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Instead of specific markings, it simply increases or reduces the heat.
The Spruce
This allows you to tailor the temperature and airflow for your project.
The plastic handle is ergonomically designed, but does not have a softer overlay for comfort.
The watts, or power, of the best heat gun should match your projects.
PHOTO: Seekone
For removing paint, you need between 1,200 and 1,500 watts.
About 1,000 watts will suffice for heat shrink, vinyl automotive wrap, and loosening rusted bolts.
For crafting and light tasks around the house, a smaller 350- to 500-watt heat gun will work.
PHOTO: Wagner
Plus, there are five fan speed options and a cool-down mode once you are finished working.
The LED screen clearly indicates the temperature and fan modes, which are easy to set.
The heat gun comes with four nozzles.
PHOTO: Genesis
This heat gun provides two temperature configs: 500 degrees on low and 990 degrees on high.
Its built-in LED work light is very handy when using the heat gun in dimly lit locations.
This heat gun is comfortable to hold due to its grip design and lightweight construction.
PHOTO: DEWALT
It also has a built-in stand for hands-free operation if you’re performing a task that requires both hands.
It’s especially easy to fit into tight spots where a bigger model wouldn’t be able to.
And when you are done, it won’t take up much room in your toolbox.
PHOTO: Wagner
This compact tool has two convenient tweaks of 500 and 842 degrees, and fairly low airflow.
It can run for up to 90 minutes on one reservoir full of premium lighter butane fuel.
All three functions start with a single ignition button.
PHOTO: Seekone
The reservoir holds 18 ml of butane, which is not included.
It does include a protective cap for storage.
With the cap in place, the rig is 9 inches long and weighs a mere 3.9 ounces.
PHOTO: Berkling
The power of a heat gun is measured by it wattage.
Higher wattage means more power, which results in higher maximum heat output.
Mini heat guns are typically plug-in, but they can also run on batteries or butane gas.
Use the Right Temperature for Your Projects
Heat guns are all about temperature.
While these tools often resemble hair dryers, they are much, much hotter and more precise.
Just looking at the temperature range isn’t enough, as it’s also important to consider temperature control.
Some very basic heat guns simply have one set temperature, and dual-temperature models include high and low tweaks.
Generally, the higher the airflow, the more intense the heat.
This can be helpful when you need higher temperatures for projects like stripping paint.
However, more delicate work, like soldering or crafts, calls for lower airflows.
Get Better Control With Easily Readable Displays
The majority of heat guns have very simple controls.
Some higher-end heat guns include LED displays that show the specific temperature and speed of the airflow.
Not everyone needs a heat gun.
This is very handy when removing an old bumper sticker or overly sticky price tag.
Heat guns can also be used to loosen flooring adhesives when repairing or replacing damaged vinyl flooring.
This article was researched and written byMichelle Ullman, who is a writer specializing in home and garden products.
