Framing Nailers?

Question

Which is better, clipped head or round head? Why? Thanks

Answer 1

After the hurricanes that did so much damage to Miami and surrounding areas it is now building code (nationally)to use round headed nails.
Studies found that they did not pull ;through the wood as easy as the clipped ones. If you are not going to use a nail gun regularly (daily) just use hand driven nails. not worth the investment.

Re: the above post, Paslodes nails have a paper strip to hold the nails in line (just like always) if you have a old paslode nailer, the round headed will work in it as well.
I recommend that you check you local building code as this has changed .......about 2-3 yeas aago.

Answer 2

As already mentioned a round head nail will hold better, particularly in plywood and o.s.b. . The benefit to a clipped head nailer is more nails per strip. They are more closely collated and require fewer reloads.
If you have a dedicated nailer for sheathing and just want to frame then a clipped head nailer will be fine. If the gun is going to do double duty get a full head nailer.
As a side note: Modern treated lumber corrodes "bright" nails quickly. I only buy hot dipped galvanized nails for framing, and stainless steel for trim.

Answer 3

I prefer the clipped head nailer. The round head nailers have a plastic spacer between the nails the discharges along with the nail. If you happen to to beside the person using the gun that plastic hurts when it hits you. Senco makes a great clipped head nailer that lasts. I am a builder and love senco or porter-cable nail guns.

Answer 4

Clipped,why :I use this type