This European Standard specifies test methods for determining the strength and deformation characteristics of stapled joints in load-bearing timber structures.The methods assess joints with members of timber (solid timber and glued laminated timber) or wood-based products in the combination proposed for use in service and using all types of staples up to 3 mm diameter for circular cross-section staples or 4 mm x 2 mm for rectangular or oval cross-section staples.The methods determine load-slip characteristics and maximum load of joints with laterally loaded staples where various angles between the applied force and the timber grain direction or the main direction of the wood-based products, respectively, are possible.