How to use a stapler, load it and clear simple jams
Updated: October 2026
You load a new desktop stapler, press down on four sheets and nothing happens—or the staple folds into a knot. Learning how to use a stapler begins with three checks: the refill must match the machine, the strip must sit legs down in the magazine, and the paper bundle must remain within the stated capacity. Our [stapler comparison](/hub/staplers-and-nail-guns/stapler) shows which models name their staples and operating modes. The steps below apply to manual paper staplers; a hand staple gun or cable tacker uses a different magazine, motion and safety routine.
You load a new desktop stapler, press down on four sheets and nothing happens—or the staple folds into a knot.
You load a new desktop stapler, press down on four sheets and nothing happens—or the staple folds into a knot. Learning how to use a stapler begins with three checks: the refill must match the machine, the strip must sit legs down in the magazine, and the paper bundle must remain within the stated capacity. Our stapler comparison shows which models name their staples and operating modes. The steps below apply to manual paper staplers; a hand staple gun or cable tacker uses a different magazine, motion and safety routine.
Our top picks
| Badge | Product | Staple system | Pin or tack | Magazine | Note | Price | Offer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall |  RAPESCO Rapesco 1602 Marlin stapler | Uses 26/6 mm and 24/6 mm. This pack includes 2000 x 26/6 mm. | Rotating anvil: staple, pin and tack | Full strip, top loading, refill window | 9.5 | about £9.00 | View offer |
| Preis-Tipp |  Amazon Basics Amazon Basics 25-sheet stapler | Code not named in the bullets. | Opens fully for tacking. Reverse the anvil to pin. | Holds up to 210 staples | 9.3 | about £5.61 | View offer |
| Alternative |  RAPESCO Rapesco 1482 ECO Sting Ray, black | 1000 x 24/6 mm supplied. Other codes not stated on this listing. | Not stated | Half-strip, top loading, safety lock-back | 9.3 | about £6.23 | View offer |
On this page
Load the strip the stapler expects
First read the code stamped on the stapler, packaging or instructions. Do not assume that a strip fits because it is approximately the right length. The Rapesco Marlin states 24/6 and 26/6 compatibility, while both Sting Rays and the ASTARON mini name 24/6. Several Amazon Basics and deli listings do not print a code, so the physical marking becomes especially important. Our 24/6 or 26/6 guide explains why the shared 6 mm leg does not make the two refills automatic substitutes.
For a top-loading model, lift the upper arm or lock it back only as far as its design allows. Place an intact strip in the channel with the crown visible and both legs pointing down, then close the arm gently until the mechanism settles or latches. The Sting Ray is a top-loading half-strip tool with safety lock-back; the Marlin is full strip and adds a refill window.
Do not force a magazine that resists closing. Remove the strip, check that no loose staple lies sideways and confirm that the pusher follows the strip rather than catching behind it. Once loaded, test one staple through two scrap sheets. A clean clinch proves the strip is oriented and feeding before an important document goes under the nose.
Choose clinch, pin or tack only where stated
Normal stapling drives both legs through the paper and folds them inward against the anvil. Place the stack squarely under the nose, keep your fingers away from the exit point and press the top arm in one controlled movement. If the staple only partly forms, do not add more sheets and hit the mechanism harder; reduce the stack and verify the refill.
Tacking means opening a suitable stapler so the head drives directly into a board without using the base anvil. The blue deli, Amazon Basics models and Marlin state a tack function. Keep the other hand away from the target area and use only a soft noticeboard material the tool can penetrate. Do not try this with the green deli simply because its case resembles the blue one: its listing is silent and one reviewer says it does not open flat.
Stop and diagnose a jam before forcing it
A jam on a small bundle usually points to the staple, loading or feed rather than insufficient hand pressure. Open the tool without putting your face above the magazine. Remove the loose strip if it lifts out normally, then look for a bent staple under the driver or across the channel. Use the tool's stated release method; do not lever against the spring or bend a follower to gain access.
Check the simple causes in sequence. Confirm the exact staple code, discard a damaged or rusty strip, reload it legs down and test on two sheets. Increase the bundle gradually while staying below the printed capacity. A detached spring or follower that repeatedly fails on a correct, fresh strip is a defect case, not an invitation to bend the mechanism. Return or replace the tool rather than creating a sharp, unpredictable part.
Staple guns use a different motion
The ValueMax 3-in-1 and Rapid R28 are not loaded or fired like desktop paper tools. The ValueMax accepts listed type 140 and type 28 staples plus type 8 brads; the Rapid accepts Rapid No. 28 cable staples only. Neither takes a 24/6 office strip, and neither uses a desk anvil to fold the legs.
With a manual gun, wear eye protection, keep your free hand away from the nose and press the tool flat against the work before squeezing the handle. Use only the maker's magazine release and compatible fastener. The Rapid is restricted to suitable low-voltage cable under 50 V and up to 4.5 mm; it is not for mains cable. Read stapler or staple gun before moving from paper to fabric or cable.
The desktop stapler buying guide remains the right route when the job is paper.
Common questions
Which way do staples face in a desktop stapler?
The strip normally sits in the magazine with the flat crown on top and both legs pointing down towards the paper. Follow the tool's loading mark or instructions if shown. If the magazine will not close gently, remove the strip and recheck its code and position.
Why does my stapler jam on only a few sheets?
The likely causes are an incompatible or damaged staple, incorrect loading, a bent fastener already in the nose or a follower that is not feeding. Reload a verified strip and test two scrap sheets. If correct staples repeatedly fail, return the tool rather than bending its spring.
How do I make a temporary pin rather than a permanent staple?
Use the rotating or reversible anvil's pin position where the model provides one. It forms the legs differently so pages separate more easily. Return the anvil to the normal inward-clinch position for documents that need secure handling.
When should I return a jammed stapler?
Return it when a correct, fresh staple repeatedly fails to feed, the follower moves without advancing the strip, or a spring has detached. Those are mechanism faults. Do not reshape a spring or place fingers beneath the driver to keep a defective tool working.
Can I use these steps for a staple gun?
No. A staple gun has a different magazine, fasteners and firing motion. Follow its instructions, wear eye protection and keep hands away from the nose. Never load 24/6 paper staples into a gun unless its manufacturer explicitly lists them.
Related pages
Sources
Public UK sources on staple codes, strip capacity, cable staples and work equipment. Listings checked 16 October 2026. Prices on amazon.co.uk move.
- AOS staple size guide (retrieved 16 October 2026)
- Office Stationery stapler guide (retrieved 16 October 2026)
- Euroffice stapling guide (retrieved 16 October 2026)
- Rapesco ECO Sting Ray (retrieved 16 October 2026)
- Rapesco Marlin (retrieved 16 October 2026)
- Rapid Electronics R28 (retrieved 16 October 2026)
- PUWER 1998 Schedule 2 paragraph 13 (retrieved 16 October 2026)
- HSE nail guns (retrieved 16 October 2026)