What class lever is a stapler?

A stapler is an example of a second class lever. Levers are designated as second class if the load is situated between the fulcrum, or pivoting point, and the point where effort, or force, is applied.

Force applied to the open end of the stapler closes the stapler at its hinge and drives the load, the staples, through the paper. In first-class levers, like the see-saw, the fulcrum is situated between the effort and the load. Third class levers have the effort between the fulcrum and the load, and they rely on greater force to move small loads long distances. Golf clubs and hockey sticks are examples of third class levers.