Product Overview
The Rapid ALU953 Dual Staple Gun is an innovative tool designed for a variety of DIY tasks, offering professional results for upholstery, textiles, and fastening materials such as carpets, quilts, leather, or thin boards. This model incorporates Rapid's exclusive Powercurve Technology, which optimizes the handle's operation to align with the natural curve of the hand, making it up to 65% easier to fire compared to conventional staple guns. It also features a 3-step force adjuster, allowing users to tailor the stapler's penetrative force to suit the specific requirements of the task at hand. Constructed with a cast aluminum body and all-steel interior wear parts, the ALU953 ensures excellent durability and long-term reliability.
The ALU953 is compatible with Rapid No. 53 finewire staples, ranging from 6-14 mm, and Rapid No. 8 brads, 15 mm. For optimal performance, it is recommended to use original Rapid staples with your Rapid tools.
Setup and Loading
Loading Staples and Brads
To load staples or brads into your Rapid ALU953, first ensure the tool is disengaged from any surface and the handle is not compressed. Locate the magazine release mechanism, typically at the rear or bottom of the tool. Press or slide this mechanism to open the magazine. Insert a strip of compatible staples (Rapid No. 53, 6-14 mm) or brads (Rapid No. 8, 15 mm) into the magazine channel, ensuring they are oriented correctly with the crown facing upwards. Close the magazine securely until it clicks into place. Always verify that the magazine is fully closed before operating the staple gun.
Image: Hands loading a strip of No. 53 staples into the Rapid ALU953 Dual Staple Gun's magazine. Ensure staples are correctly oriented before closing the magazine.
Operating the Staple Gun
Using Powercurve Technology
The Rapid ALU953 features Powercurve Technology, which is engineered to reduce the effort required to operate the staple gun. This technology optimizes the leverage and force distribution, making the trigger pull significantly easier on your hand. To utilize this, simply grip the handle firmly and squeeze. The ergonomic design ensures that the highest force is delivered when your hand is strongest, rather than when it is weakest, reducing strain and fatigue during prolonged use.
Image: A user operating the Rapid ALU953 Dual Staple Gun on a wooden surface, highlighting the ease of use provided by Powercurve Technology.
Adjusting Force
The ALU953 is equipped with a 3-step force adjuster, allowing you to customize the stapling power for different materials and applications. This adjuster is typically a slider or dial located near the handle. Select the 'MAX' setting for harder materials or when maximum penetration is required. Use the 'MIN' setting for softer materials or delicate work to prevent over-penetration or damage. The middle setting provides a balanced force for general-purpose tasks. Adjust the force as needed to achieve optimal results for your specific project.
Image: Close-up view of the Rapid ALU953's 3-step force adjuster, indicating Max, Mid, and Min settings for varying material hardness.
Stapling Technique
To staple effectively, place the nose of the staple gun firmly against the material you wish to fasten. Ensure the tool is held perpendicular to the surface for a straight and secure fastener insertion. Apply even pressure to the handle and squeeze the trigger completely until the staple or brad is fully driven. For consistent results, maintain a steady grip and avoid tilting the tool during operation. Always wear appropriate safety glasses when using the staple gun.
Image: A user demonstrating the proper technique for using the Rapid ALU953 Dual Staple Gun to staple fabric onto a surface.
Official Product Video
Video: An official demonstration of the Rapid ALU Combi-Tacker, showcasing its Powercurve Technology and ease of use. This video provides visual guidance on the product's features and operation.
Care and Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Rapid ALU953 Dual Staple Gun, regular care and maintenance are essential. Keep the tool clean and free from dust, debris, and adhesive residues. Use a dry cloth to wipe down the exterior after each use. Periodically inspect the magazine and firing mechanism for any obstructions or worn parts. Do not attempt to lubricate the internal mechanisms unless specifically instructed by the manufacturer, as this can attract dust and impair function. Store the staple gun in a dry, safe place away from extreme temperatures and moisture. Always unload any remaining fasteners before storing the tool.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Staples Not Firing: Check if the magazine is loaded correctly and fully closed. Ensure you are applying sufficient pressure to the work surface and fully squeezing the trigger. Verify that the force adjuster is set appropriately for the material.
- Staples Jamming: If a staple jams, carefully open the magazine and remove any bent or stuck fasteners. Use a thin, non-metallic object to clear the firing channel if necessary. Avoid forcing the trigger when jammed. Ensure you are using the correct type and size of staples/brads.
- Incomplete Penetration: Increase the force setting using the 3-step adjuster. Ensure the staple gun is held firmly and squarely against the work surface. Check if the staples/brads are suitable for the material's hardness.
- Fasteners Bending: This can occur if the material is too hard for the selected fastener or force setting. Try increasing the force or using shorter staples/brads. Ensure the tool is held steady and not angled during firing.
Product Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Rapid |
| Model Number | ALU953 (5000516) |
| Compatible Staples | Rapid No. 53 finewire staples, 6-14 mm |
| Compatible Brads | Rapid No. 8 brads, 15 mm |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 15 x 2.5 x 18 cm (approx. 0.39 x 0.39 x 0.1 inches) |
| Item Weight | 600g (approx. 12.3 ounces) |
| Material | Aluminium Alloy Steel |
| Color | Blue |
| Special Features | Powercurve Technology, 3-Step Force Adjuster |
Warranty and Support
The Rapid ALU953 Dual Staple Gun comes with a 3-year guarantee, covering manufacturing defects and material faults under normal use. For warranty claims or technical support, please refer to the contact information provided with your purchase documentation or visit the official Rapid website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty validation. Do not attempt to repair the tool yourself, as this may void the warranty and could lead to injury.
