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MAX TwinTier: A New Era in Rebar Tying
Read MoreRebar, or reinforcing bar, is the backbone of concrete work. While concrete is strong in some ways (compression strength), it’s weak in others (tensile strength). In simpler terms, it means concrete can stand to be pushed more than it can to be pulled.
That’s where steel rebar comes in. Steel has a high tensile strength and is added to concrete structures to give the needed strength to support buildings, roads, retaining walls and the like. Before concrete is poured and set, steelworkers lay the rebar according to specified building and construction codes.
Rebar comes in a range of coatings and gauges, depending upon application. The rods must be connected by corresponding ties, a tedious yet important process, to keep the rebar from moving while the concrete is poured.
From Manual to Power Tiers
To save costs, materials and manpower, it was only a matter of time before a powered rebar tying tool was created. Tying rebar is tough on the body, mainly the wrist, shoulder and back. For a rodman, or rodbuster, repeatedly twisting metal wire can be permanently damaging over the long-term. A NIOSH (National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health) study in 2005 revealed the potential health hazards and suggestions for making a safer work environment. If a worker is tying rebar for more than an hour per day, NIOSH recommends providing a cordless tying tool and a tying tool extension arm.
Purchasing a cordless rebar tier is truly an investment. Looking for a strong lithium ion battery that holds a decent charge is key, as is a balanced tool that prevents fatigue and potential injury. Before you buy, make sure the tier is not only fast, but makes a strong, secure tie.
The MAX Effect
Without a doubt, one of the most familiar names in rebar tying tools is MAX USA Corp. They’ve been perfecting power tools for more than 20 years. MAX created the first battery-powered rebar tying tool, the RB262 (which used a nickel cadmium battery) in 1993. In 1998, power tiers became available to the American market, and the rest was history.
Currently, the cordless MAX RB398 is among the most popular tiers at Nail Gun Depot. Weighing a mere 5 lbs. and delivering more than 2,500 ties per battery charge—that’s 5x faster than manual tying—the RB398 can hold its own. Plus, it eliminates the need to disperse and cut rebar wire, saving on materials waste.
But just when you thought they were done, MAX once again improves on their already bullet proof design.
Dual Wire, Dual Savings
New to the market for 2018, the MAX RB441T TwinTier offers an incredible output of 4,000 ties per battery charge. That’s a 200% increase from the previous models. The TwinTier also creates a highly secure connection thanks to a dual-wire feeding system, which dispenses two 19-gauge wires at once to form a tie. The tie is 50% tighter to boot.
Like most rebar tiers, the RB441T comes in three tie wire options: regular or annealed steel, the most commonly used; galvanized with a zinc coating, which adds 40 times more corrosion resistance and is used for moist or marine environments; and polyester-coated wire, which is abrasion-resistant and at least 70 times more corrosion-resistant than annealed steel. The tie wire rolls are changed out in about half a second, an improvement compared to previous models.
Due to the TwinTier’s patent-pending wire bending mechanism, the tie it creates has a 50% shorter height than the projecting “rabbit ears” produced by older cordless models. What does this mean to the concrete construction job overall? It means less concrete is needed to cover the tie, which further saves on materials. Check out this video from MAX, taking a closer look at the new RB441T. Hear what professionals in the field have to say.
Not only does the rebar tying tool save on materials and time, but labor. Fewer tiers are required per job, and an ironworker doesn't need the advanced tying skills and speed of years past. The tedious, wrist-twisting work is done for you - no strings attached.
Need more? Ask one of our skilled customer service specialists about MAX USA rebar tiers and tie wire.
~ The Nail Gun Depot Team
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Occidental Leather: Uncompromisingly USA Made
Read MoreSince 1980, Occidental Leather products have set the quality standard in the tool belt industry. With a selection of beautifully made tool belts, tool bags and tool belt suspenders, all made here in the USA, it's no wonder Occidental products are synonymous with quality. This Sonoma County, California-based company has been perfecting their handcrafted premium tool holders for nearly 40 years.
You will not find Occidental Leather at any store, as the company only allows select vendors to carry their premium products. Needless to say, we’re especially proud to stand among the best, now offering Occidental Leather products on Nail Gun Depot.
Made to Last
At Occidental Leather, combining 19th century craftsmanship with 21st century manufacturing techniques has resulted in exceptionally high quality tool holders and bags noted for their durability and efficient design. The company uses top-grain cowhide and abrasion-resistant, industrial-grade nylon, all reinforced with copper rivets. Leather tool bags are made from 7-8 oz leather, while tool belts are made from 12-15 oz leather. The belts themselves are made of American bridle leather (used for reins and harnesses), stitched with heavy-gauge thread and fitted with a solid brass buckle and nickel-plated steel roller.
Using materials designed to take abuse and withstand the elements, Occidental Leather stands behind their products. They not only offer a two-year warranty against material defects and faults in craftsmanship, but will repair leather tool bags (stitching and rivets) for life. Check out this video to get a behind-the-scenes look at Occidental.
One Size Doesn’t Fit All
Electricians, carpenters, concrete workers and other tradesmen find their Oxy tool belts last for decades. But it’s not just their longevity that makes them special. These items are made by professionals FOR professionals, so there’s a lot of thought behind their design. And these aren’t one-size-fits-all belts. Their popular HD Ranger Work Belt comes in Small through XXX-L.
Taking the notion of flexibility even further, there’s the leather and nylon combo Adjust-to-Fit Belt, which expands to accommodate changes in waist size. To see it in action, click on the “Videos” tab beside the Adjust-to-Fit's product description.
Intuitive, Hand-Specific Design
Oxy belts are intuitively designed to be hand-specific, so the tool bag on the belt, for instance, is conveniently situated on the right side, while the fastener bag is on the left, where you’re most likely to grab the contents. And for lefties, there are hand-specific versions made just for you.
The Stronghold Lights tool belt suspenders are genius. Simply slide your 3” tool belt through the detachable loops, redistributing weight from hips and back, for a more comfortable (and less cumbersome) workday. The Stronghold Beltless Suspension System doesn’t even require a belt for use, should you prefer that carrying style.
Having a hard time deciding on a tool belt? Let this handy video be your guide.
If You Had a Hammer
How about a hammer to go with the belt? Whether you're fond of wood handle hammers, or prefer the balance titanium provides, we now have a Martinez hammer to suit. Some insist one offers better driving power, energy efficiency or safety over the other. Either way, these hammers feature all-steel heads that are easily removable in the field.
The 4100 Series M1 Titanium Hammer has a higher kinetic energy than the famous Stiletto TiBone, both created by Mark Martinez. Martinez M1 Titanium and Curved Wood Handle hammers can be found with Occidental Leather products on Nail Gun Depot.
For the cost efficient carpenter, each wood handle hammer has a long T-bolt that secures the head, as opposed to wedges typical of wood hammers. The head is also forward-weighted, giving it the same driving force as a titanium-handled hammer.
Ready to support these Made In America businesses? Look for a growing selection of Occidental Leather products on Nail Gun Depot.
~ The Nail Gun Depot Team
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Paslode HardieNails: No Studs Required
Read MoreWill a new siding fastener transform fiber cement siding installation?
In partnership with Paslode, James Hardie Building Products created HardieNails, a patented 1-1/8” long fastener that attaches siding without the need to hit a stud. The manufacturers have designed a nail that’s shorter but stronger, so it doesn’t need to be driven as deeply.
So, how does it work?
Revolving, Evolving Nails
With standard nails, you run the risk of puncturing electrical wire or plumbing behind sheathing (known as a “shiner”). Not so with HardieNails. These fasteners use the same technology behind TetraGRIP Subfloor Fasteners, which work like a screw by rotating into the material. The distinctive threading is based on the barbed helix design of the TetraGRIP Subfloor Fastener, as can be found in our Paslode TetraGRIP Article.
Unlike ring-shank nails, which are commonly used for siding, HardieNails will not split wood or shred wood-based sheathing. Essentially they create a “lock” into the material, so there’s less “play” or movement, even as weather and time affect materials. The nails are used exclusively with the lightweight Paslode 515400 Coil Siding Nailer, featuring Paslode TetraGRIP technology. The 0° fasteners come 120 per coil and can be driven (at a pressure between 100 PSI and 120 PSI) with the same speed as nails.
HardieNails are made of type 304 stainless steel for superb weather resistance. Without chance of staining or streaking, popping and corrosion, they’ll outlive and outperform galvanized ring shank nails, extending the life of the overall siding project.
Studs Need Not Apply
HardieNails boast a 0.300 full round head, .117 diameter and the same withdrawal strength as a 2-1/4” nail. The fastener’s engagement in the wood creates a mechanical bond, which imparts a high-load capacity, so there’s actually no need to attach them to a stud. Instead, the fastener uses 7/16 wood structural panels (WSP) as the base to attach to frame. Workers can shave even more time off installation, as there’s no need to locate and mark studs.
The manufacturers of HardieNails report that just 35-85% of the nails hit the studs. Instead, these nails fasten directly to OSB (Oriented Strand Board Sheathing). You also don’t have to measure and cut planks to fit on the studs. Simply apply the off-cuts in the next course, without cutting further. This means less product waste as well.
Imagine the savings in time, money and manpower when a siding crew can skip the stud-finding and marking steps. To give you a better idea, Paslode estimates a 20% reduction in installation time. That’s according to a study comparing standard nails and HardieNails, when installing HardiePlank Lap Siding.
HardieNail Compatibility
A combination of sand, cellulose fibers and cement, fiber cement has been used as a siding material for more than a century. Most commonly known as HardieBoard in North America, it was developed by James Hardie Industries in the 1980s, when the prevailing reinforcement material (asbestos) was determined to be unsafe.
HardieNails are compatible with all HardieBoard siding options, including HardiePlank, HardiePanel and HardieShingle. Lap and panel siding are 5/16” thick, while the shingle panel siding is 1/4” thick. With each of these options, fasteners are placed as follows for moderate basic wind speeds:
HardiePlank
• Place fastener 1” from top edge and 3/8”-1-1/2” from the ends of lap siding
• Place fastener every 16” o.c.
• Space butt joints at least 6” apartHardiePanel
• Place fasteners 3/8” to 1” from edge of panel vertical siding
• Place fastener every 12” x 12”HardieShingle
• Place fasteners 3/8” to 1” from edge of siding from the edge of shingle siding
• Place fastener every 16”
For a technical data sheet on the HardieNail, click here. The fasteners can also be used with plywood and Huber Engineered ZIP. You can expect the same withdrawal strength with those materials as well, says Paslode.
The HardieNail offers many advantages over standard siding nails, preventing damage to utility wires, greatly reducing installation time and effort, and producing less material waste. Similar to TetraGRIP subfloor fasteners, the Paslode HardieNail is not available for sale online or in most stores. While an exact release date has not been confirmed, we anticipate HardieNails will be available before the end of 2018. For more information on how to become a HardieNail customer, contact Nail Gun Depot.
~ The Nail Gun Depot Team
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Installing Subfloors: Nails vs. Screws
Read MoreCan’t decide whether to use nails or screws to install subflooring? Choosing the right fastener can make all the difference in the quality and value of your installation. Before making a decision, consider the following key points:
Which is faster?
When time is of the essence, nailing is the quickest fastening option when installing subfloor. Regardless of firing mode, an air nailer lets you drive nails within seconds of each other, which saves time compared to using a screw gun. Screws need to be twisted into the subfloor, which takes more time than simply shooting a nail into subfloor material.
However, some screw guns, like the Senco DuraSpin DS440-AC, are auto-fed. A collated strip of screws in this case makes screwing subfloors a little faster, although it’s not as swift as nailing.
Which is more economical?
If you’re on a tight budget, nails are the more economical solution. But, not all nails are created equal. Stainless steel nails, for instance, offer a higher quality, but are pricier. Overall, screws tend to be somewhat more expensive, but like nails, some offer better quality for a higher price.
With that said, it’s imperative you choose a fastener compatible with your subfloor thickness and material. The quality and correct type of fastener can literally make or break your floor. The better the quality now, the longer your floor will last later – not to mention the sturdier it will be.
Which has better holding power?
As far as nails go, ring shank nails are a popular choice for subflooring. A ring shank has extra grip and holding power, compared to other shank types, and creates a tighter subfloor. Although ring shank nails have a good hold, screws have more overall holding power by comparison. With a larger thread gripping a bigger surface area around them, screws hold your subfloor very tightly – allowing no wiggle room for shifting or loosening.
Several nail manufacturers, such as Senco and Paslode, have released their own proprietary solutions to improve the holding strength of a subfloor nail. Senco's Whisper Grip nail features lower rings designed to fully engage and grip the joist or studs, while upper rings ensure the nail remains countersunk - even if the joist or studs are missed. Paslode's TetraGRIP System takes it a step further, with a barbed thread design that when driven into wood, bonds with the fibers without destroying the wood. Paslode describes it as “rotation without destruction.”
Which is more durable?
Consider the heating and cooling of floors during the summer and winter months. Subfloors and fasteners, like any other material, will expand and contract with temperature. This means that movement, even at a micro level, will occur. The smaller thread on a ring shank, compared to the larger screw thread, doesn’t provide as much grip as the larger one does. This means that the ring shank nail acquires less stress, but can essentially “move with the floor” more so than a screw can.
By comparison, the screw has much better holding power, and can therefore contribute to an overall tighter subfloor. However, when the subfloor expands and contracts with temperature, or even house movements, the screw can’t move with the shift. This builds stress in the screw, which can cause the screw head to shear off in extreme circumstances. Likewise, if a screw is not driven flush, is over driven, or the wrong size screw is used, the screw head as an increased chance of breaking.
Which fastener prevents floor squeaks?
The fastener you choose will certainly play a part in whether your floor squeaks or not. Nails have greater potential for causing squeaking floors, due to their temperature flexibility. Movement between the subfloor and nail (even a ring shank) inevitably causes the two to become loosened over time, which creates floor squeaking – particularly in high-traffic areas.
Screws, if driven properly, prevent creaking floors. A screw firmly holds the subfloor in place, which ensures a squeak-less floor for years to come.
Are there any alternative options?
Perhaps a happy medium in the subfloor nail versus screw debate, SubLoc Pro Scrail Fasteners offer a hybrid between the traditional nail and screw. Combining the versatility of a nail with the hold strength of a screw, they can be used with most framing nailers – meaning Scrails can be driven much faster than screws. Like a screw though, Scrail Fasteners can be adjusted and removed after placement.
With aggressive threading along the whole shank, Scrails have exceptional holding power, ensuring the subflooring remains tight. Scrails also have a diamond coating, which provides extra grip once installed into the subfloor material. This improved holding strength means floor squeaks are virtually non-existent.
For any subflooring project, always consult your local fastening schedule, and find out what fastener length is appropriate for your subfloor. Nail Gun Depot offers nails, screws and Scrails, as well as specifications for all of our subfloor fasteners.
~ The Nail Gun Depot Team
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Paslode TetraGRIP Subfloor Fastening System
Read MoreOne of the most time consuming, irritating, and costly fixes for home construction contractors, squeaky subfloors. The warranty calls are inevitable. By the time you make necessary repairs, costs can run thousands of dollars.
Introducing a Solution
Paslode tackles the problem of nail-related squeaks with the TetraGRIP Subfloor Fastening System, which claims to eliminate the need for adhesive (and other fasteners) altogether. The system features the Paslode PF237C Subfloor Fastening Nailer, which holds 120 specially designed plastic sheet coil nails. The 8-1/4 lb. nail gun operates on 100 to 120 PSI and has a dual-mode trigger, so you can choose between bump and sequential firing.
The TetraGRIP system is not a new concept, but rather perfects what many others have attempted to do.
One Dynamic Nail
At this point, you may wonder what makes the system any different from using a regular screw or nail/screw hybrid?
The key is its unique nail shank with an integrated barbed-thread design. Paslode calls this their patented helix-shaped design (called a “barbed tetra-helical shank”), which is where the name of the product originates. The thread on TetraGRIP nails runs almost the entire length of the fastener, up to the nail head. It creates a kind of “locking” function as with a screw.
When driven into wood, the nail creates a bond with the wood fibers, yet without destroying the wood. Paslode describes it as “rotation without destruction.” Ring shank nails may crush the wood fiber when driven; not so with this nail. The TetraGRIP fasteners feature a “TG” insignia, making them easily recognizable.
Learn more about these unique nails in this video.
Save Nails, Time & Money
Performing like a framing nailer, the PF237C drives fasteners up to 3X faster than using screws. With its impressive holding power, it also eliminates the time needed to apply adhesive -- plus the time and frustration involved when going back to fix squeaks. Eliminate all that and you’ve really made subfloor installation more of a one-step than a three-step process, saving money, time and manpower.
And as for those squeaks? The system is ICC-ES (International Code Council Evaluation Service) recognized. It was tested by the National Association of Home Builders, where it received the very first “No Nail Squeak Certification.” So whether you live in a brand-new home or an old one, nail-related floor squeaks may truly become history.
The Paslode PF237C Subfloor Fastening Nailer only works with the TetraGRIP Subfloor Fasteners. The nailer uses a 3/8” air hose, with a 1/4” plug end for air compressor attachment.
How do you order TetraGRIP? TetraGRIP is not available for sale online or in most stores, due to its highly proprietary design. For more information on how to become a TetraGRIP customer, contact Nail Gun Depot.
~ The Nail Gun Depot Team
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Under Pressure — PSI, CFM & Air Fittings Explained
Read MoreIf you own a home (or work on them), chances are you’ve got a pneumatic tool in your garage. But you may be confused by PSI and what it means. You’ve probably also heard of CFM in relation to air compressors. Let’s take a look and clarify, so you can choose the right compressor for your air tool.
First of all, PSI stands for pounds per square inch (or pound force per square inch). Most air tools require between 70 and 90 PSI. Any light-to-medium-duty air compressor can easily handle 90 PSI, but you always want the compressor to supply more flow than needed.
Pro Tip: Always respect a PSI rating. If you don’t supply enough air volume, the tool won’t operate correctly. Too much force, and you can damage the tool.
CFM and SCFM
CFM stands for cubic feet per minute. This is the air flow or air volume that a compressor can supply - or its output. Many pneumatic power tools require a CFM of about 5, but it really varies. A pneumatic stapler might just need 0.3 CFM, while a framing nailer may require 2.2 CFM.
Continuous use tools need more air volume and therefore have a higher CFM requirement. A constantly spinning sander might have a CFM requirement of 8, (8 CFM @ 90 PSI for example), while a nail gun, which requires single bursts of air might have a lower CFM rating of 2.8.
Pro Tip: To find out the minimum CFM, multiply your tool’s required CFM by 1-½ (CFM X 1.5).
SCFM, by the way, stands for Standard Cubic Feet per Minute. This is considered the more “scientific” or exact, measurement. SCFM attempts to arrive at a more accurate measurement by ruling out differences in air temperature and humidity. The standard conditions used to calculate SCFM are: 14.7 psia (0 psig), 68 degrees Fahrenheit at 36 percent relative humidity.
In this video from Ask This Old House, Tom Silva explains how a tool with a smaller PSI might require a greater SCFM. You’ll also get some helpful tips for maintaining your compressor.
Tank Volume
With regards to air pressure, you’ll also want to consider how long you’re running the tool, and how many tools you’re using at one time on your compressor. Tank volume determines how long the compressor can produce air, before the motor has to kick on and re-pressurize the tank. The more continuous use of air pressure a tool requires, the greater the tank size needed.
Tank sizes range from 1 gallon to 80 gallons, but a single power tool may only need a maximum 5 gallon tank. You’ll notice that the compressor emits 3.5 CFM @ 90PSI, enough to power most nail guns.
Another thing to consider is how many tools will be connected to the tank at once. If three power tools will be in use simultaneously, each with a rating of 5 CFM @ 90 PSI, you’d need a minimum of 15 CFM output from your compressor. A good choice for powering several air tools at once, consider the RolAir 8422HK30.
For MORE information on air compressors, check out Nail Gun Network articles and videos.
Air Fittings
You may have noticed the different options for compressor fittings (also called "couplers"). Fittings are necessary to connect the air hose to the compressor, and come in two variations. FPT, which stands for female pipe thread, has an internal threading. MPT, or male pipe thread, has external threading instead.
For an example of each type of thread, see the image above. The two fittings on the right have an MPT. Those on the left are FPT.
Both FPT and MPT fall under the category of thread taper known as NPT (National Pipe Taper), incidentally the most commonly used pipe thread type in America. So, which type of fitting do you need? It all depends on the type of connection setup you have or want. The size of the fitting (usually ¼” or ⅜”) is determined by the air hose and the tool.
~ The Team at Nail Gun Depot
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STOCKade Fencing Tools Arrive Online
Read MoreIf installing wire fence is on your to-do list, you know the importance of fast and lightweight tools, not to mention the convenience of being cord-free. While several brands have both 9 and 10.5 gauge agricultural fencing tools, few can compete with the reliability and reputation of STOCKade. Whether you’re a farmer, electrical utility worker, highway fence installer, or metal and mesh fencing contractor, expect to improve productivity and workmanship with these STOCKade products.
The beauty of the STOCKade brand is the impressive output and durability they possess. Back in the late 1990s, the ITW Paslode folks in New Zealand attempted to bring the latest pneumatic tool technology to rural fence making. Since agriculture is the top industry in that region, the market was certainly there.
By 2009, STOCKade introduced the first power stapler, creating a tool five times faster than the manual hand-hammering process. After a successful launch in New Zealand, they decided to branch out to North America and the UK. Here in America, we needed a pneumatic gun that could drive 2” staples, which meets all highway code requirements. And so was born the ST400 Air-Powered Fencing Stapler, the first of its kind made explicitly for wire fence construction.
Needless to say, we’re excited to be one of few U.S. distributors to carry them. STOCKade tools are made with lightweight, corrosion-resistant aluminum alloy housing. Tools feature adjustable drive depths, and drive a minimum of 2 staples/second. For farmers, contractors and even utility installation pros, product build and overall quality is unmatched.
Nail Gun Depot has been selling the STOCKade ST400i Cordless Fence Post Stapler, and now also offers the ST400 Pneumatic Fence Post Stapler. Both versions take 9-gauge staples, with the latter driving 3 staples/second, and the slightly heavier 400i driving 2 staples/second.
PRO TIP: Don't forget, STOCKade cordless staplers require both battery and gas fuel cell to operate. The staples and fuel for the 9-gauge cordless ST400i model come bundled in fuel/staple packs.
Also new to us is ST315i Cordless Fence Batten Stapler, which takes 10.5-gauge staples. It has an operating temperature between 19.4°F and 120.2°F. Each of the cordless models deliver 3,000 staples per battery charge, though the fuel cell capacity of the ST315i is double (1,000 staples/cell) that of the ST400i.
PRO TIP: Since STOCKade lives under the Paslode umbrella of products, you’ll find that fuel cells for the ST315i cordless stapler are interchangeable with the equivalent Paslode orange framing fuel cell.
A great tool doesn’t do much without a comparable fastener to do the heavy lifting. STOCKade staples are just as brawny, and are made of 240gm pre-galvanized wire, with a Class 3 HDG (hot-dipped galvanized) coating. The tough, rust-resistant coating contains 90% zinc and 10% aluminum [known as a Bezinal coating], which gives greater protection from corrosion than a standard galvanization.
What is a Class 3 coating, you ask?
To begin, a Class 1 coating is typically found on standard barbed wire or field fence, and will generally last from 2 to 11 years. Class 3 is about 2-1/2 times thicker, and remains rust-free from 13 to 30 years in non-coastal regions.
These paper-collated staples come secured with a weatherproof tape that prevents tool contamination. After each staple gets driven, a patented glue then seals the hole created by the staple — further preventing corrosion and deterioration. As timber ages, it dries out and cracks. Divergent tips on staples for the 400-series spread apart when driven into wood, for a more secure connection.
Now, agricultural and horticultural fence building jobs are that much easier — and that much more dependable. Check out STOCKade fencing products today, or view this quick video introducing STOCKade tools!
~ The Team at Nail Gun Depot
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Do Systainer Air Compressors Stack Up To Competition?
Read MoreBringing a touch of Europe to North America, systainer air compressors put a new spin on an age-old product. Made popular by Festool, these air compressors come fully housed in a rugged systainer box. Stack-able and built for abuse, here's a look at Cadex and RolAir's take on the popular systainer.
Featuring a light gray body with lime green trim, Cadex offers two versions of systainer compressor, giving users the choice between a 1 HP and 1.5 HP motor. The Cadex SYS/3-COMP is a compact 1 HP compressor, with a tank size of 1-1/4 gallons, and weight of 25.30 lbs. With a maximum pressure of 120 PSI, it delivers up to 1.8 CFM at 90 PSI. The Cadex SYS/4-COMP 1.5 HP compressor is slightly taller than its sibling, allowing for greater capacity. Weighing 34.30 lbs, this Cadex systainer compressor can hold 2-1/2 gallons of air, has a maximum pressure of 120 PSI, air delivery output of 3.6 CFM at 90 PSI, and a 60% duty cycle rating. Both compressors are ultra-quiet, running at an ear-pleasing 68 decibels (dB) - which makes either model ideal for use in low noise settings, such as schools and hospitals. Keeping with European tradition, both Cadex systainer compressors are manufactured in Italy.
And, with a rich history producing air compressors and pneumatics, RolAir is ready to compete with their 1 HP RolAir "AIRSTAK" systainer. A total weight of 28 lbs., this AIRSTAK compressor holds 1.6 gallons of air, and delivers 2.0 CFM at 90 PSI - all while operating on a mere 8 amps of power. While the AIRSTAK is slightly noisier than Cadex, it still offers 70 decibel (dB) ultra-low noise output. Housed in a rugged Tanos T-Loc case, the RolAir AIRSTAK easily integrates with other Festool systainer boxes.
Before purchasing a systainer compressor, consider price versus benefit. In comparison to traditional compressors of similar size and horsepower, plan to spend $300-$500 more for a T-Loc systainer compressor.
Why the additional cost?
Owners pay for the versatility and reputation tied to the systainer box concept. The real benefit in owning a systainer air compressor comes from its ergonomic design. In other words, if your workshop, truck or trailer space is extremely limited - and you need to take advantage of every last square inch - you can easily justify the space saving benefits of a systainer. If you already own several systainer boxes, a systainer compressor can easily stack with your other boxes.
Systainer boxes have earned a reputation for their rugged design. These boxes are known for their convenience and durability. Stack and interlock each systainer to create a stationary, organized workspace. Securely transport systainer stacks where you need them – providing instant mobility to any workshop.
Do these systainer compressors stack up to expectation? You decide.
~ The Team at Nail Gun Depot
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Hitachi Power Tools To Become Metabo HPT
Read MoreBig news from an age-old brand, as Hitachi Power Tools announced they will transition the iconic "Hitachi" brand name to "Metabo HPT." The branding change is set to begin September 2018, with the launch of the company's new MultiVolt cordless platform. Hitachi anticipates existing product lines will transition no later than early 2019.
But, what does this mean for Hitachi tool owners?
Here's what we know:
First, and foremost, Hitachi wants owners to know this transition will have no effect on the quality of their tools and service. Warranties will remain unaffected by the re-branding, so if you recently purchased a new Hitachi tool, rest assured that your warranty will not change.
Furthermore, build quality remains the same - Metabo HPT tools will share identical parts and engineering technology as current Hitachi tools.
So, what will change? In Hitachi's official announcement today, the company emphasizes they are simply re-branding their tools with a new name and logo. Users may see minor changes to part numbers, once the transition is complete, but will otherwise enjoy the exact same tools that built Hitachi's reputation for quality and value.
Why change the name? Hitachi Power Tools USA was acquired by an investment firm, which elected to change the company name, as it is no longer affiliated with Hitachi Ltd. While Metabo HPT and Metabo are both owned by the same group of companies, each brand will operate independent of the other.
What won't change? According to Hitachi, products will retain current brand identity: same color, same models, same warranties and the same battery interchangeability. They will be made by the same people, in the same factories, with the same specifications and focus on innovation that customers have come to expect. All products will continue to be covered and supported by the same industry-leading warranties and service. Hitachi Power Tools products will be interchangeable with Metabo HPT products, and Metabo HPT products will be interchangeable with Hitachi Power Tool products.
What products will transition to Metabo HPT? In the official release from Hitachi, the company states their full line of power tools, fasteners, accessories and outdoor power equipment products for North America will transition to the new Metabo HPT brand name.
When will the transition take place? While the official announcement released March 12, 2018, the company plans to kick-start the transition in September, with the launch of their MultiVolt cordless platform. For existing Hitachi products, we don't expect to see most models' branding change until December - and into the 2019 calendar year.
Metabo HPT packaging and signage at point of sale during the transition will feature both names and logos, to clearly communicate the changeover from Hitachi Power Tools.
As the transition approaches, stay tuned for additional details. Here's a link to Hitachi Power Tools' official news release.
~ The Team at Nail Gun Depot
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Is Hitachi's Cordless Pin Nailer A Game Changer?
Read MoreHitachi, a brand that built its reputation on pneumatic tools, has once again struck innovation, this time with a different technology - cordless. Leading the revolution in job site functionality and ease-of-use, the new Hitachi NP18DSAL cordless pin nailer is set to take carpentry to the next level.
Cutting the cord, the Hitachi NP18DSAL 23 gauge cordless pin nailer is 100% battery-powered. With the lightweight BSL1830C 3.0 Ah Li-Ion battery providing plenty of power, this sequential-firing pin nailer can drive 2 to 3 pins per second – shooting approximately 3,000 pins total per battery charge.
Brand new to market, the Hitachi NP18DSAL 18V 23 gauge cordless pin nailer is Hitachi’s first tool to feature the brand's newly patented “No-Push” safety nose tip. Designed to reduce work related fatigue, simply place the tool nose against your work surface and pull the trigger. An added bonus, this nose design also helps to prevent surface marring.
Easy to use, Hitachi added a built-in counterweight to virtually eliminate tool recoil. Other user-friendly features on this cordless pinner include a slim nose (for serious accuracy between tight trim grooves), an ergonomic comfort grip handle, and tool body bumpers. Users will also benefit from a list of standard features including dry-fire lockout, tool-less depth of drive adjustment, on-tool battery charge indicator, LED light with tool on/off switch, and a belt hook.
For those already committed to Hitachi cordless, who do not need the battery or charger, a bare tool-only model is also available. The NP18DSALP4 pin nailer offers the same great features as the full kit model, but deletes the battery, charger and carrying bag from bundle.
For those that want the full kit, the Hitachi NP18DSAL [18V 23 gauge cordless pin nailer kit] includes the tool, Li-Ion battery [339782], fast charging station [UC18YKSL], contractor carrying bag, safety glasses, 3mm. hex bar wrench, and a no-mar nose cap set.
For complete peace-of-mind, Hitachi offers a limited-lifetime warranty on the tool itself (at launch), while the battery receives a 2-year warranty, and the charger includes a 1-year warranty from the manufacturer.
Are you ready to go all-in on Hitachi cordless?
~ The Team at Nail Gun Depot
