At first glance, a Cable Tie Gun may seem unnecessary or even a bit gimmicky. While it’s true that cable ties can be used without this tool, you may find a cable tie gun to be surprisingly helpful and efficient.
Manually applying cable ties:
Most of us are familiar with the standard process of applying a cable tie:
- Take the cable tie and wrap it around your bundle, feeding the tail end through the receiver (or head).
- Tug the tail until it’s snug (listening for that clicking sound that occurs)
- Use scissors or wire cutters to snip the excess tail that remains.
- Extra: For an extra-tight cable tie, use a pair of linesman pliers to twist and pull the tail before cutting it off with the pliers' cutters.
Why use a cable tie gun?
A cable tie gun streamlines the entire process into a single motion. Here is why it belongs in your toolbox:
- Unlike manual snipping (which leaves a sharp, jagged edge sticking out), the gun cuts the tie perfectly flush with the head. No more scratched hands or snagged wires!
- Most cable tie models feature a tension adjustment knob at the base. This allows you to set exactly how much the force is applied, ensuring your ties are consistently tight (or looser)
- Combining tightening and cutting into one squeeze of the trigger saves significant time on bigger projects.
How to Use:
Using the tool is easy!
- Thread the cable tie around your bundle manually just to get it started.
- Insert the tail of the tie into the nose of the gun.
- Squeeze the trigger. The tool will automatically cinch the tie to your pre-set tension and snip the excess tail simultaneously.
It’s faster, safer, and much cleaner than the manual alternative.
In short, while you can keep wrestling with pliers and jagged plastic ends, your hands (and your sanity) will thank you for making the switch. Once you experience that perfect, flush cut without having to fight for it, you’ll probably find yourself looking for excuses to zip-tie everything in sight! Here at Ferrules Direct we offer a wide collection of cable ties and cable tie fastening tools. If you need help or have additional questions, we’re always happy to assist. Contact us today and learn more!