Two-stage actuation system for tag attaching tool

Apparatus is provided for actuating a tag attaching tool of the type which dispenses plastic fasteners from a clip of fasteners in response to the depression of a trigger. Each of the fasteners has a T-bar. The fasteners are dispensed by severing the fastener from the clip and ejecting the T-bar of the fastener through the hollow slotted needle of the tool. The tag attaching tool is actuated in two stages. During the first actuation stage, the trigger of the tool is partially depressed as the tool and an abutment are moved relative to each other such that the lead fastener is severed from the clip of fasteners. During the second actuation stage, the trigger of the tool is depressed completely, as the tool and abutment are moved further toward each other, causing the severed fastener to be ejected from the hollow needle of the attaching tool.