8 Best heat guns for stripping paint and other projects

Now, I’m not a heavy user of heat guns in that I don’t spend hours each day using one like some professionals might. However, over the years, I have owned a few different models, including my old Bosch PHG 500-2 pictured below and the DeWalt 1800W Heat Gun when I renovated my second house a few years back, a great bit of kit and an absolute bargain for the price, probably my favourite heat gun.

I’ve also recently invested in the more advanced Wagner 2000w heat gun after using their electric paint sprayer over thee summer. I now use my heat gun fairly regularly to dry my painted birch plywood and MDF for my laser design projects, which I run as a small side gig on Etsy. Using the best heat gun allows me to quickly dry the plywood I paint in my garage, especially in winter when it’s not much above freezing, so I can finish projects more quickly and avoid painting in my house.

My experience with using a heat gun started when I bought my first home over 15 years ago, a renovation project which was a two bedroom terrace house that needed full renovating, which included removing years of paint from painted woodwork, lots of it. I had tried a few options, including paint strippers, which I wasn’t keen on.

This was when a friend recommended using a heat gun; this was the real game changer! Since then, I’ve also renovated my second home, a three bedroom semi-detatched house. Again, stripped right back to the brickwork, I’ve had plenty of opportunities to get the heat gun out as my wife likes to keep the original features, which means plenty of painted wood to be stripped back to bare wood.

Being into DIY, I’ve also helped rewire two houses with a friend of mine who is a qualified electrician, allowing me to help under his guidance, and so we used the heat gun for shrink tubing on wiring as well as bending plastic piping.

So when it comes to choosing the best heat gun, without a doubt, corded heat guns have the best performance when compared to cordless and with models like my DeWalt 1800W Heat Gun costing less than £40, it’s not worth buying cheap Chinese alternatives. I made this mistake when I purchased a basic model from B&Q, and it gave up on me within a day, so that went back.

For most people, I recommend just going straight for this Dewalt 1800W model. Being DeWalt, it’s incredibly well made and is compact, lightweight and comfortable to use. It’s also simple to use with an adjustable heat dial between 50°C and 600°C on the back with two air flows. Overall, for the price, it’s just a great piece of kit.

More recently, I’ve been playing around with the WAGNER FURNO 750 Heat Gun, which I’ve been very happy with. I’ve been using this to dry my painted plywood and MDF quickly Without damaging the wood or paint, so I needed a heat gun with more control over the heat output, and the Wagnner Furno provides this. It had all the features I needed for this more delicate work. Temperature-wise, it’s very similar to my DeWalt heat gun, with a temperature range from 50°C to 630°C, so it is slightly hotter than the DeWalt, but it’s more precise in that I can choose the temperature. The biggest advantage for me is that it has a nice LCD screen; more importantly, I can adjust the temperature more accurately.

The other benefit is that it has six airflow settings instead of just two. Another feature I find useful is the memory settings, which remember the last heat setting I used. This is super handy for my laser design work as I can use just the right amount of heat to dry acrylic paint and to have it remember the setting so I can just pick it up and dry another piece of painted material. It just speeds up the whole process. Overall, it’s a great piece of kit and so versatile. Price-wise, it’s a little expensive and probably not for everyone if you just need a basic, reliable model. If you need more precise control like I do, I think it’s worth paying extra for. If you want to do some basic DIY work, maybe removing paint from skirting and doors, etc., the DeWalt will be just fine.

I want to mention cordless heat guns quickly. I do review these two models in detail further down. I’ve had the opportunity to see both the DEWALT DCE530N-XJ Cordless hot air gun and the Ryobi R18HG-0 18V ONE+ Cordless Heat Gun. I’ve not personally used these two models but have a couple of friends who do own them. From what they told me, and they’re both electricians, they will not replace your corded heat guns if you are doing work thats takes longer than a few minutes.

They simply don’t get the same temperature output. To give you an idea, the DeWalt gets to 530°C, and the Ryobi gets to around 470°C. The real problem is the run times; you are talking maybe 5-6 minutes from a 5Ah battery on full power, so you need a few spare batteries just to get 15 minutes out of them. If you are considering using one to remove layers of paint from wooden doors, a job that can take hours, trust me, I’ve been there. Forget it; they are not up to the job. What they are useful for are little jobs where you need a little heat, like shrinking tubing around wires if you’re an electrician or perhaps bending a few pipes. But honestly, thats about it. Just thought I would put that out there!

---

8 best heat guns which I have included in my review:

1. DeWalt 1800w Heat Gun with Dual Air Flow – For the price, this is probably my favourite heat gun. Excellent value for money and a good workhorse.
2. WAGNER FURNO 750 Heat Gun – This is ideal if you need more features, such as using an accurate, specific temperature. A decent professional tool
3. DEWALT DCE530N-XJ Cordless Hot Air Gun – One of the best cordless models, however, will not replace a cordless model. Ideal for small jobs such as shrinking electrical tubing
4. Bosch EasyHeat 500 1600w Heat Gun – A great entry-level model for general DIY work
5. DeWalt 2000w 240v LCD Premium Heat Gun – A good upgrade to the 1800W with additional features such as digital display screen
6. Ryobi R18HG-0 18v ONE+ Cordless Heat Gun – Another good cordless model for light work
7. Black + Decker KX2200K Variable Speed Heat Gun
8. Metabo H16500 240v Heat Gun

---

Top 8 Heat Gun Reviews

1. DeWalt 1800W Heat Gun with Dual Air Flow

BEST PICK

Buy on Amazon.co.uk

Probably my personal favourite and the model I’ve used the most for stripping paint from woodwork while renovating my house, this Dewalt 1800W Heat Gun with Dual Air Flow is one of the best heat guns on the market today, especially when you consider the price.

With the added protection for heating elements, it increases the durability of the tool and I’ve had mine for over 8 years now. I like that it features a large stable support stand and the dial adjustment to easily adjust the working temperature up to 600°c. I also like that it has an ergonomic compact and lightweight design that helps in increasing comfort when using for longer periods of time. The thing is, if you use it for removing paint from skirting boards and doors, there is no fast way, it still takes time, gun in one hand and scraper in the other.

The dual air flows of this tool also help in maximising control of the DeWalt 1800W Heat Gun in most applications depending on what you are using it for. Also, this tool comes with a cone nozzle and a fishtail surface nozzle that increases its versatility for specific applications for jobs like shrinking tubing around wires.

Pros

• Dual air flows for maximising tool control.
• Ergonomic compact design for easy handling.
• Heating element protection to prevent overheating.
• Multipurpose tool for performing a wide range of applications.
• Lightweight tool for easy transportation.
• It has a heavy-duty construction for durability.
• It is very versatile because you can rely on its work rate and efficiency.
• Easy to operate heat gun for practical work.
• Easy to clean and maintain, thus ensuring that it lasts a long time.
• Comes with a 1-year warranty – in case of damage and breakdown, you can ask for a replacement.

Specification

• Power/Wattage:  1800W
• Air Flow:  250/ 450 Litres/Minute
• Temperature Range: 50-400 / 50-600 °c
• Voltage:  240V

What’s included?

• Cone nozzle and fishtail surface nozzle.

My recommendation

This DeWalt 1800W Heat Gun is well-designed to ensure increased comfort and application versatility. Being lightweight, it ensures easy transportation and storage but more importantly it’s easy to use for longer periods of time. Also, its high durability makes it a very reliable heat gun for enthusiasts in all DIY jobs as well as professional jobs. What I really like is the simple design of this heat gun which makes it easy to use even if you never used on before. For most people, this is the heat gun I recommend, for the price its an amazing piece if kit.

---

2. WAGNER FURNO 750 Heat Gun

Buy on Amazon.co.uk

I invested in this WAGNER FURNO 750 heat gun more recently and I think it’s marketed more as a professional heat gun and its specifications and features certainly back up that up. For the price, I think it’s also a good choice for any DIY’er and although it’s not the cheapest, you can pay alot more for heat guns with half the features this has.

At 2000W, you can use it to do both small hot air tasks and the largest tasks around your house so although I use it well under its capabilities, it’s a great choice for decorating work like removing paint from woodwork. Its ergonomic handle lets you hold it comfortably for a significant length of time which is also something often overlooked. But this is quite a weighty heat gun. It comes in at just over 2kg so it’s not lightweight but it’s not to heavy either.

This Wagner FURNO 750 model gives you a wide range of temperatures to choose from but more importantly, and the reason I invested in one is that I can choose and maintain a specific temperature which is important for what I use it for. Start off cool at 50C and shrink-wrap cellophane around a gift. Then work your way up to the highest temperature of 630C in 10C steps for all the other tasks you need to use heat for. Most other heat guns give you a much smaller range of temperatures to choose from or even just two heat settings, usually around 300C and 600C. With this model, you have the whole range in 10C increments.

But the temperature isn’t the only way to control the amount of heat the gun produces. You also have a choice of six airflow settings. Combining these airflow settings with the temperature gives you the flexibility to customise quite accurately the amount of heat that the heat gun gives you for your specific tasks. If a 10C jump in temperature is too much for you, change the airflow instead.

I like that you can easily see what the current settings are on the LCD display screen on the top of the heat gun. Conveniently set around the display are big red buttons that let you change the settings. It’s easy to see and control everything from this place.

The LCD display has a memory function. The heat gun stores the current temperature as long as it’s not switched off. When it is turned off and then back on again, it recalls the last temperature used which is another useful feature. This is handy if you need to step away from your task for a while and then start up on it when you return.

Talking about switching, the heat gun OFF brings up a safety feature that’s a bit confusing at first. When you hit the OFF button, the gun continues running. This isn’t a problem; it’s now in Cool Down mode for two minutes. The heat gun is cooling down, so you can put it away safely. There is a work-around to this, if you hold the power button in, it then turns off instead of going into cooling mode. Just don’t put it away straight away if you do this!

To add to the professional designation of this heat gun, it comes with various nozzles, including a 5-in-1 paint scraper and all of this comes in a moulded carry case. Each part of this kit has its own place in the case so everything is tidied away.

Pros

• Professorial electric heat gun with 2000W of power.
• LCD digital display with memory function.
• Big red control buttons around the LCD display screen.
• Wide temperature range from 50C to 630C.
• Six airflow settings plus a cool down mode.
• Includes four different nozzles and a 5-in-1 paint scraper.
• Ergonomic handle.
• The power cable is 1.8m long.
• Comes with a moulded carry case.
• Weighs 2.3kg.

Specifications

• Power: 2000W
• Airflow: 820L/min
• Temperature range: 50C to 630C
• Voltage: 240V

Includes

• Wide concentrator nozzle
• Concentrator nozzle
• Hook nozzle
• Glass protection nozzle
• Paint scraper
• Carry case

My recommendation

This WAGNER FURNO 750 Heat Gun is a great choice if you use a heat gun for a wide variety of tasks – from the smallest shrink-wrap one to the largest ones that require quite an extreme heat or you need control of the temperatures more precisely like I do. You can do them all within this heat gun’s 50C to 630C temperature range. And don’t forget the six airflow options that give you even greater customisation of hot air.

This heat gun comes with a large variety of nozzles including a 5-in-1 paint scraper. So you don’t need to go and purchase them as extras. And it’s all tidily put away in its own carry case. This heat gun really has professional features. It’s well worth considering if you need the extra feature. Wagner has done a really good job designing this heat gun.

---

3. DEWALT DCE530N-XJ Cordless Hot Air Gun

Buy on Amazon.co.uk

This DEWALT DCE530N-XJ Cordless Hot Air Gun is a battery-operated (cordless) heat gun that takes one 18V battery. Cordless heat guns are excellent if your job site isn’t anywhere near an electric outlet, but they have very limited performance. It drains the battery quickly, maybe 5-7 minutes on full power with the 5Ah battery. This is what I mean by limited performance. It definitely doesn’t replace a corded heat gun if you use it for intensive jobs!

The good news is that this hot air gun is compatible with all the 18V batteries in the DEWALT XR ecosystem of power tools so if you already have other DeWalt tools it might be worth considering for small jobs. If you already have a tool in that range, you can use its battery with this heat gun. The not-so-good-news is that if you don’t have an existing battery DEWALT tool, you have to go out and buy a battery as this heat gun doesn’t come with one.

This DEWALT model is quite a basic hot air gun. It has two heat settings. The lower one is at a temperature of 290C and the upper one is at 530C so not as hot as the corded alturnative. There’s no adjustable airflow regulation, so these are your only two temperature choices. You choose the temperature by a toggle switch on the top of the heat gun so it’s easy to access. This choice may be enough if you don’t have a wide range of tasks that require different temperatures of hot air.

A feature that I particularly like with this DEWALT gun is the Lock-ON button. This lets the heat gun run continuously without you holding down the trigger. It saves strain on your finger and hand if you need hot air for an extended period of time. And there’s also a safety feature of the Lock-OFF button. This locks the trigger so that the heat gun can’t start up accidentally during transportation and being moved around. The problem with this is its makes it difficult to use with gloves on so keep this in mind!

I also like the built-in LED light. It’s useful when you’re directing the hot air into closed spaces or into a dim and dark corner. Or if you need to get the jet of air onto a very specific point. And your purchase includes two nozzles for the stream of air – a reflector nozzle and a surface nozzle.

Pros

• Cordless (battery) heat gun.
• Takes one 18V battery.
• Two heat settings: 290C and 530C.
• Lock-ON button to keep gun switched on.
• Safety Lock-OFF switch on the trigger.
• Comes with two nozzles – a reflector and a surface.
• Built-in LED light.
• Compatible with all DEWALT family of 18V XR batteries.
• Weighs 0.6kg.

Specifications

• Power:
• Airflow:
• Temperature range: 290?C and 530?C
• Voltage: 18V

Includes

• Reflector nozzle
• Surface nozzle

Cons

• Doesn’t include a battery.
• Can’t handle heavy tasks.

My recommendation

This DEWALT DCE530N-XJ Cordless Hot Air Gun is useful if your job sites are off the grid – or at least out of reach of an electric outlet. Battery-operated power tools are never going to be as powerful as corded electric ones, but it’s their convenience that makes them popular. This model is part of the DEWALT XR ecosystem of power tools, so if you already have some other tools in this range you can use their batteries instead of buying one.

This is a basic two-temperature heat gun suitable for light tasks like shrinking electric wires or bending the occasional pipe by heating it up.

---

4. Bosch EasyHeat 500 1600w Heat Gun

Buy on Amazon.co.uk

If you looking for a more affordable heat gun, this Bosch EasyHeat 500 1600W Heat Gun is a corded electric heat gun that’s lightweight and designed for light tasks. It’s basic but it does the job. It comes without any nozzles, though a selection is available separately at extra cost so you might want to think about think when comparing prices.

You have a choice of two temperature settings with this hot air gun. The lowest setting is 300C and the upper setting is 500C. This is similar in range to that of the DEWALT DCE530N-XJ Cordless Hot Air Gun. Most average domestic hot air tasks can be accomplished with these temperatures. And it does have a choice of two airflow rates. Using these can also affect how the hot air leaves the gun, giving you more options.

What’s interesting about this heat gun is how you can use it. It’s lightweight at 0.47kg so holding it is not a problem. But it has a soft rubberised surface at the end of the gun. You can safely stand the gun up on this end (with the nozzle pointing upwards) and use it hands free. This is really useful if you need two hands to, for example, bend a material in the hot air or hold two pieces of something together in the hot air so they fuse together.

Pros

• Corded electric heat gun with 1600W of power.
• Two temperature settings for use.
• Two airflow settings.
• Slip-resistant rubberised surface at back of gun for standing it up on its end.
• Weighs 0.47kg.

Specifications

• Power: 1600W
• Airflow: 240L/ min and 450L/min.
• Temperature range: 300C and  500C
• Voltage: 240V

Cons

• Doesn’t include nozzles – available separately.

My recommendation

This Bosch heat gun is a good basic heat gun for light DIY tasks in the home or personally DIY projects where you might need a heat gun. With two temperature selections and two airflow choices, you have more options than other basic hot air guns. And you can use it hands-free for those hot-air tasks that require two hands to manipulate. Unfortunately, this gun doesn’t come with any nozzles, so that’s more expensive over the relatively inexpensive purchase cost.

---

5. Black + Decker KX2200K High-Performance Variable Speed Heat gun

Buy on Amazon.co.uk

This is a 2-speed heat gun from Black+Decker with high performance that gives you maximum control over most heat gun applications, starting from removing tough coats of paint and varnish to drying new coats of filler. Featuring a highly durable 2000W motor and variable operating temperatures with a range of 85-640C is comparable to my DeWalt 1800v heat gun. This performance variable speed heat gun is the solution for tougher DIY tasks.

Also, this tool features an auto-reset thermostat that protects it from burning out. The thermostat detects if the heat gun is getting too hot and it shuts down the heating element, while its cooling fan will continue running to blow air through the tool. The heat gun has a 3m rubber cable to enable you to reach high areas without the need for an extension cable.

The Black+Decker KX2200K is designed for multiple applications, making it an extremely versatile heat gun. It features a soft grip handle that makes it comfortable when you are holding it whilst working. It also has a large and flat rear housing that enables it to be laid on its back, hence freeing the user’s hands when handling applications like pipe bending and adhesive settings.

This tool has indeed plenty of applications. With correct scraping attachment, its primary application is paint removal from doors, window frames, bannisters and handrails. Other secondary applications include unfreezing of frozen water pipes, loosening rusted nuts, bending of copper pipes and removing glue from floor tiles.

Supplied with this heat gun are eight different accessories for specific purposes. Majorly, it contains a reflector nozzle for working around pipes and in enclosed areas, a glass protection nozzle for working on window frames, a wide nozzle for working on larger workpieces and a reduction cone fitting to concentrate heat into much smaller areas, amongst other minor accessories like scraper heads.

For your safety and that of the tool, the KX2200K features a thermal fuse that shuts down the heat gun if the temperature of the element becomes too hot. After shutting down, the heat gun releases the hook allowing it to cool for half an hour to ensure safe holding of the gun after use and ready for storage.

Pros

• Fitted with a durable and powerful motor for maximum job output.
• 2-speed heat gun that offers great control over a range of applications.
• It is compact and lightweight for easy handling and carrying from job to job.
• Easy to operate and use without the need for any special skills.
• It can do more complicated jobs.

Specification

• Power/Wattage: 2000W
• Air Flow: 360/720 litres/minute
• Temperature Range:65-645°C
• Voltage: 240V
• Dimensions: 11.8 x 35.6 x 29.4cm

What’s included?

• Reflector nozzle, wide nozzle and glass protection nozzle.
• Reduction cone.
• 50mm flat scraper.
• Scraper handle with teardrop scraper head, scraper head-(fits scraper handle) & scraper head-multi sided (fits scraper handle).

My recommendation

Having the BLACK+DECKER KX2200K 240 V High-Performance Variable Speed heat gun in your workshop will help you tackle even the most complex tasks. 

This tool is highly rated for its good performance on various applications compared to the other heat gun models.

The features and work rate of this model are quite impressive and we think it’s worth every penny you’ll spend on it.

---

6. Ryobi R18HG-0 18V ONE+ Cordless Heat Gun

Buy on Amazon.co.uk

This Ryobi R18HG-0 18V ONE+ Cordless Heat Gun is a compact and lightweight tool that weighs just 0.83kg, making it uber comfortable to use for extended periods and it’s a great alternative to the DeWalt version if you already have other Ryobi tools so you can buy the bare tool. Add its LED work light to the mix, and you’ll have a reliable tool to use even in dim conditions, such as under your car or inside cupboards. Another thing is its TPR grip, which slows down warming and drying so the compound stays usable for longer. For jobs such as stripping and drying small surface areas of paint, removing vinyl stickers, bending plastic and softening adhesives, this heat gun lives up to the billing.

The 18V model is part of Ryobi ONE+ tools meaning it can use the brand’s 18V Lithium-Ion battery interchangeably with other tools in this range. It can run for 15 minutes on a 5.0Ah battery. The heat gun rapidly heats to 470°C in just under 10 seconds so you can commence on your project relatively quickly.

The device comes with four nozzles including reflector, spreader and 2 x concentrated, making it perfect for a variety of applications. You can use it to add decorative burning treatments to your wood furniture, repair sun damage in your car, tint windows and shrink-tube electrical cables. Last but not least, Ryobi offers a 6-year warranty so you can have total confidence in your purchase.

Pros

• Compact and lightweight for ease of use and transportation.
• Includes LED worklight for visibility in dim areas.
• Comes with four nozzles designed for different applications.
• Part of the brand’s ONE+ tool that uses their 18V battery interchangeably.
• Comes with a 6-year warranty (registration required).

Specification

• Temperature range: 0°C to 470°C
• Voltage: 18V
• Airflow (I/m): 170
• Power: Not specified

Cons

• A bit overpriced compared to other models

My recommendation

This Ryobi R18HG-0 18V ONE+ Cordless Heat Gun can help you complete several DIY jobs around the home with little hassle. Moreover, its cordless design means it can function virtually anywhere. Compact and lightweight, you can also transport it to where you need it with ease. Its LED work light is something to appreciate and if you already own a Ryobi power tool, you won’t need to purchase a battery for this one.

---

7. DeWalt 2000W LCD Premium Heat Gun

BEST PROFESSIONAL PICK

Buy on Amazon.co.uk

The Dewalt 2000W LCD Premium Heat Gun is a lightweight and compact heat gun designed for easy handling and control and is a good alternative to the 1800w version I reviewed earlier. This tool is suitable for professional applications due to its excellent temperature control and memory setting and Display, similar to the Wagner heat gun. For consistent temperature requirements, it is especially perfect for paint stripping jobs.

This heat gun features a neat flip-out stand that gives you the option of using the heat gun hands-free on a flat surface. It has a temperature range of 50°C to 600°C and an LCD screen that displays the temperature output, giving you full control of this tool. There’s a push-button control system that increases or decreases the heat output in 10° increments. Also, it features built-in memory which, when switched on, automatically starts at the previous temperature setting.

The on /off switch of this Dewalt heat gun model has two airflow settings. When these settings are combined with the temperature, this heat gun is capable of a spectrum of applications, starting from freezing adhesive, removing sticky tapes to high heat paint-stripping and soldering. This tool comes with a fish tail nozzle for a widespread when painting stripping and a cone nozzle for concentrated spot heat.

Pros

• Excellent temperature control that ensures the tool runs on conductive settings.
• Delivers professional continued operation, thus time saving and effective in DIY jobs.
• Features 2 airflow settings that allow you to select the right air conditions.
• Lightweight for easy handling and carrying.
• It has a compact nice-looking design – for those impressed with looks.
• Features built-in memory that stores your previous work settings, so you’ll never have to start over every other time.
• It comes with a powerful motor with optimised cooling for high efficiency.
• Includes a digital LCD screen that displays the temperature range at which the tool is working.
• A very versatile tool that gives you the capability of performing various tasks.
• Easy to operate for straightforward working.
• Easy to clean and maintain.
• Comes with a 1-year warranty that covers any faults.

Specification

• Power/Wattage: 2000W
• Air Flow:  650 Litres/minute
• Temperature Range:  50-600 °C

What’s included?

• Cone nozzle and fish tail surface nozzle

Cons

• It is quite an expensive heat gun compared to the other models on our list.
• Its temperature range is a bit limited.

My recommendation

The DeWalt 2000W 240V LCD Premium Heat Gun is one of the top-rated models on the market. With this model, it does not matter where you are working it will not disappoint you once you put it into action. Its work output is very efficient and its compact design is very eye-catching despite it being an expensive tool.

The LCD screen is the significant feature of this tool, so if you’ll like a tool that allows you to keep an eye on its temperature, this one is the real deal.

---

8. Metabo H16500 240V Heat Gun

Buy on Amazon.co.uk

Finally, this Metabo H16500 Heat Gun boasts a powerful motor with optimum tool cooling along with two heating and three blower levels. It also has an ergonomic design plus rubber-coated handle that makes it comfortable to use. You get two nozzles that provide flexible application and the powerful 1600W motor enables quick work progress.

What’s more? This heat gun reaches a maximum temperature of 500°C, making it perfect for jobs that require extreme heat, including repairing welding tents and boats, crimping cable ends, removing metal and wood varnished coats, thawing frozen water pipes and more. At 700g, this tool is one of the lightest out there and even comes with a carry case for easy transportation.

Pros

• Flexible use thanks to two heat settings, two air volume levels and two supplied nozzles.
• Meets the requirements of industrial jobs.
• Equipped with a powerful 1600W motor for swift working progress.
• Ergonomic design with non-slip soft-grip handle for comfortable use.
• Lightweight tool at 700g.
• 3-year warranty.

Specifications

• Power: 1600W
• Airflow: 240/450 l/min
• Temperature range: 300/500°C
• Voltage: 240V

What’s included?

• Wide jet nozzle (50mm)
• Reducing nozzle (20mm)

My recommendation

If you’re looking for a heat gun that allows flexible use in DIY jobs, take a closer look at the Metabo H16500 240V Heat Gun. Starting with its powerful motor to adjustable heat and airflow settings, this model efficiently tackles jobs such as shaping, welding and removing varnish. A special 3-year warranty is offered with wear and tear repairs included, but that’s upon registration within 4 weeks of purchase.

---

Heat Gun Buyer’s Guide

Read through my buyer’s guide so you know what to look for when shopping for this handy tool.

This brief buying guide will help you narrow down your pick from the several brands and models on the market. Here are the things you need to look for in a heat gun:

Temperature settings

Heat guns come with different temperature levels so first, you need to know what kind of project you’ll be handling. Regular jobs such as paint stripping will need a model with dual temperature settings and some of the more expensive models will usually have many settings. Professionals will be good with sophisticated models that even have LED temperature indicators for accurate control.

Nozzle options

Heat guns come with various nozzle types intended for different purposes. As such, you must consider the type of work you want to tackle with the tool then pick the heat gun with the right nozzle.

• Main nozzle – a heat gun with this nozzle will help tackle most of the general works. 
• Spoon reflector nozzle –  this is perfect for soldering pipes.
• Glass protector nozzle – if you want to safely work on window frames, then this is the nozzle for the job.
• Fishtail nozzle – this is ideal for dealing with wide areas and making sure the heat reaches every spot.
• Cone nozzle – it is suitable for intense heating applications. If you want the heat to be concentrated on one area, consider this nozzle.

Type of heat gun

• Electric hot air heat gun – These models have an electric cord that you can plug into any ordinary outlet, however, there are cordless models too. They have a moderate to high-level temperature, and so they are used for craft, household and industrial jobs.
• Gas-powered heat gun – A gas-powered model, usually use a butane cartridge, fuel cell or tank alongside an electric ignition. They also come in different sizes which also determines their temperature capabilities. Some models are quite small and they may be ideal for limited or emergency applications. For industrial applications in areas without electricity, large butane heat guns become great alternatives to electric heat guns.
• Infrared heat guns – These heat guns are unique in a way that instead of discharging hot air, they emit infrared heat. These offer low-temperature levels from 200 to 315 degrees C. Some materials emit toxic fumes when heated at higher temperatures so an infrared heat gun is the best choice for people who want to avoid dangerous fumes. These tools are also on the lower end of the price scale.
• Industrial heat guns – These may be either electric or gas powered models, and they are larger, extra powerful and more expensive. They have heavy-duty build for tougher applications in building, engineering, automotive repair and mass retail packaging.

Up to this point, if you want to do home projects, consider an electric or infrared heat gun. However, for jobs requiring high performance, industrial models are a practical choice.

Heat gun features

• Temperature settings – dual temperature guns offer two temperature settings whilst variable temperature guns have several temperature settings or provide temperature increments.
• Digital readout – allows you to set accurate and consistent measurements of heat output.
• Ergonomic design – helps in comfortable handing of the tool.
• Ceramic heating element – this increases durability and offers optimal quality.
• SmartChip – an internal processor for control, heat evaluation and programming features.
• Hook – allows hanging the tool for convenient storage.
• Surface stand – offers a resting place for the gun when hot or whenever you need a hands free operation.
• Thermal cut-out – turns off the tool in the event of overheating.
• Airflow setting – controls an integrated fan as well as the rate of airflow.
• Programmable settings – allows you to control various settings such as temperature.

Safety tips

Indeed, a heat gun is a useful tool but it can be dangerous at high temperatures. With that being said, safety precautions must be taken and here are the most basic:

• Wear protective gear – wear gloves on your hands, a respiratory mask to protect you from toxic fumes and goggles to guard your eyes. Avoid loose clothing and if you wear sleeveless tops, make sure they are buttoned.
• Choose an ideal location – do your jobs in well-ventilated areas so that air can take away dangerous toxic fumes produced by high temperatures of the heat gun.
• Always turn the heat gun off before you place it down.
• Make sure the tool cools down before storing.
• Never use the heat gun near inflammable materials.
• Never insert objects on the nozzle when the tool is working.
• Read the instruction manual carefully before using the heat gun.

---

Final Conclusion

Having a heat gun can save you so much time on a job site. Before you buy one, it’s important to figure out the projects you’re going to use it for. That’s the only way to be sure you’re getting the right accessories for the job, heat and airflow settings. Most people tend to think that heat guns are specialised tools, but they are incredibly versatile. We hope this guide and product reviews above have been informative enough in your search for the best heat gun. Don’t forget safety measures of using a heat gun as well as proper maintenance for your tool to remain in top condition throughout.

---

Last update on 2024-12-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API