Need advice on framing nailers

[SHADOWFOX]

Hi guys, I am in the market for a framing nailer and in need of advice. I have my eyes set on the Makita AN922 round head framing nailer but before I pull the trigger, I would like to seek input from you guys wether I should go with a clipped head which is a different model AN942 or a round head AN922. This will be mainly use for building a deck and stuff around the house. I've googled and saw the info on the Senco website but it got me all concerned that if I go with round head framing nailer I might have a hard time finding nails to buy for the nailer here in the Midwest although I am not sure which type is mostly used here in the midwest. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

[newbie2wood]

Building codes in your municipality dictates whether round-head or clipped-head nails are acceptable for the project(s) that you will undertake. If the project does not involve a permit, you can use either type of nails. Check your local hardware store to see which type is more readily available.

In general, a framing nailer utilizing round head nails will hold less than a nailer using clipped head nails. If you are using the nailer for minor or occassional projects around the house and not for power nailing (i.e., construction work), either type of nailer will be okay. A box or two of nails will last a lifetime.

BTW, I would use galvanized screws for building a deck.
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BBW Cams

[Hellrazor]

Rule 1: Roundheads are always acceptable.


"A box or two of nails will last a lifetime."

I thought that at first too. I've put about 6 boxes through my PC in 3 years.

[kwgeorge]

Well I got to disagree on the box of nails lasting a lifetime! I guess it depends on what you do with them. I built my lake house and my shop with mine and have managed to go through several boxes. My favorite gun is my Duo-fast framing nailer. I picked it up at a pawn show and had the local dealer go through it and replace all the gaskets and such. I have had that one in service for about 15 years and it is always ready when I need it. The nice thing about it is the fact that any part I may need is available at the local dealer. I mainly shoot screw shank nails with it as I find the hold on them to be much better than ring shank. I also have a Porter Cable that I use and mostly I run Zink coated nails in it. I have used it to install Hardy Siding and such and normally keep smaller length nails in it. The Zink coated nails have done well in treated wood as well as treated fencing. Both my guns shoot full head nails as they do stay better. The idea with the clipped head nails is simply that you can put more nails in the gun. I never really had an issue with this I just stick 10 or so clips in my tool belt and go.

One thing I have found on nail guns over the years is that they do have maintenance. They gaskets will wear and need to be replaced. They will end up having to be replaced even if you don’t use the gun all that much as they age and harden. Whatever you buy make sure that parts are available for it otherwise you will find yourself throwing the gun away as I have done with one cheapy in the past.

Ken

[messmaker]

Jump up to Bargin Alerts. They found a pretty good deal at sam's club on a framing nailer.

[SHADOWFOX]

Love to but don't have a sams membership.. I wish it was costco.

[crokett]

Does it have to be a Makita? I got a factory refurbed Porter Cable for my dad that he is happy with. About a hundred bucks less than new and came with a warranty. I borrow it when I need to. It has built 2 decks, framed in my basement and put an addition on his barn, among other things. I would also go with a roundhead.

[drumpriest]

I can't speak about the Makita, but I have the full head Bostich, and it's a great tool. We went full head even though code here allows for clipped head. In fact, it was hard to find a full head nailler locally, because of the code allowing clipped head.

Hellrazor is correct, full head is ok everywhere, and that was my main reasoning behind getting it. My entire family uses this tool, in more than one state, from time to time. I'm very happy with it. I also agree with Ken, you'll be surprised how quickly you'll go through a box of nails.

[jabe]

I have the Hitachi round head framer since 1989, built 3 homes and numerous repairs/remodels, still works great. I only use Marvel mystery oil in all my air nailers, never have problems with it.

[messmaker]

Love to but don't have a sams membership.. I wish it was costco.

I think you can get a 1-day trial membership. I think you pay a 5% surcharge on anything bought on that day.