Saturday, April 10, 2010

Hitachi NR83A2 Round Head 2-inch to 3-1/4-inch Framing Nailer Decide Now


I frame for a living and my last framing gun lasted about 12 years before any problems. This framing gun lasted about 2 months when it started really giving me problems. Today I started to frame a new home, and lets just say if anyone needs a slightly used framing gun there's one sitting in a snow bank next to the foundation. Get more detail about Hitachi NR83A2 Round Head 2-inch to 3-1/4-inch Framing Nailer.

Friday, April 9, 2010

Senco A209809 18-Gauge-by-5/8-Inch to 1-1/4-Inch Electro Galvanized Variety Pack Brads Right now


I ordered the wrong item and only realized it when I received the shipping notice. Senior moment for sure but I was treated respectfully and they even gave me the link to a different store so I could buy it from them, meanwhile crediting me the full price of my order. Now that is true customer service!Get more detail about Senco A209809 18-Gauge-by-5/8-Inch to 1-1/4-Inch Electro Galvanized Variety Pack Brads.

Thursday, April 8, 2010

Lowest Price Grex P635 23 Gauge 1-3/8-Inch Length Headless Pinner


After much research I decided on the Grex P635 for my pin nailer. I have used it extensively over the past month for a remodeling project. It pushes a 1 3/8" pin though 3/4" oak with no effort. Very solid construction, easy to load, easy to clear (only once) and counter sinks the exact amount in every material I have nailed.Get more detail about Grex P635 23 Gauge 1-3/8-Inch Length Headless Pinner.

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Low Price DEWALT D51238K 5/8-Inch to 2-Inch 18-Gauge Brad Nailer


I've had this brad nailer for about 5 years now and it works just as good as the first time I used it. I always put a drop of oil in the inlet every time before I use it and it has never given me any problems. Easy to load, easy to use...no complaints here.Get more detail about DEWALT D51238K 5/8-Inch to 2-Inch 18-Gauge Brad Nailer.

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

Save Bostitch FLN-150 1-1/2-Inch Flooring L-Nails, 1000-Per Box


I purchased these 'L' cleats to use for installation of a strand bamboo flooring of approximately 640 square feet. They performed well and despite the hardness of the material, they never deformed or bent. They worked very well in an Akuzuki pro-series cleat/staple nailer. The only reason I gave them four stars rather than five is because they seemed to separate rather easily when handled prior to loading into the stapler. I don't know whether other brands of flooring cleats do this as well, and they otherwise performed flawlessly. I would purchase again.Get more detail about Bostitch FLN-150 1-1/2-Inch Flooring L-Nails, 1000-Per Box.

Monday, April 5, 2010

Discount Freeman PFL618BR 3 in 1 Pneumatic Flooring Nailer


When I purchased this nailer, I couldn't find any reviews on it. Reviews for other products of similar price were mixed. Many had loose bolts and shoddy mallets. I read the warranties for each item. The warranty for the Freeman was better than the other products, and Freeman products are made in the U.S. So, I decided to go with the Freeman. It took me a few planks to get the finesse of my swing down. If I hit the plank too hard, it would leave small dents in the side of it, but they are barely noticeable. Once I figured it out, it was smooth sailing with no dents. The Freeman is easy to use, easy to load, and the mallet is sturdy. I have not found any loose bolts yet. We have completed about 1/3 of our 1000 sqft project, and have not had any jams or issues yet. The nailer comes in a solid case with 3 allen wrenches, and two plates. I paid for regular shipping and actually received the item the next day. I am a handy woman and had no problems using it. We are laying 3-1/4" wide 5/8" thick Supreme Bamboo with it. I couldn't be happier with the product and the outcome. Get more detail about Freeman PFL618BR 3 in 1 Pneumatic Flooring Nailer.

Friday, April 2, 2010

Buying Bostitch PT-2330-3M 1-3/16-Inch 23 Gauge Pin (3000 per Box)


These are great for crown molding or holding glued appliques until they dry. But usually the wood fibers don't close up around them again and a tiny hole is still visible, with a shiny metal pin head in it. And if not shot in straight or with enough power they stick out of the wood slightly and you probably won't notice until you get a nasty scratch as you rub your arm against it!
If you have a 23ga pinner with an adjustable piston, set it to a slightly higher pressure than you need to set the pin flush. That way it leaves a tiny pin-sized cavity above the pin head that can be filled and stained without affecting the surrounding finish. That is the way I found works best to make these really disappear.Get more detail about Bostitch PT-2330-3M 1-3/16-Inch 23 Gauge Pin (3000 per Box).

Monday, March 29, 2010

Where To Buy Bostitch BT1309B 1-Inch 18-Gauge Brads, 3000 per Box


I am building a series of cabinets and use the Bostitch brads for all the trim. I found that the 1 inch brads are exactly what I need for most of my project. I bought the 2 inch brads but find that most of the projects that I have tackled only require the 1 inch.

It took a little bit of time to learn to adjust my compressor to get the air pressure that is needed for the Bostitch brad nailer. I am new at using the nailer but got everything working after a few minutes of playing around. Just make sure use eye protection. Get more detail about Bostitch BT1309B 1-Inch 18-Gauge Brads, 3000 per Box.

Friday, March 26, 2010

Factory-Reconditioned DEWALT D55146R Heavy Duty 4.5 Gallon Compressor with Wheels Review


First the Cons: The unit must have been freshly painted when they put it in the box, because there was yellow paint rubbed off the unit on the cardboard. Wheels are a bit wobbly, but nicely hold air and roll easily. Overall, the unit looked new.

Pros: For a non-oil type unit, it is actually quieter than expected. Builds tank pressure quickly to 200+ psi and regulated pressure easily goes to 160+ psi. Runs my Ingersol Rand impact and ratchet easily. Unit is easy to move around with the extension handle. Small tank will empty quickly if using it in high volume, but the compressor keeps up nicely. Tank bleeder is easy to use.

For a savings of approx. $130 over a new unit, I'd go this route everytime!Get more detail about Factory-Reconditioned DEWALT D55146R Heavy Duty 4.5 Gallon Compressor with Wheels.

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Porter-Cable US58 1/4-Inch to 5/8-Inch 22-Gauge C-Crown Upholstery Stapler This instant


Like any well made product the Porter Cable Upholstery Stapler is absolutely a delight to use. The 1" long extension is a must for anyone working on upholstery projects. We used it recently on some oak chairs using 3/8" fine wire staples from Amazon at 70psi. Follow the instructions and you should have no problems. Get more detail about Porter-Cable US58 1/4-Inch to 5/8-Inch 22-Gauge C-Crown Upholstery Stapler.

Monday, March 22, 2010

Ingersoll-Rand 2130 1/2-Inch Heavy-Duty Air Impact Wrench Best Quality


Bought this to replace a Craftman impact wrench (cheapy that came with compressor) that no longer was able to remove highly torqued lug nuts. Saw the good reviews and decided to give this wrench a try. So far I have not been disappointed. Get more detail about Ingersoll-Rand 2130 1/2-Inch Heavy-Duty Air Impact Wrench.

Sunday, March 21, 2010

Ingersoll-Rand 231C 1/2-Inch Super Duty Air Impact Wrench Get it now!


The Ingersoll - Rand 231C 1/2 inch impact wrench is made in China. Since I already own a Chinese impact wrench, there's no point in owning another. The point was to replace the low quality chinese tool with something better. Yes, I was looking for an upgrade, and the IR 231C isn't it. I thought Ingersoll - Rand's products were made in the US, why would they start manufacturing in China? It will only ruin their name, and in fact already has with this customer. However, this does explain the low price (which is actually quite high for a made in China impact). I am willing to pay up to $400 if needed for a high quality impact wrench, but it will not be from IR. Out of the box, it looks and feels like typical Chinese tools. I will return it, and never buy anything IR makes ever again.

Here's the best review I can give considering I never used the product, but did give it a good look it over.

It's very heavy, and if you ever needed to use it every day, I wouldn't recommend it for this reason alone. I think the specs say it's about 5lb, it has got to be more, I will weigh it and get back to you.

Out of the box the tool looks like it was 30 over years old. It appeared worn, even used, yet the thing is brand new.

The torque/pressure control on the side is very stiff and could not be turned by my fingers, and feels low in quality. (note: my hands are quite strong, but that knob needed nearly a foot pound just to turn)

The finish is dull, and not polished well. Tool was covered in thick oil, and black stuff, inside an open ended plastic bag stuck to the gun. You would need to clean it right out of the box. The picture on this web page makes the tool look much nicer than it really is.

Trigger is loose, wobbly, thin, is plastic, and feels weak. It has nearly no spring pressure. The trigger performs like the ones found on childerns' toys.

1/2" anvil doesn't have a spring ball detent. How could sockets stay on tight?

Tool does not come with an air fitting, just a threaded socket in the handle. If you don't have this fitting, you would need to buy that before using it.

Tool does not come with a storage case.

It doesn't ship with any socket tools, oil, or accessories. Just a red cardboard box (that was oil stained), plastic bag, and a few documents (The document booklet edges were bent over because they were longer than the box.)

Impact wrench has a tiny decal on the back of the gun that says "Made in China". It could be removed, and no one would think you own a Chinese tool. I question the tool's resale value.

Is the tool junk? I don't know, and with over $100 on the line here, I am not going to find out. I will find a non-Chinese made air impact gun even if I have to buy it used.


Get more detail about Ingersoll-Rand 231C 1/2-Inch Super Duty Air Impact Wrench.

Saturday, March 20, 2010

Akuzuki Top Quality Pneumatic Hardwood Floor Flooring Air Cleat Nailers Buy Now


Bought this to put a 350 sq ft wood floor in my family room. Home Depot was going to charge me $40 a day that's 80 bucks down the drain. This nailer is now in my arsenal and it only cost 240 with no tax and shipping. It worked great can't understand how a professional nailer could do better. Definitely happy with my purchase and looking forward to doing all the bedrooms over the next few years. Good Luck!Get more detail about Akuzuki Top Quality Pneumatic Hardwood Floor Flooring Air Cleat Nailers.

Friday, March 19, 2010

Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP Air Compressor Order Now


Compressor recieved without issues. I purchased the Makita to use in installing my hardwood floors. It has no problem supporting both a brad nailer and my flooring nailer. I don't use this compressor as a contractor, just home improvements and never run out of air. It's quiet enough to use in the house and portable enough to move by just lifting and carrying (though it is heavy). Couldn't ask for more.Get more detail about Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP Air Compressor.

Thursday, March 18, 2010

Makita MAC700 Big Bore 2.0 HP Air Compressor Decide Now


I purchased this compressor because I dreaded using my pneumatic nailers with my hot dog oiless compressor. I could not stand the noise and vibration. I researched the different portable compressors available and I was very impressed by all the reviews of the MAC700. Additionally, I came across two people who owned it and highly recommended it. Although this a small compact compressor it is heavy, approximately 50 lbs. It has a very well placed heavy duty handle which despite its heft, makes maneuvering the tool much easier. I've been using it for about one week. It is incredibly quiet and has minimal vibration (better than any other compressor I have ever encountered). I now enjoy using my pneumatic nailers. I highly recommend this compressor.Get more detail about Makita MAC700 Big Bore 2.0 HP Air Compressor.

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

Porter-Cable C2002-WK Oil-Free UMC Pancake Compressor with 13-Piece Accessory Kit Right now


I use this for my small painting business. It does have it's limitations from a CFM perspective, but if you use it within it's capabilities it is a nicely constructed unit. I've used it to power a texture sprayer, finish nailer and framing nailer with no problems. Granted the framing nailer dos not see heavy duty production use, so the compressor has no problems keeping up. It is light weight, quite and a very handy dependable tool. The Acc Kit is kinda cheesy, but for a homeowner who does not have much, it would suffice.Get more detail about Porter-Cable C2002-WK Oil-Free UMC Pancake Compressor with 13-Piece Accessory Kit.

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Lowest Price Porter-Cable FR350A Round Head 2-Inch to 3-1/2-Inch Framing Nailer


I purchased this tool to reframe a cottage 6 years ago. Up until then I just borrowed a friend's or relative's tool. But with the long term project ahead of me I felt it was time for my own. I really didn't expect to be using it 6 years later but here I am & I love this gun. There are smaller & lighter quality guns out there, but nowhere around $200. I have shot probably 15 boxes of nails with gun - from sinkers to ringed deck nails - its worked flawlessly. The depth adjustment is easy & accurate. The balance is very good as well as the general work-around size. I did have a jamming problem with ONE box of cheap nails, but that was random and only with that one box. Other than that, I don't think I've had more than 20 mis-fires in all this time.
Obviously, I am not a pro - just a DIYSer/handyman, but I do appreciate quality in tools. I own about a dozen stapler/finish nailers (Hitachi, Senco, Bostich, PC) --- but only one framer - this one. If I framed for a living I might be singing a different tune, but for under $200, you won't go with this one.
Get more detail about Porter-Cable FR350A Round Head 2-Inch to 3-1/2-Inch Framing Nailer.

Monday, March 15, 2010

Low Price Senco PC0947/FP18KIT 18-Gauge Brad Nailer Compressor Combo Kit


I purchased this compressor kit to do minor things around the house and air up the occasional tire. I have a larger compressor but it's too noisy for the early morning low tire, or the all day projects. I live in a quiet neighborhood so I don't want to make a bunch or racket. This compressor works well for what I need and fits on a shelf when not in use. I have not had it that long so I can't comment of the life of the compressor. It looks like a standard mini compressor similar to what you see in airbag installations on cars and trucks, so I would imagine I can find the parts to rebuild it if it breaks. My only complaint would be the time it take to build air pressure. If you have to use it to air up a tire it can take five to ten minutes to complete the task.

Pros:
Quiet
Compact
Kit includes just about everything you need
Easily portable
Price
Powerful for its size

Cons:
Air build time
Questionable reliability (based on other reviews)
Get more detail about Senco PC0947/FP18KIT 18-Gauge Brad Nailer Compressor Combo Kit.

Saturday, March 13, 2010

Discount Hitachi NT65MA2 15 Gauge 1-1/4-Inch to 2 1/2-Inch Angled Finish Nailer


Used to face and tongue nail 3/4 hardwood flooring.

I bought the nailer to replace a very old Pasload 16 ga. nailer that kept double striking. I found that the stouter 15 guage nails seemed to hold the flooring better as well.

This unit worked flawlessly and was very easy to position the nose into the flooring tongue when my big nailer ran out of space. I also used it to face nail the flooring and it was easy to adjust the depth of the nail head penetration.
In comparing the prices at the big box stores for similar guns, I found the price of the Hitachi very reasonable.
Nails are available everywhere in various lengths.
jimbobbGet more detail about Hitachi NT65MA2 15 Gauge 1-1/4-Inch to 2 1/2-Inch Angled Finish Nailer.

Friday, March 12, 2010

Cheapest Bostitch BT1350B-1M 2-Inch 18-Gauge Brads, 1000 per Box


Bought a reconditioned Bostich nail gun for $30 from Amazon, and have used Bostich brads exclusively with no jams, no problems. Have heard stories about jamming with other makes of nails and brads.Get more detail about Bostitch BT1350B-1M 2-Inch 18-Gauge Brads, 1000 per Box.

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Buying Ramsond RMM4 2-in-1 Air Hardwood Flooring Cleat Nailer and Stapler Gun, Yellow


I bought direct from Ramsond and the tool arrived with a hole in the housing. I didn't open the package and find the defect until (2) weeks after it arrived. My mistake! Ramsond will try and charge you shipping back to them plus a $35 inspection fee plus shipping back to you unless you report the defect within (1) day. Even if you report defects within (1) day you still pay for shipping to them plus the $35 inspection fee! I'm not making that up, check their web policy. That adds up to between $60 to $80 even if the tool is defective right from the factory. Ouch!

It appears Ramsond makes a good product but their customer service is terrible. I felt like a thief just trying to get them to work with me.

Buy from Amazon, they have customer service which works.Get more detail about Ramsond RMM4 2-in-1 Air Hardwood Flooring Cleat Nailer and Stapler Gun, Yellow.

Monday, March 8, 2010

Purchase Hitachi NT50AE2 18-Gauge 3/4-Inch to 2-Inch Brad Nailer


Have not used the gun long enough to tell you about durability but it rather similar to it's big brother- Hitachi NT65MA2 15 Gauge 1-1/4-Inch to 2 1/2-Inch Angled Finish Nailer(which I have plenty of hours on over the years)but with minor but important upgrade- side loading of nails. This may not seem important to some but on many trim applications you are not always using the same length nail. You can have several guns on your hip or you swap out the nails to fit the application. Side loading offers a couple of advantages - can easily remove and install (compared to rear loading) and it is easy to determine what length nail is in the gun. This will save you big time - in frustration and time!

Other features - good line of sight, jamb release (never jambed yet but it is there), fire modes (really? for trim?) adjustable exhaust, normal stuff any nail gun should have. I now have many of the newer Hitachi stuff to mate with some of the old and cosmetics don't really matter to me - they all work flawlessly. As long as they keep doing that I am happy. At this price it is a no brainer - get it!Get more detail about Hitachi NT50AE2 18-Gauge 3/4-Inch to 2-Inch Brad Nailer.

Saturday, March 6, 2010

Where To Buy Factory-Reconditioned Bostitch U/MFN200 Manual Flooring Cleat Nailer Kit


If you are tight with your money, or you like a simple no nonsense tool. Yes, there are air powered versions available, but for 3 to 10 times the price this is a low cost alternative for those who dont mind smacking with a hammer. Only draw back is if your not in very good shape, you will know it after a couple of hours. Be carefull when you get close to the walls not to smack it with the provided hammer. Outside of that, its no-nonsence, very few moving parts. Has a 7 year warranty.Get more detail about Factory-Reconditioned Bostitch U/MFN200 Manual Flooring Cleat Nailer Kit.

Shop For Bostitch HP118K 23-Gauge 1/2-Inch to 1-3/16-Inch Pin Nailer


I've owned this pin nailer for about 5 years & found it to be a very good value for the money. It's performed almost flawlessly & has held up well. There have been no repairs required, even though it's been used in a commercial setting & not always treated kindly.

The tool is slightly larger than other guns that shoot pins in the 1 1/4" range, but is not unwieldy. The dual trigger safety takes a little getting used to initially, but becomes second nature once you've used it a bit. I've found the power adjustment lever to be unnecessary & always leave it set to the maximum position.

If I could improve one thing on the tool, I'd make it oil-less like the other finish guns in the Bostitch lineup. Other than that, I feel it's one of the top 23g tools in this price range. Get more detail about Bostitch HP118K 23-Gauge 1/2-Inch to 1-3/16-Inch Pin Nailer.