Like most tools, caulk guns can range dramatically in options, capabilities and price. Depending on purchase location, project type, use frequency, and sealant or adhesive product preferences, it becomes clear that some guns can help produce better results than others. The right gun can provide a more reliable and consistent bead with considerably less effort. Here are some tips for finding a better caulk gun.
Sealants are available in a wide range of viscosities. This is often intentional and meets specific application requirements, but sometimes it is simply a result of the polymers and other ingredients the manufacturer uses to create their product. Thicker or higher-viscosity formulas, can be more challenging and require more force to extrude from a caulk gun. To easily run a smooth bead, it helps to have a caulk gun with a higher thrust ratio.
Every caulk gun has a specific thrust ratio. It is the relationship of the force a contractor applies on the trigger to the force the gun applies from the plunger. For example, a lower cost caulk gun may have a thrust ratio of about 3:1. This implies that for every pound of force applied to the trigger, the gun will apply three pounds of force from the plunger – pushing the sealant, adhesive or caulk out the tip.
If working with professional or higher viscosity sealants is part of the everyday routine a gun with a higher thrust ratio of 12:1 will provide greater comfort and efficiency. It will make this part of the project significantly easier.
Manual caulk guns have been around for decades, but these days a larger percentage of contractors are considering cordless (or electric) powered guns. The process of determining which is the best caulk gun option for any contractor depends on a few factors.
Electric caulk guns offer speed and efficiency. They require less effort and can reduce pain or discomfort in the hands and forearms. These powered guns help make long runs easier and quicker and they extrude at a consistent rate to help ensure a smoother, even result. These can be more ideal for a novice that has not yet mastered the timing and trigger pressure needed to produce a similar result on a manual gun. They can also be great for a veteran who just wants to go faster without sacrificing precision or performance. Electric guns, however, need to recharged and can sometimes require pros to purchase and carry additional replacement batteries. Considering their high cost, a manual caulk gun could be a better option for any small- to medium-size job and/or budget.
Manual caulk guns require a bit more effort and a bit more skill – especially in visible sealant applications where aesthetics is important. Without the right timing and pace, or tooling technique (where applicable), it is possible that a manual gun could leave larger bumps in the bead as the pressure applied and flow both change. There are some good quality manual guns available that make it easy for any pro to get good results. Manual guns are still overwhelmingly popular and more present on the jobsite. They are also considerably much kinder on your annual tool budget.
One thing that many lower-end caulk guns have in common is a lack of a defined grip. On the job site, pros need a tool that allows them to maintain a firm hold throughout the day. When you’re running long beads all day long, fatigue can set in and can cause imperfections. Repairs take up valuable time on a job. The right grip also makes it easier to load a new cartridge, change out the tip and carry the gun around the job site with less effort.
At a minimum, the trigger on the caulk gun should have contours or notches for your fingers to settle into. Some caulk guns have built in rubber grips or textured sections on the trigger for easier handling.
For any pro working with exterior grade professional sealants from OSI, we recommend the Albion B12 Caulk Gun. It has a 12:1 thrust ratio and is a durable tool that doesn’t have an issue holding up from job to job. The gun also uses a half-metal barrel that keeps sealant cartridges snug and in place for a more consistent bead. This caulk gun also has a built-in cartridge puncture wire for added convenience.
Once you’ve found the best caulk gun for professional grade construction sealants, you need a product that will perform. QUAD MAX is designed to be Tougher Than The Elements™. It won’t shrink when it cures, resists damage from UV exposure, and can be easily gunned in cold and wet weather. Test out your new caulk gun with this next generation sealant. Discover where to buy QUAD MAX.
Disclaimer: the information provided is intended to offer a general understanding. OSI recommends you seek out technical data sheets, speak further with an expert and/or gather additional performance information before making any final product decisions.
