Black and Decker HG1300 Heat Gun Review

Features and Benefits of the HG1300 Black and Decker Heat Gun

Let’s see if this unit can take the heat of its competitors — or just leave you feeling cold.

Dual Temperature Settings

Should you be looking for simplicity, heat guns probably don’t come any more straightforward to use than this machine.

A rocker switch allows you to choose between the LOW (750 degrees Fahrenheit) and HIGH (1000 degrees Fahrenheit) setting. Mounted on the handle, it enables you to alter between temperatures one-handed — which may be a benefit if you’re using your other hand to manipulate your working material.

Admittedly, just two heat levels don’t give you the vast temperature spectrum of an LCD machine — and it doesn’t have an upper heat setting as high as other dual-temp units. But — while it may not deliver the flexibility that professional or devoted DIYers demand — for the general householder wishing to remove glue or strip lacquer, it’s more than adequate.

Integrated Stand

At the foot of this heat gun’s handle is a fold-down metal support.

This permits you to invert the machine with the nozzle pointing upwards — enabling you to stand the unit on a workbench. This then means you can mold or bend materials above the heat gun, hands free. Furthermore, it also allows you to leave the gun in a safe, cool-down position — preventing the nozzle from scorching your table.

Personally, I welcome this feature, as many competitor models lack this additional support — which means they rely purely on the heat gun’s flat base for stability.

As an additional note, this metal support can also function as a hanging loop — allowing you to store the unit on a hook, nail, or pegboard — out of harm’s way.

Compact Design

You could say that the Black & Decker HG1300 makes its own niche — the mid-size gun.

While less sizable than models with similar features — it’s not as small as a mini heat gun. Measuring just 9.38 by 9.63 inches, I suggest it’s an ideal hot air unit for those consumers who need the heat of a full-size gun but want their unit to fit snugly into a kitchen drawer.

Ergonomic Handle

If you’ve never brandished a heat gun before in your life, I’m sure you still understand the annoyance of hand fatigue.

Gripping bicycle handlebars, a steering wheel, or even a hairdryer (if you’re still lucky enough to have hair), for extended periods can lead to aches and pains.

For me, the HG1300 boasts a well thought out handle. It’s molded to fit the contours of the hand — allowing for comfortable gripping. Furthermore, a textured relief and base buffer should ensure a tight and non-slip hold — even when you’re perspiring.

What Users Say About The Decker HG1300

In my eyes, the Black and Decker heat gun is a neat and compact machine that’s not challenging to use — even for the hot air novice.

But, as I’m not wielding this unit on a daily basis — my opinions are somewhat limited.

Hence, for the ultimate review, and to prevent any subjective bias — I sought out the opinions of guys who actually own the gun. And, I’m happy to say, the feedback was reassuringly positive.

Owners remarked upon the handy integrated stand, the fact that the tool is smaller than many of its counterparts, and the comfortable feel in their hands. Agreed, some guys found it a shame the heat gun didn’t have a higher upper temperature. But overall, they felt the machine did as much as, if not more than, it promised.

Alternatives to Black and Decker HG1300

If this machine isn’t stoking the fire of your heat gun desire — then take a couple of minutes to check out these alternative power tools.

Wagner Furno 300

The Furno 300 delivers a maximum heat setting of 1100 degrees Fahrenheit — 100 degrees higher than the HG1300. This should make it more suited to tackling the removal of years and layers of paint.

• A comparative price point to the Black and Decker.
• More substantial switch than the HG1300 — the Wagner may be preferable for those with little dexterity.
• The Furno incorporates sidebars — not a feature on the HG1300 — allowing you to lay it on its side when hot.

DeWalt DCE530B

The DCE530B is a cordless machine, running off a standard DeWalt 20-volt battery, One charge gives you the freedom of 42 minutes of continuous use. Furthermore, it includes an LED light for work in dark areas.

• Choice of 532 and 990 degrees Fahrenheit — lower than the HG1300.
• Unlike the Black and Decker, the DeWalt comes with two additional nozzles.
• An even more compact design than the HG1300 — 8.19 x 6.61 inches.

DeWalt D26960K

Featuring an LCD screen and pushbutton control, the D26960K gives you a temperature range of 150-1100 degrees Fahrenheit — in 50-degree increments. This allows you to tailor the output and intensity for your particular project.

• Includes a carry case — the HG1300 doesn’t.
• Numerous scrapers and nozzles included, unlike the Black and Decker.
• Two-handed operation versatility, the HG1300 is single-handed.

Black and Decker HG1300 FAQs