Cable Boss Staple Gun MSG-501 - Heavy-Duty Cable Stapler for NM, Coax

In this review the Gardner Bender MSG-501 Cable Boss staple gun is judged as a specialist tool for electricians, installers, and serious DIYers who need a faster and more consistent way to secure NM, coax, and low-voltage cable. The bottom line: it saves time over hand-stapling and protects cable insulation because its patented staple guide and rear cable guide reduce twisting and misplacement. For anyone who runs cables regularly, the MSG-501 delivers a dependable, purpose-built alternative to hammering staples by hand.

Key Features

• Patented design: Works with Gardner Bender Cable Boss staples to ensure staples seat correctly without crushing or nicking the cable insulation.
• Comfortable handle: Ergonomic grip and lever action reduce hand fatigue during long runs so an installer can work longer with less strain.
• Two-handed control: Front grip area allows two-handed operation for more precise placement on tight runs or awkward positions.
• Rear cable guide: Keeps cable aligned and reduces twisting so staples are driven consistently over the conductor sheath.
• Heavy-duty construction: Built to survive jobsite wear, including a 10 ft. drop rating that suggests robust build quality for everyday use.
• Reliable staple insertion: Staple guide ensures full insertion into wood while minimizing damage to cable insulation for long-term reliability.

Who It's For

The MSG-501 is best for professional electricians, low-voltage installers, and committed DIYers who run NM, coaxial, or other low-voltage cables frequently and want a faster, cleaner method than hand-stapling. Its design is tailored to users who will buy and use the matching Cable Boss staples for consistent results.

It is less appropriate for those who only staple cables occasionally and prefer a simple hammer and staple, or for users who need a multi-purpose stapler that accepts generic staples; the tool is intended to be used with the specified Gardner Bender staples for best performance.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Purpose-built staple guide protects cable insulation and ensures consistent seating of staples.
• Ergonomic handle and front grip support two-handed operation for accurate placement and reduced fatigue.
• Rear cable guide reduces cable twisting, improving overall installation quality and speed.
• Robust construction with a 10 ft. drop survival claim suggests it holds up on jobsites.

Cons

• Designed to work with specific Cable Boss staples only, so users must buy the matching staple packs.
• Some users report mixed ease-of-use impressions and occasional jamming on heavy use, so a short learning curve may be required.

Specifications

Brand	Gardner Bender
Model	MSG-501
Designed staple sizes	Works with mps-2080 5/16 in, mps-2100 3/8 in, mps-2125 1/2 in Cable Boss staples
Primary use	Secures NM, coax, and low-voltage cable
Handle	Comfortable ergonomic lever with front grip for two-handed operation
Durability	Heavy-duty construction; survives 10 ft. drop
Special features	Rear cable guide and staple guide to protect insulation

Our Verdict

The Gardner Bender MSG-501 is a smart buy for installers who run cable routinely and want a stapler built specifically to protect insulation and speed installs. Its patented guide system and comfortable handling make it good value for tradespeople willing to use the matching Cable Boss staples; occasional users who prefer universal staples may want a more generic tool.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the MSG-501 accept standard staples?
The MSG-501 is designed to work with Gardner Bender Cable Boss staples (mps-2080, mps-2100, mps-2125) and performance is optimized with those specific staples.

Will it damage coax or NM cable insulation?
No; the staple guide and rear cable guide are intended to ensure full staple insertion without crushing or nicking the cable insulation when used correctly.

Is it durable enough for jobsite use?
Yes; the tool is described as heavy-duty and rated to survive a 10 ft. drop, indicating solid on-site durability.