Spreader nozzles are commonly used with heat guns to evenly distribute the hot hair over a wider area.  They function to reduce the air flow through a narrower slit than the regular opening on the heat gun.  This directs the hot air in a more precise and focused way to heat a swath of the surface and keeps the air from being diffused.  Spreader nozzles are used for jobs where the air needs to hit a larger area, for example to dry paint.  Using the spreader will keep the air from the heat gun focused on the surface and thereby speed up the drying process.

Reducer nozzles work the same way in that they focus the hot air, but unlike the spreader these nozzles direct the hot air over a smaller area.  The come in different sizes and each is suited to different jobs.  They are used for vinyl repair, PVC welding, welding plastics, soldering and much more.  Reducer nozzles are designed to finely focus the hot air for special tasks that require the air to be directed over a small area.

Accessories can greatly increase the usefulness of your heat gun.  There are nozzles available to do many jobs you might not consider using a heat gun for.  Be sure to read your owners manual to see what nozzles are available for your heat gun and their suggested uses.

Heat Gun Safety: Heat guns have many uses and are very popular in crafts, construction, automotive industry, and many more.  Just like any tool you need to know how to operate the heat gun effectively and safely.  Heat guns can expel air up to 1300º F so it's important to understand how to handle one to avoid serious burns.

Heat guns are most often held in one hand while the other hand completes the task being done.  It is imperative for safety to wear protective gloves to avoid accidental burns.  The air flows out of the nozzle and can easily be misdirected, so gloves that can withstand this and protect the hands is the first thing you need before using a heat gun.

Many heat guns are used to soften materials so that they can be bent or adhered to another object.  Because dangerous fumes can be released during the heating process a well ventilated work area is needed for this type of work.  Very few people would consider painting or using adhesives without proper ventilation but may not think about the risk of toxic fumes when these materials get hot. 

Despite the resemblance a heat gun is not a hair dryer and should never be directed at hair, skin or clothing for any reason.  Serious burns can occur when heat guns are used improperly or irresponsibly.  It is important to be extremely careful any time you are using a heat gun and always be aware of where the hot air is being directed.

Heat guns are a very effective tool with many uses.  Using one responsibly can greatly benefit many projects.  You don't want to burn yourself or the object you are working on, so be sure to use caution and common sense along with your heat gun.