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The staples I pulled out were of thin gauge, like what you might use to staple paper.  I figured some sort of special gun was used.  I am just getting started and on a variety of old family heirlooms so a little of this and a little of that.  I saved the cardboard tacking strip. I have some small nails- like brads except they have a head and I thought I could cut some tiny rectangular squares (3/8" x 3/4") from a tin can and punch 2 holes in each end and place that "washer" over the tack strip and then the said nails.  I have some carpet tacks but they seemed pretty heavy, are the 4 smaller gauge?  Any idea what was used before staple guns? Thanks.

I tried an Arrow "Heavy Duty" staple gun that didn't work.  The staples would only go in about 1/2 way.  I tried hammering them in the rest of the way- didn't work- the sides bent out of shape.  I need something that drives a staple into hardwood used in chairs, etc.  What do you use?   Thanks.

Thanks everyone for the help.

Hi- I'm a newbie.  I have a rocking chair whose seat has 4 zig zag springs of which the middle two are broken.  I've done some research on the repair but it seems like there are a few options.
1. The springs were 1/8" diameter  which I think is 11 Gauge.  From what I can tell the 11 gauge should be used for backs but not seats- so that might have been a problem.
2. The springs have no twine or links connecting them.
3. I ordered some 9 gauge springs which are supposed to be heavier and correct for a seat.  I plan to remove all four of the old springs and replace them with the heavier springs.  The clips in the frame seem to be stapled. I'll pull them out and put in new clips and nails. 
4. The inside frame is 14"- I think the chart says to cut to 13 1/2" and stretch out.  What do you do if the bends are such that you can't get that exact length?
5. The spring- cut with a hacksaw?  I read you are then supposed to put a slight bend in the cut area so the spring can't slip out of the clip. I read you can put the spring in a vise and hammer the end over a little.
6. Now some questions....I think the repair would be better if the springs were tied together.  In some "you-tubes" it looks like heavy jute twine is used.  When you tie in twine is there a set way to tie it in? You can tie bend to bend like a metal link or bend to loop, or some other pattern?  I've also seen some sort of spring wire or reed laid over the zig zag springs and a clip used to attached this spring or reed to the zig zags.
7. I have tried to research this but I'm still confused on some details.  Probably the best for me would be the twine tied into place but I am open to all help and advice.  Thanks.
8. FINALLY- changing the subject a bit- the rocking chair is old and the varnish and stain have worn off in a few areas. I realize I can strip the whole thing to bare wood but is there a spot fix?  Apply a little stain to the worn areas and then a hand rubbed varnish?