Buyer's Guide to Tape Guns, Dispensers and Cutters

Non-disposable tape guns, dispensers and cutters enable tape to be applied more quickly and easily than scissors or disposable plastic dispensers. They are available in many different types and sizes. Here are some features and specifications to look for when purchasing one...

TYPE: Most dispensers and cutters are either designed for thin clear office tape, clear/brown packing tape, or ATG tape. ATG tape dispensers are usually more expensive. ATG tape is usually less than 1 inch wide, and comes in a variety of types. According to framingsupplies.com, 3M 924 ATG is the most popular type, and is "ideal for bonding...similar and dissimilar materials, such as metals, glass, wood, papers, paints, and many plastics." Dispensers for thin (under one-inch) clear office tape cut easily, allowing short pieces to be easily dispensed; most are table-top units, but "mini gun" handheld models are also available. Some can be purchased inexpensively, such as the Office Depot item #520328, which costs $2.79 and holds rolls with a 1" core, up to 0.75" wide.

SIZE: Packing tape guns, which usually cost about $6-18, most commonly accept up to 2 inch wide rolls. A few, like the OfficeMax Heavy-Duty Tape Gun, can hold 3-inch wide rolls. Dispensers also have a "core" size, meaning how wide the cardboard ring in the middle of the tape roll has to be. The core size is most commonly 3" for handheld "gun"-style units, while desktop dispensers usually take rolls with smaller cores.

MATERIAL: Most dispensers and guns have some plastic in their construction, especially in the handle or base. However, the amount of metal, screws, and bolts used in the rest of the unit varies depending upon the model, possibly affecting its durability.