Manually-operated combination tools for steel and zinc-coated steel strapping can be brought to the work location and do not require an external power source or attachments, so are often used in applications where access to a power source is limited. They tension, seal, and cut strapping in a single operation, eliminating the need to use different tools for each operation, and can be used on flat or round surfaces, including bundles and pipe.

Pneumatic combination tools for steel and zinc-coated steel strapping, also called air-powered combination tools, are powered by a compressed air system. They speed the operation and reduce operator fatigue compared to manually-operated combination tools. Combination tools tension, seal, and cut strapping in a single operation, eliminating the need to use different tools for each operation. They can be used on bundles, pipe, and other flat or round surfaces.