A framing nailer drives a single or multiple nails into a framing assembly much easier and quicker than a hammer will. It will improve your work rate greatly and they can be used for a range of woodworking projects.
The best framing nailer is the BOSTITCH F21PL, which is a round head type that has 1,050 inch-pounds of driving power and comes with an impressive 7 year warranty.
There are two main types of framing nailers, which include pneumatic, which uses an air compressor to drive the nail. The other type is an electric cordless framing nailer that uses a compressed air canister and a battery in order to drive the nails.
Table of Contents
Best Framing Nailer For The Money
| Framing Nailer | Type | Nail Size |
|---|---|---|
| BOSTITCH F21PL | Pneumatic | 1 1/2" to 3 1/2" - 21 Degrees |
| DEWALT DCN692B | Cordless Battery | 2" to 3 1/2" - 30 Degrees |
| Paslode 905600 | Cordless Battery | 2" to 3 1/4" - 30 Degrees |
| Hitachi NR90AES1 | Pneumatic | 2" to 3 1/2" - 21 Degrees |
| NuMax SFR2190 | Pneumatic | 2" to 3 1/2" - 21 Degrees |
Nails that are driven by the framing nailer can come in a range of sizes and for this reason, many have specific stick magazine or coil magazine size. Choosing between a magazine and a coil setup to hold the nails is a matter of preference.
Nails not only differ in size but may be round head or ones that are clipped with a crescent moon shape at the head of the nail. If you are working on certain buildings, there may be a building code that prohibits the use of clipped head nails.
When in the right hands, it is a safe power nailer that efficiently drives nails without the need of a hammer. Below is a list of the best framing nailers that include both pneumatic and cordless types to choose from.
BOSTITCH F21PL Round Head Nailer
The Bostitch F21PL is a pneumatic framing nailer that drives round head nails at 1,050 inch pounds of power. It includes two quick change nosepieces that gives you the ability to convert the nailer to work for framing or metal connector applications.
In terms of the specifications of this framing nailer, it is as followed:
- 80 – 120 PSI operating pressure
- 21 Degree drive
- Framing 2″ to 3 1/2″
- Magazine capacity of 60 nails
- 1,050 LBS driving power
The F21PL is the ideal power nailer for framing, sheathing, subflooring and bracing jobs. It is easy to use too with quick change nose pieces, push button adjustable nail depths and more. Weighing at just 8.1 LBS, it is also fairly lightweight and easy to control when framing.
It is a magnesium construction and built to last for many years to come with an impressive 7 year warranty for peace of mind. It will also connect to most standard air compressors if you already own one.
Overall, the Bostitch F21PL is the best pneumatic framing nailer you can buy with an excellent power to weight ratio and useful patented features.
Check it OutDEWALT DCN692B Cordless Framing Nailer
Portability is very desirable for professionals that work in tight spaces and a cordless framing nailer is ideal for this purpose. On top of this, not everyone will have access to an air compressor or will be able to transport it from job to job.
The Dewalt DCN692B is a dual speed nailer that uses a brushless motor that will drive nails from 2 inches to 3 1/2 inches. It also has two different operating modes that include sequential mode for precision and bump mode for finishing quickly.
The DCN692B is the upgrade from the 690 model and includes the dual speed and other features. It is a 100% battery powered nailer that is heavy duty and comes with a 3 year limited warranty for piece of mind.
With a battery, many nailers will become heavy but this remains lightweight at just 7.7 LBS. Overall, it is the best cordless framing nailer you can buy and is backed by the reputable Dewalt brand.
Check it OutPaslode 905600 Cordless XP Nailer
The Paslode 902600 is a cordless framing nailer that uses a lithium ion battery to drive nails. The battery will last approximately 5 hours and it charges fairly quickly with the option for a quick charge that takes just 2 minutes.
In terms of the driving of the nails, it is drives at a 30 degree angle and it will accept nail sizes from 2 to 3 1/4 inch. For those that require a framing nailer for toe nailing, the aggressive teeth that features on this Paslode 902600 model make it much easier.
Many people will find using an electric cordless framing nailer is not as powerful or fast as a pneumatic alternative and this is true for many nailers. However, this 902600 model will be as close to the performance of a pneumatic alternative but without the need or the dreaded air compressor.
Overall, it is a high performing power nailer that is ideal for professionals. It is much more expensive than the alternatives but you are paying for the higher build quality with features such as a stainless steel magazine raceway and nail lockouts.
Check it OutHitachi NR90AES1 Pneumatic Nailer
The Hitachi NR90AES1 is another popular framing nailer that drives plastic collated nails that range in size from 2 to 3/12 inch in length. The nail angle is 21 degrees and the operating air pressure ranges from 70 to 120 PSI.
It is a fairly lightweight pneumatic framing nailer at 7.5 LBS and it has both a sequential and bump mode for driving nails. This is the latest model and features a new head guard design, which makes disassembly much quicker too.
Overall, it is a well built pneumatic framing nailer and provide powerful performance and value for money into one package. It also comes with a long 5 year warranty for peace of mind.
Check it OutNuMax SFR2190 Framing Nailer
For those looking for a cheap framing nailer but still require excellent performance and a nailer that doesn’t always jam, then the NuMax SFR2190 is ideal. In terms of the nails, it uses 21 degree plastic collated nails that range between 2 and 3 1/2 inch.
It is a pneumatic framing nailer that operates between 70 and 115 PSI and will work with most standard air compressors. It is slightly heavier than the alternative pneumatic nailers but it does feature an ergonomically designed comfort grip.
For the average DIY’er that simply doesn’t require top of the range performance and wants an affordable framing nailer, the NuMax is ideal. It can be used for framing, roof and wall sheathing, siding, fencing and so much more. It offers great value for money and even comes with a years warranty for those that worry about the quality.
Check it OutFraming Nailer Buying Guide
The framing nailers are considered as one of the most crucial and versatile tools that helps in reducing both time and effort used in construction and carpentry projects. When looking to purchase a framing nailer, it is important to note that there are various types of framing nailers, which requires individuals to look for unique features when performing a range of project options.
A Framing nailer can be described as a tool that can be used to substitute the hammer, which is used to force nails and screws into a variety of surfaces. It is more efficient and time-saving when doing constructions as efficiency and time-keeping are currently highly valued. It looks like a short gun and comes in different types.
Framing nailers are considered to be essential tools which can handle large projects such as building decks, constructing room additions or framing houses. Its main purpose is to nail various commodities together.
You will notice that most manufacturers offer the framing nailer as a combination package that includes a matching 18 gauge brad nailer. You may find yourself saving money if you are without both.
How Does It Work?
A framing nailer is forced by compressed gas hence does not need much effort. It is time-saving in that a person does not need to repeat hitting the surface for nails to be driven in, the use of compressed gas makes work easier.
Round Head
The round head framing nailers are essentially the nails that are designed to have a full head. Besides, these type of framing nailer is safer compared to clipped nailers during various construction projects. This is because they have an overall higher holding capacity. The round head nailers can be primarily used in areas prone to earthquakes, tornadoes, and hurricanes.
Methods of Firing Framing Nailers
The main difference between the varieties of framing nailers is the way they are fired. There are two main methods, and these include coils and sticks. These kinds of methods speed up the work, but it can be hard to control. In this case, it can be hard to control when fired unintentionally putting people at risk and also the destruction of property.
Single-sequential firing helps an individual avoid bump-firing nails. Safety measures should be taken into consideration and be triggered to fire a nail at a go.
Single-actuation firing works just like single-sequential firing, but the difference comes when firing the first nail – that is to bump-fire the heading nail.
Full-sequential firing creates secure operation simpler by entailing sequential initiation of safety measures and sets to fire every nail. An individual starts by initiating the safety measure followed by setting to fire the nail. For the following nail, the user releases the tip before triggering and then reinitiate them in a correct sequence. This procedure takes time but avoids unnecessary mistakes.
The smaller nails which are trigger-operated lacks safety measures. They make use of either single trigger or sometimes dual trigger to shoot a nail. Single trigger machines are done by pulling the trigger to fire the nail while a dual trigger needs the user to pull the initiator properly. A good number of nailers gives a variety of setting giving an individual an opportunity to choose the most effective method of firing best for the work.
Difference Between Hammer and Framing Nailer
Nails are essential tools used in homes. Both the hammer and the framing nailers are known for nailing various commodities together.
Getting to carry out the nailing of the different items requires the use of other tools like hammers. The use of a hammer is time-consuming and requires a lot of energy use. Furthermore, the outcome of it is not as effective as the framing nailer.
Styles Of Framing Nailers
The framing nailers are considered to be of two styles, which include the coil nailers and the stick nailers. The coil nailers are designed in such a way that they have an adjustable canister that usually accepts a coil of nails that can go up-to 200 to 300 framing nails.
During construction processes, the coil nailers are usually angled at about 15 degrees and then strung together. Besides, the sheathing nails are primarily strung together using two thin wires that are welded to the shanks of nails.
On the other hand, the stick nailers are perceived to be different from the coil nailers. In most construction projects, individuals have to fit the tools they are using to some form of collation style to ensure that they fit the tool being used.
The stick nailers have to be angled at between 30 and 35 degrees, such that the head of each nail is placed on top of the other nail in front of it. This is aimed to ensure increased precision when fixing the nails.
Below are some of the features that you should look out for:
Exhaust System
This is an important feature especially when the tool is to be used in a dusty environment. Most of the exhaust system needs a specific machine for fixing as some require no tool.
Depth Adjustment
To be effective in home projects or construction, it is essential to adjust the depth on the framing nailer properly. In this case, you can control how deep nails are fired into the wood surface. Examine the depth the nail is to be driven as well as get to know the width. Finally, you can make the necessary adjustments on the framing nailer.
The size of triggers
Big triggers are much easier to handle with gloved fingers.
Transportation
Cases used to carry nailers safeguards them and keep them from being damaged during transportation.
Air Connectors
The rotating air connectors found in pneumatic nailers inhibits air hose tangles. They also let easy movements of the air hose when reloaded.
Work lights
This improves the visibility of the field of work.
Nail size
This allows adjustments of the nail sizes to the required size to meet the required work.
Protective guards
This guarantees maximum protection of the tool from damages and also protects an individual from flying debris. In spite of this protection, guards can wear out after a period of active use. It is important to look for replaceable ones.
Storage safety
All tools need protection and in all cases, manufacturer’s guidelines in use, maintenance and safety are very necessary.
Classification
To understand the value of this tool, it is important to know about it first. You must have the primary and secondary knowledge. Framing nailers are classified into three main type that are as followed:
Pneumatic
This type of framing nailers makes good use of air compressor to function. This device functions with high capacity and at the highest level. Apart from that, this type of framing nailers enables the user to accomplish the work simultaneously. Although pneumatic nailer is good and can do heavy duty works, the compressor and the air hose maybe a limiting mobility factor.
Cordless
This type of framing nailers is characterized by battery usage and a removable air compressor that gives it more advantage than pneumatic nailer, but it does not have power over pneumatic nailer. For this reasons, it is highly portable.
This device can be carried from a certain place to another and so highly recommended for the accomplishment of personal goals in fixing loose ends if the need arises. The function of the battery is to give an electric charge to burn the fuel resulting in explosive force which helps in driving a nail. Nailers driven by fuel is so powerful for heavy-duty tasks and can drive big fasteners into firm surfaces.
Pros and Cons of Framing Nailers
The framing nailers are considered to have both various advantages and disadvantages that individuals need to consider during their construction processes. Some of the pros and cons of using the framing nailers include:
Pros
The first advantage of the farming nailers includes the fact that they have multiple styles and varieties hence can fit your needs. The most popular framing nailers are the lightweight ones which can hold so many nails.
With this type, they have a drum loader that stores many nails. The second advantage is that they are considered to be comfortable and so conforms to the palm. Thirdly, the farming nailers have enhanced safety measures whereby the triggers provide users with the ability to stop cartridge from firing.
Additionally, use of framing nailers boosts your speed of work. It is fast and accurate and less time can be used in any job. Furthermore, the tool is long lasting. It can last a long time even if it is left in the rain. Lastly, the framing nailers are evidenced to have resulted in little or no jamming during their usage.
Cons
Although there are various advantages of using the framing nailers, there are also some disadvantages. In some instances, individuals have reported that some of the framing nailers are not as accurate as expected. Besides, some parts of these firing machines are sometimes forged and therefore presenting inefficiencies when using them.
Evidently, the pros outdo the cons, proving that a framing nailer is a tool you have to consider purchasing to be part of the woodworking tools in your home.
Conclusion
If you are still using a hammer for framing on a daily basis, then a framing nailer really can change your life. They are relatively cheap for what they are capable of doing and it will certainly increase your work rate and finish.
As a professionals that deals with woodworking on a daily basis, having the correct power tools is essential. There are so many nailers that include a brad nailer, finish nailer and much more. If you need power and working with framing then a framing nailer is a must.