Senco Next-Generation FN91T1 Framing Nailer Delivers Serious Driving Power

Engineered lumber is growing in popularity and framing nailers have to have the power to drive into them. Considering how much framing is soft SPF (spruce/pine/fir), that can be a challenge for some models. We got our hands on the Senco FN91T1 paper tape framing nailer to see what it can do with modern framing materials.

A quick note before we jump in. The FN919T1 is a 30° – 34° paper tape clipped head nailer and it’s the one we’re using for this review. While there are some differences (like the nose design), it came out with a 21° round head version—the FN81T1—that you can expect similar results from.

Senco FN91T1 Paper Tape Framing Nailer Performance

Driving Power

We generally see framing nailers used with softer pine for the majority of applications. Sometimes, however, we’ll need a nailer to punch through denser material. That’s why we tested this nailer by driving a series of 3 1/2-inch nails into a section of LVL.

We set the nailer to the deepest drive setting and dialed our line pressure to 115 PSI. To our delight, the Senco not only drove the nails but actually managed to sink them! Whether you’re fastening LVL to LVL or softer materials into it, you can be confident this nailer has the power you need. Plus, there’s plenty of speed to keep up with even the most seasoned members of your crew.

Accuracy and Visibility

Typically, accuracy isn’t the biggest factor when it comes to framing nailers but it’s not something to ignore either. The improved claw design does offer a decent amount of visibility but we have seen better. The kit also includes a no-mar tip to protect delicate surfaces, however, it further obstructs your view.

Take that all with a grain of salt. You can still see the nose and you know the nail is going to fire inside of it. You’re just unlikely to have 1/8th-inch accuracy.

Toenailing

Toenailing into boards at hard angles can get tricky no matter what, and some nailers handle it better than others. This nailer underwent a bit of a facelift towards the business end to help improve performance in this area. The nose is now more aggressive with larger steel barbs that get a much better bite into the wood compared to other framers we’ve used in the past.

Senco FN91T1 Paper Tape Framing Nailer Design Notes

Ergonomics

Weight is a big factor when it comes to selecting a framing nailer. While some Pros are opting for new cordless models, like the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2744 nailer, some are choosing to stick with tried and true pneumatic options because they tend to be a tad lighter.

The Senco FN91T1 nailer weighs 8.4 pounds, a few pounds shy of most battery-powered models. It has a nice balance and isn’t overly top-heavy. The magazine’s inline design helps keep the left/right balance neutral. The head has the forward tilt we expect that promotes effective bump firing and recoil reduction.

When it comes to the grip, textured rubber overmold on the handle helps you maintain a secure grip, even when wearing work gloves.

Firing Modes

To switch between bump fire and sequential fire modes, you need to switch out the trigger. That’s not unusual for pneumatic framing nailers, so it’s not a big surprise.

Driving Depth

You change the driving depth with a typical thumbwheel, but the placement is a bit different. It’s central on the nose rather than offset on the right, making it easier for lefties. Every 1/2-turn of the dial, you feel a stop/detent, giving you an idea of how much you’re adjusting.

Loading the Magazine

Nails load from the base of the magazine. Slide a stick in, bring the pusher down over them and let it slide back up the same way you do with most framing nailers. One difference is that the override button takes some getting used to. Its corner placement makes it far easier to engage from the above than below.

Clearing Jams

One fly in the ointment is that you have to remove the entire magazine to access the firing chamber. While the system isn’t overly complex, it’s certainly not as convenient as those with tool-free access.

Additional Features

• Large aluminum rafter hook
• Engineered and assembled in Cincinnati, Ohio

Senco FN91T1 Paper Tape Framing Nailer Price

The Senco FN91T1 retails for $309.99 and comes with a 5-year warranty. While it’s not out at the time we’re writing, we expect the FN81T1 to have a similar price tag.

The Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a framing nailer that has the performance to deal with engineered lumber without sacrificing speed, the Senco FN91T1 or FN81T1 framing nailer is an excellent choice. It has plenty of power to fasten in LVL and its aggressive claw nose makes toenailing far more effective. While having to remove the magazine for jam-clearing may make some people hesitate, the nailer’s overall performance and quality are more than enough to make up for it.

Senco FN91T1 Paper Tape Framing Nailer Specifications

• Model: Senco FN91T1
• Power Source: Pneumatic
• Magazine Capacity: 80 nails
• Weight: 8.4 pounds
• Max Operating Pressure: 70 – 120 PSI
• Air Consumption: 0.111 SCFM
• Air Inlet: 3/8 in. NPT
• Nail Size Range: 2 – 3 1/2 in.
• Warranty: 5-year
• Price: $309

The post Senco FN91T1 Paper Tape Framing Nailer Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

When you ask who makes the best tools, the answers vary. It’s a long-held belief around here that the manufacturer with the best cordless drill doesn’t necessarily make the best miter saw. The same can be said for each type of nailer. In fact, the best nail gun in the various categories and styles we cover brings many different manufacturers into the spotlight.

After reading through our list, be sure to leave your comments below and let us know if you differ on any of our picks.

Best Nail Gun for Framing – Pneumatic

Metabo HPT NR90AES1 Framing Nailer

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Without a doubt, the best nail gun for framing has to be the Metabo HPT NR90AES1. Formerly the Hitachi NR90AES1, this is simply the lightest framing nailer we tested. We love the simple depth adjustment—which works with or without gloves. It also powers nails through the toughest materials. You get excellent visibility at the nose, quick and sure toenailing, and very little recoil.

This nailer takes nails up to 3-1/2″ x 0.148″ and has a tool-free mode change. The only crazy thing is it lacks dry-fire lockout and a rafter hook. I know, silly in this day and age, but true. We still love it and recommend it as our best pneumatic nail gun choice for framers. It has easy depth adjustment for various materials and outstanding power overall.

For the price (around $179) you’ll have a hard time beating this pneumatic framing nail gun.

We Also Recommend

• Milwaukee 7200-20 framing nailer – $229
• Ridgid R350RHF framing nailer – $229
• Max USA SN883RH3 Framing Nailer – $238

Best Nail Gun for Framing – Battery-Powered

Milwaukee FUEL 18V Cordless Framing Nailer

When it comes to pneumatic vs cordless nailers, pneumatic still wins for framing work. Still, you can definitely find some great tools for punch work. Available in both 21° and 30°, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL cordless framing nailers quickly impressed us. After testing these tools, however, the data quickly and clearly showed these nailers dominate other battery-powered tools.

While a tad heavy, they offer too many great features that tip the scales in their favor. You get zero delay on firing— even in bump mode. They consistently sink nails on every single shot, including when in rapid-fire bump mode. We even love the folding rafter hook and separate tool belt clip.

You can order an extended magazine for either model which holds 2 full sticks of nails. Most cordless nailers hold just one. Milwaukee clearly listened to its user base and made a great call there. Finally, we found the depth-adjustment easy to use, and we like the electronic switch that flips between the firing modes.

At $349 or $449 for the kit, this is the very best nail gun that runs off battery power alone.

We Also Recommend

• Metabo HPT 18V Cordless Framing Nailer – $229

Best Nail Gun for Framing – Gas or Fuel Cell

Paslode CF325XP Gas Framing Nailer

Though battery-powered nailers like our choice above keep getting better, the Paslode CF325XP framing nailer still finds favor among Pros. This especially holds true when it comes to punch-list work. This tool hit the market well before any of the pure battery-powered options.

We have an article on how fuel nailers work, but this tool drives its 30° nails when a small lithium-ion battery ignites a gas from a cartridge. It functions much more quickly than DeWalt and Bostitch battery-powered nailers with their firing delays. You do get a slight delay and a gas smell to put up with. Of course, there’s also the additional cost of new gas cartridges every 1200 shots or so.

Overall, the Paslode Cordless XP framer remains a popular cordless choice among Pro users. The lack of a bump-fire mode and its limited capacity makes it a tough sell as a primary tool, but it’s a capable cordless option. At $349, we still consider this the best fuel nail gun on the market.

Best Nail Gun for Finish Work – Pneumatic

Metabo HPT NT50AE2M 18 Gauge Finish Nailer

The Metabo HPT NT50AE2M 18 Gauge Finish Nailer is a solid performer. It lacks features like a dry fire lockout and swiveling air intake. That’s the trade-off you’re making for an incredible value while getting Metabo HPT’s pro performance level. This is an excellent option for Pros as their primary finish nailer.

You can’t beat the weight of this tool—just 2.2 pounds. Having used it extensively under the Hitachi moniker, the rebranded tool doesn’t disappoint. The price point also puts it squarely in the range of anyone looking for Pro-level performance. Carpenters, woodworkers, and anyone working with trim or cabinetry should love this tool.

For a bit more holding power, we also recommend:

• Senco Finish Pro 30XP 15-gauge finish nailer – $256.49
• Ridgid R250AFF 15-gauge angled finish nailer – $169

Best Nail Gun for Finish Work – Battery-Powered

Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18-Gauge Finish Nailer

The second-generation Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18ga brad nailer improves both visibility and the rate of fire of the first-gen design. No small update, this finish nail gun truly feels and operates like a completely new tool. It provides fast firing with zero ramp-up delay. Similar to the way the Metabo HPT cordless framing nailer operates, the battery preps each shot before the tool fires. That eliminates any lag.

The tool also has a quick bump-fire mode, though we find ourselves using that less in finish work. Still, the quick firing speed should keep up with just about anyone’s needs. At $279 for the bare tool or $399 for the kit, it doesn’t come cheap. Then again, nothing good ever does.

We Also Recommend:

• Metabo HPT NT1850DESM 18-gauge Finish Nailer – $339

Best Nail Gun for Narrow Crown Stapling – Pneumatic

Senco SLS150Mg 18ga Crown Stapler

The magnesium body of the Senco SLS150Mg 18-gauge Crown Stapler makes it weigh a scant 2.6 pounds. A thumbwheel sets the depth of drive, and a simple selector switch swaps between bump fire and sequential fire modes. This finish nailer accepts 18 gauge 1/4″ crown staples that range from 1/2″ to 1-9/16″ and holds 110 fasteners. The (included!) air inlet also swivels to help avoid tangled air hoses.

You can pick up this excellent stapler for less than $100 at most retailers. The tool also comes with Senco’s 5-year limited warranty.

We Also Recommend

• Metabo HPT 18ga Narrow Crown Stapler (N3804A5) – $169

Best Battery-Powered Nail Gun for Narrow Crown Stapling

Milwaukee M18 FUEL Narrow Crown Stapler

Pro carpenters and tradesmen will love the Milwaukee M18 FUEL narrow crown stapler. We first got our hands on it back in 2019 and it made an impression. Like the Metabo HPT cordless framing nailer, the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 18-gauge 1/4-inch narrow crown cordless stapler has zero firing delay when you pull the trigger. Even in bump-fire mode, we saw around 4-5 staples per second. It fires almost as fast as you can move to the next location. The tool simply has no noticeable lag.

This Milwaukee M18 FUEL stapler has the power to sink 1/4-inch narrow crown staples up to 1.5-inches—even into oak or cherry. The tool also has enough adjustability so you don’t just drive through thinner materials like underlayment.

This battery-powered stapler retails for $279 as a bare tool. You can also pick it up for $399 as a kit with an M18 CP 2.0 battery and charger.

Also Recommended

• Ryobi P360 18V Narrow Crown Stapler – $149
• Milwaukee M12 crown stapler – $189

Best Nail Gun for Pin Nailing – Pneumatic

DeWalt 23-gauge Pin Nailer

The DeWalt 23-gauge pin nailer really takes up the mantel from the venerable Porter-Cable PIN138 pin nailer we loved and used for years. Adding to the design, DeWalt created an exceptionally well-designed pinner that easily installs finer workpieces while eliminating the need to fill nail holes.

It’s also great for attaching small trim pieces and reducing the amount of touchup required before painting. We’ve put the finishing touches on several projects with it and found it easy to work with, lightweight, and reliable. DeWalt included a tool-free jam release—the first in a pinner as far as we’re aware. You even get a reversible belt hook and tool-free depth adjustment.

The DeWalt DWFP2350K pin nailer retails for around $149. The tool also comes with a 7-year limited warranty, 1-year free service contract, and 90-day money-back guarantee.

Best Battery-Powered Pinner

Milwaukee M12 Pin Nailer

We find it difficult not to like the Milwaukee M12 cordless pin nailer. It’s lighter and more compact than any other cordless model we’ve used. And when we say lighter and more compact—we mean it. Its performance has also been flawless to date. Though you can still go lighter with air nailers, the Milwaukee M12 23-Gauge Pin Nailer is a no-brainer switch to make as a full-time pneumatic replacement for carpentry and woodworking projects.

The Milwaukee 2540-21 pin nailer retails for around $199 as a bare tool or $249 for the kit. The cordless 12V pin nailer also includes a 3-year warranty.

We Also Like

• Makita XTP02 18V Cordless Pin Nailer – $189 (bare tool)

What to Look for in a Nail Gun

Pneumatic or Battery Power

When we think about what to look for in a nail gun we start at the top. Do you want ultimate portability for smaller projects or are you looking for the lightest-weight tool possible for extended use? For now, pneumatic nail guns still beat battery-powered models by a long shot. If you want a lightweight tool, grab a compressor and get going.

For framers and roofers, the choice is obvious. Pneumatic tools still have a clean edge and provide the smoothest, most consistent work experience. When you get down to punch lists, however, things begin to change. Now, battery-powered tools begin to gain in. their practicality and convenience. We know several roofing crews who employ the DeWalt cordless roofing nailer for repairs. It speeds up setup and tear down.

Switching Firing Modes

For framing nailers and roofing nailers, switching firing modes used to be a real hassle. Even the best nail guns at the time required you to swap out triggers to change modes. Now, most tools have some form of tool-free mode change. Some companies do it using a slide switch or button near the trigger. Several battery-powered models use electronics to control the mode.

In either case, if you often switch between bump-fir and sequential firing modes, be sure the tool you get makes it easy to go back and forth.

Other Features

Most nailers are catching on. Few miss any important features anymore. Still, make sure you’re getting what you need. In addition the firing mode switch above, look for dry fire lockout. That keeps you from firing “blanks” when you run out of nails. It can be frustrating at best. At worst, it can damage the material you’re working on by creating the impression of a nail—without actually firing a nail.

We also want to see adjustable rafter hooks on larger tools like framing nailers. For roofing nailers not so much. And for finish nailers we care more about a belt hook for convenience.

On tools where you’re likely to be in a variety of positions behind the nailer, adjustable exhaust vents help out. I remember getting blown in the face repeatedly by a non-adjustable nailer when doing some siding work several years back.

Swivel Me This

Aside from that, be sure to buy swiveling 1-4″ NPT fittings for your nail guns. These make maneuvering around a hose so much easier. We carry a pile of them and put them on every tool when it comes in. A few nailers include them by default—but only a few. It doesn’t influence our decision or ratings on tools, but it’s a great tip to pass along.

Weight and Ergonomics

It cannot be overstated how important weight is to nail guns. The best nail guns have tons of power. They just don’t look like they have tons of power. One great example is the difference between the cordless flywheel system used by DeWalt vs the gas piston system Metabo HPT, Senco, and Milwaukee Tool employ. Line those tools up and you can quickly see that the DeWalt head looks gigantic in comparison.

Price and Value

Price matters. After all, if you don’t intend to use a tool every day, you may not need to spend as much. All things being equal—if it drives the nail, you can get the job done. With that said, quality matters and so we recommend taking everything into account when trying to understand both the price and value of a particular tool.

The value a tool offers will be different for everyone depending on what you prioritize the most: features, performance, or price. Regardless, it’s the sum of what you get compared to the price you pay that determines the value for you. That’s how we look at things and it really influences our ultimate recommendations.

Why You Can Trust Pro Tool Reviews

Ever check out a “review” site and you can’t tell if they actually tested the tools or if they’re just “recommending” the Amazon top sellers? That’s not us. We won’t recommend anything unless we’d actually use it ourselves and we don’t really care who the primary retailer is. It’s all about giving you a legitimate recommendation and our honest opinion of each product.

We’ve been in business since 2008 covering tools, writing reviews, and reporting on industry news in the construction, automotive, and lawn care industries. Our Pro reviewers work in the trades and have the skills and experience to know whether tools can perform well in the field.

Each year, we bring in and review more than 250 individual products. Our team will put our hands on hundreds of additional tools at media events and trade shows throughout the year.

We consult with innovators in the technology and design of tools to gain a broader grasp of where these products fit and how they work.

We work with more than two dozen professional contractors around the United States who review products for us on real job sites and consult with us on testing methods, categories, and weighting.

The end result is information you can trust because of the editorial, scientific, and real-world professional experience we collectively utilize each and every time we pick up and test a tool.

The post Best Nail Gun for Anyone in 2021 appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

There’s nothing like the accuracy and speed of a metal connector nailer when you’re installing straps and hangers. Paslode has always been a name we’ve turned to for this specialty nailer, but there was some room for improvement on their 1.5-inch model. The F150S-PP Paslode Positive Placement Metal Connector Nailer addresses two of the biggest pain points.

One change makes the switch to a single strip magazine that features a more compact, inline design. Even though it holds fewer nails (29 at a time), it’s able to fit into tighter spaces and there’s some improvement in the balance.

The other big change is on the business end. With a new nose and a crescent-shaped driver blade, you should experience fewer jams. The shape of the driver blade makes it able to strike a larger surface area on each nail and give you more consistent driving results.

If you want the new driver system and still keep the larger capacity, Paslode offers an extended capacity magazine separately.

Additional Features

The other attributes you expect from a Paslode Positive Placement Metal Connector Nailer are still on the F150S-PP:

• Power to drive nails flush even in LVL
• Fast hole-to-hole driving speeds
• Dryfire lockout
• Bypass follower
• Accurate probing tip
• Wide approach angle
• Tool-free adjustable exhaust cap
• Comfort grip
• Lightweight yet strong aluminum housing construction

Paslode 1.5-Inch Positive Placement Metal Connector Nailer Comparison

Final Thoughts

This version of the Paslode Positive Placement Metal Connector Nailer replaces the PF150S-PP that we reviewed way back in 2010. The improvements we’re seeing in driving reliability are certainly welcome and the fact that this is a replacement should help eliminate any confusion with the previous model unless you’re buying on the used/refurbished market.

Plan to pay $369 for this 1 1/2-inch metal connector nailer.

Paslode Positive Placement Metal Connector Nailer Specifications

• Model: Paslode F150S-PP
• Operating Pressure: 90 – 120 PSI
• Nail Range: 1 1/2-inch metal connector nails, 0.131 or 0.148-inch
• Nail Capacity: 29 (single strip)
• Magazine Angle: 30°
• Height: 11.7 inches
• Length: 13 inches
• Width: 3.7 inches
• Weight: 6.25 pounds
• Price: $369
• Warranty: 90 days on wear parts, 6 months on magazine parts, 1 year on housing and caps

The post Paslode Positive Placement Metal Connector Nailer F150S-PP appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel cordless framing nailers (2744-21 and 2745-21) hit store shelves back in June 2020. They put out both 21-degree and 30-degree models that work identically save for the nails used. We only wish it would have been here in time for our best framing nailer shootout.

Pros

• Zero delay, even in bump fire mode
• Sinks nails on every single shot, including when you’re rapid firing in bump mode
• Optional extended magazine holds 2 full sticks of nails
• Depth adjustment knob is conveniently located and easy to adjust
• Worked well in our testing with both paper and wire collated strips
• Fires full head offset and clipped head nails
• Simple electronic switch to change from sequential to bump firing
• Folding rafter hook and separate belt clip included

Cons

• Heavy—11.3 pounds with stock magazine and 5.0Ah battery
• Slightly bulkier than pneumatic framing nailers
• More plastic used in construction and no metal rear strike plate

Milwaukee M18 Fuel Cordless Framing Nailer

First Impressions

We initially got our hands on the Milwaukee battery-powered nailers at NPS 2019 and went to town driving 3-inch nails into laminated engineered lumber. They can fire up to 3 nails per second—which feels close to what we ask of our pneumatic framing nailers.

As fast as we could pull the trigger, it shot nails into our workpiece. There’s absolutely no delay in these nailers. It’s very much like using a pneumatic tool.

Raising the Roof

Once we got our hands on a model we could hang onto longer, we put it to use on a roofing project. We needed to completely replace it down to the plywood and found several areas that needed new wood, too.

With code-approved pattern and fasteners, we need to lay down our plywood with 2 3/8-inch ring shank nails. Initially, the nails were a little proud, but a quick depth adjustment took care of that.

Positioned on top, the metal knurled knob is super-smooth compared to many of the other framing nailers we’ve used. It turns easily from one position to the next and works just as well with or without gloves.

With the size nails and materials we were fastening, we didn’t expect any issues with power or drive consistency. The nailer performed beautifully on this job with zero jams or misfires.

Milwaukee Cordless Framing Nailer Freedom

Our roofing project really highlighted the cordless freedom this nailer offers. Once the bad wood was identified and removed, we were able to quickly get started and move around with no compressor to set up or hose to drag around.

Since the Milwaukee M18 Fuel cordless framing nailer functions completely off the M18 battery platform, you don’t need to use gas cartridges. This results in all-day usability since you can swap out a pack as another one charges. You never have to run to the store to get a cartridge.

We also like the compactness of this nailer. At 14.1 inches across the head, it easily fits between studs for close-quarters nailing. While the extended magazine adds some bulk and length, it’s no worse than a compact pneumatic nailer. Without the hose dragging behind, you can quickly move from one section of studs to another and not worry about getting tangled up.

Milwaukee 2744-21 and 2745-21 Extended Capacity Magazines

Milwaukee added an optional extended capacity magazine to address the need for more nails. No one else does this to our knowledge—most battery-powered nailers use short mags.

It represents a real advantage for these nailers. By swapping out magazines, there’s enough capacity in both the 21-degree and 30-degree models to hold two strips of nails.

The cost for this optional component is $69, but given the ergonomics and the speed with which this tool works, we’d opt for it right out of the gate. On the 21-degree framing nailer, the standard magazine holds up to 45 nails and the 30-degree holds 51.

With the extended magazine, the Milwaukee 2744-21 21° nailer and 2745-21 30° nailer can each hold up to 83 nails—two full strips. This lets you send more nails home before having to reload than any other cordless nailer on the market.

It’s worth noting that the magazines aren’t interchangeable between angles. The driver system is specific to each style. Make sure you buy the one that matches the angle of your nailer.

Battery Life

In terms of battery life, both the Milwaukee 2744-21 and 2745-21 can sink anywhere from 500-700 nails on a single 5.0Ah battery. While that varies based on the size nails you’re using and the material you’re fastening, it’s enough to cycle a couple of batteries and make through your day without interruption.

Weight

There’s no getting around that this is a heavy tool for a framing nailer. With a 5.0Ah battery and stock magazine, it weighed 11.3 pounds on our scale.

It’s something you’re going to notice, especially when you’re nailing overhead. The upside is that the weight is balanced pretty well.

Other Milwaukee Cordless Framing Nailer Field Notes

Power Up and Mode Changes

There’s a separate electronic power button on the back of the tool. You need to hold it down for a second to turn the tool on, so an accidental bump in your truck box isn’t going to power it up.

The mode switch button is just below that. Like the power button, you need to hold it down for a second, keeping accidental presses from changing modes on you.

Toe Nailing

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel cordless framing nailer is a decent toe nailer. It fits between studs easily and getting an angle for the shot is easy enough. There’s pretty solid visibility around the nose as well.

The nose spurs aren’t very aggressive, though. That tends to let the nose slip from time to time.

Jam Clearance

If you get a jam, there’s enough access to get a pair of needle-nose pliers around the offending nail. If you still can’t quite get it, the Allen wrench stores conveniently along the right side of the nailer to remove the magazine.

Belt and Rafter Hooks

Milwaukee included a nice treat in that there are both belt and rafter hooks that come with the nailer. The belt hook may be hit or miss depending on how you use it. It recesses slightly from the magazine and we ended up using the rafter hook much more frequently.

The rafter hook is large and stout in construction, easily hanging from a joist or ladder rung. It swings out of the way when you don’t need it.

Both hooks are removable if you find you don’t want them.

LED Light

Both the Milwaukee 2744-21 and 2745-21 cordless framing nailers feature an integrated LED light positioned on the bottom which illuminates where you’re hitting. That’s not something you get with a pneumatic nailer and we don’t expect it to be a make-or-break feature, but it’s nice to have, especially on remodeling jobs.

Additional Features

• Rubber bumpers protect the tool when you set (toss) it down.
• Dry fire lockout
• No-mar tip included

Pricing

No matter which nailer angle you prefer, expect to pay $349 for the bare tool. You can also get the Milwaukee M18 Fuel cordless framing nailer for $449 as a kit with a 5.0Ah battery and charger.

The Bottom Line

Because there are no issues with driving power and nailing speed, the only question is how often you want to reach for your Milwaukee cordless framing nailer. Its weight is its major limitation and we know there are some contractors out there making the adjustment to use it as a primary framing nailer.

From our perspective, it does its best work for remodeling contractors, repair, and punch list jobs. When you’re stopping by for a quick job or moving around a lot, the lack of a compressor and hose saves time and really frees you up while you work.

Milwaukee Cordless Framing Nailer Specifications

Milwaukee 2744-21 21° Framing Nailer

• Model: 2744-21 (kit), 2744-20 (tool-only)
• Nail sizes: 2 in. – 3-1/2 in.
• Nail diameter: 0.113 in. – 0.148 in.
• Magazine capacity: 45 nails
• 700 nails per charge on a RedLithium XC5.0 battery
• Sequential and contact actuation modes
• Dry-fire lockout, belt hook, rafter hook, & LED work light
• Kit includes: M18 FUEL 21° framing nailer, M18 RedLithium XC5.0 battery pack, charger, and carrying case
• Price: $349 (tool-only), $449 (kit)

M18 FUEL 21° Framing Nailer Extended Magazine

• Model: 48-08-2744
• Magazine capacity: 83 nails
• Nail sizes: 2 in. – 3-1/2 in.
• Nail diameter: 0.113 in. – 0.148 in.
• Price: $69

Milwaukee 2745-21 30° Framing Nailer

• Model: 2745-21 (kit), 2745-20 (tool-only)
• Nail sizes: 2 in. – 3-1/2 in.
• Nail diameter: 0.113 in. – 0.131 in.
• Magazine capacity: 51 nails
• 700 nails per charge on a RedLithium XC5.0 battery
• Sequential and Contact Actuation Modes
• Dry-fire lockout, belt hook, rafter hook, & LED work light
• Kit includes: M18 FUEL 30° framing nailer, M18 RedLithium XC5.0 battery pack, charger, and carrying case
• Price: $349 (tool-only), $449 (kit)

M18 FUEL 30° Framing Nailer Extended Magazine

• Model: 48-08-2745
• Magazine capacity: 105 nails
• Nail sizes: 2 in. – 3-1/2 in.
• Nail diameter: 0.113 in. – 0.131 in.
• Price: $69

The post Milwaukee M18 Fuel Cordless Framing Nailer Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

The Metabo HPT 3-1/2 inch Coil Nailer is the former, reliable-as-the-day-is-long Hitachi NV90AG(S) with a redesigned head guard. It’s technically a new tool but we’ve actually been using the Hitachi-branded model for years. We’ve been framing up a storm on a recent house remodel: new floor joists, walls, sheathing—you name it. It gave us the perfect opportunity to review the rebranded Metabo HPT NV90AG(S) coil framing nailer.

Pros

• Reliable Hitachi NV90AG(S) pedigree
• A lean 7.7 pounds
• Holds up to 300 nails in side-load, tilt-bottom magazine for fewer reloads
• Redesigned head guard for faster tool maintenance disassembly
• Fast recoil
• More compact than a stick nailer so it fits in tighter spaces
• Comfortable rubber grip

Cons

• In our experience, the NV90AG(S) firing pin hasn’t held up too long with case-hardened nails

Performance

Frame of Mind

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, right? That’s the tack taken with the new Metabo HPT 3-1/2 inch Coil Nailer. All indications are that it was a good strategy because this is still an excellent framer. We tried to poke holes in it as we worked on a complete remodel and we couldn’t really do it.

First, the aluminum body is super light. The tool weighs just 7.7 pounds before you load the magazine. That’s light enough to use accurately with your non-dominant hand if you’re in an awkward framing position. That happens more often than you might think.

Our crew has always generally preferred coil nailers to stick nailers (you’ll see we have a couple of older generations of this very nailer in the photos). The Metabo HPT 3-1/2 inch Coil Nailer demonstrates all the reasons why. First, it holds a lot more nails—up to 300 in its side-load, tilt-bottom magazine. Fewer reloads save time. Second, the design is more compact, letting the tool fit into tighter spaces.

According to Coil

The good stuff doesn’t end there. The NV90AG(S) has a fast recoil so you can keep a quick pace. That’s especially helpful in bump fire mode (easily toggled on and off with a switch). We never could outrun it while we had it in bump-fire. Speaking of outrunning the nailer, it lacks a dry-fire lockout feature. That means when it runs out, the air mechanism will continue firing “blanks”. Seasoned framers will recognize the change in pitch, but we do like this feature and expect it on newer nailers.

We like the ridged and bumpy rubber grip. It’s comfortable and solid. I know, it sounds like an obligatory the grip is comfortable comment. But really, several of us noticed that it was a really good grip.

The Hook Brings You Back

We’ve used the Metabo HPT 3-1/2 inch Coil Nailer’s Hitachi predecessors with case-hardened nails from time-to-time for furring. In this application, we found the firing pins wear out pretty quickly. We didn’t get to use it in this manner enough to judge this nailer’s pin—but just keep it in mind. On the upside, easy tool access allows for easier maintenance. That means installing a replacement or stronger firing pin won’t be a problem.

All told, the NV90AG(S) is about as good as it gets—but we’d love a rafter hook, man! We’ve even gone so far as to fashion our own on previous Hitachi NV90AG(S) coil framers.

Metabo HPT NV90AG(S) Coil Framing Nailer Price

Here are few 3-1/2-inch coil framers for price comparison.

• Metabo HPT NV90AG(S): $239.00
• Stanley Bostitch N89C-1: $259.99
• Everwin FCN90: $295
• Senco SCN65: $443.26
• Makita AN902: $504.75

The Bottom Line

With reliable performance, a comfortable feel, and a price better than nearly all of its best competitors, the Metabo HPT 3-1/2 inch Coil Nailer still sets the standard on our job sites. It remains to be seen if the firing pin can handle case-hardened nails for furring strips. We’d also love to see a rafter hook and dry-fire lockout feature. Even so, the new and improved Metabo HPT NV90AG(S) coil framer is our starter on each job.

Metabo HPT 3-1/2 inch Coil Nailer Specifications

• Model: NV90AG(S)
• Fastener type: Wire Coil
• Magazine angle (+/- 1º): 16 degree
• Fastener length: 1-3/4–3-1/2 in.
• Fastener diameter: .099 – .131 in.
• Magazine capacity (.131): 200-300 nails
• Side magazine loading
• Operating pressure 70-120 PSI
• Air consumption @ 100 PSI .09 scfm
• Tool-less depth adjustment
• Actuation Selective
• Jam Clearing Open Nose
• Rubber Grip
• Dimensions: 13-1/4 x 5-15/16 x 13-1/16 in.
• Weight 7.7 lbs
• Warranty 5-year
• Price: $239.00

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The post Metabo HPT 3-1/2 Inch Coil Nailer Review – NV90AG(S) appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

The light and compact Everwin Joist Hanger Nailer fits in tighter spaces than its competitors and improves upon manual metal framing hardware installation by a long shot. We’re using it to construct a porch over a home’s front door by tying into the existing roof – let’s show you how it works.

Pros

• Notably light at 4.4 pounds
• Compact design fits between 12-inch on-center joists
• Anti-nail back up pawl and sequential trigger lock for safety
• Comfortable grip and easy maneuverability

Cons

• No significant downsides

Performance

Ties That Bind

You already know it’s not easy for a nailer to differentiate itself. Is it relatively light and jam-free? Is the firing pin durable? Then we can work with it.

Fortunately, the Everwin Joist Hanger Nailer gives us noteworthy features to talk about just like the company’s recent coil framer did. First, the tool’s purpose requires a somewhat unusual nailer design. Second, Everwin has again made a remarkably compact and light nailer without compromising power.

A joist hanger nailer is particularly useful to us since we do our work in Hurricane Alley. It’s handy for all sorts of metal framing hardware—joist hangers, metal strapping, rafter tie connectors, foundation caps. This nailer works well for all these applications.

The tip of the nail protrudes enough to make it easy to position it in the hole. Additionally, the patented safety nose only allows the nailer to fire when the nail tip is depressed. Contrast this to the Paslode positive placement nailer or the DeWalt cordless strap nailer—both of which use a dedicated mechanism to find the hole.

Using the Everwin Positive Placement Nailer

This Everwin positive placement nailer got a workout strapping 2×4 supports to 2×6 framing for a small porch overhang. We enhanced an entranceway to provide some cover for a front door. Aside from strapping the lumber together, we also strapped the new roof joists directly to the home’s existing supporting structure per code. The Everwin joist hanger nailer made the process go very quickly.

We particularly liked the Everwin joist hanger nailer’s Anti Nail Back Up Pawl which dampens the tool’s recoil. The nose of regular nailers rests on the material. However, since a joist hanger nailer rests on the nail’s tip, the nose travels toward the material during firing and wants to bounce back up after the drive. The pawl curtails that bounce a bit.

At just 4.4 pounds and 10.8 inches tall, this nailer can easily out-maneuver its peers. And since nailing metal framing hardware requires firing from tight spaces and awkward angles, this nailer feels really nimble. Other features we appreciate include a low nail lockout, sequential trigger lock, and rotating exhaust. It also has a nice, comfortable grip.

Price

Here’s a look at where the Everwin’s price falls among its competitors.

• Bostitch MCN-150: $188.50
• Metabo HPT NR38AK: $201.80
• Everwin Joist Hanger Nailer MCN40: $249
• Senco 6K0001N: $262

The Bottom Line

We know a lot of framers will simply use the “squint” method and fire nails into straps using a framer. The Everwin joist hanger nailer provides a better and safer way to get the job done.

Notably, the Everwin nailer’s lightweight and compact form make it an excellent tool for metal framing hardware installation. We didn’t experience any jams and appreciate the safety nose, kickback pawl, low nail lockout, and other premium features. You’ll notice its nimble performance from the first nail—and your work will benefit!

Everwin Joist Hanger Nailer Specifications

• Model Number: MCN40
• Dimensions (HxWxL): 10.8 x 3.6 x 11.7 in. (275 x 92 x 298 mm)
• Weight: 4.4 lbs. (2.0 kg)
• Recommended Operating Pressure: 70 to 120 PSI (5 to 8 bar)
• Air Consumption: 3.8 cfm (1.8 liter/sec) at 90 PSI (6 bar) press.
• Price: $249 (Exclusively through Nail Gun Depot)

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The post Everwin Joist Hanger Nailer appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

We used the new Makita AN924 Framing Nailer on several jobs over a period of several weeks including a complete home remodel. The work required the construction and modification of more than a few stud walls. Having used a Hitachi NR90AE nailer for over a decade, the Makita AN924 held its own as a powerful framer that includes all the bells and whistles. It also keeps its weight in check—and a light nailer makes the day go more smoothly.

PROS

• Drives nails consistently
• Nose spurs grab onto studs
• High capacity, top-load aluminum magazine
• Simple switch for single or bump actuation
• Dry-fire lockout
• Lightweight

CONS

• No significant drawbacks

Recommendation

Every feature of the AN924 is focused on efficiency. You get lots of power, aggressive spurs for control when toenailing, and a top-loading magazine that holds a lot of nails. The former model, the AN923 loaded from the rear. A selector switch near your thumb makes for easy switching in and out of bump-fire. You can find slightly lighter pneumatic nailers and heavier cordless framers, but Makita has put together an impressive package at a great price.

Performance

Magazine

Our crews haven’t strayed far from pneumatic framers due in part to habit but also to the cordless models’ extra couple of pounds. If a gun is reliable and reasonably light, we use it. The Makita AN924 framing nailer proved to be both of those things. But it sweetened the deal with its excellent aluminum magazine. The maximum 21º plastic collated nail capacity of 73 is on the high end of the range—two full sticks as you’d expect. It gets bested by its predecessor the AN923 at 74 and the Paslode F350-S which holds 84.

We like having fewer reloads, and the top-loading design makes it as easy and quick as could be. This was one of our favorite features.

Driving Home

This Makita framer hits nails hard. That power paired with nose’s aggressive spurs meant that nails go where I want them to go. Although some Pros might not consider precision critical in framing, it does enhance your speed.

All that power generates a burst of exhaust, of course, which exits through the top of the tool’s body. There’s no exhaust adjustment, which I don’t consider a big deal on a framing nailer.

All The Extras

The hook is reversible and adjustable. You can set it to either of two widths. I liked this option as the narrower works for your tool belt while the wider handles the hole in the top of your ladder or a wide beam.

An easy switch toggles between single and bump-fire. You also get a tool-free depth-of-drive adjustment that works well—though I rarely needed to adjust it. A dry-fire lockout mode lets you know you need more nails. I would expect all nailers to have this by now—but they don’t. Finally, the rubberized Makita logos on both sides function as protective bumpers. The whole package includes oil and a 1/4-inch NPT air fitting, so you don’t have to make that unpleasant trip back to the store.

Price

The 8.3-pound Makita AN924 framing nailer with 3-year warranty will set you back $229. That seems quite competitive in the field (which you can check out in our recent framing nailer shootout. However, the Hitachi NR90AE(S1) (now Metabo HPT) with 5-year warranty is quite a bit less expensive at $179 and weighs just 7.28 pounds. The well-reviewed and lighter weight Milwaukee 7200-20 also matches the price and includes a 5-year warranty.

The Bottom Line

The Makita AN924 nailer is an excellent tool with solid value. Although its 3-year warranty is a couple of years shy of its closest competitors, it otherwise keeps pace with the field’s top-performers. It also drops almost a pound off the weight of its predecessor, which otherwise did very well in our recent shootout.

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Makita AN924 Framing Nailer Specifications

• Power Type: Pneumatic
• Operating air pressure: 70 – 120 PSI
• Minimum recommended air delivery: 6.2 SCFM @ 90 PSI
• Nail size: 2 to 3-1/2 in., 0.113 to 0.148 in. shank diameter plastic collated
• Maximum magazine capacity: 73
• Dimensions (LxWxH): 22 x 4-5/8 x 13-3/4 in.
• Weight: 8.3 lbs.
• Price: $202.49

The post Makita AN924 Framing Nailer appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Finding the best framing nailer for your work means different things to different Pros. Are you a framer or a remodeler? Is price the biggest issue, or is it driving power, weight, or recoil? No matter what your priorities, chances are our Pro team has considered it in this head-to-head review.

Of course, we put our heads together to take this comprehensive list and rank each model at the end. As a bonus, we brought in 4 models that don’t require a hose. Buckle your seatbelt – here we go!

Best Framing Nailer Starting List

While we invited more brands to participate, here are the models that came in for testing:

• Bostitch F21PL2
• DeWalt DWF83PL
• Estwing EFR2190
• Metabo HPT NR83A5
• Metabo HPT NR90AE(S1)
• Makita AN923
• Milwaukee 7200-20
• Paslode F350-S
• Ridgid R350RHF
• Senco 325FRHXP
• Bostitch 20V Max BCF30PTM1
• DeWalt 20V Max DCN692M1
• Metabo HPT 18V NR1890DR
• Paslode Cordless XP CF325XP

Features that Matter

There are features, but some make a bigger impact than others. Here’s what our team looks for and which models have them.

Rafter Hook

This one is a pretty obvious inclusion and it shows. Every model we tested except the Metabo HPT NR90AE(S1) includes a rafter hook. Some are better than others, but most are pretty standard. The Metabo HPT 18V hook is big enough to straddle a 4 x4 – and get in the way. The Metabo HPT NR83A5 doesn’t swivel while Estwing’s swings freely.

Metal Magazine

Plastic magazines tend to work more sluggishly than the crisp action of a good metal magazine. All of our pneumatic framing nailers have metal magazines and all of the cordless models have plastic.

Adjustable Exhaust

As the nailer fires, exhaust has to go somewhere. Most Pros prefer to turn the exhaust port away from their faces to avoid have that quick blast of air deliver a small particle into their eyes.

Who Has it

• Bostitch
• Milwaukee

Who Doesn’t

• DeWalt
• Estwing
• Metabo HPT NR83
• Metabo HPT NR90
• Makita
• Paslode
• Ridgid
• Senco
• Bostitch 20V Max
• DeWalt 20V Max
• Metabo HPT 18V
• Paslode Cordless XP

Tool-Free Mode Change

In the best case scenario, you flip a switch to change between single fire and bump fire modes. Some of our nailers make it that easy. Some have a two-step process for safety reasons, but a couple require a complete trigger change – something our team hates.

Who Has It

• DeWalt (2-stage flipper switch)
• Estwing (2-stage flipper switch)
• Metabo HPT NR83 (on-trigger slide mechanism)
• Metabo HPT NR90 (1-stage flipper switch)
• Makita (1-stage flipper switch)
• Milwaukee (2-stage flipper switch)
• Ridgid (1-stage flipper switch)
• Senco (slide mechansim above the trigger)
• Bostitch 20V Max (1-stage switch)
• DeWalt 20V Max (1-stage switch)
• Metabo HPT 18V (electronic button)

Who Doesn’t

• Bostitch (trigger change needed)
• Paslode (trigger change needed)

* The Paslode Cordless XP model only has single fire mode

Dry Fire Lockout

Dry fire lockout helps prevent damage to the driver blade and reminds you to add more nails before you a run a line without nailing anything. In an ideal world, lockout would happen once the last nail is fired, but even the best framing nailer leaves a few in the magazine.

Who Has It

• Estwing (4 nails remaining)
• Makita (4 nails remaining)
• Milwaukee (5 nails remaining)
• Ridgid (5 nails remaining)
• Bostitch 20V Max (9 nails remaining)
• DeWalt 20V Max (9 nails remaining)
• Metabo HPT 18V (5 nails remaining)
• Paslode Gas (5 nails remaining)

Who Doesn’t

• Bostitch
• Dewalt
• Metabo HPT (Hitachi) NR83
• Metabo HPT NR90
• Paslode
• Senco

Cordless/Hoseless

Not having a hose to drag around is a huge advantage for cordless/hoseless nailers. There are some trade-offs like weight and capacity, but they’re worth making for remodelers and punch list work.

• Bostitch 20V Max
• DeWalt 20V Max
• Metabo HPT 18V
• Paslode Cordless XP (battery + fuel cell)

Next Up: Diving Deeper

The post Best Framing Nailer Reviews and Head-to-Head Results 2021 appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

I’ve been building for years, but I’ve never used a Fasco product. Until now, I’ve been content with my reliable Hitachi nailer to help me frame out the bones of one structure after the next. Well, today I’ve got my hands on the newest Fasco Framing Nailer and Scrailer.

Fasco, originally an Italian company known for their innovative fastening solutions, gives their F58A RHN20-90C SCR the ability to use traditional 21° strip nails or the brand’s proprietary Scrails, a half screw, half nail. While I hope to have a project that will put the Scrails to the test in the near future, I’ll be sticking with good ol’ tried-and-true nails for this review.

Pros

• Easy jam clearance
• Non-traditional, but easy tool-free mode change
• Good value starting at $199
• Fires nails and Scrails
• Performance keeps up with other quality framing nailers
• Good ergonomics

Cons

• No major drawbacks

Feature Set

• Compatible with 20° or 17° Plastic Strip Nails and 20° Plastic Strip Scrail or 20° BeckDeck double threaded Scrail
• New jam clearing system: total release of the complete magazine
• Plastic protection against wood chips and splinters
• Patented sequential fire/bump fire device
• Nose-mounted depth adjustment
• Dry fire lockout

Performance

Now, I love my Hitachi nailers, and I’ll admit that I wasn’t inclined to just let the Fasco Framing Nailer and Scrailer replace it. I’m sure a lot of guys feel the same way. But this Fasco framing nailer has won me over, and there are some good reasons why.

My church recently purchased a sanctuary and offices from another congregation. This space will be a real blessing for us, but to meet our congregation’s particular needs, we needed to rebuild it. Using only the existing floor and walls, we’ve had to start from near-scratch with it. Our vision for the sanctuary calls for platforms and partitions galore, and so I used the Fasco framing nailer to help me get the job done.

Ergonomics

The handle includes an appropriate amount of contouring, and the rubber overmolding on the handle helps the gun to feel comfortable and secure to hold onto.

It weighs about the same as my other guns, and working for an extended amount of time didn’t seem to cause any undue fatigue. As a matter of fact, Fasco claims that this gun is 12% lighter and an inch and a half shorter than their previous model.

Since this is the first Fasco product I’ve ever held onto, I have no point of comparison. But it weighs in at 7.84 lbs, which is comparable to my Hitachi.

How does it fire? Does it feed smoothly, or does it jam up?

I didn’t expect the Fasco Framing Nailer and Scrailer to feel as good as it does, or for it to operate as easily as it does. It did jam a few times throughout the job, but clearing the jam with the magazine release is quicker and easier than some of the competitors out there.

Mode Changes & Plastic Guards

Like all Pro-level framers, this Fasco Framing Nailer and Scrailer includes both single fire and bump fire modes. Fasco has an interesting mechanism that’s completely new to me. Instead of switching triggers (I hate that) or a push in and turn switch, this uses a pin that you flip in for bump fire and out for single. It’s red so it stands out against the black and silver materials and really is easy to use.

Pro Tip: To switch modes, you need to press the trigger in. Be sure you’re not connected to an air supply when you flip it.

I used bump fire most of the time. Every so often, the gun double-shot, but I think that has more to do with late-day mental errors than having a problem with the gun.

Sometimes the double-shot nail fires off at an angle and sticks in the plastic guard near the nose. These plastic guards prevent collation material from flying around, but I think most of us find them more problematic than helpful. Personally, I take the guard off to start with and stick with safety glasses.

I really like the metal guard/bumpers on each side of the nailer’s head. Nailers, and any tools on the jobsite, inevitably get beat up no matter how careful you are. These guards offer an extra layer of protection against the bumps and drops that can happen.

Additionally, the Fasco Framing Nailer and Scrailer features all-metal internal parts to help improve the overall durability.

As far as criticisms go, I actually don’t have many. Aside from those occasional jams, I did hear a little air leak out of the exhaust at one point. After oiling it up, it seated better and didn’t present any more issues.

Price & Value

Pneumatic and cordless framing nailers range in price from about $199 to $399. Although the Fasco didn’t participate, you can see a large cross-section of available nailers in our recent shootout. The Fasco comes in at the low end of the range: $199 without a hook and $209 with a hook.

The Bottom Line

After starting off being skeptical that I’d ever pick up the Fasco over my Hitachi, I’m actually considering it. I don’t think I could ever completely give up on my go-to nailer, but if I ever come across a project that calls for the Scrails I haven’t had the chance to use yet, I certainly won’t complain!

Fasco Framing Nailer and Scrailer Specifications

• Model Number: F58A RHN20-90C SCR
• Height: 14.49 inches
• Width: 5.39 inches
• Length: 21.2 inches
• Weight: 7.84 pounds
• Pressure: 70-120 PSI
• Air Consumption: 0.06 SCF @ 90 PSI
• Actuation: Single and Bump
• Magazine:
  • Loading: Top
  • Capacity: 62 nails or Scrails
  • 20° Plastic Strip Scrail (fine and coarse threads)
    20° BeckDeck double threaded Scrail
  • 17° + 20° Plastic Strip Nails
• Vibration: 3.98 m/s2
• Price:
  • $199 without hook
  • $209 with hook

The post Fasco Framing Nailer and Scrailer F58A RHN20-90C SCR Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

When framing or roofing, it helps to have the right tools for the job. But how do we settle on that “right” tool? With so many varieties on the market, we can struggle to figure out which model suits our needs best. We recently got a hold of both pneumatic and cordless models from a variety of industry-leading manufacturers and put them up against each other in a head to head Framing Nailer Shootout. After looking at build quality, feature sets, firing accuracy, strength, and more, we sorted out the pros and cons of each. Today, we’re looking closer at the F21PL2 Bostitch framing nailer.

Bostich actually had two models show up for our shootout testing. One was the battery-powered BCF30PT, and the other fell into the pneumatic category, the F21PL2. The pneumatic Bostitch framing nailer finished in an overall 5th-place position for our shootout, edging out models from Makita and Paslode. Let’s look at both what the F21PL2 gets right and what can use some improvement.

Pros

• Outstanding driving strength
• Excellent nailing performance
• Excellent value rating

Cons

• No dry fire lockout
• Mode change requires trigger change
• Fairly heavy at 8.8 pounds

Feature Set

Standard Features

• Rafter Hook
• Metal Magazine
• Tool-Free Jam Clearance

Adjustable Exhaust

A lot of the models we tested opt for including a metal back cap, but only a few allow the user to adjust the direction of the exhaust port. We appreciate seeing this feature when it crops up; it’s nice to be able to keep the exhaust from blasting us in the face if we’re nailing from an awkward position.

Depth Adjustment

Every model we tested includes a depth adjustment, but Bostitch takes an unorthodox approach to this feature.  Rather than using a dial to adjust the depth of fire, there’s a button up near the nose. You push that button in, pull the nose out to set the depth, and releases the button. It is easy to adjust, but when you’ve got to place your hand near the muzzle, you’re introducing some safety concerns.

Other Features Bostitch Wants You To Know About

• Lightweight magnesium design
• 16″ layout indicator on magazine helps achieve correct distance between studs in a matter of seconds
• Best in class power-to-weight ratio (1,050 in/lbs)
• Recommended tool for use with HurriQuake disaster-resistant nails

Missing Features

• Dry Fire Lockout
• Included air inlet; 1/4″ air inlet is smaller than most and needs to be purchased separately
• Tool-free mode change; you’ll need change triggers to switch between single fire and bump fire modes

Ergonomics

The Bostich framing nailer didn’t have the strongest showing in this category either. It isn’t necessarily super uncomfortable to use, as the grip and balance of the tool are pretty decent. But the F21PL2 is a little heavy at 8.8 lbs, even with its magnesium build. It also has head dimensions that make nailing in tight spaces more challenging than some of the other nailers in out test.

Performance

This category starts to make up for the mediocre feature set and adequate-but-ultimately-uninspired ergonomics. Between power, recoil control, toenailing, and visibility, the nailer shows its muscle for the harder applications.

Firing Strength

The Bostitch framing nailer can tackle nails between 2″ – 3-1/2″. We set our compressor to 100 PSI and fired off 10 rounds into 5 sheets of stacked and glued plywood. Granted, that’s not as tough as LVL, but it helps show us the differences in firing strength between the nailers. It sunk all 10 nails flush, and it was only one of three models we looked at that accomplished this feat. It received a perfect score from this test.

We also considered how efficiently it uses air in case you’re using a compressor that’s a little underpowered. Bostitch ties for the top here, needing just 80 PSI to sink a 3-1/4″ nail into untreated pine.

Recoil

We like the recoil control on the F21PL2. It scored 90 points in our performance testing. While it ultimately doesn’t seem like recoil mitigation for this kind of tool is all that important, it is nice to have a nailer that won’t fatigue you with its constant kick.

Toenailing & Visibility

Bostitch performed well in our toenailing tests as well. We attribute this to its nose design, which not only allows for great visibility of the work surface, but also has the excellent barbs to grip into the wood at awkward angles. It scored 95 points in the toenailing testing.

Price and Value

The Bostitch framing nailer comes with a pretty outstanding 7-year limited warranty, which is a fair deal longer than even the best warranties on the market. If that doesn’t sweeten the deal enough for you, then hear this: the F21PL2 retails at just under $200, making it also one of the less expensive options available.

The Bottom Line

We like the power and performance we saw from the Bostitch framing nailer, but its sub-par feature set and mediocre ergonomic scores hold it back from finishing higher than it did. It puts its best foot forward on the performance side where it counts the most. Ultimately, that’s what gets the job done and earns our recommendation.

Bostitch Framing Nailer Specs

• Model: Bostitch F21PL2
• Power Source: Compressed air
• Nail Length Range: 2″ – 3 1/2″
• Nail Size: .113″ to .131″
• Magazine Angle: 21°
• Magazine Capacity: 60
• Dry Fire Lockout: No
• Operating Pressure: 80 -120 psi
• Selectable Trigger: No, trigger switch required
• Exhaust: Adjustable
• Weight: 8.8 lbs.
• Length: 20-1/4″
• Width: 4-3/8″
• Height: 14-1/4″Warranty: 7 years limited
• Price: $230

The post Bostitch Framing Nailer Review – F21PL2 appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.