I’ve used both, but been a Paslode guy for years, as it’s been perfectly suitable for most of my work. It’s probably a ‘duh’ answer, but I’m wondering what the ups and downs are between coil and stick framers, and why stick nailers are predominant.
More fasteners in a coil, smaller gun to get in tight spots… easier to find stick nails… give me the low-down.
And while I’m at it… After driving pounds and pounds of 10d and 16d sinkers with my palm nailer for metal straps the past couple days, is there any other option for these tasks? I believe positive placement guns only go up to 2.5 inches, but this engineer has made this place stout for the next Richter 11. Curious if others have different ways.
Edited 12/6/2006 2:40 am by Steddy
Replies
Apples and oranges. I have both and like each separatly for different things. I use the stick more often because it's a lighter magnesium model and because of the nature of the type of carpentry I do I don't usually shoot hundreds of nails in one afternoon. When I'm nailing off anything like decking or sheathing, then I use the coil and I can just bounce that baby along till I'm blue in the face and seemingly never run out of nails. When I'm framing or doing smaller things, I definately prefer the stick.
The other thing about coil nailers is you really have to be careful with the coils of nails. If the box gets dropped or the coil gets crushed in any sort of way, you either have to rewind the darned thing or throw it out. Either way it's a waste of time or money.
If I had to choose one I guess it would be the stick.
Yup, I can see the weight being a factor and certainly the packability of nails. I've kept roofing coils pretty well protected in my nail bags, but I can see that being more of a problem with longer nails. I don't think I'll ever try that hokey looking coil holster, either (can't remember the name). Stick nails are definitely hardier.