
( Brand: Rowley ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 71168-B ), ( Type: Staple Gun )
The **Rowley 71168-B Air Staple Gun** is a high-performance, professional-grade fastening tool designed for precision, durability, and versatility in both light-duty and medium-duty applications. Engineered with a robust **12-gauge air-powered mechanism**, this staple gun delivers consistent, high-speed fastening with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for upholsterers, carpenters, furniture makers, and DIY enthusiasts who demand reliability in their work. Its **pneumatic operation** ensures smooth, jamming-free performance, even when driving staples into dense materials like wood, foam, or fabric, while the **adjustable depth control** allows for precise fastening whether you're securing upholstery, trim, or insulation. The **ergonomic, pistol-grip design** reduces operator fatigue during extended use, and its **lightweight yet sturdy construction** makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces or overhead applications. Equipped with a **quick-release staple holder**, the Rowley 71168-B simplifies loading and unloading, while the **durable metal body** and **hard-anodized finish** resist wear and corrosion, ensuring longevity even in demanding environments. Whether tackling professional projects or home improvement tasks, this staple gun combines power, precision, and ease of use, making it a standout tool for anyone who requires a dependable fastening solution.
### **Pros and Cons of the Rowley 71168-B Air Staple Gun**
#### **Pros:**The Rowley 71168-B is a pneumatic staple gun designed for heavy-duty applications, particularly in upholstery, automotive, and furniture repair. Its key advantages include:
1. **High Power and Durability** Built with a robust metal frame and reinforced components, this staple gun is capable of driving large staples (up to 1/4 inch) through thick materials like leather, vinyl, and fabric. Its air-powered mechanism ensures consistent force, reducing the risk of misfires or weak stapling.
2. **Versatility in Staple Sizes** Compatible with a range of staple sizes (typically 1/8" to 1/4"), making it suitable for various upholstery and automotive projects. The adjustable depth setting allows for precise control over staple penetration.
3. **Ease of Use** The trigger mechanism is smooth and responsive, requiring moderate air pressure to operate. The ergonomic design reduces hand fatigue during prolonged use, though some users may find it slightly heavier than lighter-duty guns.
4. **Reliability for Professional Work** Often favored by upholsterers and automotive technicians, this staple gun is known for its durability and consistent performance in demanding environments. It handles frequent use better than many consumer-grade alternatives.
5. **Compatibility with Standard Air Tools** Works with most standard air compressors (typically 90 120 PSI), making it a flexible tool for workshops equipped with pneumatic systems.
6. **Minimal Maintenance** Unlike electric staple guns, pneumatic models like this one have fewer moving parts prone to wear, reducing long-term maintenance needs. Regular oil changes (if applicable) and cleaning keep it running smoothly.
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#### **Cons:** While the Rowley 71168-B is a powerful tool, it has some drawbacks to consider:1. **Heavy and Bulky** At around 2 3 pounds, it is heavier than many handheld staple guns, which can lead to fatigue during extended use. The size may also make it less maneuverable in tight spaces.
2. **Requires an Air Compressor** Unlike battery-powered or manual staple guns, this tool necessitates access to an air compressor and hose. This adds complexity to setups where portability is a priority, such as home DIY projects or jobsites without existing pneumatic tools.
3. **Noise and Vibration** Pneumatic tools are inherently louder and more vibration-prone than electric or manual alternatives. Prolonged use may cause discomfort or require hearing protection in noisy environments.
4. **Higher Initial Cost** Compared to basic manual or battery-powered staple guns, the Rowley 71168-B is more expensive upfront. However, its longevity and performance often justify the cost for professionals.
5. **Learning Curve for Air Pressure Control** Users unfamiliar with pneumatic tools may need to adjust the air regulator to achieve optimal performance. Too little pressure results in weak stapling, while too much can damage materials or cause misfires.
6. **Limited Portability** The dependency on an air hose restricts mobility, making it less ideal for outdoor work or projects where moving around frequently is necessary.
7. **Staple Jamming Risk** Like all staple guns, improper staple loading or bent staples can cause jams. The heavy-duty nature of this gun means jams can be more difficult to clear compared to lighter models.
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### **Conclusion**
The Rowley 71168-B air staple gun is an excellent choice for professionals who require a **durable, high-performance tool** for upholstery, automotive repair, or furniture work. Its ability to handle thick materials, consistent power delivery, and reliability make it a staple (pun intended) in trade settings. However, its **weight, dependency on an air compressor, and higher cost** may deter casual users or those seeking portability.
For **home DIYers or light-duty projects**, a manual or battery-powered staple gun might be more practical. But for **serious upholsterers, auto body shops, or professionals who prioritize durability and power**, the Rowley 71168-B is a well-regarded investment.
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### **Recommendation**
**Buy the Rowley 71168-B if:**- You work professionally in upholstery, automotive repair, or furniture restoration.
- You already have an air compressor and need a heavy-duty staple gun for thick materials.
- You value longevity and consistent performance over portability or low cost.
**Avoid or consider alternatives if:**- You re a casual user or DIYer who doesn t need industrial-grade power.
- You lack access to an air compressor or prefer cordless tools.
- You frequently work in tight spaces where maneuverability is critical.
For most professionals, the trade-offs are worth it, and the Rowley 71168-B remains a trusted tool in its category. For others, exploring lighter pneumatic models or battery-powered alternatives may be more suitable.
Rowley Long Nose Air Staple Gun. Great for getting into those places that can't be reached with short nosed standard guns. 2 nose, 3/8 crown. Takes 22 gauge staples.
Excellent condition and well maintained.