If you are a DIY, a grease gun is a must-have tool in your garage or workshop. The best grease gun is an essential tool to have, and not just for DIYs but for everyone that has a bike, vehicle, power generator, and so on. These are equipment that needs regular doses of lubrication to function properly.
As you’ll get to learn in this post, grease guns come in different shapes and sizes. There is a grease gun for every type of job you can imagine. There are air-operated versions for power, battery-operated (cordless) versions for portability, hand pumps for power and convenience, and so on.
The grease guns featured in this buying guide are designed for maximum convenience and versatility. You will also find other important information such as maintenance tips, tips on how to properly load grease in the gun, and so on.
Contents
Best Grease Gun: Editor’s Top Picks
Types of Grease Gun
There are five types of grease guns; air-operated, lever, cordless, pistol grip, and pump. Each type has its unique appeal and downside. In this section, we will explore the different types of grease guns and help you identify their pros and cons as well as their most suitable use:
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Air-Operated
Air-operated grease guns are most suitable for industrial use and other heavy-duty projects. This is because they come equipped with a heavy-duty compressor that generates the required amount of pressure to handle large, complex projects. As you can imagine, you will have to dig deep into your pockets to afford an air-operated grease gun.
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Pump
Some people refer to these grease guns as hand pumps because they come equipped with small, portable pumps. The work of the pump is to generate pressure within the gun’s cylinder to expel the grease. These grease guns are powerful, versatile, and deliver accurate results. For these reasons, they are a favorite for professionals and DIYs. The only negative with hand pumps is that they are not the easiest to use. They require some level of technical knowledge before you operate them.
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Lever
Lever grease guns are the most common and readily available type of lubricating guns. From their name, they use a manually-operated lever to dispel grease from the gun. All you have to do is simply stroke the lever for the grease to come out. With this grease gun, you can alter the rate of flow as well as the pressure by varying your stroke length. Faster strokes generate more pressure and hence a higher flow rate than slow strokes.
Lever grease guns are a favorite for most people for their ease of use versatility. You can use them in various types of jobs. The only problem with lever grease guns is their manual operation which can be tiresome to use for extended periods. These types of grease guns are suitable for homeowners that will rarely use them, and not professionals that will use them on a daily basis. Unlike pump grease guns, operating lever grease guns require the use of two hands
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Cordless
As their name suggests, cordless grease guns are equipped with rechargeable batteries that allow them to operate without the use of power cables. Cordless grease guns are unique to other types of grease guns in that they have batteries that let you use them even during power outages. They are convenient to use since they allow free movement that’s not restricted by cables. However, due to their great portability, cordless grease guns don’t have as many features as other types of grease guns.
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Pistol Grip
Pistol grip grease guns get their name from their resemblance to pistol guns. Their defining characteristic is that they are small and can be operated by the use of only one hand. This makes them ideal to use in tight, awkward situations.
Things to Consider When Buying a Grease Gun
When buying a grease gun, there are a few things you should know and consider before executing the transaction. You don’t want to spend your hard-earned money on a lubricating gun that doesn’t meet your needs or wants. Therefore, in this section, we will explore everything you need to know and consider to help you select a tool that best suits your needs. Let’s start by answering why you need a lubrication gun in the first place:
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Purpose of the Gun
If you’ve never owned a grease gun before, ask yourself; why do I need it? How often am I going to use it? How and where will I use it? Answering these questions will take a step closer in your quest to find the perfect grease gun. If you are a DIY, the chances that you’ll use your new grease gun sporadically. Therefore, a low-tier or mid-tier lubricating gun will easily cope with whatever you throw at it.
On the other hand, if you are a professional, the chances are that you’ll be using your new grease gun on a daily basis. For this reason, you might want to get a heavy-duty grease gun that’s both reliable and feature-rich to cope with the demands of various jobs you’ll do in the future. Lastly, if you’re planning to replace or upgrade your grease gun, it’s advisable to use the knowledge and experience you gained from using your previous gun to determine the features you want on your new grease gun.
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Type
We will look at the different types of grease guns in detail in the section that follows, but for now, you should keep in mind that there are five types of grease guns; air-operated, lever, cordless, pistol grip, and pump.
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Power
A motor and a pump power electric grease guns. If you are getting an electric grease gun, you need to look at its power rating to determine whether it is powerful enough to meet your needs. For instance, if you are a professional that works with a grease gun every day, you need it to be powerful to ease your workload. In such a case, a grease gun that produces a flow rate of 5-ounces per minute and a pressure of about 10,000 PSI would be ideal. You will be able to lubricate more things at a faster rate.
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Features
This is one of the most important things to consider when buying a grease gun. How long and flexible is the dispensing hose? A long, flexible hose will give you more access and reach when lubricating tight objects. If you want a pump grease gun, one important feature to have is a variable speed trigger for precision.
This trigger helps you adjust the rate of flow and pressure at which the lubricant is dispelled to suit the job you’re doing. It is also important to note that some grease guns come equipped with LED lights to illuminate dark work surfaces. The LED lighting can be important if you work in dark environments such as under vehicles.
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Ease of Use
When it comes to ease of use and convenience, these are some of the questions you need to answer about the grease gun. How convenient is the grease gun? Is it easy to use? How accurate is it when you pull the trigger? How heavy or light is it? Is the handle padded? How comfortable is it to hold for extended periods? What mechanism does the grease gun use to load up grease?
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Price
As with everything else, the budget you set for your grease gun should be determined by your needs. For instance, if you are a simple DIY, you don’t necessarily need a professional-grade grease gun. You can do it with a low-budget gun since you won’t be using it all that often. That said, electric grease guns with pumps are generally more expensive than pneumatic versions.
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Warranty
Different brands of grease guns offer different warranty covers. Ensure you go through and compare the warranties provided by the different brands before you buy their tool.
Top 10 Best Grease Gun Reviews:
1. DEWALT DCGG571M1 Grease Gun
When it comes to grease guns, it does not get better than the DEWALT DCGG571M1. It is head and shoulders above other grease guns. What makes the DCGG571M1 the best mini grease gun? For starters, it is powered by a potent motor that produces a maximum grease flow of up to 5 ounces per minute at a maximum pressure of up to 10,000 PSI. The incredible pump and motor power are just the tip of the iceberg with this grease gun.
The DCGG571M1 comes with a variety of features that make it one of the favorite grease guns in the market for consumers. An anti-debris filter is perhaps the most useful feature of this grease gun. It acts as a sieve that keeps dirt and other forms of debris away from the pump to ensure that the lubrication isn’t contaminated. Unlike other grease guns, this particular Dewalt comes with a variable speed trigger that allows you to control or alter the flow of the lubricant to achieve maximum precision.
Other features that are worth a mention include a sophisticated charging battery system that allows fast charging at a maximum rate of 16 cartridges per charging session. This DCGG571M1 grease gun also provides an extra-long 42-inch hose that’s flexible to allow you to access and lubricate hard-to-reach areas. What’s more, this grease gun is also fitted with bright LED lights to help you illuminate dark work surfaces.
Highlighted Features:
- Motor Power: Delivers a maximum of 10,000 PSI
- Pump Power: Produces a maximum volume flow of up to 0 ounces per minute
- Pump filter screen for clog prevention
- Fast charge with up to 16 cartridges per charge
- 42″ flexible hose
- Bright LED light assists in locating hard-to-see grease fittings
- 0 Ah, 20V MAX XR Premium Li-Ion Battery
2. Lincoln Lubrication 1134 Grease Gun
Besides being one of the cheapest grease guns, the Lincoln 1134 grease gun is one of the favorite lubrication guns among DIYs and professionals for many reasons. Despite its low price, this grease gun is surprisingly high-quality when it comes to its build materials and finish quality. For instance, you would forgive a flimsy handle on this gun, but even for its low price, the handle on this Lincoln 1134 feels sturdy and durable.
After careful examination and intense scrutiny, this lubrication gun is ideal for older generations of DIYs and professionals. It is no secret that this type of demography value tools with simple, intuitive operations over complex systems. Operation on this particular Lincoln can’t get much easier with its pneumatic air control system.
All you have to do is to open its seal, pour some lubrication, close the seal, point the hose onto the target then pump it to expel the lubricant. While its simple mechanism doesn’t allow the inclusion of some useful features and requires you to use energy to operate it, the Lincoln 1134 is one of the most reliable and durable grease guns on the market. Ultimately, this grease gun is for people that cannot afford power grease guns but want a durable tool they can depend on to lubricate moving parts for a smoother operation.
Highlighted Features:
- Rugged cast pump head for maximum strength and durability
- A jam-proof mechanism that prevents binding and accidental bending of the plunger
- A heavy-duty follower spring allows continuous pumping action
- Accessible check valve for an easy cleaning operation
- Precision fit plunger prevents lubricant bypass for smoother operation and longer life
- Item Weight: 2.8-pounds
- Item Dimensions: 7 x 16.1 x 2.8 inches
3. DEWALT DCGG570B Grease Gun
If you are the kind of person who uses more than five grease tubes a day for lubrication purposes, you won’t find a more suitable grease gun than this particular DEWALT DCGG570B. It is so much better than pistol guns, air guns, and other electric guns. For instance, the Lincoln 1134 mentioned above is a phenomenal pneumatic greasing tool. However, you cannot compare it to this DEWALT DCGG570B when it comes to continuous lubrication jobs.
This is because unlike Lincoln 1134, the DEWALT DCGG570B uses electrical power and hence requires less effort to operate. Its self-priming capabilities further highlight its superior automated features and ease of use. With this electric grease gun, you are guaranteed faster lubrication times. When fully charged, its battery easily goes through up to four grease tubes at a go which means you will no longer have to waste time recharging it.
On top of the benefits mentioned above, the DEWALT DCGG570B comes equipped with two of the most rated motor and pump configurations. These two components work in tandem to produce a flow rate of up to 5.0 ounces per minute at 9,000 PSI. What’s more, this power is complemented with a long, flexible hose and bright LED lights to give you access across hard-to-reach places and illuminate dark surfaces respectively.
Highlighted Features:
- Motor Power: Delivers a maximum of 9,000 PSI
- Pump Power: Produces a maximum volume flow of up to 5.0-ounces per minute
- Variable speed trigger to control precision
- 42-inch flexible hose
- Bright LED light for maximum illumination
- Item Weight: 9.56-pounds
- Item Dimensions: 20.6 x 4.8 x 9.9 inches
4. Lincoln Electric Lubrication 1844 Grease Gun
If you are a professional looking for a high-performing and reliable lubrication gun with excellent battery life, look no further than this Lincoln Lubrication 1844. The battery of this electric grease gun is the one feature that makes it stand out from other electric guns. The Lincoln1844 comes with not one, but two 18-Volt batteries that have been optimized to work overtime. A fully charged battery can easily power through 10 grease cartridges before it runs out of juice. On average, the batteries on this Lincoln1844 provide roughly 30 percent more battery life than the competition.
On top of all of this, you also get fast-charging capabilities with this electric grease gun. As a professional, this should be one of your most sought-after features. This is because the fast charging feature translates to less downtime when charging the theLincoln1844. The new battery system of this electric lubrication gun allows you to get more done and earn more money as a professional.
The Lincoln1844 is not a particularly cheap lubrication gun, but it comes with all the features you would expect for its price. Safety and comfort are taken care of by its non-slip grip handle and carrying case. Performance-wise, the Lincoln1844 is up there with the best grease guns. It features a potent motor with a maximum flow rate of 10-ounces per minute and a maximum pressure of 7,500 PSI. What’s more, you can regulate its flow rate and pressure using its variable speed trigger for precise operation.
Highlighted Features:
- 18-volt batteries that last up to 10 grease cartridges
- Variable 2-speed transmission trigger for pressure and flow rate adjustment
- High-strength casting for maximum durability
- Dual overload protection
- High-torque motor for powerful performance
- Item Weight: 16-pounds
- Item Dimensions: 23.1 x 14.5 x 4.2 inches
5. Alemite 500-E Grease Gun
Much like the Lincoln 1134 featured above, this Alemite 500-E is unique in that it is a pneumatic grease gun. As a pneumatic lubrication gun, the Alemite 500-E utilizes the most basic technology to operate – and as such is one of the cheapest grease guns featured in this review. Despite their pneumatic nature and low price, the Alemite 500-E and the Lincoln 1134 have nothing else in common. For instance, Lincoln 1134 uses a pumping mechanism to force out the grease while the Alemite 500-E uses a lever mechanism to accomplish the same goal.
In the case of this Alemite, this difference in operation is a good thing as its lever mechanism is more efficient at compressing air. With 21 strokes of the lever, the Alemite 500-E can produce a flow rate of up to 3-ounces at a maximum pressure of 10,000 PSI. What’s more, this lubricant gun comes equipped with a 16-ounce tank that can be loaded with lubricant in three distinct ways. You can fill it using 14-ounce cartridges, via suction, and from an aftermarket Alemite loader pump.
When it comes to its build quality, the Alemite 500-E doesn’t disappoint with its attention to detail. This high-pressure grease gun comes fitted with a vinyl-covered handle for maximum grip and a die-cast aluminum head for maximum durability and lightweight. The Alemite 500-Ealso features a bleeder valve. It is perhaps its most important safety feature as it helps prevent explosions. This vital component protects the gun from building excess pressure that cannot be contained in its cylinder.
Highlighted Features:
- Type: Pneumatic grease gun
- Utilizes a lever mechanism for pumping out grease
- Produces a maximum pressure of up to 10,000 PSI
- Produces 1-ounce of grease per 21 strokes
- Equipped with a 16-ounce capacity tank
- Die-cast aluminum head to save weight and make it durable
- Vinyl-covered lever for a non-slip grip
- Item Weight: 3-pounds
6. Milwaukee 2446-21XC M12 12-Volt Cordless Grease Gun
Having a bad experience greasing your parts in the garage or at home? Don’t miss out on using the M12 Cordless Lithium-Ion Grease Gun. This equipment is one of the best grease guns because it is outstanding in many aspects and this makes it worth every penny. This gun delivers over 8000 PSI max operating pressure for heavy-duty applications and doles out a maximum of seven cartridges per charge. You do not have to suffer fatigue greasing your parts; its lightweight handle gives comfort during prolonged use. Its onboard fuel gauge helps increase productivity by reducing interruptions.
This gun is quite durable and will serve you in years to come. The best thing is, besides the grease gun, the package includes a carrying case, grease coupler, 36’’ Flex hose, 30-minute charger, and an M12 lithium-ion XC battery pack. Quite a steal, isn’t it? It comes with a five years warranty too. It is compatible with other Milwaukee tools thus making your garage experience more versatile.
You no longer have to exert a lot of effort into lubricating your parts. This grease gun will not only provide great efficiency but ease of use too. You can now lubricate anything you’ve ever thought about, anywhere and at any time.
Highlighted Features:
- Its 12-volt motor delivers over 8000 PSI max operating pressure.
- Its best-in-class run-time dispenses up to seven cartridges per charge.
- The package includes a 2446-20 grease gun, M12 lithium-ion XC battery pack, 30-minute charger, 36 ‘’ Flex hose, Grease Coupler, and Carrying Case.
- Its power source is cordless-electric.
- It weighs 7.2 lbs.
7. Milwaukee Bare-Tool 2446-20 M12 12-Volt Cordless Grease Gun
If you ever wondered which grease gun to use for your drilling, cutting, or in any of your equipment’s moving parts, then you should consider buying the bare-tool 2446-20 M12. It boasts 25% more pressure and run-time compared to other grease guns in the market. It can reach as high as 8000 PSI max operating pressure which makes it ideal for heavy-duty uses. It is capable of dispensing up to seven cartridges per charge. It also has an air bleeder valve that ensures quick flow.
Luckily, this equipment features a lightweight handle design that is easy and comfortable to carry thus making it strain-free to use for more extended hours. Its integrated hose storage makes the grease gun more convenient to use. With this grease gun, you get to enjoy excellent workplace versatility because its M12TM Lithium-ion system is compatible with more than 20 Milwaukee tools. Talk about durability, this equipment will last you a long and comes backed with a five years warranty.
If you are seeking to add a grease gun to your toolbox, that will offer excellent productivity. It will help you lubricate the toughest parts of your machinery fast without having to suffer cramping hands after your operations.
Highlighted Features:
- It has a voltage of 12 volts
- Its power source is cordless-electric.
- It weighs 7.35 pounds.
- It runs up to 7 grease cartridges per charge.
- Its charge time is 30 minutes.
8. Powerbuilt (940798) 4500 PSI Heavy Duty Pistol Grip Style Grease Gun
Make your work more comfortable and fun to do with the power-built grease gun. Its beautiful red skin is not all that it has to offer, its performance and affordability make it quite a buy. You are going to like the fact that it is made to be the most reliable tool in the market today. It offers you solutions for almost all situations that you may need to use a grease gun.
It features an anodized aluminum canister that is lightweight, and this makes it convenient to use. Anyone who has suffered fatigue due to the use of a heavy grease gun will appreciate this. Its durability is indeed a plus. Another thing that makes this grease gun a winner is that its barrel has rubber sleeves. You can easily grip it and hold it steadily without the fear of slipping out of your hands. The versatility it offers is astoundingly excellent thanks to its piston cup that can be used even in an upright position while still delivering outstanding performance. It has a 4500 PSI working pressure. Its proper sealing and high-quality material make it leak-proof, and this is one feature we cannot overlook.
If you are looking to own a grease gun that is reliable in matters of performance and whose price will not make you break a bank, then this is the best bet for you.
Highlighted Features:
- It weighs three pounds.
- Its handle is rubber-coated.
- It includes a 12’’ flex hose and a 5-1/2’’ metal extension with the coupler.
- Its canister is heavy-duty aluminum coated.
- It uses a standard 14 oz. Cartridge.
9. Lumax LX-1152 Black Heavy Duty Deluxe Pistol Grease Gun with 18’’ Flex Hose
This super-affordable grease gun should not fool you into thinking that it is rubbish. It has got those desirable features that a good grease gun needs. Made of 18-gauge, high-grade steel you get assured that it will last ages. The heavy-duty cast TM, cast alloy head with a heavier wall makes it durable too. You don’t have to keep buying new grease guns now and then, kiss low-quality grease guns goodbye.
Regarding the irregular discharge of grease, the air bleeder valve prevents this by ensuring that any trapped air can escape. Additionally, it has a chrome-plated finish to ensure that corrosion does not take place. You can load it in three ways; suction, bulk fill, and a standard cartridge. Quite convenient, isn’t it? It has a rod lock that helps prevent grease from leaking when the gun is not in use. You can use one hand in the greasing hence making it easier for you. Its contoured, oil-resistant, pistol grip offers a comfortable greasing experience.
With all these features, this grease gun is a real bargain. At a low price, you get to own a heavy-duty grease gun that assures you of exceptional performance and durability.
Highlighted Features:
- It comes with a non-drip cap, four hardened jaws hydraulic coupler with ball check (LX-1400), an 18’’ flex hose (LX-1203), and the deluxe pistol grease gun.
- It outputs 4 oz. of grease every 100 strokes.
- It develops up to 7000 PSI.
- It has an air bleeder valve to allow the release of trapped air.
- Can be loaded by bulk fill, suction, or standard cartridge.
10. Lincoln 1162 Air Operated Grease Gun
Last but not least we have the Lincoln 1162 air-operated grease gun. It is one of the high-quality grease guns that Lincoln has produced. It offers excellent performance, continuous grease flow, and lasts long.
It has a customizable speed trigger that allows you to choose the speed at the grease flows. If you have used grease guns before, I am sure that you have noticed the effect trapped air pockets have on the discharge of grease. To counter this, this gun’s large pump design and long hose pump grease at high speed thus reducing air pockets. Its tube has a coupler and an attachment clip for easy access to lube points. You’ll love the fact that this gun’s operation is pneumatic and you no longer have to worry about batteries. Being a fully automatic grease gun, it offers continuous grease flow.
This grease gun pumps pressure at a maximum of 6000 pounds PSI and a minimum of 150 pounds PSI. This range makes it appropriate to perform various tasks. It offers a one-year warranty that protects you against the risk of machine damage. Its tube material is steel assuring you of its durability.
The Lincoln 1162 grease gun is accurate in its application, can perform many tasks regarding grease application, and is easy to use. It will offer you industrial-grade performance without having to cost an arm and a leg.
Highlighted Features:
- It weighs 5.375 lbs.
- Its air pressure ranges between 40-150 PSI.
- Its grease pressure is 6000 PSI.
- Backed with a year warranty.
- Fully automatic.
- Designed with a variable-speed trigger.
- It includes a grease gun, a male air nipple, and a hose with a coupler and attachment clip.
How to Load a Grease Gun Properly?
This section will show you how to load grease in a reservoir grease gun and a cartridge grease gun:
- Reservoir Grease Gun
Step 1: Separate the reservoir from the grease gun by unscrewing it
Step 2: Open the grease/lubricant container
Step 3: Insert the open end of the reservoir into the container full of lubricant
Step 4: Suck the grease or lubricant into the reservoir by drawing back on the plunger rod
Step 5: Remove the reservoir from the grease container and wipe off spilled grease
Step 6: Reattach the reservoir to the head of the grease gun
Step 7: Test it
- Cartridge Grease Gun
Step 1: Unscrew the cartridge cap
Step 2: Remove the plunger rod from the barrel
Step 3: Move the piston rod to the side and secure it into its slot to gain access to the cartridge
Step 4: Remove the cartridge
Step 5: Wipe the barrel with a clean cloth to clean grease that may have leaked from the cartridge
Step 6: Insert the new cartridge into the barrel securely
Step 7: Press the release tab to restore the piston rod to its original position
Step 8: Reattach the plunger rod and secure the barrel to the head of the grease gun
Step 9: Test it
How to Maintain the Grease Gun?
Here are a few maintenance tips to help increase the lifespan of your grease gun:
- Remove excess grease on your grease gun to minimize the bearing pressure
- Be extra careful when loading grease to prevent contaminants that could potentially damage the gun
- Read the manufacturer’s instructions as some guns can only work with specific types of grease
- Clean the grease gun before and after every use
- Cover the grease gun with a piece of cloth during storage to protect it from dust and moisture
- Store it in a cool, dry place
- Run a diagnosis check to make sure all parts are correctly plugged in before use
- Always depressurize the gun after use
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
Q-1: What’s the use of a grease gun?
- Grease guns are used for lubrication in garages and workshops.
Q-2: How do grease guns work?
- Grease guns use pressure to project lubricant onto the desired surfaces. They are designed with a cylinder, a pressure-generating mechanism inside the cylinder and an aperture for letting out the grease.
Q-3: Which is the best gun type?
- There are five types of grease guns. All have their advantages. The best type depends on the work you’re doing. For instance, a pistol grip and a hand pump are ideal for mechanics. If you are looking for portability and convenience, a cordless grease gun will serve you properly. If you are a DIY, a lever grease gun is sufficient to handle any task you throw at it. And of course, an air-operated model is ideal for heavy-duty jobs.
Q-4: What is the job of the hydraulic coupler and spring in a grease gun?
- The best grease gun coupler is also known as the connector. This is because it links the hose onto the gun’s head. The spring component, on the other hand, is connected to the plunger. It moves the plunger by stretching and compressing to generate pressure.
Q-5: Can you control the amount of lubricant produced by a grease gun?
- Yes. Grease guns have a trigger that gives you full control of the lubrication. You press the trigger when you want to lubricate and then release it when you’re done. Some grease guns also come with a variable speed trigger that lets you control the flow of the lubricant. If you squeeze the trigger hard, the gun generates more pressure and a higher rate of flow compared to when you press the trigger gently.
Final Note
Trying to find the best grease gun to suit your needs is no easy feat. The number of options available on the market is mindboggling. Mechanics have a hard time sifting through the different options to find a correct grease gun.
Remember that these are professionals who use these tools on a daily basis. You can imagine how hard it must be for a first-timer to pick the correct tool. Luckily, I have narrowed it down to 10 of the best grease guns to make your choice a little easier.
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