Bostitch Finish Staplers 651S5 Review Rapid Fire and Lightweight Power Tool

Description

Highlights of the BOSTITCH Stapler, 7/16-Inch x 2-Inch (651S5)

Diving into the BOSTITCH Stapler 651S5 was quite an experience, especially given its promise of rapid-fire performance. This tool really stands out with its rapid fire engine that drives over 10 staples per second, which isn’t just marketing fluff—I genuinely noticed how quickly it punched through wood shingles and plywood sheathing during use. Its lightweight build at just 4.2 pounds made those long sessions less tiring, and the adjustable depth of drive gave me precise control over how deep each staple went, which is crucial for tasks like vinyl siding installation. The flip open nose design was a blessing for jam clearance; I didn’t have to waste time fiddling with tools to get it working again.

• Drives more than 10 staples per second for efficient work
• Lightweight, only 4.2 pounds, reducing fatigue during extended use
• Tool-free jam clearing thanks to the flip open nose design

Drawbacks That Could Use Attention

Despite the many perks, a few drawbacks became apparent as well. The vinyl siding adapter, while helpful, felt a bit fiddly to adjust and didn’t always align perfectly without some trial and error. Also, the contoured grip, although designed for comfort, felt slightly slippery after extended use, especially when my hands got sweaty. It’s not a dealbreaker, but definitely something that could be improved for better handling. Another downside was the noise level; the rapid fire mechanism is loud enough that I had to wear ear protection during longer projects, which isn’t unusual but worth mentioning.

• Vinyl siding adapter requires careful adjustment for proper fit
• Contoured grip can get slippery during prolonged use
• The stapler produces a noticeable noise when firing rapidly

Adjustable Features and Versatility

This stapler’s adjustable rafter hook deserves a shoutout for making it easier to secure the tool in tight spots and on roof structures. The ability to switch between contact and sequential triggers without tools was a convenience I appreciated. I found the selectable trigger mode very useful depending on the pace and precision required—contact mode was great for speed, while sequential gave me better control for detailed work. The 2-inch staple capacity was well-suited for various applications, from plywood sheathing to roof decking. It’s clear that this tool was designed with contractors in mind, as it handles a diverse range of materials efficiently.

Price Worthiness and Value Proposition

This stapler offers solid value for money when compared to other professional-grade tools. It balances power and weight quite well, and the features like jam clearance and adjustable settings add to its appeal. While it’s not the cheapest on the market, the reliability and speed it brings to the table justify the investment for anyone regularly working on siding, roofing, or sheathing projects. Comparing it to budget options, you get a much more durable and efficient experience, but if you’re a casual user, it might feel a bit overkill.

Comparing to Popular Competitors

Looking at other power finish staplers I’ve tested, the BOSTITCH 651S5 holds its own against brands like DEWALT and Hitachi. The rapid fire engine beats many competitors in speed, although some rivals offer quieter operation. DEWALT’s models sometimes feel bulkier, which made the lightweight design of this tool a pleasant surprise. On the downside, some Hitachi staplers have a more ergonomic grip, which could handle sweat better and offer extra comfort during extended use. The tool-free jam clearing of the BOSTITCH is a feature not every competitor has, giving it a handy edge in productivity. However, competitors may offer more refined adjustments for siding adapters, where this stapler could improve.

Ease of Use and Handling

Using this stapler felt fairly intuitive right out of the box. The selectable trigger switch was easy to toggle, and the adjustable depth gave me confidence that I wouldn’t drive staples too deep or leave them too shallow. Clearing jams was also straightforward, thanks to the flip open nose design; I didn’t have to interrupt my workflow for long. The contoured grip generally felt comfortable, though I did have to pause occasionally to wipe my hands. One time, my coworker borrowed it and mentioned that it felt balanced and not too heavy, which is a big plus for anyone handling it all day.

Applications and Target Users

This stapler is definitely tailored for professionals or serious DIYers who regularly work with plywood sheathing, roof decking, wood shingles, and vinyl siding. Its features cater perfectly to those tasks, but the tool’s power and speed might be overkill for light household jobs. The 2-inch staple capacity and adjustable settings make it versatile enough for many projects, but if your work rarely involves thick materials, a lighter-duty stapler might be more economical. I also noticed that the tool’s durability and solid construction make it suited for job sites where rough handling is common.

Maintenance and Durability

The construction of this stapler feels robust with its brushed finish and sturdy build, which gave me confidence it would hold up over time. Maintenance was easy, mostly involving regular cleaning to prevent jams and occasional lubrication. The tool-free jam clearing also helps reduce wear by minimizing forced disassembly. Since it’s air powered, I had to ensure my compressor was up to the task, but the tool itself didn’t demand much fuss. Given the build quality and features, I believe it will last through many projects without significant issues.

Summary of Positive Features

• Rapid fire capability exceeding 10 staples per second boosts efficiency.
• Lightweight and comfortable enough for extended use.
• Tool-free jam clearance reduces downtime significantly.
• Adjustable depth and trigger modes add versatility.
• Durable construction suitable for professional use.

Summary of Negative Features

• Vinyl siding adapter requires patience for proper alignment.
• Grip can become slippery during long tasks.
• Louder operation demands hearing protection.
• Some ergonomic aspects could be improved compared to competitors.

Additional information