Replies

1. 
   ProDek | Feb 07, 2003 11:43pm | #1

   I'm not familiar with Impulse.

   We frame with Hitachi and deck with Bostich N64C coil nailer with a trigger block so you can't double fire. We shoot 2 1/2" Hot dipped galvanized ringshank nails.

   Bob

   "Rather be a hammer than a nail"

   

1. 
   Matty_C | Feb 08, 2003 01:18am | #2

   Bob,

   Obviously, using a nail gun is faster than driving screws, but do the nails (even ringshanks) hold as well as screws?  Also, is a trigger block the same as "sequential fire"?

   I have avoided using nailers for decking because I was told that the screws hold better.  I usually use 2-1/2" sq. drive decking screws or torx screws.  But if a deck builder such as yourself is using guns, then I'll be picking up some ringshanks for my next deck job!!

   Thanks.MattyLittle Sawhhorse Construction, LLC  -- Building, Remodeling, and Repairs.  Bayfield, WI

1. 
   patrickofm | Feb 08, 2003 02:42am | #3

   Make sure you have a line on the hot dipped galvanized, Last summer I ended up using screws on one job 'cause no one had them.  Also, I tried the Impulse on a job last summer, can,t say it's as tough as an air nailer, and it's kinda loud.

1. 
   carlsperry | Feb 08, 2003 04:57am | #6

   ABC Supply sells coil gun nails.  regular, EG and stainless.  McFeely square drive screws sell them too.  I have a Hitachi and it works great.  We only use stainless or EG nails.  I like the wire coallated ones better than the plastic. 

   I also have a paslode impulse gun.  It will not do production work!  It is for punch out stuff. 

1. 
   Piffin | Feb 08, 2003 06:19am | #7

   I've had two Impulse framers. They are inadequate for decking with PT lumber. I would only use nails for an economy deck..

   Excellence is its own reward!

2. 
   ProDek | Feb 08, 2003 03:24am | #4

   Matty- Ring shanks do hold as good as screws. The "Steelhead" hot dipped gavanized nails we use are 2 1/2" and if we have to pull a board that cracks or splits after we put it down, it is a real PITA.

   The trigger block eliminates doublefires. You can't just hold the trigger down and press the gun to the wood to fire. You have to press it down then pull the trigger. Bob

   "Rather be a hammer than a nail"

1. 
   JMartindal1 | Feb 12, 2003 05:19am | #10

   I disagree...cant count the number of decks i have seen w/ ring shanks, and spiral nails that have pulled out as early as 2 years...I think the problem is nailing into green joists, when the wood dries, the nail loosens (like my hammer handle) and the nail pulls. I have never seen a screw pull out after 5 yrs.

1. 
   Piffin | Feb 12, 2003 05:39am | #11

   People still build with green lumber?.

   Excellence is its own reward!

2. 
   JMartindal1 | Feb 12, 2003 03:43pm | #12

   Here if u buy PT... i have had it throw water in my face when cutting. Unless u work w/ KDAPT....that is dry, but no body wants to pay the $$$.

3. 
   briank | Feb 08, 2003 03:48am | #5

     The Impulse gun has a hard time shooting the 3 1/4" ring-shanked nails--will leave them a little proud sometimes when shooting into treated wood.  Also,  I haven't seen any nail that won't work itself out eventually--screws are definitely better for a quality job.  If you just want speed, use the nail guns.  Of course, nails are the way to go for the framing aspect of your deck.

2. 
   dustmonkee | Feb 11, 2003 08:46pm | #8

   Guys, thanks for your responses - this helps a lot.  Guess I'll just stick to 10d galv ringshanks driven by a Vaughan 19oz.  Now if the frost would ease up around here.......

   Regards

1. 
   CAGIV | Feb 12, 2003 04:50am | #9

   Watch out, start talking hammers to pro-dek and you better have a comfy seat and sometime on your hands :)View Image