A specialty nailer is a versatile tool used to drive nails and other staples into various materials such as wood, metal, hardened plastic, and even concrete. This tool helps to increase both accuracy as well as productivity. Considering the fact that the construction of an average house may require around 50,000 to 70,000 nails being driven, the nailer has now become a mandatory accessory, automating a task that would otherwise take a long time if each nail were to be manually driven. The worker’s energy is also conserved. Additionally, since the nails are propelled out in a straight line from a nailer, precision is enhanced, especially in relatively inaccessible areas. The surface is also kept scar free, with the nailer eliminating the possibility of a conventional hammer tip marring the surface due to slipping. This tool is used by carpenters, masons, plumbers, and other building contractors. Since the tool is easy to use, it is a handy implement to have in any domestic toolbox. Some common applications of specialty Nailers include fixing of roofing felt, house wrap, tar paper, insulation, plastic sheets, metal connectors, joist hangers, and carpet pads. The nailer is also used for finishing, sheathing, subflooring, and roofing tasks.

Features and working of a specialty nailer

The specialty nailer is powered either through compressed air or with the incorporation of a mini combustion engine. Those nailers powered through compressed air have a tool body connected to an air tank in which pressurized air is stored. When the trigger is pressed, this air is released towards the anterior portion of the nailer and the nail is forced out of the nozzle at high velocities. Those nailers which work on a combustion engine are powered with an approximately six volt rechargeable battery that helps to trigger the spark for igniting the air-fuel mixture. This combustion results in gas expansion, which presses against the piston pushing it outward and thus propelling the nail out of the tool. The battery also powers a fan that blows away any gas remaining in the combustion chamber. Some nailers function through electromagnetism, using a solenoid surrounding a magnetic piston, the movement of which shoots the nail out of the nozzle.

For maximum efficiency, the specialty nailer uses a ported engine design. Pneumatic nailers have an operating pressure of around 60 to 100 pounds per Square inch (PSI) generating around 300 to 400 inch pounds of torque. The tool nose is generally made of hardened steel, while the body has a die cast frame, for longer life.

The tool is compatible with all 23 gauge nails, varying from around 1/2 to 6 inches in length. The Magazine has a capacity of around 170 to 300 nails. An automatic adjustment accommodates fasteners of varied lengths. There is a window, through which the user will get a visual intimation of the number of nails remaining. A rear exhaust prevents the exhaust from blowing towards the user. A powerful toe-nailing teeth grip lumber prevents any slippage during nailing. The pin depth can be easily controlled. The nose piece tapers towards the tip for better vision.
The specialty nailer may have different nose tips for different purposes; the standard tip for common nails up to 70d, and the magnetic tip for common nails between 3d and 16d.
 

What to look for in a specialty nailer

The handle of the specialty nailer is ergonomically contoured to enhance the comfort Levels of the user, especially during prolonged use. The trigger and the other controls should be easily accessible. A leather coated grip lessens undue vibrations and offers a no-slip grip.

Considering the speed at which the nails shoot out of the nailer, this tool can be a dangerous weapon if nails were to shoot out into the air. To prevent this occurrence, most nailers have a safety valve that does not get released unless the tool tip is pressed firmly against the material. A no-mar tip prevents any scarring from occurring when the tip is brought into contact with the surface. Marring is further minimized with a wide foot plate.

A magnetic nose enables more precise and stable holding of the nail, increasing accuracy. An anti-jam feature prevents the nails from getting jammed along the pathway of the tool.

Some reputed manufacturers of specialty nailers include Bostitch, Dewalt, Porter Cable, and Senco.