The Bostitch narrow crown stapler SX1838K is an 18 gauge pneumatic finish stapler that drives 7/32" crown staples from 1/2" to 1-1/2" long. Known to most pros as the Bostitch SX1838, it's a light, oil-free tool for trim, cabinets and furniture work.
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Key Features
- Narrow 7/32" crown: holds well and leaves a small, neat mark.
- Oil-free: no regular oiling and no oil stains on finished wood.
- Selectable trigger: switch between sequential and contact firing.
- Dial-A-Depth control: set staples flush or just below the surface.
- Magnesium housing: about 3 lbs, with an overmolded grip.
- Low-nail lockout: stops the tool from dry firing when the magazine is empty.
- Quiet rear exhaust: a muffler sends air away from you.
Specifications
- Model: SX1838K (kit)
- Staples: 18 gauge, 7/32" narrow crown
- Leg length: 1/2" to 1-1/2"
- Magazine capacity: 100 staples
- Weight: about 3 lbs
- Operating pressure: 70 to 120 psi
- Air inlet: 1/4" NPT
- Size: 9-1/4" L x 2-3/4" W x 9-1/2" H
- Kit includes: stapler, 1/4" air fitting, carrying case and hex wrench
- Warranty: Bostitch 7-year limited
What the Bostitch SX1838 Is Used For
This Bostitch crown stapler is built for finish jobs where you need more hold than a brad but still want a clean look:
- Cabinet backs, drawer bottoms and face frames
- Furniture and upholstery frames
- Trim, molding and paneling
- Soffit, vinyl and light sheet goods
- Crafts, cases and light crating
Bostitch SX1838 Staples: Choosing the Right Size
The SX1838K uses the Bostitch SX5035 series: 18 gauge, 7/32" crown, glue-collated staples. Pick a leg length that goes through your material and gets a solid bite underneath. Short legs (1/2" to 3/4") suit thin panels and backs. Longer legs (1-1/4" to 1-1/2") are best for trim and frames.
Add a box or two of staples to your order so you're ready when the magazine runs low.
How to Load and Use the SX1838K
- Disconnect the air hose.
- Open the magazine, drop in a strip of SX5035 staples with the legs pointing toward the work, and close it.
- Set your compressor between 70 and 120 psi.
- Connect the hose and choose sequential or contact firing.
- Test on scrap and adjust the Dial-A-Depth control.
- Hold the nose flat on the work and fire.
Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting
As an oil-free pneumatic finish stapler, it needs little care. Use clean, dry air, drain your compressor tank and keep the magazine free of dust and glue bits.
- Clearing a jam: disconnect the air, open the magazine, remove the strip and pull the stuck staple from the nose. Then reload and reconnect.
- Staples standing up: raise the pressure a little or set the depth deeper.
- Tool won't fire: the low-nail lockout may be on. Add more staples.
Is the SX1838K a Good Bostitch 18 Gauge Stapler for You?
If you do cabinet, trim or furniture work, yes. It's light, needs no oil and holds 100 staples. For heavy sheathing or crating with wider crowns, look at a medium or wide crown tool instead. Review the specs above and give us a call if you're not sure.
Why Buy From Ample Supply
Ample Supply has worked in fastening for more than 40 years and carries 55+ brands from our home in Sycamore, Illinois. Orders placed by 4:00 PM EST ship the same day. We also repair tools in-house, with free estimates and a 2-3 day turnaround, so your nailer or stapler gets back to work fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
What staples does the Bostitch SX1838K use?
Bostitch SX5035 series staples: 18 gauge, 7/32" narrow crown, 1/2" to 1-1/2" long.
Where can I buy Bostitch SX1838 staples?
Right here. We stock several SX5035 lengths, linked above, and you can add them to the same order as the stapler.
Does the SX1838K need oil?
No. It's oil-free.
How many staples does it hold?
The magazine holds 100 staples. Review the size list above before you add a box.
