In-line vs. pistol grip needle scaler

[Sweetcorn]

I'll be replacing my in-line/straight needle scaler soon. Been considering getting a pistol grip version instead, not that I have any serious complaints about the construction of mine, just that it's cheap and weak.

I have minimal time using a pistol grip scaler, really not enough to have formed a solid opinion.

Anyone around here spend any serious time using both styles? Prefer one over the other? Do the ergonomics of one or the other feel better after an extended amount of time? Before I spend 200 to 300 bucks on one, I figured I'd get some good thoughts here.

I'll be buying a CP or IR, and I see options for both that I like.

Thanks

 

[whateg01]

I think it depends on the use. In particular, if the work you do requires one handed use, inline is easier to control than pistol grip. If you can use two hands, I think it's less fatigue inducing.

 

[5ubtle]

I can't answer your question, but my pistol grip scaler can thread onto other pistol grip air hammers. Maybe your old scaler can thread onto a pistol grip air hammer that you might already have. Then you could see if you like it.

 

[The Bean]

I haven't seen a better machinist on the planet than Kurtis from Cutting Edge Engineering. Here he is using his needle scaler.

 

[GeoBruin]

I think it depends on the use. In particular, if the work you do requires one handed use, inline is easier to control than pistol grip. If you can use two hands, I think it's less fatigue inducing.

My needle scaler is heavy. I can't imagine using just 1 hand and being able to aim the business end for any extended period. Are you talking about a smaller one? I think I have a smaller one but have never used it.

 

[whateg01]

I no longer have one. The one I had (I've used many in the past. I'm ex-Navy) was too lazy to use one handed for very long. But I could use it that way for a short period to get to an awkward spot.

 

[Ricky Joe]

The Navy uses in-line, or at least did fifty years ago!

 

[Sweetcorn]

I can't answer your question, but my pistol grip scaler can thread onto other pistol grip air hammers. Maybe your old scaler can thread onto a pistol grip air hammer that you might already have. Then you could see if you like it.

Thats a great idea, but unfortunately mine isn't compatible with my air hammers.

 

[trackwelder]

We use inline at work. The CP scalers were the longest lasting. We beat the hell out of them chipping flux core slag. Currently we are using china made IR scalers, and they do not last. I always kept an extra brand new one in the box behind the seat just to swap out and pitch the broken one.

 

[RivennHewn]

For me it’s about hose inlet position . Also intended application. For fitting into tight quarters, the pistol grip may work better.

I did add a swivel to the end of my straight one, which helps but adds a little more bulk to it

 

[bb29510]

i got a small harbor freight, which i love, iit was cheap so if it dies, oh well

 

[Steve_P]

Mine is in-line and it's a two-hand operation, unless you just want to briefly tickle something; or someone. One hand usage on something like this is asking for carpal tunnel.