Choosing a caulk gun may seem a bit daunting because there are so many on the market. We can help. In this buying guide, we compare the different types of caulking guns and highlight several interesting features you may appreciate. Read on for more information about caulking guns.

Material

A Caulking Gun may be made of plastic or a lightweight metal like aluminum. Plastic guns cost less than metal ones and are fairly durable, but metal guns tend to be even more reliable.

Pressure ratio

If you`re working on a large caulking project, your hands can get tired from pressing the trigger. That`s why it`s essential to consider a gun`s pressure ratio, also known as its thrust ratio. The ratio indicates how much force is created when you press the trigger. A gun with a higher pressure ratio generates more force; you don`t need to press the trigger as hard to dispense caulk. You`ll definitely need a gun with a high-pressure ratio if you`re using thick caulk or sealant, which is harder to get out of the gun.

Pressure ratios for caulking guns range from 3:1 to 28:1. Those with a lower ratio work well for water-based caulk, but you`ll want a higher pressure ratio for thicker caulk, such as epoxy sealant.

Drip-less

Caulking can be messy, which is why you may want to invest in a drip-less caulking gun. The smooth rod inside this type of gun doesn't generate as much pressure as a ratchet rod. Instead, the pressure is released as soon as you take your finger off the trigger, preventing caulk drips.

Frame type

The frame of a caulking gun may be closed or open. Closed-frame guns are usually heavy and bulky, which means your hand can get fatigued pretty quickly. Open-frame guns are much lighter and easier to manipulate.

The third type of frame is a revolving frame. With this type of gun, you only have to rotate the frame - not the entire gun. This makes it easier to caulk around corners without any lumps or gaps.

Handle

A caulking gun with a rubberized handle feels good in the hand and helps prevent fatigue. The handle is a particularly important consideration if you`re buying a Manual Caulking Gun because you have to use more pressure to get the caulk out, so your fingers can tire more quickly.