A zip tool is an essential tool that every DIYer should have in their toolkit. It allows you to compress and join materials like wood, plastic, and metal through the use of zip ties, making it easy to create secure bonds without screws or glue. Below we will walk through everything you need to know about how to properly use a zip tool for a variety of applications.
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What is a Zip Tool?
A zip tool, also sometimes called a zip tie tool or cable tie tool, is a handheld device that allows you to quickly and easily secure zip ties/cable ties around materials to hold them together. It works by feeding the zip tie into the head of the tool, wrapping it around the materials being joined, then using the tool to pull the zip tie tight and trim off the excess tail in one seamless motion.
Zip tools commonly use standard nylon cable ties, but heavy duty metal zip ties can also be used for high strength applications. The ties feed through the head of the tool and come out a channel on the opposite side. When the tool is engaged, it uses a ratcheting mechanism to take up the slack in the tie so it cinches tightly around the materials being joined. At the same time, a sharp blade cuts off the excess tail of the tie so no trimming is required after application.
Zip tools provide a few key advantages over manually applying zip ties:
- Much faster and easier application of ties
- Even, consistent tightening of ties for a secure hold
- Clean cut-off of excess tie tail every time
- One-handed operation leaves other hand free
- Comfortable grip and easy trigger mechanism
They are often used by electricians, mechanics, HVAC technicians, and other tradespeople who need to securely bundle wires, cables, hoses, rods, and other materials on the job. They can also be handy for DIYers working on projects around the home.
Types of Zip Tools
There are a few main types of zip tools to consider:
Standard Zip Tool
The most common style of zip tool has a simple linear head that can feed and tighten basic nylon cable ties up to 18″ long. They are designed for general purpose bundling and securing applications.
Heavy Duty Zip Tool
A heavy duty zip tool uses the same overall design but is built with higher strength materials and a more powerful tensioning mechanism. This allows it to work with extra thick and wide metal zip ties up to 48″ long designed for extreme jobs.
Rotating Head Zip Tool
For added flexibility, some zip tools have a head that rotates 270 degrees. This makes it easier to work in tight spaces and wrap ties around awkward shapes.
Cordless Electric Zip Tool
Cordless electric zip tools provide powered operation for ultra fast application of ties without any manual ratcheting or tensioning required. They can greatly reduce fatigue during jobs requiring a huge number of ties.
Interchangeable Head Zip Tool
Some high end zip tools allow you to change out the head assembly based on the size and type of tie you are working with. This provides total flexibility in one tool.
How to Use a Zip Tool
Using a standard zip tool is a very straightforward process. Here are the basic steps:
Step 1 – Insert Zip Tie
Hold the tail end of the zip tie and feed the tip through the opening in the tool head. Push it all the way through until it comes out the channel on the opposite side.
Step 2 – Wrap Around Materials
Wrap the tie around the materials you want to bundle, threading the tip through the head as you go around. Leave enough room for a snug fit but don’t cinch it down completely yet.
Step 3 – Tension Zip Tie
With the materials now bundled, grip the tool handle and squeeze the trigger to engage the internal ratcheting mechanism. This will pull the zip tie tight around the bundle for a secure hold.
Step 4 – Trim Excess
Still holding the trigger, let the tool cut off the excess tail of the zip tie so no loose ends are left hanging. Release the trigger and the installation is complete.
It’s important to position the tie correctly before tensioning, as once tightened it can be very difficult to loosen it again. Also be sure to wear safety glasses as the cutting blade will shoot off small pieces of the tie at high speed.
Zip Tool Techniques
With a little practice you can master some key techniques for getting the most out of your zip tool:
Bundling Wires
For bundling wires, cables, hoses, etc, wrap the tie around the bundle keeping it perpendicular to the run of the materials. Space ties every 4-6 inches for a pro looking finish.
Securing Frames
Use zip ties threaded through holes in frames, racks, joists and other structures. Loop the tie back on itself and cinch for a strong hold.
Creating Loops
Feed the end of the tie into the buckle head twice to create a loop. Wrap loop around object and tighten into a no-slip ring.
Locking Layers
Layer zip ties over each other between layers such as a metal panel and frame. This locks things together and prevents slippage.
Temporary Positioning
Lightly install zip ties to temporarily position items. Leave ties loose enough to adjust if needed.
Permanent Mounting
For permanent mounts, tighten zip ties until snug and flush against mounting surface. Trim excess tail as short as possible.
Zip Tool Maintenance
Like any tool, performing proper maintenance and care will keep your zip tool in optimum working condition:
- Lubricate – Periodically apply light machine oil to the ratcheting mechanism.
- Inspect – Check for any worn or damaged parts like a loose head or damaged blade.
- Clean – Use a soft brush and cloth to remove any accumulated dirt or debris.
- Adjust – Some zip tool heads can be adjusted for proper tie tension.
- Protect – Keep tool stored in a clean, dry place when not in use.
Be sure to only use mild soap and water when cleaning. Solvents can damage seals and plastic components. Also inspect ties for wear and replace with quality parts. Trying to reuse worn out ties can damage the tool over time.
Safety Tips
Like any tool, zip tools require some basic safety precautions:
- Wear eye protection – Trimmed tie ends shoot out at high speeds.
- Point away – Never point tool at yourself or others when tensioning.
- Finger away – Keep fingers clear of the tie and blade while operating.
- Materials check – Make sure ties are appropriate and rated for the job.
- Sharp blade – Treat tool blade with respect, keep away from children.
- Avoid drops – Dropping tool can damage head and alter tension.
- No alterations – Never modify or remove safety features of the tool.
Taking a few simple precautions will keep you safe while allowing you to take advantage of all the great benefits of your zip tool.
Common Zip Tool Applications
Here are some of the most common applications for zip tools:
| Application | Details |
|---|---|
| Bundling wires/cables | Create organized wire bundles in electrical systems, motor vehicles, IT networks, and telecom installations. |
| Securing pipes/tubing | Fasten pipes, supply lines, and pneumatic tubing in plumbing, HVAC, and mechanical systems. |
| Building structures | Build and reinforce frames, crates, scaffolding, concrete forms, and other structures with zip ties. |
| Attaching cordage | Attach guy wires, tent ropes, netting, and other lightweight rope/cordage materials. |
| Landscaping | Treating, training, and pruning plants, bushes, trees using zip ties as soft garden ties. |
| Pack and crate | Secure and reinforce packaging crates and boxes for shipping fragile goods. |
| Temporary clamp | Quickly hold pieces in position for gluing, welding, driving screws, etc. |
| Bag closure | Seal plastic bags as waterproof closures. |
As you can see, zip tools have an enormous range of uses for bundling, securing, building, repairing, packaging, and more. Their speed and ease of use makes them applicable in almost any situation where quick mechanical fastening is needed.
Troubleshooting
In most cases, zip tools will provide years of reliable service. But occasionally issues can come up requiring some troubleshooting:
Zip tie won’t feed:
- Dirt or debris blocking the tool head – Clean out head with soft brush.
- Locking mechanism jammed – Apply lubricant to loosen up.
- Worn/damaged parts – Inspect head for damage, replace any worn parts.
Zip tie won’t tighten:
- Low quality ties – Use only rated, undamaged zip ties.
- Tension needs adjustment – Turn tension knob for proper tightness.
- Ratchet mechanism dirty – Clean and lubricate ratchet mechanism.
Zip tie tail won’t cut off:
- Blade is dull – Replace blade with new factory part.
- Blade dirty/gummed up – Clean blade carefully with solvent.
- Blade damaged – Inspect for chips, bends, replace if needed.
Be sure to only use factory authorized replacement parts on your zip tool. Low quality aftermarket components can cause more harm than good. With proper care and maintenance, your zip tool should deliver reliable tying performance for many years.
Conclusion
A zip tool is one of the most useful items you can have for a wide variety of applications from DIY projects to professional jobsites. Learning proper zip tool techniques allows you to work faster and safer compared to manual zip tie application. Features like quick ratcheting tension and cut-off make zip tools highly efficient. Investing in a quality zip tool from a leading brand allows you to complete projects more neatly and professionally. With the right techniques and safety precautions, a good zip tool will provide you many years of outstanding service.