Abstract: A stapler having a detached base supporting an anvil and a first magnetic element, and a stapling assembly for ejecting staples from a magazine port. The stapling assembly supports a second magnetic element positioned for magnetic coupling to the base to align the anvil with the magazine port. Accordingly, the staple-driving stapling assembly and detached anvil-supporting base are not mechanically coupled. Instead, the stapling assembly and base are magnetically couplable. The magnetic coupling feature eliminates throat depth limitations and allows for staple placement at any desired location on a sheet of any size. An alignment guide may be provided to visually indicate an approximate location where a driven staple will be placed. The base and stapling assembly may be provided with friction pads for limiting movement of any sheets therebetween while stapling.