If you're handling lubricants and trying to extend the life of bearings, joints and fittings, a quality grease gun can be a game-changer. But only when used the right way. Using a grease gun incorrectly can lead to messy jobs, wasted grease, damage to fittings, or even equipment downtime. For those in Australia working with workshops, farms or heavy gear, knowing how to use a grease gun like a pro gives you an edge.

In this guide, we’ll walk through how to use a grease gun step by step, with practical tips tailored to users of the LockNLube range of grease guns in Australia. Whether you have a pistol-grip grease gun, lever-gun, or a specialty model, you’ll gain confidence to do the job cleanly and efficiently.

What Is a Grease Gun? Types & Key Features

A grease gun is a device that lubricates bearings and mechanical joints using a nipple or "Zerk" fitting. The proper guarantees that the right amount of grease is applied without waste or mess. 

Common types:

• Pistol-Grip Grease Gun – It is Smaller and more manageable in confined spaces with Pistol-Grip Grease Gun
  

• Lever Grease Gun – provides additional control and increased pressure. The LockNLube Heavy Duty Lever Grease Gun, for instance, has a maximum pressure of 10,000 PSI
  

• Specialty / Battery-Operated Grease Guns – For high-volume or remote work.
  

Key features to look out for:

• A coupler that won't leak while you're pumping thanks to LockNLube's unique "Loop & LockTM" mechanism, which secures onto the grease fitting.

• Sufficient hose length and swivel: A 20-inch heavy-duty hose with an inline swivel, for instance, facilitates positioning and guards against twisting.

• Operating pressure and flow rate: 28 strokes per ounce is a good starting point.

• Capacity and mode of loading: Capacity to take in bulk or cartridge grease.
  

By understanding these types and features, beginners can pick the right tool and use it properly.

3. Understanding the Key Components of the Grease Gun

Before you get started, it’s helpful to know what each part does:

• Handle, Lever, or Trigger: The area where force is applied (lever or pistol style).
  

• Barrel or Body – The primary tube that contains the bulk grease or grease cartridge.

• Hose / Coupler & Fitting – The coupler clamps into the Zerk fitting to provide a seal, and the hose leads to the grease fitting.

• Air-bleeder Valve / Bulk Load Port – it helps make operations cleaner by releasing trapped air. For instance, an air bleeder valve and bulk load port are features of LockNLube models. 

• Storage Loop & Lock – When not in use, the storage loop and lock ensures that the coupler can be clipped away to prevent mess (LockNLube's Loop & LockTM). 

When you know what each component does, you’ll be better able to operate and maintain your grease gun correctly.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Grease Gun for Your Task

Choosing the right grease gun is critical for getting the job done efficiently. Here are factors to consider:

• Pressure requirements: Pressure requirements: Higher pressure is frequently required for heavy machinery. Choose a lever gun with a greater PSI if you're working on heavy-duty industrial or farm equipment in Australia

• Accessibility and space: For simplicity of use, a pistol-grip type may be preferred in tight engine bays or constrained spaces

• Type and volume of Grease: Choose between bulk loading and cartridge loading. Certain tasks take a lot of work, while others need for accuracy
  

• Durability and mess control: Keep an eye out for features like storage hooks or loops and leak-free couplers. For example, LockNLube's leak-free coupler guarantees cleaner handling and less grease waste

By choosing the right tool, you reduce frustration, time lost, and mess created. That means you’re already halfway to using the grease gun like a pro.

Step 2: Loading the Grease Cartridge or Bulk Grease

Once you have the right grease gun, the next step is loading it correctly.

Cartridge loading:

1. Release the clamp or unscrew the grease gun's head

2. Put in a new grease cartridge (some versions use a 14 ounce cartridge, for instance)

3. Remove any leftover residue or old cartridges

4. Put the barrel and head back together

Bulk loading:

1. If your model has a bulk load port, open it. The Heavy Duty Lever Grease Gun LNL151, for instance, has a bulk load port

2. Make sure there are no impurities before filling with bulk grease

3. Get ready to prime by sealing the load port

Tips:

• Apply new grease that is appropriate for your machinery

• Grease incompatibilities should be avoided as they can impair performance

• Always prime the gun (the following step) after loading to eliminate air pockets

With the gun loaded, you’re ready to prime and start greasing.

Step 3: Priming the Grease Gun and Eliminating Air

Priming ensures you get consistent flow and avoid spitting or jerky delivery.

How to prime:

1. Turn the air-bleeder valve (if your model has one) to let trapped air escape. For example, LockNLube models include this valve.

2. Pump the handle or trigger until grease begins to emerge smoothly from the coupler tip.
   

3. If nothing comes out, recheck the seating of the cartridge or bulk grease.
   

4. Close the bleeder valve once flow is steady.
   

Why priming matters:

• Ensures the grease flow is consistent and reaches the fitting correctly.
  

• Prevents over-pumping or under-lubricating.
  

• Reduces mess under the tool and unwanted grease wastage.
  

Proper priming means you’ll get the job done cleanly and efficiently.

Step 4: Attaching the Coupler and Securing the Fitting

This step is about precision and safety.

Procedure:

1. Find the equipment's grease fitting (Zerk). Make sure it's tidy and debris-free

2. Securely fasten the coupler. Once locked, the "Lock On – Stays On – Doesn’t Leak" coupler from LockNLube will provide a safe connection

3. Make sure the gun is in a comfortable position for your pumping motion and that the hose is not twisted

4. If there is a chance of grease spraying, put on protective clothes and gloves

Tips:

• Clean the fitting before connecting to avoid contaminating the system.

• Use the inline swivel to reduce hose twisting. For example, a 20″ heavy duty hose with swivel is a feature of the LockNLube model. 

• Secure the gun so you have a stable stance—especially for higher pressure guns.
  
  

By securing the connection, you ensure efficient grease delivery and protect your equipment from under-lubrication or leaks.

Step 5: Pumping the Grease Properly – Best Technique

Now you’re ready to pump. The technique matters for both effectiveness and comfort.

Best practices:

• Use smooth, consistent strokes rather than jerky, rapid motion. This gives controlled grease flow.
  

• If using a lever-type gun capable of high pressure (e.g., up to 10,000 PSI for some LockNLube models) you’ll likely need fewer strokes per grease application. (Reference: 28 strokes per oz.)
  

• Monitor the equipment: you’ll often see slight expansion or seepage of old grease, indicating proper filling. Stop pumping once fresh grease begins to show or pressure builds.
  

• Release the lever slowly to avoid sudden pressure spikes.
  

• Once complete, release the coupler and wipe clean the area and tool.
  

Why this matters:

• Over-pumping can damage seals and bearings; under-pumping can leave components vulnerable.
  

• A consistent technique extends tool life and ensures reliability.
  

When you adopt the right technique, you’ll feel the difference—and so will your equipment.

Step 6: Finishing and Cleaning Up After Greasing

Finishing touches count. A tidy job leads to better results and tool longevity.

Clean-up checklist:

• Remove the coupler and wipe off excess grease from the fitting.
  

• Use the Loop & Lock™ storage system (if available) to clip the coupler to a storage port so it doesn’t leak when stored. For example, LockNLube’s design prevents residue on clothes and trucks.

• Wipe down the hose and body of the grease gun.
  

• Inspect the hose for any wear, kinks or leaks.
  

• Store the gun in a clean, dry place.
  

Benefits of good clean-up:

• stops future lubrication jobs from becoming contaminated.

• increases the grease gun's and hose's lifespan.

• keeps things looking professional and minimizes mess.

A smooth finish indicates you’re no longer a beginner—you’re using a grease gun like a pro.

Common Mistakes Beginners Make with a Grease Gun (and How to Avoid Them)

Beginners often stumble on similar mistakes. Here are six common pitfalls—and how to avoid them:

Avoiding these mistakes will boost your greasing efficiency and tool reliability.

Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Grease Gun Working Great

Your grease gun is only as good as how well it's maintained. Here are key tips:

• Check the coupler and hose for leaks, wear, and cracks on a regular basis.

• The coupler's life is shortened by dirt and grit, so keep it clean.

• If you observe leaks or decreased performance, replace the seals or rebuild the coupler. Rebuild kits are available for some models.

• To prevent unintentional leaks, store the gun upright and fasten the coupler (such as Loop & LockTM).

• Use grease to clean after heavy use, then replenish with new lubrication.

By treating your tool with care, you’ll maximize value and performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What grease gun pressure do I need for heavy machinery?
Ans. For heavy machinery, you’ll want a lever-type grease gun capable of high pressure (5,000–10,000 PSI is typical for pro models). For example, some LockNLube models operate up to ~10,000 PSI. 

Q2. Can I use any grease with any grease gun?
Ans. Not always. Ensure the grease is compatible with the machine’s lubrication requirements. Also ensure your gun supports the grease type (cartridge vs bulk). Mismatched grease can degrade performance or damage components.

Q3. How often should I replace the hose or coupler on a grease gun?
Ans. If you notice leaks, cracks, or reduced performance (e.g., coupler not locking properly), it’s time to replace or rebuild. Some manufacturers offer rebuild kits rather than full replacements. 

Q4. Why is my grease gun spraying or spitting grease?
Ans. That usually means air is trapped or the coupler isn’t secured properly. Make sure you’ve primed the gun (bleeder valve) and locked the coupler onto the fitting securely.

Q5. What is the “Loop & Lock™” feature and why is it useful?
Ans. It’s a storage and handling design (used by LockNLube) that allows you to clip the coupler when not in use, keeping it clean and preventing mess.

Q6. Can I store a grease gun with grease inside for long periods?
Ans. Yes, provided you wipe the coupler and hose clean and secure it (e.g., clip with Loop & Lock). But if there’s risk of contamination or long downtime, it may be worth cleaning and emptying the barrel to avoid old grease hardening.