The PT50 offers oil-free operation, a safety trigger, and bump-fire capability—features absent on the manual T50. For users tackling large-scale or repetitive jobs, the PT50 may be worth considering for speed and reduced hand strain.
However, the PT50 requires a compressor and is heavier (around 2.95 pounds). For users prioritizing portability and simplicity, the T50 remains attractive despite fewer advanced features.
Price & Value
Current eBay listings place new kits around $29–$35, with staple packs varying by size and quantity. Used models can be found for under $20, often still operational after years of service.
Community buying tips suggest checking for genuine Arrow staples to avoid jamming and performance issues. Given its longevity, even at full retail, many see it as “worth every penny,” especially for occasional use.
Resale value holds relatively well, with vintage models still fetching respectable prices due to collector interest and functional lifespan.
FAQ
Q: Can the Arrow T50 staple into hardwoods like oak?
A: Yes, multiple reviews confirm it can drive staples into oak, plywood, MDF, pine, and more, making it suitable for varied woodworking projects.
Q: Does the Arrow T50 have depth adjustment?
A: No, it lacks this feature. Users working with varied material densities may find some staples sit proud without manual compensation.
Q: What staple sizes does it accept?
A: It works with Arrow T50 staples from 1/4” (6 mm) to 9/16” (14 mm), covering most light to medium-duty tasks.
Q: Is it suitable for professional use?
A: Yes, for many repair and installation jobs, though prolonged heavy-duty use may benefit from a pneumatic alternative.
Q: Does it have a safety release?
A: No, unlike some modern staplers, it does not include a safety release mechanism.
Final Verdict: Buy if you’re a DIYer or professional needing a rugged, straightforward stapler for varied but moderate workloads. Avoid if you require depth adjustment or have limited hand strength for extended use. Pro tip from the community: stick with genuine Arrow staples to maximize performance and avoid jams.
