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Rick, I'm looking for a solid pneumatic framing nailer. Do you recommend any brand over the other? I've been partial to DeWalt and Makita just because I've been happy with electric power tools from those companies, but I have no experience with their pneumatic tools and want to know if there might be something better out there.
-John, Las Vegas
John,
Thanks for the inquiry!
 First and most importantly, verify with your local building (code enforcement) office to ensure what type of framing nails are allowed in your area. Some areas allow clipped-head nails which have part of the head clipped off to allow more nails in the clip, however, a lot of building departments require full round head nails. So again, verify before you purchase. In addition to the correct nail, also ensure you purchase name brand nails and you will experience fewer jambs. You will also notice the availability of strip and coil Nailers. I have found the availability of strip nails better than coil nails. The Porter Cable FR350 (pictured above) and the Hitachi NR83A2 (pictured at left) are both good examples of high quality strip nailers. At $189 from ToolKing.com , the Porter-Cable is the more economical choice of the two. However, a ton of professional framers will swear by the Hitachi, but it's more expensive ($329 @ ToolKing.com )
As far as which nailer to purchase, frankly, there are several great ones on the market. I personally own a Porter Cable FR350, FR – Full Round Head Framing Nailer. I have used my FR350 Framing Nailer for framing, decking, fencing and sheathing and it has provided me a lot of trouble-free service. Bostitch, DeWalt, Hitachi, Makita, and Milwaukee Framing nailers are also great choices. For professional users on job sites, I have seen a lot of Hitachi Framing Nailers, specifically the NR83A2. A framing nailer is available for most any budget and tools like any other product, “you get what you pay for.”
I highly recommend a depth of drive adjustment. You will find this handy, particularly in fencing and siding applications where you are typically dealing with softer materials.
Finally, keep your nailer serviced, if it requires oil, keep it lubricated. I always oil my FR350 prior to, during and at the end of use. I always lube my nailer before I fire the last 2-3 nails. Additionally, ensure you have clean, moisture-free air going to your nailer. A filter and separator at the air compressor will help. Moist air will cause the inside of your nailer to corrode which leads to premature failure.
If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us direct at 1-800-696-8665. Good luck with your project, and as always, be sure to wear proper safety equipment and take the proper safety precautions with any tool. With any nailer, a good pair of safety goggles is a MUST!s
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