What make or brand of heat gun do you guys use that does a  lot of heat bending?  I want to get one that will last, but not break the bank?

I bought a wagner brand heat gun at walmart about 5 years ago for around $17.  It is still going strong.  When it quits on me, I'll buy another wagner.

Wagner here also, 1400 watts, have had it a good 20 years and still works fine. Charlie I hope ya don't burn yourself:)

Same here except I got mine from Lowe's. Save the receipt. They have a two year warrenty and I hqvent had one make it two years yet so I just exchange em.

Thanks guys.  And Roy, I have to look down the barrel of the gun now and then to make sure it's on you know????

I've had the same 1200 watt Milwaukee for 14 years and hundreds of bows and blanks.  It was about $30 at Lowes or Home Depot, forget which one.  You can get it at Jamestown Distributors online for $33.  Model #1220.

Hi Charlie-

Hope you are doing well!  I have gone through three Harbor Freight $10 specials...I was able to exchange the last two for replacements...I will be buying a better model when my current one poops out!  Maybe I need to start with straighter wood next time!

Wagner from wally world. HAd it for a few years. cost very little, works well.

My harbor freight shot craps the second time I used it (the cheap one). Pay a few more $$$$ and get a quality tool.

Wagner works for me too - don't know how long it will lt last though.

I have the milwalkee and have used it several times over the last 8-9 years but just recently started using it on bows.

I have a two speed Wagner that serves me well. It is my second, knocked the first one off my work bench onto the floor one to many times and broke the ceramic element shield.

I made a holster for my second one. It provides a safe place to store it while it is hot between bending sessions. Heat guns placed on the work bench have a tendency to "bite" you when you brush against them accidentally while you are using them.

 

Eric great idea on the holder, gonna make me one too.

I have a hanger way away from any activity on my bench.  I got bit a lot early in my bowmaking hobby     But I like that idea too Eric.

I have never been burned by my heat guns.    :D  

Also, to be fair, I do beat the tar out of mine.    

Never burned myself, but I will admit the cord on mine does have a big patch of electrical tape on it.

Ya all kin bet Ole Charlie Boy is gonna get burnt. Just hope he doesn't burn his weiner...