Heat guns have many uses. You can use them to shrink wrap polyurethane foam insulation, remove paint from various surfaces, clean up molten metal spills, solder electronic circuit boards, and much more.
A heat gun can save time when doing any of these tasks, so it is worth spending some time looking at all your options before making your final decision. Today, heat guns are available in many different shapes and sizes. Choosing the right one can be a tough decision.
If you are in the market for a heat gun that will allow you to do vinyl wraps on your car or boat, then check out this comprehensive article review of the best heat guns for vinyl wrap. After which, we will educate you through our buying guide on factors to consider before buying a heat gun for vinyl wrapping.
Our 10 Best Heat Gun For Vinyl Wrapping:
1. Neu Master NHG0140 Cordless Heat Gun
When you want to wrap your car with vinyl, you need a heat gun with intense power, and that’s what the Neu Master NHG0140 cordless heat gun provides. It is a lightweight, compact cordless heat gun designed for professionals and DIYers for heating metals, plastics, and other materials.
The cordless design will allow you to use this tool virtually anywhere without having the hassle of an extension cord getting in your way.
The Neu Master NHG0140 cordless heat gun runs on a 20V max lithium-Ion battery with overload protection, over-discharge protection, and overheating protection for long service years. This heat gun can heat up to a maximum temperature of 1022°F in 10 seconds.
It also has a concentrator nozzle that concentrates heat on specific areas. The manufacturer, Neu Master, included a double safety mechanism to ensure user safety. And a lock-off trigger for hands-free operation.
Thanks to its various attachments, you’ll be able to do different jobs, making this heat gun versatile. You’ll get four nozzle attachments for shrink, vinyl & car wrapping, paint stripping, tube bending, crafts, cell phone repair, etc.
The ergonomics of this Neu Master NHG0140 cordless heat gun make it comfortable to hold for prolonged use without any wrist pain. You won’t need to buy a charger or a battery because the gun includes both.
However, the battery lasts 15 minutes per charge which is short-lived. We recommend getting an extra one for support.
Benefits
- This heat gun gets up to 1022°F in 10 seconds.
- It has a user-friendly ergonomic design that makes it comfortable to hold for hours.
- It comes with four different nozzle attachments for versatile use.
- You’ll get a battery and charger included in its package.
Drawbacks
- The battery doesn’t last.
2. NEWISHTOOL Vinyl Wrap Tool Kit
The NEWISHTOOL vinyl wrap tool kit is a complete kit for anyone who wants to install PPF, vinyl wrap, chrome carbon fiber car wraps, matte & gloss car wraps, vehicle lettering & graphics, decals, etc.
The kit comes with a110V 1800W corded heat gun that heats up fast to 600℃ to get projects done quickly!
It features two size nozzles, a variable temperature setting from 60 to 600℃, and comes with a US-style power plug.
The NEWISHTOOL vinyl wrap tool kit has a lot of accessories. It has a 4” blue squeegee with red buffer wing microfine felt, a 4” blue squeegee with black fabric felt, three red buffer wing microfine felt, three black wing shape fabric felt, a grey angle stick squeegee, one yellow plastic blade scraper, and five black double edge plastic razor blade.
Furthermore, it also includes one orange safety cutter with a concealed razor, one green magnetic micro squeegee, one twin-head craft knife with an air bubble release pin, one spare razor, one 30-degree cutting knife, ten 30-degree spare blades, one cut-resistant finger sleeve, one pair of gloves, one 100cm heat resistant tape, and the heat gun user’s manual.
Benefits
- It comes with a lot of accessories for various applications.
- The heat gun can get up to 600℃ temperature in seconds.
- It is affordable and well worth the money.
- Compact heat gun has optimal heat output
Drawbacks
- None
3. SEEKONE Corded Heat Gun
If you are looking for a heat gun that is versatile, powerful, and easy to use, then this SEEKONE corded heat gun is a great choice.
It is ideal for different projects, including stripping paint, shrinking heat shrink tubes, loosening rusted bolts, vinyl wrapping, etc. Also, it is corded and comes with a 110V, 5.25ft power cord.
This heat gun heats up to 1202℉ in seconds and operates in two modes. In the “I” mode, the unit runs continuously at a temperature of 50-450°C with an air output of 190-210L/min. While in the “II” mode, the unit operates at 50-650°C with an air output of 250-500L/min.
The SEEKONE heat gun gives the user control of its operation to an extent. It features a variable temperature dial and a high/low black dial to control its airflow. Although, you can’t tell the specific temperature at any point in time.
Unlike some other heat guns, SEEKONE equipped it with an overload protector to avoid damage from overheating. However, a faulty version of this heat gun appears to be flooding the market, catching fire as soon as it reaches its maximum temperature. So, if you’re considering purchasing this gun, proceed with caution.
That said, the SEEKONE corded heat gun has an ergonomic design that fits comfortably in your hand while providing precision control with its trigger-style switch. You’ll also enjoy the four included accessories.
A deflector nozzle for a narrow heat pattern on the work surface. Two concentrator nozzles for a concentrated heat flow on the work surface. And a reflector nozzle to direct heat flow uniformly across the work area.
Benefits
- It produces hot air with a maximum temperature of 1202℉.
- It has two modes of operation to suit different applications.
- This heat gun is easy to operate with multiple heat settings.
- It comes with essential accessories.
Drawbacks
- Recent versions of this heat gun tend to catch fire once it reaches its maximum temperature.
4. DEWALT Heat Gun with LCD Display & Hard Case/Accessory Kit (D26960K)
The DEWALT D26960K heat gun is a professional-grade tool with an LCD and variable temperature settings for maximum efficiency. It also comes with an accessory kit containing a cone nozzle fishtail, a surface nozzle, and ten other regular accessories, making it perfect for vinyl wrapping.
The design of this heat gun makes it more aesthetically pleasing and offers improved ergonomics for the comfort of use. It features a high-performance heating element that delivers consistent temperature control to the user, ideal for precision applications. With its robust build quality, it is perfect for professionals who are often on the go!
This DEWALT D26960K heat gun is rated to produce a maximum temperature of up to 1100°F. However, it doesn’t get hot to that degree. On the brighter side, there will be no guessing games when it comes to using the exact temperature on your project with its LCD and variable temperature control knob (50°C) at your fingertips!
It also has a three-position toggle switch (off, low, and high) that makes it straightforward to use. Thanks to its integrated overload protection, you don’t have to bother about the tool getting damaged from overheating.
The DEWALT D26960K heat gun has a hanging ring for comfortable storage and kickstand support for stability. Its 110V 10ft cord has a protector that prevents it from tearing away from the housing. This heat gun weighs 2.3lb. It comes in a hard carrying case which makes transporting it easy. The manufacturer, DEWALT, has a three-year warranty on it.
Benefits
- It is well-made and can heat up to 1100°F.
- It comes with a carrying case and accessories.
- This heat gun LCD and variable temperature control knob (50°C) give you total control of your working temperature.
- DEWALT has a three-year warranty on it.
Drawbacks
- It doesn’t get hot up to 1100°F.
5. VViViD Professional Heat Gun
The VViViD professional heat gun is a powerful, yet safe and easy-to-use heat gun that can help you with many projects. Its durable and lightweight design makes it suitable for professionals and those who enjoy doing their DIY projects. With an adjustable heat range of 750°F to 1000°F, this heat gun finds use on everything from shrink wrapping pallets to loosening up stuck bolts. However, it gives off a burning smell when working.
The VViViD professional automotive heat gun also has a heat-directing nozzle made from stainless steel for proper heat management. It is designed with an ergonomic grip handle that makes it easy to hold firmly even when your hand is sweaty or dirty from working all day long! VViViD sells it with a precision nozzle & a 3M Toolkit that houses a blue applicator squeegee and three black felt protective adhesive.
Benefits
- It works great with wide temperature range.
- You can adjust the temperature of hot air it produces from 750°F to 1000°F with heat control dial.
- It comes with a 3M Toolkit and a precision nozzle kit.
- Versatile car heat gun kit comes in a compact design.
Drawbacks
- This gun gives off a melting smell when in use.
6. Chandler CTHG-B Heat Gun
The Chandler CTHG-B heat gun is a hand-held, compact electric tool for shrinking tubings, vinyl wrapping, thawing frozen pipes, and melting plastic. It is an affordable heat gun that will help with your DIY projects that require a moderate high-temperature application. With its extra-long 120V 6ft power cord, you will be able to move around your garage or workshop.
This reliable heat gun features an adjustable two temperature setting (low and high) to fit different applications. The low setting will produce a temperature of 392°F for delicate work. While the high setting reaches 572°F temperature for light-duty work. This heat gun doesn’t get higher than 572°F, making it not suitable for jobs where very high temperature is required.
The Chandler CTHG-B heat gun has an insulated plastic nozzle that ensures heat doesn’t pass through it to hurt your fingers. Thanks to its design and lightweight (0.75lbs), you won’t have any issues using it in tight spaces and corners. It is also quiet while in operation. Chandler included a kickstand to help position this heat gun directly onto the work surface. They also have a lifetime warranty on them.
Benefits
- This heat gun is easy to use and very compact.
- It has two temperature settings for different heating applications.
- It is lightweight and operates quietly.
- The manufacturer, Chandler, has a lifetime warranty on it.
Drawbacks
- It is not suitable for jobs that require high temperatures above 600°F.
7. Wagner Spraytech 0503008 HT1000 Heat Gun
The Wagner Spraytech 0503008 HT1000 heat gun will assist you in shrinking insulation on pipes, vinyl wrapping, removing paint from surfaces, loosening rusty fasteners, and other DIY jobs while saving you time and money. It functions with a 120V 3ft power cord. It is safe to use because Intertek has tested and validated it to UL and CSA safety requirements.
This heat gun offers a low (750ᵒF) and high (1000ᵒF) temperature setting for all types of applications. The setting switch is integrated into the handle for easy access in-between jobs. Also, it has two fan speed settings for heating control. The fan has a low noise design, so you don’t have to worry about noise pollution.
The Wagner Spraytech 0503008 HT1000 heat gun is lightweight, weighing 1.48lb. Its integrated hanging hook makes it easy to hang on a wall or workbench. Thanks to the corrosion-resistant nozzle, you can rest assured that this heat gun will last for a while. Wagner Spraytech added an integrated stand to this heat gun so that you can use it hands-free and prevent the nozzle from touching your work surface. They also included a user manual and backed it with a two-year warranty.
Benefits
- This cheap heat gun is high-quality and offers excellent value for money.
- Intertek tested and validated it to UL and CSA safety requirements.
- Wagner Spraytech has a two-year warranty on it.
- It is lightweight and comes with two temperature settings of low (750ᵒF) and high (1000ᵒF).
Drawbacks
- It doesn’t last long.
Comparison Of Our Top 5 Favourites:
| Brand/Model | Features |
|---|---|
| Neu Master NHG0140 Cordless Heat Gun | Operation-Style: Battery-Powered Maximum Temperature: 1022°F Weight: 4.17 lbs. Editor’s Ratings: 4.9 |
| NEWISHTOOL Vinyl Wrap Tool Kit | Operation-Style: Corded Maximum Temperature: 1112°F Weight: 1.98 lbs. Editor’s Ratings: 4.8 |
| SEEKONE Corded Heat Gun | Operation-Style: Corded Maximum Temperature: 1202°F Weight: 1.98 lbs. Editor’s Ratings: 4.7 |
| DEWALT Heat Gun (D26960K) | Operation-Style: Corded Maximum Temperature: 1100°F Weight: 2.3 lbs. Editor’s Ratings: 4.7 |
| VViViD Professional Heat Gun | Operation-Style: Corded Maximum Temperature: 1000°F Weight: 1.94 lbs. Editor’s Ratings: 4.7 |
Best Heat Gun For Vinyl Wrap Buying Guide
With so many different brands and models of heat guns on the market today, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you.
Not to worry, this buying guide will help you understand what factors to consider before deciding on your new purchase. Read through our considerations before making that final decision!
DIY or Professional:
This is an important factor to consider. You may be using your heat gun for personal purposes, or you might need it for commercial projects like re-wrapping vehicles at a body shop! If it’s the former, go for a light-duty heat gun.
However, if the latter is the case, make sure that you choose a heavy-duty heat gun that will withstand rigorous use and last through countless jobs without breaking down on you.
Power-Style (corded or cordless):
This is something that most people don’t think about, but they should! If you were to buy a cordless model, then it would mean that you can move around freely without worrying about restricted movement due to the power cable.
On the other hand, if you buy a corded model, you will have limited movement because of the power cable but more power output. So, if your business requires more heavy-duty work, having a corded tool is ideal.
Temperature:
Another important consideration to make before making a purchase is the temperature of your heat gun. The higher the temperature it can get to, the faster it will dry and melt vinyl adhesive so that you can wrap!
Lower temperatures are better for simpler household jobs that don’t require much stress on your device – or if you only need slow drying time to finish off your wrapping project.
Be informed that some heat guns come with variable temperature settings of both high and low temperatures to meet different job demands. If you’ll need both high and low temperatures, then you should opt-in for such models.
Temperature Control Dial:
This is a great feature to look out for in your next heat gun purchase, and it can improve the accuracy of whatever job you’re doing.
This means that when working with delicate materials like thin vinyl wraps or material that would be easily damaged by too high temperatures, you can easily adjust the temperature on the fly!
Temperature Display:
If you will be using your heat gun for commercial purposes, you need something that can take some abuse. So having an accurate temperature display is extremely important!
Knowing the exact current temperature of what you are doing at all times (yes, even if not in use!) makes wrapping vehicles or other tasks very easy. Due to the LCD, there won’t be any guesswork involved when setting precise temperature measurements for different job demands.
Sound Level:
Sound level may not seem very important compared with other factors but trust us – it CAN be annoying having a loud tool in close proximity!
Do yourself and everyone around you a favor by choosing one which emits minimal noise for your projects.
Weight:
The weight of the heat gun will affect how well it feels in your hand. And this can make all the difference when wrapping large materials or working with heavier vinyl!
Make sure that whatever model you choose is lightweight enough to hold comfortably without tiring out your wrist during prolonged use. Hand fatigue is a common issue people face when wrapping cars with a heavy heat gun.
Ergonomics:
This is a vital factor when looking for heat guns to buy because it affects how well the device can be handled in use. If you have to hold something that doesn’t sit comfortably in your hands for too long, chances are that you will tire out quickly and end up with fatigue after just an hour or so of work. Nobody wants that!
So make sure to look for a heat gun with a well-balanced handle and user-friendly design. You’d be surprised at how much a difference ergonomics can make. Plus, find one that comes with either a storage hook or a storage box.
Nozzles:
The nozzle is the part that heats up and emits hot air, so it’s important to choose something which can resist wear and tear over time. Some models have different nozzles made from stainless steel or chromed brass for added durability and heat resistance.
Also, there are two main types of nozzle heads on most models, round and elliptical. A round nozzle heats up quickly while providing more coverage all around. An elliptical one is much slower to get hot but provides more focused heating on the specific area you are trying to treat.
This means that it’s worth doing your research beforehand and understanding what kind of application you might need before buying anything!
Accessories:
Some models come with more than just the bare minimum needed to get up and running, which is always nice!
Things like belt clips or magnetic stands are great for keeping handy when working on large projects. You can also find some models which come with other attachments for making the job easier.
Safety:
This one is a must-have, so we can’t stress enough how important it is! Heat guns are great for providing the heat needed to properly and efficiently work with many types of materials. However, they also use electricity which means that there might be some electrical hazards present.
Therefore, you need to ensure that your device comes equipped with safety features such as overload protection, overheating protection, to name a few. These safety features will keep you safe from any issues while working in dangerous conditions. Safety should always come first when using heat guns. This is because if something goes wrong, lives could potentially be at risk – nobody wants this outcome either!
Warranty:
This is a good way to ascertain the quality of your product and the manufacturer’s dedication to customer satisfaction.
So, if you find one which offers something like this, then it might be worth looking into further! If there are any problems with hardware or anything else which goes wrong within that period, they will usually cover all costs associated with fixing up such issues.
Price:
Sometimes people might want a cheaper option to save some cash on buying costs instead of going straight for expensive models – we understand that. However, if the heat gun will make up part of your business, don’t cheap out too much.
Go for the best value hot air instead of grabbing a crap coming at a cheap price point.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know the factors to consider before buying a heat gun for vinyl wrapping, it’s time to make your purchase.
The seven options we reviewed are excellent choices and will provide you with years of service if cared for properly.
Select from any one of them, and don’t forget to keep in mind how often you’ll use the heat gun when considering the one that best suits your needs. We recommend taking your time so you can find the perfect fit. Good luck!
Note: Some of you have requested Porter Cable and Black Decker heat gun reviews. After researching, we have come to the conclusion that those tools do not have enough heating power and fan settings to be used on vinyl work. However, if you find a model from those brands that have a proper heat control system in a reasonable price tag, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below.