Precision threads and a rubber washer help prevent leaks at the point where the nozzle connects to the garden hose. How often you use your hose and whether it is exposed to direct sunlight also influences durability.
This nozzle has seven different settings, including cone, mist, stream, full flow and shower. Its solid zinc construction endured a lot of wear and tear during testing, including multiple drops on concrete.
Pistol Grip
A good grip is important for pistol shooting because it allows you to generate the same force on a weapon at any point of the firing cycle. This ensures that the pistol recoils evenly, and that you’re able to control the gun when you pull the trigger.
One of the most common pistol grip mistakes is allowing the non-dominant hand to grip the wrist of the firing hand, which forms an isosceles triangle. This is not only unnatural, but it can also cause the pistol to malfunction when fired.
The correct grip is as close to a straight grip as possible, with the web of your dominant hand high up along the back strap of the pistol. Your off hand should then fill in the gap left by your firing hand and lock the wrists to help mitigate recoil. This is a grip that’s often referred to as the “Opp Grip”. It works well on almost any semi auto pistol.
Metal
If you want a nozzle that’s strong and durable, opt for metal. Whether it’s brass or zinc, these nozzles are strong and versatile. They come in pistol grip styles with a squeeze trigger and a flow adjuster that turns the spray pattern from a mist to a powerful stream. Some have a plastic or rubber insulated handle to keep your hands from getting hot.
Metal nozzles tend to last longer than those made of plastic, too. While plastic can crack if dropped or break down from exposure to direct sunlight, metal holds up to impact and resists rusting.
Some metal nozzles are powder coated or have a baked-on enamel finish to protect them from the elements. Others are dipped in a rubber-like coating or crafted from molded plastic for added durability and a sleeker look. These nozzles are lighter than those made of pure metal but still provide excellent performance.
Plastic
Designed for gardeners, this nozzle features seven settings that range from high-pressure jet to low-flow shower. It also has a mister, soaker and soft-wash setting for delicate plants. It sustained slight scuffs during our drop test but holds up well to daily use.
A hose-nozzle made entirely of plastic won’t last as long as one with a metal core. This is because plastic wears down over time, especially when it’s constantly exposed to direct sunlight. Look for a nozzle that’s dipped in a rubberlike coating or has a baked-on enamel finish to improve durability and protection.
Most plastics consist of organic polymers, which are chains of repeating units formed from monomers such as carbon, oxygen and nitrogen. Different molecular groups called side chains hang off the backbone of the polymer, influencing its properties. Stabilizers help prevent these side chains from aging and changing the plastic’s behavior over time. These additives are incorporated into the product at the manufacturing stage.