If you are thinking about getting a piercing, or you are a professional piercer looking for a new tool, you may be wondering how much a piercing gun costs. This article will guide you through the different types of piercing guns, their brands, quality, and price ranges to help you make an informed decision.
What is a Piercing Gun?
A piercing gun is a handheld tool that uses spring-loaded or compressed air technology to puncture the skin and insert jewelry. It is commonly used for ear piercings, especially lobes, but it can also be used for nose and belly button piercings. Piercing guns are designed to be faster and less painful than needles, and they are often used in malls and other less sterile environments where rapid and cheap ear piercing is in demand.
Types of Piercing Guns
There are mainly two types of piercing guns: spring-loaded and compressed air.
Spring-loaded Piercing Guns
Spring-loaded piercing guns work with a trigger mechanism that releases a spring, propelling a stud or earring through the skin. They are disposable and easy to use, making them popular among novice piercers.
Compressed Air Piercing Guns
Compressed air piercing guns use a high-pressure burst of air to deliver the earring through the earlobe or other body parts. They are typically more expensive, reusable, and require more training to use safely.
The Price Range of Piercing Guns
The cost of a piercing gun varies considerably depending on the type, quality, and brand. Here are a few price ranges for different piercing guns:
Low-cost Piercing Guns
Low-cost piercing guns can range from $10 to $20. These disposable piercing guns are made of plastic and usually come with a few starter earrings. These piercing guns might be an option for those who are not planning on using them for more than a few piercings.
Mid-range Piercing Guns
Mid-range piercing guns can range from $30 to $50. These are typically spring-loaded piercing guns that are made of better quality plastic or metal. They come with different sized interchangeable earring studs, so you can pierce different parts of the ear or body.
Professional-Grade Piercing Guns
Professional-grade piercing guns can range from $100 to $500. These are usually compressed air piercing guns made of high-quality stainless steel or titanium, and they come with different sized needles and earring studs. They require far more training and experience to use safely, so they are typically used by professional piercers.
Factors that Affect the Price of a Piercing Gun
Several factors can impact the price of a piercing gun, including:
Brand
Piercing guns made by established or reputable companies will usually be more expensive compared to generic or lesser-known brands. The price range can range from $20 to over $100, depending on the brand and quality.
Material
Piercing guns made of higher-quality materials such as titanium, medical-grade stainless steel or high-strength plastic will typically cost more than those made of lesser-quality materials such as low-grade plastic or cheap metals. The material’s quality will also affect the durability and longevity of the piercing gun.
Accessories
The accessories that come with the piercing gun can also influence the price. Some piercing guns come with extra needles or studs, while others have a sterile piercing environment attachment to minimize the chances of infection. These added accessories increase the cost of the piercing gun.
Pros and Cons of Piercing Guns
Like any tool or practice, piercing guns come with their advantages and disadvantages. Here are some things to consider before deciding to use a piercing gun:
Pros:
- Quick and relatively painless
- Less expensive than professional piercing needles
- Easy to use with minimal training
Cons:
- Increased risk of infection due to non-sterile environments
- Can cause tissue trauma, leading to complications or future problems
- Limited jewelry options due to the size of the gauge used in the gun
Conclusion
Piercing guns, while widely used and cost-effective, come with a variety of risks and limitations. It’s crucial to consider all factors when choosing a piercing gun, including the type, quality, brand, and accessories offered. It’s important to weigh the decision to use a piercing gun against the benefits and drawbacks of using other piercing methods. Ultimately, the type of piercing gun you choose will depend on your needs, budget, and experience level, leading to a safer and better piercing experience.
FAQs:
- Q: Are piercing guns safe?
- Q: Can I pierce myself with a piercing gun?
- Q: How often should I replace my piercing gun?
- Q: Can I use a piercing gun for cartilage piercings?
A: Piercing guns can pose several risks when compared to needle piercing. There is the increased chance of infection due to non-sterile environments and tissue trauma caused by the gun’s pressure.
A: We do not recommend self-piercing under any circumstance. Without proper training and access to sterile equipment, there is a higher chance of infection and complications.
A: Low-cost, disposable piercing guns should be used once and disposed of. Spring-loaded piercing guns will get worn over time and should be replaced when they start to become ineffective. Professional-grade piercing guns usually come with a warranty and should not need to be replaced often if taken care of properly.
A: Piercing guns are not suitable for any piercing other than earlobe piercings. Using a piercing gun on the cartilage of the ear or other parts of the body increases the chances of tissue trauma and infection.
References
1. “Understand the Risks – Choose a Safe Piercing Studio.” The Association of Professional Piercers. https://www.safepiercing.org/publications/brochures/understand-the-risks/ Accesssed 21 Sept. 2021.
2. “Ear Piercing.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 17 Sept. 2019. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ear-piercing/about/pac-20394675. Accessed 21 Sept. 2021.