Best Pricing Guns in the UK: Where to Buy, Compare, and Choose the Right Price Labeler

Why pricing guns still matter in modern retail

Even in a world full of barcode scanners and cloud-based label printers, pricing guns remain a staple in many UK shops. They are fast, cheap to operate, and ideal for on-the-spot price changes — think pop-up sales, markdowns on the shop floor, and small independent stores where speed matters. If you run a boutique, a stall at a market, or manage seasonal promotions, a trusty price gun is like a pocket-size workhorse that keeps your operation moving.

Types of pricing guns explained

Not all price labelers are created equal. Knowing the main types makes it easier to pick the right tool for your business.

Single-line mechanical pricing guns

Single-line pricing guns print one line of text — usually the price — and are the most affordable option. They are light, simple to load, and perfect for basic pricing tasks. If you need a no-fuss device to print a single price in a standard label size, this is usually the best starting point.

Multi-line and date/price guns

Multi-line guns add extra flexibility, allowing you to print multiple pieces of information such as price and date or a short description. These are great for fresh food counters or clearance sections where you might want to add a “use by” date alongside a price, using labels that are often around 5/8" to 1" tall.

Electronic handheld and portable label printers

Electronic or battery-powered label printers are the higher-tech cousins of mechanical pricing guns. They can print barcodes, multiple font sizes, and more complex layouts, and they often connect to a phone or POS system. If you need more than a simple price and want barcode scanning compatibility, consider a portable label printer from brands like Brother or Zebra.

Key features to look for when buying a pricing gun

Choosing the right price labeler comes down to matching features to your daily needs — durability, label sizes, and ease of use should top your checklist.

Durability and build quality

Look for pricing guns with a sturdy frame and comfortable grip. If staff will use the gun for hours each day, choose one with an ergonomic handle and a low-action trigger to reduce hand strain. A metal mechanism or reinforced housing often lasts longer than entirely plastic models.

Label compatibility and size

Labels come in a range of widths and heights: common widths include 5/8" and 7/8", while heights vary from around 1/4" up to 1 1/8". Make sure the gun you buy supports the label size you plan to use. Also check whether the gun uses standard rolls that are easy to replace — generic labels tend to be cheaper than proprietary ones.

Number of characters and font options

If you need to add short descriptions or department codes along with the price, choose a gun with more character wheels or an electronic model with font options. Mechanical guns typically limit you to numbers and a few currency symbols, while electronic variants let you print letters, barcodes, and logos.

Top UK stores to buy pricing guns (and why they’re worth checking)

When shopping for pricing guns in the UK, you have a mix of general marketplaces, office suppliers, and specialist label retailers. Each has pros and cons depending on price, variety, and delivery speed.

Amazon.co.uk

Amazon offers an enormous selection of pricing guns, from budget single-line models to electronic label printers and brand-name options like Meto and Monarch. The platform is great for price comparison and fast delivery, and customer reviews help you judge reliability. Expect to pay anywhere from £8 for a basic gun up to £200 or more for advanced portable printers.

eBay UK

eBay is useful if you’re hunting for bargains or second-hand specialist guns. You can find discontinued models and bulk lots of labels at competitive prices. Just be sure to check seller ratings and the condition of any used item before bidding.

Ryman

Ryman, a familiar high-street stationery chain, stocks a reliable range of mechanical price guns and labels. They’re a convenient option for small retailers who prefer to see products in person or collect same-day. Ryman’s selection typically focuses on trusted, easy-to-use models aimed at retail and office use.

Viking (Viking Direct)

Viking offers office supplies including pricing guns and compatible labels. Their range is good for business buyers who want to purchase in bulk and take advantage of business accounts or trade pricing. Viking often bundles labels and ink rollers with labelers, which can be a cost-saver.

Label Planet and The Label People

Specialist label suppliers such as Label Planet and The Label People provide a great selection of both labels and price guns, including hard-to-find sizes and compatible consumables. These sites are ideal if you need specialist rolls like weatherproof labels or if you require bulk orders measured in dozens rather than single rolls.

Staples UK

Staples stocks a selection of pricing guns suitable for shops and offices and is useful for businesses that like predictable stock and business account services. Staples often features well-known brands and helpful product descriptions for busy buyers who need to make quick decisions.

Specialist distributors and brand dealers

For branded units such as Meto or Monarch, buying through an authorised UK dealer can mean better support and easy access to replacement parts. These dealers often provide advice on training and maintenance for larger operations like supermarkets or chain stores.

Price ranges and what you should expect to pay

Pricing guns cover a wide price range depending on capability. Basic single-line mechanical guns typically start around £8 to £15. Mid-range multi-line and date/price guns generally cost between £20 and £50. Electronic handheld label printers and portable barcode-ready devices often range from £70 up to £300 or more. Remember: buying a slightly more expensive gun can save money on consumables and reduce downtime in the long run.

How to maintain your pricing gun and extend its life

Regular maintenance keeps your price labeler working smoothly. Clean the rollers and wipe the label path free of dust and residue. Replace ink rollers as soon as print quality fades, and avoid forcing labels through the mechanism if they jam — gentle removal prevents bent parts. Store your gun in a cool, dry place when not in use to avoid plastic warping or ink drying out.

Choosing label stock and ink rollers

The cheapest gun won’t save money if replacement labels are expensive. Think about long-term consumable costs before you buy.

Choosing label stock

Labels vary by material (paper or synthetic), adhesive strength, and size. Paper labels are great for most indoor retail uses, while synthetic waterproof labels are better for produce or chilled products. A typical price label might be 5/8" tall by 1 3/8" wide, but always confirm the exact width and core diameter the gun accepts.

Ink roller replacement

Ink rollers are small but essential. Generic ink rollers are usually cheaper than branded ones, but quality can vary. Buy a few spare rollers when you purchase your gun so you don’t get caught out during a busy sale day. Most rollers are easy to replace without tools, and swapping them can take less than a minute once you’re used to the mechanism.

Best pricing guns by use case

Different businesses have different priorities. Below are suggestions based on common retail needs.

For small boutiques and fashion stores

Opt for a lightweight single-line or small multi-line gun that won’t damage delicate garments. Choose a gun that accepts narrower labels around 5/8" tall so tags look neat on clothing. Comfort and a low-effort trigger are especially important if staff will label racks for hours.

For grocery and fresh produce

Choose a gun that supports date printing and synthetic labels for fridge sections. Multi-line or date/price guns let you add a “use by” date right next to the price, and waterproof labels stand up to moisture. Look for quick-change label rolls so staff can swap sizes during busy shifts.

For warehouses and back-of-house pricing

In warehouses, durability and the ability to handle larger labels matter most. Consider heavy-duty mechanical guns or portable electronic printers that can produce barcode labels. These devices should be rugged and able to survive drops and dusty environments.

Common mistakes to avoid when buying pricing guns

Buyers often focus solely on the initial price and forget about label availability, compatibility, and consumable cost. Avoid models that use proprietary, hard-to-find labels unless you’re prepared for higher running costs. Also, don’t underestimate ergonomics: a cheap gun that causes repetitive strain will cost more in sick days than the few pounds saved at purchase.

How to compare offers and where to hunt for the best deals

Comparison shopping works well for pricing guns. Use marketplaces for wide selection, specialist label shops for niche sizes, and brand dealers for warranties and support. Keep an eye out for bulk discounts if you need multiple units — many suppliers offer lower per-item prices when you buy in dozens rather than singles.

Final checklist before you buy

Before checking out, run through this checklist: does the gun accept the label size you need, are replacement labels readily available in the UK, is the consumable cost reasonable, and does the gun offer the durability and ergonomics your staff require? If the answer to all of these is yes, you’re ready to order.

Conclusion

Pricing guns are a surprisingly resilient tool in UK retail: practical, cost-effective, and simple to operate. Whether you run a market stall or manage a multi-site chain, there’s a model that fits your needs — from affordable single-line guns to sophisticated electronic label printers. Shop at trusted marketplaces like Amazon and eBay for variety, use Ryman or Staples for convenience, and turn to specialist label suppliers for hard-to-find consumables. Spend a little time matching label sizes, durability, and consumable costs to your daily workload, and you’ll end up with a price gun that pays its way season after season.