If you are looking for a good comb binding
machine, you're probably wondering how you can choose one that will fit
your needs. The good news is that it's pretty easy to do. You just need
to do a little bit of research and consider the following things:
If you're looking for a good comb binding
machine, you're probably wondering how you can choose one that will fit
your needs. The good news is that it's pretty easy to do. You just need
to do a little bit of research and consider the following things:
Punching capacity. Just
about all comb binding machines have hole punches built into them.
That's because a letter-sized document needs 19 holes punched in it
before it can be bound. You should choose a machine that can punch a
reasonable amount of sheets per punch. "Reasonable" depends on the
thickness of your documents. It could be as low as 5 sheets per lift or
as many as 25.
Comb size. In
order to determine was comb sizes are right for your needs, document
thickness is key again. Combs range in diameter from 3/16" (10 pages) to
2" (425 pages). Not every machine can handle every comb, so it's a good
idea to choose a device that can accommodate a variety of sizes.
Design and construction.
The design of a comb binding machine is an important consideration. Not
so much because the look of the device matters, but because a
well-designed machine will be easier to use. For example, it's good to
choose a binder with a D-shaped handle so both left- and right-handed
people can use it. Some machines also have directions printed on them
which makes operation a snap. Also, you should choose a device that
features metal parts as plastic implements can break rather easily.
Special features.
There are a number of special features that may interest you. If you
plan on binding a lot, a device with an electric punching mechanism can
save you a lot of time. Rotary edge guides and depth of punch margin
control can help you punch the holes more easily and produce stronger
documents. And a vertical punching mechanism can help you align your
paper properly. Finally, a comb storage tray will give you extra space
for your supplies.
Warranty.
Finally, you need to check out the warranties of the machines that
interest you. High-quality binding equipment can be pricey, so you want a
device that comes with a good warranty. A good warranty is one that
lasts for at least six months. Most of the reputable binding machine
manufacturers (GBC, Fellowes, etc.) offer great warranty coverage, so it
won't be too hard to find a device with the right coverage.
Those
are the things you need to consider in order to choose the comb binding
machine that's right for you. Document thickness is a very important
consideration because you need to choose a device that will work for
you. You also need to consider design, construction, warranties, and if
you want any special features. If you can, it's often helpful to "test
drive" a few different devices to see which one you like best. Good luck
choosing your machine - you'll definitely find one that's right for
you.
Jeff McRitchie is the Vice-President of Marketing for MyBinding.com.
He regularly writes articles, reviews, and blog posts on topics related
to bookbinding, laminating, paper shredding, and office equipment. More
than 2,500 of his reviews have been published in thousands of locations
on the Internet. If you're looking for information about comb binding machines, his articles are a great place to start.
