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Best roofing nailer 2018 – [Buyer’s Guide]
Last Updated March 1, 2023I’m Willow Brayden Diaz. My friends call me “stone” and it just kind of stuck. One of the most important sections in the article – the comparison charts for best roofing nailer in 2018!
My main objective is to write article on these subject so that buyers like you can have the best assistance and education in making that next purchase. Now I’m going to recommend a few roofing nailer you can pick from to get started quickly and easily.
Let’s get to it!
Best roofing nailer of 2018
I am going to specify each good-to-buy feature as much as possible for your references. The rating is based on multiple factors: The 3 metrics ‐ Design, Materials, Performance, and other indicators such as: Popularity, Opinions, Brand, Reputation and more. Following is the list of top three roofing nailer of 2018. The best roofing nailer will make your fairytale dreams come true!
Test Results and Ratings
Rank | №1 | №2 | №3 |
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Total | 4.8 | 4.5 | 4.3 |
Style |
5 points
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5 points
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4 points
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Versatility |
5 points
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4 points
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5 points
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Performance |
5 points
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5 points
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4 points
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Price |
4 points
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4 points
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4 points
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Awards | ![]() |
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How to save up to 86%? Here is little trick.
You must visit the page of sales. Here is the link. If you don’t care about which brand is better, then you can choose the roofing nailer by the price and buy from the one who will offer the greatest discount.
№1 – 3PLUS HCN45SP 11 Gauge 15 Degree 3/4″ to 1-3/4″ Coil Roofing Nailer
Total: |
4.8
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Why did this roofing nailer win the first place?
The product is very strong. Its material is stable and doesn’t crack. I don’t know anything about other models from this brand, but I am fully satisfied with this product. I was completely satisfied with the price. Its counterparts in this price range are way worse. I really enjoy the design. It is compact, comfortable and reliable. And it looks amazing!

5
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5
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5
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4
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№2 – AeroPro AP 846-203 Aftermarket Trigger for Hitachi NV45AB/AB2 Roofing Nailer
Total: |
4.5
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Why did this roofing nailer come in second place?
I recommend you to consider buying this model, it definitely worth its money. I really liked it. It is amazing in every aspect. It did even exceed my expectations for a bit, considering the affordable price. This is a pretty decent product that perfectly fitted the interior of our office. Seems that the material is good. It has a very beautiful color but I don’t really like the texture.

5
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4
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5
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4
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№3 – AeroPro AP 877-820 Aftermarket Lock Shaft for Hitachi NV45AB/B2 Roofing Nailer
Total: |
4.3
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Why did this roofing nailer take third place?
It is inconvenient to use due to the size. I am going to get something different next time. This price is appropriate since the product is very well built. I liked the design. We’ve been using it for 2 months and it still looks like brand new. The material is incredibly nice to the touch. It has a great color, which will suit any wallpapers.

4
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5
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4
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4
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roofing nailer Buyer’s Guide
For the Pro
Looking for a high end roofing nailer that can handle just about anything you can throw at it? Then the Hitachi is a clear winner. A full time roofer needs a much hardier and more durable nailer than a home build who needs it for a one off job.
It is easily the best quality roofing nailer here and is packed with all of the features you would expect for a high end model. It has built it’s reputation on being extremely durable and can take a lot of abuse week after week in all weather conditions.
For the Amateur
There is no need to buy an expensive model that once you are finished with on your current project is just going to gather dust for months on end.
Hitachi NV45ABNailer
The Hitachi NV45ABis loved by professional roofers and amateurs alike thanks to it’s extremely durable construction, generous capacity and best in class reliability.
With a body built from steel it can withstand a lot of abuse on site. The body has numerous rubber coated area’s on it increasing the grip when left down on a steep roof and reducing the chances of slipping.
Specifications
The NV45ABpacks a serious punch too. Capable of driving nails up to 1-3/inch at a max pressure of 120 psi it can handle just about any modern roofing material.
Dewalt DWFP1265Roofing Nailer
The DWFP1265is no exception and delivers an easy to use, reliable and powerful nailer.
The Dewault is a very compact easy to you nailer that can withstand quite a lot of abuse. Although it’s not quite up to the Hitachi in terms of durability it is not far off and is slightly cheaper. So if you can’t quite stretch your budget to the Hitachi rest assured you can still get your hands on a very capable roofing nailer.
Any good rooking nailer should be easy to reload and the Dewault is no exception thanks to its side-loading canister that only requires undoing a latch.
Senco Roof Pro 455XP Roofing Nailer
The 455XP roofing nailer from Senco is a pretty no nonsense nailer that although lacks the high end features of some of the others nailers listed here it is however well made and very comfortable for extended use.
This may not be a model for a hard working pro roofer but it is more than adequate for occasional use.
Wen 6178Coil Roofing Nailer
The Wen 6178may be the cheapest model in this list but it is still a very capable roofing nailer.
If you are a full time roofer that makes big demands from their tools the the Wen is probably not the best option. Considering it’s price point it can still deliver a pretty good user experience as long as you don’t intend using it all day long day in day out.
You need something that can withstand a lot of abuse. The casing should be metal and capable of taking a lot of force. The less plastic components the better on these types of tool. However, when it comes to the grip you would expect a high quality ergonomic design that is easy to hold for extended periods of time.
Weight
Spending hours on a roof holding and reloading a roofing nailer should cause a huge amount of fatigue. If the nailer is built though but light and has a comfortable design then you should be fine to use it for extended periods of time.
Although overall weigh is an issue so too is that weight distribution. A properly balanced nailer will mean that you can quickly and accurately fire the nails without having to compensate for an unbalanced tool that is difficult to control. Depth of Drive and Mode The more jobs and roofs you end up working on the bigger the range of materials you will need to be able to work with. Ensuring that your roofing nailer has an easily adjustable depth of drive is crucial. The best roofing nailers will have an adjustable know close to the trigger that is convenient to use.
Magazine
Capacity – You should expect to be able to hold at least 100 nails. The better models can hold slightly more at 120.
Ease of change – Being able to quickly and simply switch out an empty magazine is one of the most important features of a roofing nailer. Wasting time fiddling with a tricky release mechanism is not something you would expect to find yourself doing with a quality nailer. Generally a single piece coil cover will be quicker than any other design.
Side loading – This is the preferred design as it is much more convenient to simple switch a magazine out from the side than any other way.
Trigger
Although a trigger on any power tool is a pretty simple part of the design it is however one that has a big contribution to how easily it is to safely operate the tool. A trigger that is easy to press time and time again will make for less fatigue.
Let’s start with the heaviest duty nailer..the framing nailer. As the name suggests, this type of nailer is used for wood framing in a building, and heavy construction. This frequently requires up to 3½” nails to the day. All these models offer switchable contact or sequential trip, and tool-free depth-drive adjustment.
Porter-Cable FR350A & Hitachi NR90AEPR Framing Nailers.
Flooring Nailers
The finishing nailer is your best all-around nailer for indoor trim and similar jobs.
Pin Nailers
Coil nail guns hold the largest amount of nails per magazine when compared to other types. Their nails are mounted in a coil shape, typically held together by two wires (one on each end of the nail, running perpendicular). The nails are then wrapped into a roll, and places inside the gun. Each nail release shortens the coil by one nail until you eventually run out.
Stick nailers get their name from the way that the nails are positioned. Stick nail magazines are stacked vertically with nails on top of each other in a series. Typically you will find them held together by either strips of wire, durable paper, or plastic. Stick nail gun magazines are made for both angles and straight shooting guns, so make sure to keep your eyes open when purchasing magazines.
Their main purpose is to attach shingles to the roof of your home. These are extremely common on construction sites that involve assembling homes, office spaces, or warehouses. These are most commonly coil style guns since shingling requires such a high volume of nails.
Another perfect option for the DIYer or casual home remodeler, these can handle any surface that a brad nailer can, but can also deal with the hardwoods and manufactured woods that the brad is not recommended for.
Ever been in a home with hard wood? These are the type of guns used for that job.
These are essentially nail guns designed to fit in the palm of your hand, just as the name suggests. These are popular in the home remodeling space for contractors. They can get into tight spaces that even a hammer has trouble with, and uses basic nails that you can buy from any store.
Magazine Size
How often do you want to refill with nails? The magazine size determines how many nails it can hold, 50+ is pretty standard.
Affordability, whats your budget? What do you want to get out of the gun? These are things to decide on when purchasing.
Warranty & Manufacturer
Another downside is that while most of the models come with a case and rafter hook, this one doesn’t.
Power Source
Cordless framing nailers are the ones which use gas which is ignited by a spark fuelled by the battery. The battery needs to be charged at regular intervals. The main advantage of using this type of nailer is that it allows for greater mobility. The batteries of such a framing nailer can be recharged within 60 minutes. There is however the issue of fuel which needs to be bought from stores.
While there are pneumatic (air-powered), battery-operated and power-operated nailers available in the market, its the pneumatic nailers that are more popular. These types of nailers are known to be the most reliant of the framing nailers. They use an air compressor to fire the nails onto the surface. The only disadvantage about these framing nailers is that the mobility with these nailers is restricted as they are connected with a cord to the air compressor.
However, if you don’t have an air compressor and only need a nailer occasionally for small repair jobs, a battery or power operated nailer can be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you are a professional who uses a nailer on a daily basis, then a pneumatic nailer is recommended. However, a cordless nailer is easier to use in tighter spaces.
Enhanced Precision and Easy to Use
When a framing job needs to be done, a hammer is what you’ll need to finish the job easily and effectively. The basic idea in using a hammer is simple, but using it effectively, especially for a large project, is a different story. It surely seems like a simple job in which you need to hold the nail in place and then hit its head with the hammer to drive the nail in the surface.
While this does sounds easy and you believe that you’ll finish the job quickly, after a few nails your hands will give up. Moreover, there is also a risk of missing the nail and hitting your hand. Just a simple thought of hitting your finger hard with a hammer is more than enough to imagine the agony and pain you can go through when you miss a single nail. Moreover, there is also a possibility that the nail will bend or get crooked when you hit it with the hammer. You’ll then be required to remove the nail and start over again.
An ideal solution to this problem is to use a framing nailer. All you need to do is to press the trigger of the nailer and/or let the tip of the nailer come in contact with the work surface and it will instantly drive a nail into the surface. Moreover, with these models you’ll not face the problem of crooked of bent nails.
Time-Efficient
These are very quick as compared to manually using the hammers and will not result in quick fatigue. Especially, if you have a construction business, you can cut the man hours to almost half with the help of these nail guns. Moreover, with these guns, you’ll be able to cut your workforce in half or take up more jobs as well.
Highly Durable
Another great advantage is they are highly durable and perfect for any demanding environment. No matter if you accidentally drop the nailer while working on the roof or if your forget it outside in the rain, a framing nailer can easily stand the test of time over a very long period time.
When the nails are put in surfaces using these devices, they tend to withstand almost any kind of weather. Even if you have used the nailer indoors, the nails will stay where they have been put for a much longer period. This longevity makes them a perfect and smart choice.
Using these units can be safer when compared to using hammers. There are high chances that you might hit your fingers while working with the hammer, until you are extremely sued to the hob and can do it smoothly.
Multiple Options
A large number of famous brands, like Dewalt, Hitachi, Paslode etc. manufacture nailers in many different styles. There are nail guns with large magazines and can hold several hundred nails at a time, there are models with different types of firing, like burst, bump and single shot, etc. Moreover, there are also nails that are powered by battery, electricity or compressed air. This allows you to choose a nailer as per your needs.
The main advantage of the clip head, also known as D-head nails, is that it has one side clipped away. This way, it can be more tightly packed one next to the other in either a paper, plastic or wire collation strip. Since they are more tightly packed, a clip head strip packs more nails per inch which also means that it consumes less space in the magazine. Further, carpenters use clip head nails because they are more aesthetically pleasing especially when doing cabinet work where you do not necessarily want one end of the nail head to appear but still need the holding power of a regular round head nail. The only problem with a clip head nail is that they are a little bit rarer and can be hard to get based on where you live.
Magazine Degree
With a 21-degree framing nailer, you will usually find that it accommodates full head nails in a plastic collation. This type of magazine usually spits out only one nail at a time. It is not meant for heavy-duty applications, but rather for precise nailing jobs. It still offers a significantly slanted angle to offer clear visibility on your nailing as well as offers adequate support should you need to hold your framing need a with your second hand. The only problem with this type of magazine angle is that it can be difficult to nail in tight areas.
With a 28-degree framing magazine, you get more versatility and maneuverability when nailing in tight areas. Additionally, the 28-degree magazine uses a wire collation similar to that found in a coil type magazine which means that they are more appropriate for heavy-duty applications. The nails can break apart more quickly from the strip. The only problem with this magazine degree is that the magazine needs to be fairly long because the wire collation requires more space than the 21-degree magazine nailer. The other caveat is that this type of angle can accommodate less nails. However, as already stated it is much superior when working in tight areas and delivers a fairly accurate nailing at a rapid fire rate.
This type of magazine degree usually uses paper collation. Since it is paper, the nails easily break apart for rapid fire. By far, the 30-degree and 34-degree magazine produces the fastest fire rate and therefore, it is best suited for nailers that are designed for heavy-duty tasks where both power and speed are necessary. With this degree angle, the nails can be more tightly packed so this magazine type can accommodate more nails per inch than both the 21-degree magazine and 28-degree magazine.
Cordless Vs. Pneumatic Framing Nailer
There are power types in a framing nailer. Fuel powered and pneumatic. However, the fuel framing nailer can also be powered with a battery to provide portability, versatility, and maneuverability. The battery powered framing nailer is not as powerful as the pneumatic framing nailer, but it is more cost effective as you do not need to purchase an additional air compressor to operate it.
Hitachi NV45AB2
The Hitachi NV45AB7/inch to � inch Roofing Nailer has been designed for the professional market, its tough durable weatherproof construction is ideal for the construction site and the home. The body is made from steel and rubber, but is light enough for comfortable day long use. This pneumatic roofing nailer has all the power and punch to make light work of the largest project, ideal for the installation of asphalt, roofing shingles and insulation boards.
The Paslode 902600 CF325Li is a cordless nailer that is quick and powerful as well. It is designed for both casual and professional use, so it has the versatility that every worker needs. It holds a charge for one hour, and it can drive up to 6,000 nails in this time.
Even when not fully charged, it can power up for a quick 2-minute interval in which it can drive up to 200 nails. Its fuel power comes as a benefit when running a compressor can cause load issues.
The 902600 CF325Li is heavy-duty and able to withstand the toughest conditions, and its nosepiece provides for toe-nailing at various angles. It has the power to tackle jobs big and small. The 902600 CF325Li is cordless and gas-powered, so its portability allows it to be used in various circumstances without the need for a compressor or hose.
Hitachi NR90GR2
The Hitachi NR90GRis a gas-powered framing nailer gun. It weighs in at only 7.pounds, but it is a fast and powerful machine. It can shoot up to 4,000 nails with just one change, driving nails per second and around 1,000 nails per hour. The NR90GRis powerful enough to drive up to 3.5” x 0.131” nails with an adjustable drive depth that can perform on a variety of materials.
It is a lightweight gun that is also cordless, and this is helpful for those that need to move around often to complete a project. It is balanced enough to allow for one-handed operation while minimizing fatigue during longer sessions.
A benefit of this fuel-powered gun is the elimination of an air compressor or hose, and replacing fuel rods is easy and affordable. Its dry-fire lockout helps to prevent mistakes and damage to the gun or work surface.
Freeman PFR2190
The Freeman PFR2190 is a tough and sturdy framing nailer made from die-cast magnesium with anodized aluminum and oil-free parts to prolong life and durability. It accommodates 21-degree nails from to 3.inches and features an air filter, anti-dust cap and 360-degree exhaust.
It is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of applications including installing siding, roof and wall sheathing, assembling wooden boxes, fencing and framing.
The PFR2190 also features interchangeable triggers for single or contact firing. Its driver blade is made of hardened heat-treated steel for enhanced toughness, and its cylinder is made of anodized aluminum with oil-free Teflon o-rings.
The PFR2190 comes with a durable plastic carrying case and additional wrenches. It also has a warranty that is on the higher end for many nailer models lasting seven years. Overall the PFR2190 is an affordable but durable nailer with a versatility for many situations.
Hitachi NV75AG
The NV75AG is a versatile pneumatic framing nailer that works with both wire and plastic sheet nails. It is designed to be used for many different construction tasks include framing, decking, fencing and siding.
The model has a very light body and large-capacity magazine, and it is an ideal tool for builders, woodworkers, contractors and other professionals.
The model offers dual firing options to transition between single and continuous firing without the need to use additional tools. This allows greater control between precision and speed.
The depth-of-drive is adjustable with the Hitachi NV75AG, and all it takes is a turn of the knob for quick and accurate changes without extra tools. The model also has a long-lasting rubber grip to increase worker comfort and reduce wear.
DeWalt D51850
The engine design of the DeWalt D51850 is powerful enough to drive nails into the toughest of materials including framing and engineered lumber. It is a full round head nailer with the ability to drive to 3.5-inch nails.
The design optimizes power use to consume less air while still tackling the most complex tasks. The design of the D51850 also minimizes recoil, and it features durable wear guards to protect the gun and enhance durability.
Some of the best aspects of the DeWalt D51850 are its built-in rotating rafter hook and easy depth adjustment. A contact trip provides more aggressive handling of toe-nailing jobs.
The only downfalls with this model are its trigger swap and plastic exhaust. To change from sequential fire to contact is usually easier on many other models, and it would be better with a metal plate to absorb extra blows or act as a quick hammer when needed.
Stick or Coil Nailer
Stick nailers used a row of inserted nails. They are stacked in a row of plastic, paper or wire strips that hold them together. The guns are angled or straight, but the angled variety drive nails of thicker gauges more effectively.
Coil nailers usually hold more nails than stick nailers because they are wrapped in a roll. This reason alone may be an incentive to use this style when taking on larger projects as it can save time.
Inspect the nailer and get the feel
Lightweight tools are also more versatile across situations, and they make it easy to do work overhead or when being used for prolonged periods.
Being able to adjust the depth that the nails drive is also important. Each task will require materials of different thicknesses, so it is useful to have a tool that can handle this factor in all cases. Nailers load in the top and rear, and some offer both options.
This factor should be considered if one position is preferred over the other. Jams are common with any tool requiring a magazine to be loaded, so having quick jam clearance is a handy bonus feature for any nail gun. It may be necessary to hang the gun up temporarily when focused on other tools, so having a nailer with a durable hook is helpful to put it away safely and quickly.
Details
Bostitch RN46-is a coil roofing nailer is one of the best roofing nailers which can perform roofing, exterior drywall, insulation board and fiber cement applications. The lightweight and tough aircraft grade magnesium housing of the tool provides light weight and durability. The tool is only 5.lbs in weight.
With the help of the coil sized magazine, Bostitch RN46-can throw ¾-inch to 1-3/4-inch nails for roofing and other application. The coil sized magazine of this tool can contain 120 roofing nails with a shank diameter of 0.120. The magazine has a zero nail lockout feature which protects from dry firing and notifies when to load the nails. In order to ensure a quick and easy nail loading, there is a patented single-action side-load canister.
The tool offers contact trip firing. This feature enables the tool to fire up to 100 nails in one minute. There is an integrated, tool-less gauge which can be used for supporting you in shingle spacing when you will work with shingles. There is a tool-less depth of drive adjustment with integrated depth dial having five different settings, including flush mount driving, shallow driving and countersinking.
Cordless Framing Nailer
A cordless nail gun is designed to run on fuel or rechargeable batteries to power its functions. I have also seen a few models that require both fuel and battery to function. While it has portable features that probably cannot be matched by any other type, it is more suitable for the person that likes to build things at home.
Pneumatic Framing Nailer
A pneumatic nail gun, on the other hand, is the workhorse of the construction industry. Most are made to use an air compressor as their power source. The best pneumatic framing nailer can be counted upon to always deliver the needed force to get the job done on time.
Since they require a compressor to function, which is an added expense unless you have one laying around, the portability features will be limited. Since there is no need for recharging the reliable power source, a pneumatic gun for framing is one of the most important tools to have on a busy construction site.
Consumer Feedbacks
Yes, 100% satisfaction rating is virtually impossible for any building power tool, but 75% or above, of the current users must like how it performs. The products listed in this framing nailer reviews met that criteria before inclusion.
BeA USA is the domestic arm of The BeA Group, one of Europe’s oldest and largest fastening companies. As a leading supplier of tools and fasteners for European pallet, crating and furniture manufacturers, BeA prefers to focus on production staple nailing, but also produces wood-to-wood systems. However, since residential and commercial construction in Europe relies far more on concrete and stone than wood framing, (and since the residential wood-to-wood construction market is so crowded here already), BeA has chosen concrete fastening as its point of entry here.
Launched in Europe last fall and in the United States at the 200STAFDA show, the Dynamik CN60-866ES is a gas tool that fastens wood and steel to concrete. In addition to being less saturated than the wood-to-wood market, BeA also chose the concrete fastening market because “companies like Powers and Ramset have very specific requirements for distributors to get access to their lines and we don’t,” says Patrick Mooney, president of BeA Fasteners USA with a laugh.
BeA high-capacity batteries can provide about 50 percent more shots than other batteries, he says. Plus, BeA fuel cells and pins, up to 1/inches, are interchangeable with competing products in the field.
Hitachi focuses on value
As Joe Fedor, product manager, industrial tools & pneumatics for Hitachi sees it, the down economy is pushing manufacturers to continue to create more value for consumers via deep discounts, value-added pack-ins or compressor combo kits.
Fuel cell tools are also chipping away at pneumatics. “Better and more affordable battery and gas technology are allowing cordless nailers to become more widely used in punch-out applications, taking share from pneumatic tools,” Fedor observes.
Other features such as selective actuation, dry-fire lockout and tool-less depth adjustment are becoming commonplace on small- and large-body nailers, he adds.
Magnum Pro stays the course
Nail gun manufacturers have suffered a one-two punch from the economy; reduced demand in construction and a shift to prolonging tool life in industrial applications, observes George Skarich, executive vice president of sales for the Magnum Pro division of Mid-Continent Nail Corp.
Magnum Pro’s decision is to stay the course. “Our core fastener business is for wood applications and that is where we devote our expertise and continuing efforts to improve our products,” he says.
Makita goes high pressure
A roofing nailer that can use different dimensions of nails is extremely beneficial, especially if you plan to use your roofing nailer on some tasks. Instead of having to buy separate roofing nailers for each nail size, you can have one roofing nailer that includes all features of them, costing you less and save money.
Depth Adjustment
A depth adjustment qualities allow you to control how strong the nail goes into the outer lining. Some roofing nailers will need the use of something to modify the depth, but for peak ease-of-use, we advise discovering one that you can adjust them by your hand.
DEWALT DWFP1265Coil Roofing Nailer
Compared with other identical items in its section, the DWFP1265roofing nailer is perfect for any roofing project, and for several programs such as siding, underlayment, insulating board, sheathing, fiberglass shingles, asphalt, roof felt, and tarpaper.
This roofing nailer makes securing easier thanks to the exemption of the long traditional magazine seen on other identical items. In addition, it offers excellent balance and control, and is supported by a highly resilient and effective aluminum cap and frame.
Designed for commercial use, the DWFP1265DeWALT Roofing Nailer is attractive and features a light and portable, simple to handle and highly effective enough to work as fast as you do.
Pneumatic nailers
Designed for high-volume nailing, pneumatic (or air-powered) nail guns are powered by an air compressor and a hose. The latest improvements in pneumatic nailers are reduced weight and quieter operation. You want a model that direct exhaust away from you or the work and allows you to easily change the direction of the exhaust.
However, all nail guns don’t work with all air compressors, so be sure you have a compressor that delivers the pressure (psi) and air volume (scfm) needed to keep your nail gun working. A nailer doesn’t draw huge quantities of air like a sander or air wrench, for example, so a smaller compressor may be adequate.
The hose also has to be sized for the nailer – with enough length to keep it from getting twisted or restricted when in use. Swivel hose attachment will help keep the hose out of your way as you work.
The biggest trends among air compressors are reduced weight to make them easier to transport and lower noise levels. At the same time, the new compressors have higher psi and scfm ratings. Manufacturers have also developed new designs for air compressors, such as RIDGID’s vertical pancake, wheelbarrow and tri-stack compressors.
RIDGID’s new 6-gallon pancake compressor features a vertical design to make it easier to carry. In addition to its unique design, the compressor features an oil-free pump to decrease maintenance, on-board storage that holds two finishing nail guns and two universal push-to-connect quick couplers.
Cordless nailers
Without doubt, the fastest growing trend in nailers is the move to cordless. That popularity has been met by manufacturers with new cordless models that are more powerful, lighter weight and easier to use. Cordless nail guns are powered by replaceable fuel cells – a flammable gas injected into a combustion chamber ignites when the trigger is pulled, firing the nail – or rechargeable batteries.
Nailers powered by fuel cells have plenty of power to drive up to 3½ inch nails and can match the production of a pneumatic nailer. There are a wide range of models to cover the field of nailing tasks.
The newest cordless nailers are powered by 18- or 20-volt Lithium-ion batteries. Ryobi was early in the game with its Air Strike finish nailers in the extensive One+ tool range, moving quickly into framing nail guns. Ryobi Air Strike has a continuously charging pressure cylinder within the nailer that gives the tool the power of a pneumatic nailer and similar instant response to the trigger.
The cordless DeWalt Max Framing Nailer is powered by DeWalt’s 20V Li-ion battery pack and accepts any 30 – 3degree paper tape framing nails (clipped head or off set full round head).
The choice
Heavy-duty nail guns are framing nailers and roofing nailers. However, heavy-duty is not to say heavy weight, as manufacturers continue to take weight out of the tool, while keeping recoil to a minimum. Roofing nailers are designed to secure shingles quickly and precisely.
Finish nailers are lighter weight and are designed for installing cabinets, baseboards, trim, crown molding, etc. Improvements among finish nailers include non-marring tips and improved sight lines to the nail path. Precision nailers – staplers, tackers, and brad and pin nailers – are very lightweight and have the delicate touch needed for precision work. “The cylinder valve drive system in Hitachi NV45ABRoofing Nailer gives it the quick response and rapid driving that every pro demands and its dual pneumatic feed system allows it to feed nails as quickly as required in the harshest of conditions,.” says Lucio Morales, Hitachi Power Tools.
The nails
Collated nail guns use nails held together by strips of plastic or paper and are lighter in weight than coil models because they carry fewer nails. The collated strips range from 20 to 40 inches in length and typically hang below the nailer. Some collated nails are held together with an adhesive resin. As the nail is fired into the material, the glue heats and softens. Then when the nail is in place, the adhesive quickly hardens to the surrounding wood, further securing the nail.
Most nailer manufacturers market nails to fit their products. However, Grip-Rite coil and collated fasteners are guaranteed to fit most nail gun brands, including DeWalt, Hitachi, Paslode, RIDGID and Ryobi.
For added flexibility, many cordless or pneumatic nailers accommodate a range of nail sizes. Switching between nail sizes should be fast and easy. Also look for models that allow you to make nail depth adjustments simply and reload nails quickly. Some models sense the end of the nail strip to prevent dry fires. Dry firing is hard on the gun and can mar the nailed surface.
And don’t forget – even the best nail guns can jam. Get a nailer with easy access to the nosepiece for removing jams, ideally without tools. Using stainless steel fasteners reduces replacement costs and maintains the appearance and life of the project. “Our cordless nailing systems deliver a new level of convenience and efficiency on the jobsite while providing unrivaled power and precision for the task at hand,” says Craig Christiansen, Paslode marketing manager. “For example, the CF325Li Li-ion Cordless Framing Nailer is designed to simplify the framing process from start to finish. The versatile system is equipped with a rechargeable 7.4V Li-ion battery, which provides 50 percent longer run time and drives up to 6,000 nails per charge. “The Cordless 1Ga angled Li-ion Finish Nailer offers that same flexible freedom and advanced technology in an innovative, lightweight design customized for finish work. Soon the Compact Framing Nailer will join our product line to provide customers with a nailer that is the lightest, most maneuverable framing nailer ever.” “Our cordless nailing systems deliver a new level of convenience and efficiency on the jobsite while providing unrivaled power and precision for the task at hand,” says Craig Christiansen, Paslode marketing manager.
Firing modes
When you pick a nail gun, get the firing mode that works best for your jobs. With a sequential-fire nailer, you pull the trigger to fire a nail. With bump-fire models, you squeeze the trigger and the nail fires when you touch the nose of the nailer to the work surface. Many models use both firing types and allow you to easily switch back and forth between the two, and be sure the trimmer will accommodate your work gloves.
Sizing your nail guns
Because nail guns are designed for different tasks, you may well need several. An ideal combo for a remodeling contractor is a 15-gauge finish nailer and an 18-gauge brad nailer. The 15-gauge fires nails from 1¼ to 2½ inches to secure door jambs and other heavy trim materials. The angled magazine on most 15-gauge nail guns makes it easy to nail into corners and drive toenails.
Multi-functional dual LED lights
The PORTER-CABLE PCC790LA Cordless Nailer is capable of matching the performance of many of the pneumatic compressor-powered nail guns out there. With an impressive battery life, consistent driving depth, LED lights, a high-capacity magazine, and easy jam-clearing mechanism, it’s one of the best cordless finishing nailers on the market. It’s built to last and is easy for a beginner to operate while being capable of delivering the high level of performance that any professional would need.
Tool-free depth adjustment
The Freeman PFR2190 Framing Nailer is one of the best high-quality nail guns available and is listed at a very affordable price. Built from heavy-duty materials, this framing nail gun is designed to withstand years of daily use and is backed by a year limited warranty. With impressive performance and useful features, this nail gun is a great choice for both professionals and DIYers and is capable of tackling a wide-variety of applications with ease.
The biggest advantage to modern nailers is that they save you a lot of physical strength and allow you to allocate your energy on other things. The other advantage is that they’re adjustable and you can switch between multiple power settings. This way you’ll never be overwhelmed and you can apply the exact power you need, without damaging your shingles. Nailers are powerful but all you have to do is select the gentle settings and they’ll nail moderately. This makes them superior to hammers because you have to apply constant control with a hammer to not damage the roofing while nailers micromanage the strength by default. Brute force will damage shingles and nailers help you adjust the exact power you need which simultaneously saves you energy and keeps your shingles safe.
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It can handle the most popular materials such as asphalt shingles, tiles and wood. You can also use this nailer for jobs outside the roofing industry and it provides excellent coverage for most low to mid-range jobs. If you’re coming from a hammer you would see a massive bump up in performance and do the same jobs a lot faster. There are advanced features such as the quick release feature and a strong lockout. WEN has excellent customer service and they provide a year warranty that includes replacement and service for parts. The 6178weighs only 1pounds and this makes it one of the most portable. It never jams and it will double your productivity for the price of a restaurant meal.
Malco SB48AE
The Malco SB48AE is an alternative to the Bully Tools 911and despite not being as popular, it’s our favorite hidden gem and the most suitable shovel for professionals who want complete adjustability over the removal process. It’s similar to the Bostitch nailer in the sense that it provides a high degree of adjustability for the most delicate jobs where you can’t afford to make mistakes. It’s the best shingle removal tool on the market and it’s twice as expensive as the Bully Tools shovel. It’s superior to standard removal tools such as nailers/cat paws and it has an unique nail pulling teeth that separate it from other shovels and make it stand out from the beginner tools.
Youngstown Glove 05-3080-70-L
The Youngstown 05-3080-80-L have a very professional look and they are the ideal protective gloves for roofers because they can be used for extended sessions without ruining the stitching. If you don’t want to leave your hands exposed when you’re laying shingles and you protective gloves that aren’t too bulky, the Youngstown will help you preserve your precision. They slip on immediately and they are synthetic which makes them ideal for working in the summer, and usable for workers with greasy hands. They will keep you protected and they’re not bulky to a point where you’ll have to sacrifice precision and trade it for safety. They also have wrist straps that will keep them in place and they won’t accidentally slip off in case you make sudden movements. The Youngstown are ideal if you don’t want to feel like you’re wearing protection but still being protected.
PRY BARS
Pry bars are alternative roofing tools that make great replacements to both hammers and nailers. You can use pry bars to take out nails, pound them down and you can use them to work on shingles. Pry bars are also common in the wood working industry and wood workers use them to cut wood. They are sometimes referred to as “flat bars” and they’re considered some of the most reliable roofing tools. If you don’t have access to electricity they will make great replacements and they are almost as affordable as hammers. Some of them come in pairs and you should purchase at least two to be covered in every situation. They are extremely versatile, providing “all in one” functionality in a small metal designs.
Makita SP6000J1
The SP6000Jis a high-end Makita that provides the most dead-on cutting. If you need a saw that can be used in cold temperatures but also provides flawless operations, the SP6000Jis the best saw for you. It’s superior to competing saws and makes cutting a breeze. Premium saws tend to have a smoothing effect to them that almost feels like you’re not cutting. This makes for effortless cutting and you can focus on the detail in your cuts rather than wasting mental energy on pressure management. If you’re afraid of cutting and don’t want to worry about the cutting depth/pressure, this is the only saw you’ll need. It’s very high-end and it’s the smoothest saw for professional use.
MEASURING TAPE
Measuring tapes are essential roofing tools that roofers can’t go without. You can do away with no-name brands because there are very few differences in measuring tapes, however the ones on our list include extra features such as dual-measurements and self marking. This makes them superior to average measuring tapes and they cost about the same.
Quickdraw Pro
The QuickDraw is a revolutionary measuring tape because it offers self marking, meaning you can select the exact dimension pattern you need and the system will automatically mark the area for you. It offers similar base-level functionality to the Trust but this is notch above because it can mark dots or straight lines when you need to make accurate long cuts. This way you won’t have to hold it in position and you won’t have to get help because all you have to do is stretch it out and let it do the marking for you. The QuickDraw is one of the most reliable tools for cutting and it makes the cut-prepping process a breeze. It provides immense value for the price and it’s vastly superior to the average measuring tape.
ROOFING SNIPS
Roofing snips are used to cut shingles and most of them are simple devices that you can hold in one hand and make fast cuts. They are very sharp/accurate and this makes them a great alternative to knives because they work on the principle of scissors. The main difference is that they are powerful enough to cut shingles and if you prefer the snip’s grip to that of a knife, they are equally affordable.
HART Roofing Cutter
The HART Roofing Cutter is a high-end snip and it’s in another league with a higher price tag than the average snip. The HART is not a very popular item but it’s a hidden gem and it’s ideal for professionals. This is the best option if you want to splurge on a cutting tool and don’t want to replace it later down the line.
It’s the best roofing cutter on the market and it’s a relatively new product. The “Roofing Cutter” features Hart’s newest technology providing 9600 SPM in cutting power as well as impeccable cold-weather performance. Hart is a reliable company with over 40 years of experience in the high-end power tools manufacturing industry. It weighs a bit over a single pound, making it easy to carry around despite its superior cutting power. It also has smart features such as “quick connect air fitting” that helps eliminate accidental tangling.
What Is A Framing Nail Gun
A framing nail gun is a powertool that perfroms the duty of hammer hammering nails. It is a better option to using a hammer to drive nails into hardboard, wood, or any surface you could be using a hammer on. A fraiming nailer is much faster, efficient and not as tiring as a hammer would. It is also a particular kind of nail gun because it is one type among many other we will share below. There are differences among nail guns depending on thier speciality duties.
Corded Framing Nailer
A corded framing nailer is a nailer that would have an extension to connect to the power source. An air hose for a pneumatic one or and electric cord for an eletric framing nailer. However, the synonym corded would normally refer to an electric one. A pneumatic framing nail gun is seldom refered to as corded.
Cordless Battery Powered Framing Nailer
A cordless battery framing nail gun is the the one discussed above. It is electric from the fact that it uses electicity from the battery. A nailer that uses a rechargeable battery is climbing the Outdoor Power Equipment (OPE) bandwagon to replace gas powered units and for more portability and compatibility.
Framing Nailer Magazine Configuration
A framing nail gun fires nails to join two pieces of wood or board together. The nails it fires are loaded in a magazine that is either housed in a coiled or straight housing. The housing can also be used to categorize a nailer. You either have a coil framing nailer or a stick framing nailer.
Trigger Mechanisms
Nail guns have different trigger mechanisms namely Contact Trigger, Single Actuation Trigger, Single Sequential Trigger and Full Sequential Trigger. A trigger has a lot of bearing on safety though its main purpose is to fire a nail. Depending on the trigger type, a nailer can fire one nail at a time or multiple ones in succession. Some frame nailers adopt more than one trigger mechanisms such that you can switch between trigger mechanisms depending on your job.
Other Aspects Of A Framing Gun
The above aspects would have taught you quite a bit about a framing nail gun but that is not all. There are other aspects that are worth knowing about a framing nailer. A nail gun has Depth of Drive, Anti-Jam Mechanism. You might want be aware of the nail head types because some framing nailers are nailer head specific and constration codes in your area maybe restrictive as to which nail head type to use. You would also want to be aware of the nail sizes you can use on your framing nailer.
Bostitch F28WW Framing Nailer Review
Carpentry has come a long way and gone are the days when woodworking projects took a lot of muscle and time. This is thanks to a wide selection of tools tailored to fit the needs of any project. It is important to do your homework and get the best framing nailer for your budget.
Nail guns are one of the most important and versatile tools you can have in your arsenal, mainly because they help minimize time and effort.
Aptly named, roofing nailers are used to apply roofing shingles, while flooring nailers are used for installing flooring. Palm nailers come in handy when you have tight spaces.
One of the most used nail guns is the framing nailer. A framing nailer is often used for large projects or high volume projects. It is used for framing, siding, sheathing, room construction and just about any big project.
The framing nailer you choose can make or break your project, depending on your carpentry needs. It’s also important to know what features to consider when choosing the best framing nailer.
There are two main types of framing nailer: pneumatic and cordless. A pneumatic framing nailer requires an air compressor to work. Once attached to the nail gun, the air compressor turns a piston which then drives the nail into the wood.
A cordless framing nailer works similarly, but it uses a disposable compressed air canister that is placed within the nailer.
Look at the chart and info below to help you decide, if your still in the need for more detailed information like product specs check out the different manufacturer sites. This Hitachi site shows you every spec for every type of nail gun, which can be very helpful.
Right Tool For The Right Job
As previously mentioned there are different types of nail guns, so you need to know which nail gun is suitable for you. You can select this based on your project. For example, if your doing a flooring job the last thing you want is to be using a palm nailer. Using the incorrect tool will not only take longer to complete, but also the outcome will be less than quality. So, make sure you get the tool that is suitable for your job.
Brad Nailer: Brad nailers are on the smaller end, and they are suitable for more detailed woodworking tasks. This type uses the long gauge nails and most commonly 1or 20If you need to upholster furniture, minor home renovations, or smaller projects, a brad nailer is perfect for you. Most of the small tasks like making a doll house or picture frames are great for a brad nailer.
If you are looking for something budget friendly, the DeWalt DWFP1223is the best brad nailer for you. This is an upgraded version of DWFP1223and comes with some developed features. Controlling the settings are a breeze due to the easy drive adjustment feature. The rear exhaust keeps debris away from your work. Removing a jammed nail is easier with the Tool-free jam release mechanism. This tool is great to get a perfect finish every time. The anti-slip grip makes for comfortable and accurate use. The DWFP1223also comes with a maintenance free motor. Sturdy construction and a handy carrying case will keep you nailing for years to come.
Framing Nailers: If you need to do a lot of heavy duty nailing and need a high power nailer, framing nailers are the best type for you. They are suitable to do different kinds of big projects which includes decking, framing houses, fences, wooden siding, and more.
There are several various types of framing nailers. The three types are 21, 30 & 34, and lastly 2degree nailers. The difference in degree allows for different nailing angles. The degree of the nail gun is a preference and allows for easier nailing depending on your project. Some nailers have varying degrees. If your usually in tight areas a larger degree would probably be a good choice.
How to save up to 86%? Here is little trick.
You must visit the page of sales. Here is the link. If you don’t care about which brand is better, then you can choose the roofing nailer by the price and buy from the one who will offer the greatest discount.
Final Word
First of all thanks for reading my article to the end! I hope you find my reviews listed here useful and that it allows you to make a proper comparison of what is best to fit your needs and budget. Don’t be afraid to try more than one product if your first pick doesn’t do the trick.
Most important, have fun and choose your roofing nailer wisely! Good luck!
So, TOP3 of roofing nailer
- №1 — 3PLUS HCN45SP 11 Gauge 15 Degree 3/4″ to 1-3/4″ Coil Roofing Nailer
- №2 — AeroPro AP 846-203 Aftermarket Trigger for Hitachi NV45AB/AB2 Roofing Nailer
- №3 — AeroPro AP 877-820 Aftermarket Lock Shaft for Hitachi NV45AB/B2 Roofing Nailer

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