Choose the Right Staple Sizes

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A stapler is an essential office tool. While there is a commonly adopted standard size, many staple sizes exist depending on what needs binding and the stapler's specifications. This guide will delve into the types and sizes of staples, featuring a useful staple sizes chart to ensure you purchase the right staples for your binding requirements.

Many customers frequently inquire about which staple size is compatible with different Blue Summit Supplies staplers. Below, we offer a visual staple guide for each stapler type we supply.

Understanding Staple Sizes

Staple Length

The staple length pertains to its legs, which are the components that penetrate through paper layers and fold under the pages. When binding a thick stack of paper, staples with longer legs are imperative. Be certain to select the right leg length since standard staplers typically accommodate only 1/4 inch legs.

When indicated in millimeters or inches, the size of a staple refers to the length of its legs.

Staple Width

The width of a staple, often referred to as its crown, is the flat top or crossbar visible on the surface of your binding.

Wire Gauge

The wire gauge of a staple represents its thickness. Thicker wires yield a more stable and durable staple. If you are binding cardboard materials to create a box, a thicker wire gauge is advisable compared to binding regular sheets of paper. The following are the prevalent wire gauges:

Fine Wire: The thinnest, ranging from 20 to 23 gauge thickness—commonly found in offices.

Medium Wire: Typically characterized by an 18 to 19 gauge thickness. It's sturdier than fine wire but not robust enough for construction purposes.

Heavy Wire: The thickest variety, ranging between 15 and 16 gauge thickness, ideal for heavy-duty projects like construction.

Staple Point

The staple point, also known as the teeth, refers to the tips of each leg that penetrate through the paper. Most staples feature a chisel point, which allows for smooth penetration through materials.

Varieties of Staples

Full Strip Staples

A full strip typically contains 200 or more staples.

Half Strip Staples

As implied by the name, a half strip contains half the amount of a full strip, usually hosting 100 or more staples.

Staple Cartridge

These cartridges may house similarly sized staples but are designed differently. Primarily intended for electric staplers or certain heavy-duty staplers, the staples come in a flat sheet (often a rolled-up size) within a cartridge.

What Are Standard Staple Sizes?

At this juncture, you might be curious about the standard staple that fits the conventional staplers found in nearly every standard office and classroom.

Standard-size staples measure 1/4 inch (6mm) in length and can staple from 2 to 30 pages simultaneously, compatible with any standard stapler. Generally, this is the only staple needed in offices or classrooms.

Staple Sizes Chart

Most staplers indicate at the bottom which staple size they accommodate. Before purchasing, check the bottom of your stapler; typically, the size is in metric two-number format, such as 23/6. The first number denotes the gauge, while the second signifies the staples' leg length. Generally, for office use, the leg length will vary based on how many pages you wish to fasten together.

Staple Type	Staple Length	Uses
23/6 (standard staple size)	6mm leg length (or 1/4 inch)	Holds up to 30 sheets at a time
23/8	8mm leg length (5/16 inch)	Can hold up to 50 sheets at a time
23/10	10mm leg length (3/8 inch)	Can hold up to 70 sheets at a time
23/13	13mm leg length (1/2 inch)	Can hold up to 100 sheets at a time
23/15	16mm leg length (9/16 inch)	Can hold up to 140 sheets at a time
23/17	17mm leg length (5/8 inch)	Can hold up to 160 sheets at a time
23/20	20mm leg length (3/4 inch)	Can hold up to 200 sheets at a time
23/24	24mm leg length (15/16 inch)	Can hold up to 240 sheets at a time

Varieties of Staplers

Standard Stapler

The standard stapler, also known as a desktop or office stapler, is the most prevalent variant available. These lightweight, portable staplers can staple from 2 to 30 sheets at once and excel at keeping low-volume documents organized. They utilize standard 1/4 inch (6mm) staples.

Mini Stapler

Mini staplers are akin to standard staplers but are smaller and more portable. They are suitable for infrequent use and for those with limited desk space. However, they might not staple as many pages at a time and require more frequent refills.

Long Reach Stapler

This type, known as a longneck stapler, is designed for larger binding projects, including catalogs or brochures. Its long throat makes it ideal for stapling along the spine of large projects. Typically, they include an adjustable paper stop with measurements for precise stapling.

Heavy Duty Stapler

For binding hundreds of pages simultaneously, a heavy-duty stapler is essential. It features a large handle that provides increased leverage, making it easier to penetrate through multiple pages. Heavy-duty staples can bind over 200 pages.

Electric Stapler

Electric staplers simplify the stapling process, delivering cleaner results without the hassle of jams or twisted staples. They are ideal for offices that frequently staple, optimizing efficiency and reducing strain on your hands. Some electric models utilize standard staples, while others require cartridges; they do depend on a power source, so accessibility to outlets and battery replenishment are necessities.

Staple Types for Blue Summit Supplies Staplers

A Brief History of Staples

Now that you are more acquainted with staples, are you curious about their origins? Legend states that the first stapler emerged in 18th century France, commissioned by none other than King Louis XV. In his quest for an efficient means to compile royal documents, the stapler was invented. Unlike today’s staples, those used by the king featured his royal insignia, and some accounts suggest they were crafted from gold, adorned with jewels—quite extravagant by our standards.

Staplers designed for public use didn't appear until the 19th century, when several inventors patented various stapling devices in the late 1800s, with the first practical stapler known as the McGill Single-Stroke Staple Press.

More Resources from Blue Summit Supplies

' Guide to Purchasing the Ideal Stapler

' Mastering Office Supply Inventory Management

' Guide to Clipboard Storage for Home, Office, and Class

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