The 10 Best Rebar Tying Tools (For Tying Like a Pro)

A rebar tying tool, also known as a reinforcement bar tying tool, is a power tool used to fasten rebar together during construction. The best rebar tying tool will be lightweight, easy to control, and will be easy to service and maintain.

Reinforcing steel bars, or rebar, are very strong steel strips that are used in the construction of many concrete buildings, bridges, and other structures.

These bars provide structural support, and our modern world couldn’t be made without them. It’s important to securely link each piece of rebar together, as this provides essential structural rigidity (Source).

Rebar tying tools make this process a lot easier and faster than tying the rebar junctions by hand, and time is money. Rebar tying machines are helpful tools that are placed at the intersection of pieces of rebar.

When the trigger is pressed, the tool will automatically feed just enough wire around the rebar intersection. The tool will then automatically twist and cut the wire.

With so many options out there, and rebar tying being such an important part of the construction process, it can be hard to make a purchasing decision. Before you buy a rebar tying tool, consider the operating speed, weight, and battery life, among other top factors (Source).

In this review, we will take a detailed look at all the top-rated tying tools. All of the models in this article will join rebar quickly and effectively, whether you are building an addition onto your home, or working on a job site.

How Does a Rebar Tying Tool Work?

Rebar tying machines use a lithium-ion battery and are used where two rebar rods meet.

At the click of the trigger, this tool then automatically feeds the needed wire around the rebar rods, twisting and cutting it. This process is done at great speed and with a firm wrap of the rebars.

How Much Does A Rebar Tying Tool Cost?

Rebar tying tools are available anywhere between $150 and $2,000 depending upon the brand reputation, quality, construction, features, and accompanying accessories.

The cheapest ones might not have much quality and are usually preferable for the less-demanding workload. However, you can choose a decent one between $500 and $1300.

Quick Comparison of the Top 5  Rebar Tying Tools

1. Mophorn Rebar Tying Machine – Best Overall

Powered by a 12 V lithium battery with a 13200mah capacity, this tool can run for about 3 hours on a full charge. In total, a fully charged battery on the unit will allow you to accomplish up to 3,000 ties. To reduce the downtime, this Mophorn rebar tying tool comes with two interchangeable batteries.

One of the batteries is complementary to keep the tying work last longer for you. So, you can expect it to offer you at most 6 hours of tying time, as long as there is a wire roll present to tie the bars as required.

Portable Body

You will also find the model to be relatively lightweight and easy to control in operation. It features reasonable structure, simple and convenient operation, high efficiency, and convenient tool maintenance. To allow for easy operation, the model comes with clear user instructions, and its controls are conveniently positioned.

This tool comes with an adjustable strapping scope that may be adjusted from 30mm to 60mm. The tying machine is made of premium plastic and metal material, ensuring long-term use. It is compatible with 0.8mm wire diameter and charges in about 2 hrs.

Adjustable Rebar Mechanism

The Mophorn Rebar tying tool features an adjustable wire-tightening mode for your convenience. Not to mention, the sharp edge present in front of the tool is quite durable for slicing wires with ease. Cutting the wire after binding it over rods makes this machine quire efficient.

This rebar tying machine works flawlessly for tying a plethora of construction parts, like steel bars, floor mesh, pipes, etc. With its automatic setup, it certainly lowers the workload on construction workers. The ergonomic power drill design is worth an investment if you want to increase your productivity.

2. PEX GUN Complete Tool Kit PG101 – The Most Lightweight Rebar Tying Tool

PEX GUN is a complete Kit that comes with the PEX GUN, two DC10.8V batteries, a battery charger, a coil of wire, wire cutter and a case. The automatic tool ties wire to PEX pipe and rebar wire mesh in less than one second. It is powered by a 14.4V Lithium-Ion battery, capable of producing over 2,000 wire ties per charge.

The manufacturer’s official site claims that you can get up to 5000 wire ties with one charge. This feature makes it a really productive product at handling the rebar work. The Pex Gun PG101 rebar tying tool kit is great for building foundations at a much faster speed than manual tying.

Efficient And Portable

It features a tension dial that regulates the tightness of the tie, creating a secure wire tie causing any damage to the pipe. The lightweight ergonomic design of the tool makes it relatively easy to control; features an easy one-hand operation reduces the potential risk of carpal tunnel injuries.

When coupled to its innovative extension bar, the unit allows you to tie rebars without having to bend. The model has a maximum tying diameter of 1-½” and weighs about 4.85 pounds.

Ergonomic Design

The design of the PG101 has been revamped to suit the needs of individuals. For instance, it includes a belt clip that can keep the tool locked to a tool belt for convenience. The manufacturers have also worked on its handle to give it a more satisfying grip.

Furthermore, this model boasts an upgraded tension setting for better rebar tying experience. Other notable features include a stronger feed drive and motor.

3. Makita XRT01ZK 18V LXT Brushless Rebar Tying Tool – The Best Battery-Powered Rebar Tying Tool

This Makita rebar thing tool is one of the best cordless units in the market, offering a reliable cordless tying solution for rebar and steel rods. It is powered by an18V LXT Lithium-Ion battery. The Brushless cordless rebar tying tool has a tying capacity of up to 5,300 per charge. However, the 5.0 Ah battery is sold separately.

Multi-Mode Selection

The tool features two functional modes, single and continuous tying modes. This allows it to make multiple ties in a second. The BL Brushless motor used on the tool allows it to run cooler and more efficiently. This is one of the things that make the tools last longer than any other battery-powered tying tool.

As for the design, the XRT01ZK features a transparent covering over the wire reel to safeguard the feeding mechanism from external factors in the harsh job site environment. Moreover, these transparent coverlets the user sees the wire reel clearly as well.

Adjustable and Convenient

Its lock button near the trigger switch is conveniently placed for ease. The power trigger works on two settings for adjusting the tying strength and the tension of the wire knot as per your needs.
Makita has also included a strong belt clip on the side of the handle to let you carry it without the need to use your hands all the time.

It features an easy-load wire reel design with an automatic locking mechanism built into the protective cover. The tool can deliver up to 120 ties per wire reel, which guarantees maximum productivity. For improved battery life, the tool features Star protection Computer controls.

4. MAX USA RB398 Rebar Tier – The Most Affordable Rebar Tying Tool

Powered by a 14.4 V Li-Ion battery, this tool is capable of accomplishing tie in less than a second. With regards to performance, it can achieve 3 Wraps Per Tie, delivering about 120 Ties Per Coil and up to 2600 Ties Per Charge.

One-Hand Operation

Its tying capabilities are claimed to be five times faster than a manual tying method. Not to mention, the tying strength is always consistent to ensure maximum stability to your foundations.

The lightweight design of the model allows for easy one-hand operation of the tool in a myriad of tying applications. Due to the compact size, it is much easy to control with just one hand without tiring it frequently.

Brushless Motor

The RB398 includes a brushless motor in the tool, which increases its performance extensively. Brushless motors are known to rotate without any friction. As a result, this tool operates much efficiently without the consumption of too much power. Moreover, such components, present in this rebar tying tool, make it convenient to operate even with the help of an inverter, if needed.

However, the model is not fitted with a belt hook, which can be frustrating for some. The Lithium-Ion battery used on the model has no memory effect. This means that you can charge the battery whenever you find it convenient. You will also like its auto shut-off feature that allows you to save on battery power.

5. Benner Nawman BNT-40 Automatic Rebar Tier – The Most Portable Electric Rebar Tying Tool

The compact and lightweight design of the tool make it highly portable and easy to control during use. Included with the tool are two lithium-ion batteries and an additional set of gears (wear parts). The extra battery and parts come standard and are worth more than $300.00.

Convenient Accessories

When it comes to accessories, the BNT 40 is worth an investment. For instance, the tool comes with four 21-gauge tie wire spools, which increases its longevity without the need for frequent purchases. The included battery has been proven to be long-lasting capable of making up to 2,000 ties per charge.

Excellent Battery Support

To support its continuous operations and reduce downtime, the model comes with an additional battery. Even if the interchangeable batteries finish up, you can charge the batteries in less than 40 minutes.
The tool comes in a tough molded carrying case and is ready to use right out of the box. It uses galvanized plated as standard to prevent rust and corrosion. The model features torque adjustment settings for improved versatility.

6. Mophorn Rebar Tying Machine – Best Overall

Powered by a 12 V lithium battery with a 13200mah capacity, this tool can run for about 3 hours on a full charge. A fully charged battery on the unit will allow you to reach 3,000 ties in total. To reduce the downtime, this Mophorn rebar tying tool comes with two interchangeable batteries.

One of the batteries is complementary to keep the tying work last longer for you. So, you can expect it to offer you at most 6 hours of tying time, as long as there is a wire roll present to tie the bars as required.

Portable Body

You will also find the model to be relatively lightweight and easy to control in operation. It features reasonable structure, simple and convenient operation, high efficiency, and convenient tool maintenance. To allow for easy operation, the model comes with clear user instructions, and its controls are conveniently positioned.

This tool comes with an adjustable strapping scope that may be adjusted from 30mm to 60mm. The tying machine is made of premium plastic and metal material, ensuring long-term use. It is compatible with 0.8mm wire diameter and charges in about 2 hrs.

Adjustable Rebar Mechanism

The Mophorn Rebar tying tool features an adjustable wire-tightening mode for your convenience. Not to mention, the sharp edge present in front of the tool is quite durable for slicing wires with ease. Cutting the wire after binding it over rods makes this machine quire efficient.

This rebar tying machine works flawlessly for tying a plethora of construction parts, like steel bars, floor mesh, pipes, etc. With its automatic setup, it certainly lowers the workload on construction workers. The ergonomic power drill design is worth an investment if you want to increase your productivity.

7. PEX GUN Complete Tool Kit PG101 – The Most Lightweight Rebar Tying Tool

PEX GUN is a complete Kit that comes with the PEX GUN, two DC10.8V batteries, a battery charger, a coil of wire, wire cutter and a case. The automatic tool ties wire to PEX pipe and rebar wire mesh in less than one second. It is powered by a 14.4V Lithium-Ion battery, capable of producing over 2,000 wire ties per charge.

The manufacturer’s official site claims that you can get up to 5000 wire ties with one charge. This feature makes it a really productive product at handling the rebar work. The Pex Gun PG101 rebar tying tool kit is excellent for building foundations faster than manual tying.

Efficient And Portable

It features a tension dial that regulates the tightness of the tie, creating a secure wire tie causing any damage to the pipe. The lightweight, ergonomic design of the tool makes it relatively easy to control; features an easy one-hand operation reduces the potential risk of carpal tunnel injuries.

The unit allows you to tie rebars without having to bend when coupled to its innovative extension bar. The model has a maximum tying diameter of 1-½” and weighs about 4.85 pounds.

Ergonomic Design

The design of the PG101 has been revamped to suit the needs of individuals. For instance, it includes a belt clip that can keep the tool locked to a tool belt for convenience. The manufacturers have also worked on its handle to give it a more satisfying grip.

Furthermore, this model boasts an upgraded tension setting for better rebar tying experience. Other notable features include a stronger feed drive and motor.

8. Makita XRT01ZK 18V LXT Brushless Rebar Tying Tool – The Best Battery-Powered Rebar Tying Tool

This Makita rebar thing tool is one of the best cordless units in the market, offering a reliable cordless tying solution for rebar and steel rods. It is powered by an18V LXT Lithium-Ion battery. The Brushless cordless rebar tying tool has a tying capacity of up to 5,300 per charge. However, the 5.0 Ah battery is sold separately.

Multi-Mode Selection

The tool features two functional modes, single and continuous tying modes. This allows it to make multiple ties in a second. The BL Brushless motor used on the tool will enable it to run cooler and more efficiently. This is one of the things that make the tools last longer than any other battery-powered tying tool.

As for the design, the XRT01ZK features a transparent covering over the wire reel to safeguard the feeding mechanism from external factors in the harsh job site environment. Moreover, this transparent cover lets the user see the wire reel as well.

Adjustable and Convenient

Its lock button near the trigger switch is conveniently placed for ease. The power trigger works on two settings for adjusting the tying strength and the tension of the wire knot as per your needs.

Makita has also included a strong belt clip on the handle to let you carry it without the need to use your hands.

It features an easy-load wire reel design with an automatic locking mechanism built into the protective cover. The tool can deliver up to 120 ties per wire reel, which guarantees maximum productivity. For improved battery life, the tool features Star protection Computer controls.

9. MAX USA RB398 Rebar Tier – The Most Affordable Rebar Tying Tool

Powered by a 14.4 V Li-Ion battery, this tool is capable of accomplishing tie in less than a second. With regards to performance, it can achieve 3 Wraps Per Tie, delivering about 120 Ties Per Coil and up to 2600 Ties Per Charge.

One-Hand Operation

Its tying capabilities are claimed to be five times faster than a manual tying method. Not to mention, the tying strength is always consistent to ensure maximum stability to your foundations.

The lightweight design of the model allows for easy one-hand operation of the tool in a myriad of tying applications. Due to the compact size, it is much easy to control with just one hand without tiring it frequently.

Brushless Motor

The RB398 includes a brushless motor in the tool, which increases its performance extensively. Brushless motors are known to rotate without any friction. As a result, this tool operates much efficiently without the consumption of too much power.

Moreover, such components, present in this rebar tying tool, make it convenient to operate even with the help of an inverter, if needed.

However, the model is not fitted with a belt hook, which can be frustrating for some. The Lithium-Ion battery used on the model has no memory effect. This means that you can charge the battery whenever you find it convenient. You will also like its auto shut-off feature that allows you to save on battery power.

10. Benner Nawman BNT-40 Automatic Rebar Tier – The Most Portable Electric Rebar Tying Tool

The compact and lightweight design of the tool make it highly portable and easy to control during use. Included with the tool are two lithium-ion batteries and an additional set of gears (wear parts). The extra battery and parts come standard and are worth more than $300.00.

Convenient Accessories

When it comes to accessories, the BNT 40 is worth an investment. For instance, the tool comes with four 21-gauge tie wire spools, which increases its longevity without the need for frequent purchases. The included battery has been proven to be long-lasting capable of making up to 2,000 ties per charge.

Excellent Battery Support

To support its continuous operations and reduce downtime, the model comes with an additional battery. Even if the interchangeable batteries finish up, you can charge the batteries in less than 40 minutes.

The tool comes in a tough molded carrying case and is ready to use right out of the box. It uses galvanized plated as standard to prevent rust and corrosion. The model features torque adjustment settings for improved versatility.

Why Do You Need To Tie A Rebar?

A rebar act as the essential foundation for building a structure. You can think of it like a skeleton filled with concrete around it to ensure strength.

As a result, rebars need to be strong enough to withstand the pressure of the concrete, gravity, and other external factors. You do not want those rods to shift or move from their position.

That’s why tying rebars is vital for the safety of a building.

Why Is Rebar Tied And Not Welded?

Rebar tying is preferred over welding because the rebar structure stays hidden inside the concrete after the latter is poured over it. Welding is usually done where there is no other support available to keep a frame stable.

However, in the case of rebar, tying with wires is sufficient as the concrete itself supports the frame from all sides. Another reason is that welding is possible only on selected rebar materials with high carbon content.

Carbon causes these bars to become brittle, thus not appropriate for welding. On the contrary, tying wire knots using a rebar tool or manually is acceptable on all rebars.

How Often Should A Rebar Be Tied?

You do not need to tie rebars at every intersection. Tying reinforcing bars is an essential move to prevent moving or shifting while the concrete dries over them.

So, you can skip one a couple of intersections before tying the next knot. You can do it manually or by using an automatic rebar tying tool as per your convenience.

Which One Is Better: Corded Or Cordless Rebar Tying Tool?

A corded rebar tying tool will give you a continuous flow of power to tie the knots on the reinforcing bars. That way, you can expect the work to complete without much effort.

However, corded ones do require a convenient power outlet. Furthermore, as these are wired, there is limited mobility.

On the other hand, cordless rebar tying tools are preferable if you have to cover a large reinforced frame of bars. Such a tool’s wireless capabilities will let you move around, tying various knots with ease.

Being battery-operated does lower the work timing as the charging drains after a couple of hours. In such a case, you can get a rebar tool with an additional battery to keep the work continuous.

Does Rebar Tie Wire Rust?

Rebar tie wire is essential to keep the reinforcing bars in place. These wires are tied at the intersections to keep the frame stable for concrete pouring.

Rebar tie wires can also rust if they are made of vulnerable steel materials, which oxidize on exposure to the environment. That’s why you should invest in galvanized or PVC-coated tying wire spools that have a protective coating over them to keep them safe from the rust.

Why Is Manual Rebar Tying Risky?

A construction worker, who needs to tie reinforcing bars manually for a concrete foundation is exposed to several risks. Workers have to stay in the same posture for hours tying wires around rebar intersections, which can be tiring.

Their use of a manual wire twister results in a lot of strain on their hands, leading to painful disorders like Carpal Tunnel and what not.

A preferable alternative is to use electric rebar tying tools, which have an easy and fast-action mechanism to tie wire knots within a second. Not to mention, these tools have adjustable settings to control the wire tension, size, and other parameters.

Factors to Consider Before Buying a Rebar Tying Tool

Having to tie rebars manually is a demanding task that often takes a lot of time. First, you need to tie wire around a rebar length, determining the desired position before twisting the wire via pliers. Not only does this result in fatigue, but it may also lead to injuries.

In order to buy the best electric rebar tying tool and avoid such, here are some of the main considerations you need to make:

Type of Rebar Tying Tool

Depending on the type of construction project you are undertaking, you will be required to make an assortment of rebar tie knots. To begin with, you need to choose between the best manual rebar tying tools and the modern battery-powered rebar tying tools. Again, you also need to check the type of tying ‘knot’ the model is capable of making.

Additionally, there are several other rebar tying ‘knot’ types you should consider:

• Snap Tie

This is one of the commonly used rebar ‘knot’ types to securely wrap rebars together. A snap tie wraps the binding wire once around a rebar joint, twisting it tight. The tie is then snapped off at the long end. This type of tie is best suited for horizontal structures, such as concrete foundations.

• Wrap and Snap Tie

This tie is commonly used to secure horizontal rebar sections to vertical supports. To tie this knot, a wire is wrapped around the different sections, tied, and then the excess wire is snapped off. The wrap and snap tie may be done manually, but a high-powered wire tie tool will make the complex task easier and faster.

• Saddle Tie

Also referred to as the “U” tie, the saddle tie is a bit complicated than the snap tie. Similar to a square knot, a saddle tie creates a diagonal bind across different rebar sections. Owing to its complexity, this tie is best achieved using an electric rebar tying tool.

• Figure Eight Tie

The figure-eight is incredibly secure and is often used to secure vertical reinforcements. In most cases, the figure-eight needs to be carried out at awkward angles hence the need to use the right battery-powered rebar tying tool.

Speed

In most construction sites, you will be required to make many ties per unit time in order to accomplish the project within the schedule. As such, you need a tool that is relatively fast at tying. The speed offered by your preferred rebar tying tool is a key consideration, in this case.

Different tying tool models offer different speed levels and are expressed in terms of the time it takes the tool to accomplish a single tie. Most of the high-end rebar tying tools will take about 0.8 seconds to make a single rebar tie.

However, the speed will also depend on the type of tie you are making. The more complex rebar ties generally take longer than the simpler ones.

Battery Capacity

For enhanced portability, most of the leading rebar tier models are powered by rechargeable batteries. Such models are also easier to use as you will not have to worry about a power cable getting entangled as you work. However, you need to check the battery capacity of the unit to ensure that it meets your needs.

To begin with, you need to check the number of ties the unit can complete on a single charge. For instance, the best Makita rebar tying tools may be used about 6,000 times per charge. Again, you also need to pay attention to the battery voltage.

You may also go for units that come with two interchangeable batteries or that features fast charging capabilities. This will help reduce downtimes.

Versatility

Several rebar ties need to be carried out at different angles. The tool you get should allow for easy customization to suit an array of applications. For instance, the tool should be easy to bend at various angles.

Consider buying a model that allows you to adjust the tension as well as the angle of the bar to fit the requirements of the project at hand.

The tool should also allow you to set the tying strength to your preferred level. Again, you need to ensure that the tool may be used with different wire and rebar sizes.

Ready to Use a Rebar Tying Tool in Your Next Project?

For ensuring the safety of the foundation in any civil construction work, tying rebars together is of the utmost importance.  However, manual tying can be tiring, challenging, and frustrating. In addition to fatigue, manual rebar tying has been proven to cause an assortment of musculoskeletal injuries.

That’s where an electric rebar tying tool works flawlessly to ensure high-end consistency and productivity. Plus, it ensures that you complete the task with little chances of injuries at the job site.

Using an easy-to-use, powerful, customizable, and efficient power rebar tie tool could save your loads of work hours by increasing your efficiency to multiple folds. This rebar tying tool guide shows you five units reviewed after detailed investigation so that you do not feel the confusion while buying one for yourself. Choose your preferred rebar tie wire tool for accomplishing different tying tasks with ease.

Why not go through our other guides to help with construction work and other chores around the job site? Feel free to browse the guides below.

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