choosing the right general purpose framing/sheathing nailer

[scott johnson]

I am new to air nailers but need to purchase one ASAP. I am adding a second story to my house and need a nailer that is good general purpose for framing and structural sheathing - something that has a depth adjustment so it will not damage the surface of the sheathing. I am also definitely interested in nails that will meet codes.

[bkrahmer]

I love my Senco 702XP. Porter Cable and Bostitch also make good guns, from what I hear. I can't say whether it meets code or not, but I used 3" nails for my exterior framing, 2.5" for interior partitions, and I used 2 3/8" galvanized ring-shank for my sheathing. Good luck. Where are you renovating?

[scott johnson]

I am renovating a 1928 Bungalow in Sacramento, CA.

[Vector]

You may or may not have to use a full-head nailer. I have no idea what they require around Sacto, you'll have to check with your local authorities.

[woodall83]

What's the difference between full-head and clipped-head? Besides codes, are there any advantages/disadvantages to either?

[Vector]

Full head is going to have a little more holding power, especially on thin materials (like siding).

The full head nailers are usually 22* collated, and hold a few less naiuls in a clip (or the clips are bigger). Depending on where you live, selection of 22* nails may be limited. They're probably also plastic collated, and the bits of plastic can fly and apparantly really sting (or potentially do eye damage if you're not using eye protection).

You can also get full-head wire-collated-coil framing nailers. These are nice if you're going to be using the exact same size nail for a long time.

I use a ~30* P-C clipped head framing nailer now, used to have a full-head coil. I like the P-C better expect for the frequent reloading.

[scott johnson]

Sacramento only allows full head - no clipped D.
I am thinking about a Paslode 900420 (Cordless).
Does any one have experience with this product.?It shoots 2" to 3.25" nails and fits between studs. :D