A hand-operated staple-driving tool having a multi-stage operating movement of the operating handle resulting in a first cocked position of the staple-driving mechanism achieved through the employment of a latch pin operable after a predetermined length of travel of the staple-driving mechanism by compression movement on the handle, and a positive releasing of the latch pin upon successive movement of the handle after operating the staple-driving mechanism; such construction and function requiring less compression force for each handle movement and thus resulting in easier yet effective operation of the tool.