PARALLEL MOTION STAPLER

Embodiments described herein relate to a stapler (1) that is constructed in a manner such that the handle (5) of the stapler (1) remains at least substantially parallel to the base (3) as the handle (5) is moved downward by a user to actuate a stapling operation. One illustrative embodiment is directed to a stapler(l) movable between a rest position and a staple ejection position that comprises a base(3), a stapler body (7), a handle(5), and a linkage assembly(9) coupled to each of the base(3) and the handle(5). The stapler body(7) comprises a strike plate(23), a magazine (21), and at least one engagement surface(40) coupled to the strike plate(23). The handle(5) is operable to actuate the strike plate(23). The linkage assembly(9) comprises at least one linkage member (9a, b) having at least one actuation surface (39) configured to exert a force on the at least one engagement surface (40) as the at least one actuation surface (39) moves along the at least one engagement surface(40). The linkage assembly (9)couples the base(3) to the handle(5) in such a manner that the handle (5) remains at least substantially parallel to the base (3) as the handle (5) is moved from the rest position to the staple ejection position.