When using a nail gun for various projects, it is important to choose the right kind of nails. There are several options for nails that work with different types of nail guns, and finding the best nails for your application can make all the difference. Here are a few things to consider when selecting framing nails, ring shank nails, and other collated nails for your nail gun.
Framing Nails
Common framing nails are standard smooth shank nails used for joining wood framing projects like building decks, fences, and sheds. When choosing framing nails, there are a few key specifications to pay attention to.
- Nail Length – The length of the nail depends on what you are attaching and how thick the material is. For example, 2-inch nails are often used for decking while 3 1/2-inch nails work well for framing walls.
- Nail Gauge – The thickness or gauge of the nail corresponds to its strength. Thinner 16-gauge nails are often used for thinner material while thicker 11 or 12-gauge nails work best for heavier framing tasks.
- Nail Type – Standard framing nails are smooth with no coating, but options like hot-dipped galvanized nails and stainless steel nails are also available. These resist corrosion better for outdoor use.
- 10d Nails – The “10d” refers to a common 10 penny or 2 1/2-inch long 16-gauge smooth shank framing nail. But 8d, 16d and other gauges and lengths are also available depending on the project.
Stainless Steel Ring Shank Nails
For applications that require additional holding power, ring shank nails are a good option. These feature circular rings around the nail shank that expand once the nail is driven in, creating a mechanical interlock that helps resist outward forces and pull-out.
Stainless steel ring shank nails provide the benefits of ringed shanks along with stainless steel’s enhanced corrosion resistance. This makes them ideal for heavy-duty exterior projects like decking, fencing, and siding.
Collated Framing Nails
For faster nailing speeds with a pneumatic nail gun, collated nails are typically used. Collated refers to the nails being fed into the gun automatically from a strip of nails held together in a “collar.” This allows the gun to drive nails continuously without needing to be reloaded as frequently.
For pneumatic nailers, a wide range of collated framing nails are available in different lengths, gauges, and materials. Common choices include:
• Hot-dip galvanized collated nails for corrosion resistance
• Collated stainless steel ring shank nails
• Collated joist hanger nails
• Collated siding nails
• Heavy-duty collated roofing nails
• Collated laminate flooring nails
Choosing the right collated nails for your pneumatic coil nail gun or brad nailer is essential for optimal performance and longevity of the nail gun itself. Be sure nail sizes match what your gun is designed for.
In summary, when shopping for nails to use with your stainless steel ring shank nails for nail gun, look for options that match your specific nailing application and material thickness. Features like nail length, gauge, material, coatings, ringed shanks and collated Strip Styles can all affect the holding power, corrosion resistance and ease of use for your projects. With the right nails, your 10d nails for nail gun can tackle a wide range of DIY and professional tasks with speed, efficiency and reliable results.