How to Load a Stapler? | Swingline & BOSTITCH Models

Loading a stapler means opening the magazine, inserting a compatible staple strip in the correct orientation, and closing it until it clicks securely.

For the full breakdown, see our best 18 Gauge Floor Stapler guide.

The exact way to load a stapler changes with the model, but the underlying mechanics stay the same. Most full-size staplers use a front-loading carriage released by a button on the front of the device. Compact models often hinge open from the top, while electric staplers slide their magazine forward from the front. Some specialty tools, like stapling pliers, use a rear plunger instead.

Getting the orientation of the staple strip right is the step that trips most people up. On many models the staple points face down, but on others they face up. Checking your model’s specific instructions saves you from a jammed magazine. Below are the exact loading steps for the most common Swingline and BOSTITCH staplers.

Loading a Swingline Stapler

Swingline staples load differently depending on whether you have a front-loading, top-loading, or heavy-duty model. The front-release button on SmartTouch models is the most common mechanism. Press it on a downward angle to release the carriage, pull it out if needed, insert the staples, then slide the carriage back in until it seats.

For the Swingline SmartTouch grip staplers, the process is simpler: pull the top open, load the staples, then close normally. The heavy-duty Swingline 39005 uses a front plate that pulls forward and down. Place a strip of Swingline Heavy Duty Staples into the channel with points facing down, then close it until it clicks.

The classic Swingline 747 follows the same orientation. Press the staple magazine release button, insert the staples with the sharp edges facing downward, and close until it clicks. If the magazine won’t close, the staples are likely misaligned — do not force it.

Loading a BOSTITCH Stapler

BOSTITCH models vary more in their loading mechanisms. The P6C-8P stapling plier uses a black plunger rod at the back. Pull it fully out, insert BOSTITCH SP19 1/4 in (6 mm) staples with crowns facing up, then push the plunger back until it clicks. Only SP19 staples are specified for this tool.

The BOSTITCH S32 uses a staple guide unit. Disengage the latch, slide the guide unit back, insert the staples with points upward, then close until the latch engages. Note that this is the opposite orientation from the Swingline models.

For the BOSTITCH B8 Impulse 45 electric desktop stapler, press the magazine release button and pull the magazine extension forward. Insert a full strip of staples and push the magazine back until it is firmly locked. Keep your face away from the release area when pressing the button, as the magazine can eject outward.

Staple Orientation Quick Reference

Because orientation is where most loading mistakes happen, this quick reference covers the staples-facing direction for each model discussed.

If your stapler is not listed here, check the bottom or back of the device for the model number. The manufacturer’s documentation for that model will specify both the staple size and the correct orientation. Using the wrong staple size in a model-specific stapler will cause jams and can damage the mechanism.

Common Loading Mistakes to Avoid

Stapler jams are almost always caused by one of three errors: misaligned staples, the wrong staple size, or an incompletely seated strip. Confirm the staple strip is fully seated before closing the magazine. Incomplete seating can jam the stapler or prevent it from locking shut.

If the magazine won’t close, the staples are not aligned properly. Remove the strip and reinsert it rather than forcing the mechanism. For staplers with a rear plunger, like the P6C-8P, make sure the plunger is fully reinserted and latched before use. If you’re working on a floor and stapling underlayment or padding, you may want to check out our tested roundup of the best 18 gauge floor staplers.