I’ve got an 18 gauge finish nailer and I’m in the process of buying either a 16 of 15 gauge. On an upcoming project I will be installing oak doors with 3 1/2 inch casing, oak jambs. There are many jobs where I use fingerjoint pine or MDF. Again, what is the way to go -15 gauge or 16 gauge?
Edited 3/2/2003 5:22:53 PM ET by GaryD
Replies
I do lots of finishing work and I and everyone else I know uses a 16 guage .Fasteners are available just about everywhere.My Porter Cable will shoot from 3/4 to 2 1/2 " nails.
I have had many different nailers. I have ended up just using my 18g on all projects. Smaller nail holes to fill. And on Oak if it is to be stained then it makes a huge difference.
I have gotten tired of hauling my compressor and hose and gun for smaller type jobs. I just bought the new Senco Air Free 18g nailer. Works just the same as my other 18g nailers but without the hoses and weight of hauling a compressor. Same principal as a cordless drill. Comes with 2 rechargeable batteries
What lenght of nails will the senco shoot.
The Senco nailer will shoot from 5/8" to 2 1/8" 18 g nails
I have been usiung it the fast few days and enjoying every minute.
No hoses to drag around and get caught up in the way of other things and no cvompressor to haul in from the truck
Such convenience
If you anticipate doing much oak, you will be more happy with the 15, IMO. Nothing wwrong with the 16, but you only have to remove one or two folded up nails from oak before you begin to regret it.
Excellence is its own reward!
i carry both a Paslode 15g and a PC 18g finish nailer. the 15g will blow through and split alot of thin stuff, and it's not that hard to change the gun when you need to change nails.