Hi. I want to buy the right tools for the job. I have a bad habit of buying cheap and regretting it or buying part and then having to go back to the store 12 times. I could really use some help and recommendations on the features I needs in these tools.
I want to purchase an air compressor and some nailers. I ruled out the cordless due to cost and some future automotive ideas that will require a compressor (but I digress). The jobs I have in mind include: Building wine racks Re-attaching millwork – removed to run wires behind it, etc. Adding trim or nailing weather strips to door frames
Basically, I need it for handyman and minor carpentry projects not major construction. I want decent speed, but mainly the ability to do things right – nice clean work as opposed to hammer divets, screw heads to be covered, etc.
Can you help by telling me what features I should look for and recommend a minimum set of requirements? Brands to avoid would also be helpful.
Thanks in advance
britishbuilder2008-12-08T13:41:11Z
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Hello Obiwando, I am a contractor, and over the years have purchased many tools.
If you need to purchase a compressor, then go for one that has a high PSI , about 150 should be good, and also one that has a control, to allow for adjustments. the small pancake type of compressors are fine for running trim guns and nailers, but if you plan on having enough power later for auto work, they generally will not be good enough.
Generally Speaking most trim and nail guns will work fine between 80 to 100 psi. I try to run a compressor as little as often. the small ones, run the guns fine, but they will kick on more often due to the smaller tank. I do not like having to wait for pressure to build up, to use the guns, if I am using them a lot, so the larger compressor takes care of that for me.
I like the compressors from Sears they have ones on wheels, made by craftsman, and are excellent value. As regards to trim and nail guns, the bostich range is hard to beat, they are light, have a depth control , and do not mar the work. You should purchase a trim gun that has a 33 degree angle on the nail holder , this allows you to get right in the corners, and also allows for toe nailing wood. It's a very handy feature. These guns are known as angled trim guns.You will also need to ensure you purchase the right type of nails for these guns, I.E. angled and not straight finish type nails.
As regards to a hose, they now sell slim line hoses, that are very soft and flexible, these hoses are more expensive than regular, but they work great.
I trust this information shall be of benefit to you, and good luck with your projects.
Although I personally use the paslode cordless range these days, I was using the compressor and bostich range for years without any problems. If a nail does get jambed, they are easy to remove with the quick release catch on top of the gun. I have tried porter cable guns, but they are heavy, and when you are using them all the time, they can tire you sooner.
My dad got a set from Lowe's about a year ago that was Bostich and came with a brad nailer, finish nailer and stapler. The finish nailer probably gets the most use. I can't remember the PSI he went with, but I know he wanted a high PSI. He really likes it. I put a link below, I think that might be the one he got. He has used it for trimwork, building a shed, hardwood flooring, etc.