Brad Nailer Preferences?

[Hackomatic]

As I continue getting everything together for the OTop 15 build. I think I'm in pretty good shape shop-wise, save for a brad nailer. Don't think my Bostitch framer is gonna be the best choice here.

So . . what do you guys like as far as brand/ model? I'm leaning toward a Senco, but naturally it costs more. All the other major players would be considered if someone has a nailer that they really love ergonomic, balance and grip wise, and can get into tight places that I imagine I'll encounter whilst building.

What say you?

[Bruce Weldy]

I've had an 18ga. Porter Cable for years. Never jammed or failed. Reasonable price.

I would think any of the major brands would be fine.

[67baja]

I use an 18 ga. Dewalt 18v cordless a lot, and also a Hitachi pneumatic stapler. I recently acquired a Paslode 16 ga. cordless gun, but 16 ga. may be too big for speaker building.

[Bill Fitzmaurice]

I have a cheapie that came with a compressor, retail value maybe $29.95. It's still going strong after a couple of dozen builds.

[SoundInMotionDJ]

I had a no name 1/4" stapler & 18ga nailer...it came with the compressor. It survived for about 13,000 staples before it died. I used the stapler to build ALL my temporary shop jigs and as throw away hold downs. The only depth adjustment was based on the line pressure...but once you get it dialed in then you know.

I replaced that "free" (included) nailer with a Hitachi 1/4" stapler and a PC 18ga brad nailer....they cost about 1.5x as much as the original compressor.

[Frederic Gelinas]

Some part of my nail gun are held by electrical tape: that was a quick fix before buying a new one, 2 years ago. I paid 45$ for it and it came with a long hose. It's a no-name brand made in China. It still does the job.

[Hackomatic]

After considering all options and opinions, I pulled the trigger (literally) on the Porter Cable BN200C. It with a 1000 count sleeve of 1-1/4" Stainless Steel brads was around $80 delivered to the front door.

The final decision was based on Bruce's & SoundIMDJ's experience, AND the fact I was reminded by a friend the PC factory and repair center is 45 minutes from my house.

[LelandCrooks]

23ga pin nailer. You'll never pick up your brad nailer again. I have Senco and Bostich. The bostich will shoot a longer pin.

[Harley]

23ga pin nailer. You'll never pick up your brad nailer again. I have Senco and Bostich. The bostich will shoot a longer pin.

Don't you have to nail at cross angles to prevent the PL expansion opening the joints?

[Bill Fitzmaurice]

Don't you have to nail at cross angles to prevent the PL expansion opening the joints?

I never have, but I use plenty of brads, like every three inches.

[SoundInMotionDJ]

Don't you have to nail at cross angles to prevent the PL expansion opening the joints?

I normally nail in a "XXX" pattern...it's mostly habit.

[Hackomatic]

Is this what you do?

[LelandCrooks]

Yes. Although with the bostich and 1 3/16 pins its not necessary.

[billkatz]

Is the brad/pin nailer a big timesaver?

[SoundInMotionDJ]

Is this what you do?

Yes.