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How does a nail gun work?
With the exception of one type, all nail guns work pretty much the same way. A ready supply of nails is loaded into the gun. Then, when you pull the trigger, some force (depending on the type of nailer) forces the nail into the surface you’re working with. At the same time, that same force feeds another nail into the loading bay, and cocks the trigger for the next nail.
When should I use a nailer?
You can use a nailer any time you need to hammer something, because there’s a nail gun for just about every purpose.
Are they expensive?
Like any tool, you can spend a little or a lot. The nailers on this site, which are all top brands, range from well under a hundred dollars to over five hundred dollars. The retail prices, of course, are much more. It just depends on what features you want and what you’ll use it for – as well as where you buy it.
What type should I get?
The short answer is, buy a nail gun that will fit your needs and your budget. Since that answer isn’t very helpful, you may want to take a look at our Nailer Buying Guide, which you’ll find elsewhere on this site.
Should I rent or buy?
If you have one small project, and you plan never to hammer again, you may just want to rent a nailer. If you expect to do any kind of repairs, remodeling, or projects in the future, though, it’s more cost-effective to buy.
Are nailers safe?
Obviously, it’s possible to be injured – and injured badly – by a nail gun. The worst injuries occur when a nail is ejected at the wrong time or in the wrong direction. It’s also possible to be injured by dropping it on someone, or by picking it up in an awkward manner, since nail guns are quite heavy.
That said, nail guns are as safe to use other power tools, provided they’re used and maintained properly and treated with appropriate respect. No one should use a nail gun without proper training. Certainly, only adults should use them. No one should ever bypass any safety features for the sake of speed or convenience. It’s no coincidence that the bulk of injuries are to people who are either inexperienced or using the nailer improperly.
Will I need any safety equipment?
You’ll want to check the product manual to see what safety equipment is required. At the very least, you will need safety glasses. Since nail guns have some recoil, thick gloves are also a good idea. If you’re sensitive to loud noises, you may want hearing protection. Again, the manufacturer’s instructions are your best guide.
Where can I learn to use a nail gun?
Everyone should get training before using a nail gun. You may know someone who is an experienced nail-gun user. If you’re in a city, you probably have access to informal or formal carpentry courses. Your local megahardware megaplex may offer courses on how to use a nail gun (although, of course, we hope you buy the nail gun from us!). If nothing else, you can contact a construction company and ask to make an appointment with someone there.
Will a nail gun hold things together as well as traditional hammer and nails?
Not only as well, but better! Nails used in nail guns have adhesive to hold them together until they are used. A little of this glue stays on the individual nail even after it’s separated from the rest. When the nail is slammed into the wood, heat friction is created. The heat melts the glue. When it dries, the glue helps secure the nail in position.
What kind of nails should I use?
Use the type of nails that your nailer’s manufacturer recommends, and that best meet your needs. You can find out more about different types of nails in the Nailer Buying Guide, available on this site.
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