When you think of demolition tools, the first images that come to mind are often large paving breakers or heavy rivet busters. But for smaller, precise jobs, a zip gun—also known as a small air hammer—is the tool of choice. Compact and versatile, zip guns are essential pneumatic tools for industries ranging from automotive repair to construction and metal fabrication.
What Is a Zip Gun?
A zip gun is a pneumatic demolition tool powered by compressed air. It delivers fast, repeated blows through a pneumatic chisel or punch attachment, allowing workers to cut, chip, or break materials with precision. Unlike larger air hammers, the zip gun is designed for light to medium demolition where speed and control matter more than sheer force.
Common names:
- Zip Gun
- Small Air Hammer
- Pneumatic Chisel Gun
How Does a Zip Gun Work?
Like other air hammers, a zip gun channels compressed air into a cylinder. This air drives a piston that rapidly strikes the tool bit (such as a flat chisel or pointed punch).
- Trigger Control: Operators regulate the flow of compressed air with a trigger, making it easy to deliver short bursts or continuous blows.
- Interchangeable Chisels: Zip guns can be fitted with a wide range of pneumatic chisels—flat, pointed, cutting, or specialty bits—to adapt to the job.
- Compact Power: Because of their smaller size, zip guns are easy to maneuver in tight spaces, giving operators more control than heavier demolition hammers.
Where Are Zip Guns Used?
1. Automotive Industry
- Removing rusted bolts, rivets, or panels
- Cutting sheet metal or exhaust components
- Body shop repair and surface preparation
2. Construction & Demolition
- Breaking tile, plaster, or brick
- Chiseling small sections of concrete or masonry
- Renovation tasks where a large paving breaker is too big
3. Metalworking & Fabrication
- Cutting and trimming sheet metal
- Punching holes or removing welds
- Surface finishing and cleanup
4. Industrial Maintenance
- Removing corroded parts or assemblies
- Equipment cleaning with chisel attachments
- Quick and controlled demolition in confined spaces
Why Choose a Zip Gun (Air Hammer)?
The zip gun combines speed, precision, and adaptability:
- Lightweight design reduces operator fatigue
- Interchangeable bits expand its uses across multiple industries
- Works with standard compressed air systems
- Provides an affordable solution compared to larger demolition tools
Whether you call it a zip gun, small air hammer, or pneumatic chisel gun, this versatile tool is a must-have for tradespeople who need controlled demolition power in a compact package.
👉 At Airtek, we supply industrial-grade air tools and air compressors built to meet the toughest demands. Learn and shop here about finding the right pneumatic tools for your job.