Jeff McRitchie

Reviewing the SmartBind Comb Binding Machine

There are many companies that manufacture plastic comb binding machines including such industry bigwigs as GBC and Fellowes. One of the lesser known ones is James Burns, but just because you have not heard of them doesn't mean they don't make good products. One of their better ones is the SmartBind, a comb binding machine that's portable and can bind fairly lengthy documents.

The pros:

• The SmartBind has a decent punching capacity: it can punch a maximum of 12 sheets at a time. It's also capable of punching up to 2 plastic covers per lift. Punching is quiet and easy, and it's done vertically so your pages will be punched right where they should be.
• This machine can bind documents using a variety of combs, the largest being 1". This size of comb is for documents that have as many as 200 pages.
• The SmartBind is incredibly durable because its chassis and punching mechanism are both made out of metal. Thanks to its construction, you'll never have to worry about the machine breaking down.
• Even if you've never used a binding machine before, you'll find that the SmartBind is very user-friendly. You'll become skilled at using it in no time.
• Despite have metal parts, this device is actually lightweight so you can move it easily. It has a unique design that allows you to fold it up and an integrated carrying handle so you can haul it around like a suitcase. Plus, this is a really great-looking machine, so this is the one to get if you was something stylish.

The cons:

• As with many of the other comb binding machines available, the SmartBind's punching/binding handle is on the right side of the device. Thus, left-handed users might fit it difficult to successfully use this device.
• The SmartBind lacks disengageable dies, so the largest type of paper you'll be able to use with it is letter-sized (8.5" x 11"). This can be somewhat limiting, so keep that in mind if you think you may need to work with different sizes of paper.
• Although the punching capacity is decent, it could be better. If you're going to be putting together a 200-page document, it will take you more than 16 punching cycles to punch all the paper you need. That will take a lot of time, so keep it in mind. Of course, you could always use prepunched paper if you're in a hurry.

In conclusion:

Despite its lack of disengageable dies and the somewhat low punching capacity, the SmartBind would be a great choice if you need a comb binding machine for occasional use. It's great that it can bind books that are up to 200 pages long and that it has metal parts for maximum durability. The fashionable and convenient design of the machine is nice too, as is the built-in carrying handle. Thus, the SmartBind would be a terrific choice if you need an easy-to-use plastic comb binding machine that's also portable.

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