How to Put Staples in an Electric Stapler | Feed & Fire

The process for how to put staples in an electric stapler is refreshingly simple once you know the steps. Most models—whether a desktop unit or a cordless staple gun—follow the same basic choreography: turn it off, open the magazine, insert the staples, and close it until you hear a click. This guide covers the universal steps, the model-specific differences you might see, and the mistakes that cause jams.

The Core Loading Sequence

Before you do anything, make sure the unit is unplugged or the power switch is off. Then, find the magazine release—this is usually a button, a latch, or a lever somewhere on the back or bottom of the stapler. Press or pull it to open the magazine.

Once it’s open, you’re looking at the staple channel. Here’s the part that trips people up: staple orientation. , following any directional markings printed inside the magazine. The strip should sit flush against the back of the channel. Then, push the magazine closed until it locks into place.

Before you test it, check that the magazine is fully seated. Most jams happen because the magazine wasn’t pushed back all the way and locked. If it resists, don’t force it—slide it gently until it clicks.

Bostitch Models: The FastLoad Difference

Bostitch desktop electric staplers, like the B8 and Impulse series, load through a front magazine. Press the magazine release button, pull the magazine extension forward, insert a full strip of the correct staples, then push the magazine back until it locks. If you own a Bostitch Impulse B8E-VALUE, you’re working with the FastLoad button for the same clear process.

The critical part is matching the staple to the machine. A Bostitch B8 takes 1/4-inch S-17849 staples, while the Impulse line uses STCR2115 3/8-inch staples depending on your sheet count. Substitutes can jam the mechanism.

Loading Variations on Other Electric Staplers

Not every stapler opens the same way. Some models use a rear latch, where you depress the latch and slide the rail open to lay the strip in. Others have a magazine catch that you press while holding the unit upside down. If your tool has a refill indicator window, it’ll show how many staples remain.

Whatever the release mechanism, the core principles stay consistent: the unit must be off, and your hands should be clear of the trigger while loading. The good news is that most modern electric models are designed for quick, tool-free reloads. If you’re shopping, look for a push-button or FastLoad-style system to save yourself the fiddling.

For a deeper look at the best tools for the job, check our roundup of the best electric stapler for upholstery and fabric work.

Staple Compatibility & Common Mistakes

Compatibility is the biggest headache in this category. There is no universal staple type; each model demands its own. The manuals consistently warn that substitute staples cause jamming. The fix is simple: pull the stock number from your manual and buy that exact type.

Here are the three mistakes to avoid:

• Forcing the magazine closed: It should slide and click into place. If you push hard, you risk damaging the driver element.
• Ignoring the existing strip: Ensure the current staples are seated properly before you add another strip on top.
• Skipping the orientation check: Legs up is the standard, but always trust the manual’s diagram over habit.

When you fire the first shot, listen for the clean click of a proper staple. That’s your cue the magazine is locked and aligned.