A carpenter working alone can hold a header, blocking or similar framing member in place for final nailing with a few bent nails. I use 8d nails, driven about a third of their length into the top edge of the work and then bent 90°. These ears will support the piece until the first nail is set.
—Craig Savage, Hope, ID
Edited and Illustrated by Charles Miller
From Fine Homebuilding #7
Fine Homebuilding Recommended Products
Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Guardian Fall Protection Pee Vee
This tool is a gem! You can use it to align plates with your snapped lines, and it’s especially helpful when working alone.
11" Nail Puller
Pulling nails is a part of framing, so this tool is always on our belts — the cats paw makes the job easy, plus the company donates to veterans.
Bluetooth Earmuffs
We appreciate the fit and comfort of these earmuffs, plus the Bluetooth capabilities allow you to field calls or listen to your favorite podcast while working.
View Comments
I prefer to use a hand trigger clamps. How old is this tip anyway?
This originally appeared in issue #7, the February/March issue in 1982. I guess they aren't getting enough good tips these days so they are dredging up old, and sometimes obsolete, ones. This tip is only 36 years old.
wow. otherwise you'd have 2 guys on a single blocking member? what is this a church? imagine double 12d's sunk together, twisted and bent with your claw and you're hanging floor joists - routine stuff. Just don't hang out under it .