Can I use Surebind Strips with my Comb Binding Machine?

This is one of the most common questions we get from offices that already own a comb binding machine and want to know if they can use SureBind strips without buying a separate machine. The short answer is: it depends on your specific machine. Some comb binding machines include a SureBind punching station or are compatible with SureBind punch attachments; most standard comb binding machines are not. This guide covers exactly what you need to know to determine whether your machine works with SureBind strips — and what to do if it doesn't.

For a complete overview of the SureBind system before reading about compatibility, see our guide on how to bind documents using SureBind.

What Is the Compatibility Issue Between SureBind and Comb Binding?

SureBind is a permanent strip binding system that uses two large prongs to lock a front and back strip together through a document. The key issue is the hole pattern: SureBind requires a specific 2-hole punch pattern at a precise spacing that's completely different from the 19-hole rectangular punch pattern used by plastic comb binding. A standard comb binding machine punches the 19 rectangular holes for plastic combs — it does not punch the SureBind 2-hole pattern.

This means you cannot use standard comb punched documents with SureBind strips — the holes won't align with the SureBind prongs. You need either a dedicated SureBind punch machine, or a comb binding machine that has been specifically designed to include SureBind punching capability alongside the standard comb punch. A small number of GBC combination machines include both punching systems. For guidance on the SureBind binding process itself, see our step-by-step article on how to bind using SureBind.

Which Comb Binding Machines Are SureBind-Compatible?

GBC combination machines with SureBind stations

GBC manufactures several combination binding machines that include a dedicated SureBind punching station alongside the standard comb binding punch. These machines allow you to punch for both plastic comb binding and SureBind from the same machine by using a different section of the punch head. If you own one of these specific GBC combination models, you can use SureBind strips without any additional equipment. Check your machine's model number against GBC's current product documentation to verify whether your specific model includes SureBind capability.

Standard comb binding machines — not compatible

Standard standalone comb binding machines — including the vast majority of desktop comb binding machines from all manufacturers — punch only the 19-hole rectangular comb pattern. These machines cannot produce SureBind holes and are not compatible with SureBind strips without an additional punch machine. If you own a standard comb machine and want to use SureBind, you need a dedicated SureBind punch or one of the GBC combination models described above. For a comparison of permanent binding options, see our article on what you should know about VeloBind binding.

Modular punch machines with SureBind die sets

Commercial modular punch machines (such as the Rhin-O-Tuff Onyx series) that accept interchangeable punch die sets can be configured for SureBind punching by installing the appropriate SureBind die module. If your organization already owns a commercial modular punch machine, check whether a SureBind die set is available for your specific platform. This may allow you to add SureBind capability without purchasing a separate dedicated punch machine. For guidance on modular punching systems, see our article on how to know if you need a modular punch machine.

How to Determine Your Machine's SureBind Compatibility — Step-by-Step

Step 1 — Find your machine's model number

The model number is typically on a label on the back or bottom of the machine. Write it down before checking compatibility.

Step 2 — Check the machine's punch stations

Look at the punch head area of your machine. Does it have a separate section with only 2 holes marked as "SureBind" or "Strip Binding"? If yes, your machine has SureBind capability. If the punch area only shows the standard comb punch pattern (19 rectangular holes), the machine does not support SureBind without additional equipment.

Step 3 — Check the manufacturer's documentation

Search for your machine's user manual or product page and look for SureBind or strip binding capability in the specifications. GBC combination machines with SureBind capability will list this prominently.

Step 4 — If not compatible, evaluate your options

Option A: Purchase a dedicated SureBind machine that includes the SureBind punch. Option B: If you own a commercial modular punch machine, check whether a SureBind die set is available for your platform. Option C: If SureBind is only an occasional requirement, consider whether outsourcing or using VeloBind as an alternative permanent binding system makes more sense for your workflow. For comparing permanent binding options, see our article on the most common binding methods. For the plastic comb binding machine features to look for in a machine that may include SureBind capability, see our guide on what features to look for in a comb binding machine.

Step 5 — If compatible, confirm strip sizing

Once you've confirmed your machine has SureBind capability, confirm you're ordering the correct SureBind strips for your document thickness. SureBind strips are available in different prong lengths for different page counts. Using strips with prongs too short for your document thickness means the prongs won't protrude through the back strip for locking. For the complete SureBind binding process, see our guide on how to bind using SureBind.

Quick Reference — SureBind Compatibility by Machine Type

Troubleshooting

SureBind strips don't align with the punched holes

The holes were punched with a comb punch rather than a SureBind punch. The hole patterns are completely different — comb holes are rectangular and arranged in 19 positions; SureBind holes are round and positioned at 2 specific locations. Documents punched for comb binding cannot be used with SureBind strips. Re-punch using a SureBind-compatible punch.

SureBind prongs don't reach through the back strip

The strip prong length is too short for your document's total thickness. Order longer-prong SureBind strips rated for your page count. The prongs must visibly clear the back strip surface for the machine to lock them.

Machine has a SureBind section but holes don't look right

Check that you're using the SureBind section of the punch head, not the comb section. Some combination machines have both sections in close proximity — refer to the user manual diagram to confirm which holes are which.

Can't find a SureBind die for the modular punch machine

Not all modular punch platforms support SureBind die sets. Check the die set catalog for your specific modular platform. If no SureBind die is available, a dedicated SureBind machine is the only alternative.

Comb binding machine jams when trying to punch poly covers for SureBind

This is likely the machine attempting to punch poly covers with the comb punch dies — poly covers should only be punched one at a time and cannot be used in SureBind applications without the SureBind hole pattern. Purchase pre-punched poly covers in the SureBind pattern if available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I convert my comb binding machine to punch SureBind holes?
Standard comb binding machines cannot be converted to punch SureBind holes — the punch mechanism is fixed for the 19-hole comb pattern. Your options are: a GBC combination machine with a built-in SureBind station, a modular punch with a SureBind die, or a dedicated SureBind machine. For more on the SureBind system, see our guide at how to bind using SureBind.

What's the difference between SureBind and VeloBind?
SureBind uses 2 prongs for faster loading; VeloBind uses 11 prongs for more distributed binding force. Both produce permanent, tamper-evident bindings. SureBind is faster per document; VeloBind is preferred in legal environments with very strict tamper-evidence requirements. See our full comparison at the difference between VeloBind and SureBind.

Is SureBind permanent or can I edit documents after binding?
SureBind creates a permanent, tamper-evident binding. Documents cannot be edited after binding without visibly cutting through the strips. For documents that need to be updated after binding, use comb, coil, or ProClick binding instead.

Does my GBC comb binding machine definitely have SureBind capability?
Not necessarily — only specific GBC combination models include SureBind stations. Check your machine's model number against GBC's specification documentation. For help identifying your machine's capabilities, see our overview of the most common binding methods.

What size SureBind strips do I need for my documents?
SureBind strip prong length must accommodate your document's total thickness. Strips are rated by maximum document thickness — match the strip's prong length to your typical page count plus cover thickness. If the document is borderline between two strip sizes, choose the longer prong length to ensure reliable locking.