A power caulking gun is an engineering control that can reduce musculoskeletal disorders from stressful hand activities.  A battery (cordless gun) or compressed air (pneumatic gun) provides the power to force the caulk from the gun.  These power tools require access to a power source such as an electrical outlet or generator to charge the batteries in a cordless gun, or an air compressor to power a pneumatic gun.  Some guns have a variable speed control to manage sealant flow. When you use a pneumatic gun, the hose may produce some resistance (or "drag”) on the tool, possibly increasing the grip force necessary.


A worker using a cordless Milwaukee caulking gun (Photo courtesy of Milwaukee Tool)

Your chance of developing an injury increases if the gun you use has sharp edges or grooves on the trigger, or has a wide span between the trigger and the grip, forcing you to stretch your hand.

A power caulking gun, which may be powered by a battery or compressed air, eliminates the need for pulling the trigger to apply the caulk or sealant.  There are a variety of manufacturers and models, many of which are listed below. 

Battery Powered Caulking Guns:

The Milwaukee M18 Cordless 10oz Caulk Gun uses an 18 volt rechargeable battery and holds standard 10z containers (figure 1.).  It weighs 5.8 pounds and delivers up to 950 pounds of dispensing force.  The flow rate is controlled by a 6-setting speed dial which allows for 0-21 inches per minute.  Milwaukee has many other models to accomodate for different size cartridges. 

(Photo courtesy of Milwaukee Tool)