For contractors who fasten rafter and truss-to-top plate connections, falling is a potential safety hazard. The Quik Stik Rafter and Truss Fastening System from Simpson Strong-Tie resolves some of issues associated with overhead fastening, making it safer and simpler to get the job done without the need for a ladder.

How Does the Quik Stik Work?

The Quik Stik System is a screw driving extension tool that attaches to a drill or driver with a minimum 1,200 RPM−including cordless screw drivers. To use the tool, insert the Quik Stik’s hex-drive shaft into the drill or driver motor’s chuck. Then push down on the head of the tool to expose the magnetic bit holder, and insert the T30 driver bit until it clicks. Ensure everything’s properly connected by doing an installation motion, sliding the drive shaft though the guide sleeve while running the motor. When you're all set, insert the compatible Strong-Drive SDWC truss screw into the head and you’re ready to go. 

Like many of the screw driving systems from Simpson Strong-Tie, the Quik Stik makes the fastening process considerably faster and more convenient. With this particular innovation, Simpson Strong-Tie asserts the Quik Stik is essentially "eliminating the need for ladders, power nailers and compressor lines.” It's certainly a step up for those who do a lot of overhead fastening.

The rafter and truss fastening system has been evaluated and approved for five different types of installations: offset from stud (underside of top-plate, bottom edge of top-plate), wide face of stud, narrow face of stud, and front corner of stud (compound angle). Click here to see more specifics about Quik Stik approved installations.

Safety Improvements with the Tool

One of the most obvious issues with rafter and truss applications is the reach factor. You’ll likely need a ladder to fasten those connections, and with that comes with risk of falling. This tool provides a minimum of 43” extension for screw driving, so for most wall heights, you can forgo the ladder. If you use a cordless screw driver with the Quik Stik, you don't have the hassle of a cord, giving you greater freedom and mobility.

Another benefit of the tool is that, since you can work from the interior of a structure, you won’t have to lug a ladder outdoors—or have to contend as much with the elements. So there's less potential for slipping, tripping and dropping.

Also, you don’t have the heft of a pneumatic tool, thanks to the extension tool’s weight. Not including the motor you choose, the tool weighs about 6 lbs. This means less strain from lifting a tool overhead, which could lead to inaccuracies in fastener placement. The Quik Stik has a comfortable, rubberized grip; it’s really a well thought-out solution for driving screws overhead.

Unique Features on the Quik Stik

You’ll notice the special positioning prongs on the head of the tool, which is over-molded with nylon. The prongs help securely grip the top plate while driving screws. The manufacturer has also included a bubble level that can be positioned along the handle or tool's head. The level may be angled, and even removed.

On the head of the tool, there are bright-orange guidelines to help direct the screw to the optimal angle for truss and top-plate to rafter connections. An orange centerline guide on the Quik Stik's head is useful for locating 90-degree angles in vertical connections. Rocker arms on the head let you adjust for precision fastening.

When you pull back on the tool's head, this exposes the screw, letting you see exactly where you're going and preventing mis-installation. And, should you need to remove a screw, set the driver motor to reverse and just unscrew the fastener.

Quik Stik's Compatible Fastener

As mentioned, the Quik Stik drives the specially designed Strong-Drive SDWC truss screw. The 6” screw is fully threaded, engaging the entire length of the fastener. A cap-head on the screw allows it to be countersunk into double top plates. The SDWC screw also has a type-17 point for easier starting and driving.

The screws are code-listed under IAPMO –UES ER-262 and are tested in accordance with ICC-ES AC233 and AC13 for wall assembly and roof-to-wall assembly. With a bright-orange coating, the truss screw is easily visible and has a wide “tolerance” on angle installations, making it easy to install in a variety of positions.

Those familiar with the Quik Drive auto-feed systems from Simpson Strong-Tie will be curious about fastener collation. The Quik Stik system drives one screw at a time, so you won't be able to use collated screws. But who knows; perhaps Simpson Strong-Tie has already considered a solution for that, too.

Quik Stik Fast Facts

• Applications: Rafter Assembly/Truss-to-Top-Plate Connections
• Approved Installations: Offset from stud (Underside of Top-plate, Bottom edge of top-plate), Wide face of stud, Narrow face of stud, Front corner of stud (compound angle)
• Fasteners: Strong-Drive SDWC Truss Screws
• Screw Driver/Drill Motor: 1,200 RPM or Greater
• Driver Bit: T30 6-Lobe
• Attachment Weight: 6 lbs.
• Driver Bit Included: Yes

Are you ready to reach higher with the Quik Stik Rafter and Truss Fastening System? We’re certainly up to the task.

Shop Nail Gun Depot:

Quik Stik Rafter and Truss Fastening System

Strong-Drive SDWC Truss Screws

While at the STAFDA (Specialty Tool & Fastener) show in balmy Phoenix last week, we got a sneak peek at these sweet new cordless and pneumatic nailers. Check out Nail Gun Depot’s YouTube channel for quick-videos from the show, or read below to see the innovative new products coming from Metabo HPT, Grex, Cadex, Fasco, and other top brands in fastening.

Fasco’s Faster Joist Hanger Nailer

Fasten metal plates without being “tied down” by air compressor hoses. Fasco’s F70G Cordless Hanger Nailer is fast and powerful, driving two to three nails per second, from 1-1/2” to 2-1/2” in length. Already available at Nail Gun Depot, the joist nailer has a positive placement nose, non-slip grip, and single-shot actuation. Use it for fastening joist hangers, stud plate ties and post bases.

Fasco F70G Joist Nailer Video

Grex's Cordless Micro-Pinner

Certain to stir up interest, the new Grex GCP650 23-gauge cordless pin nailer conveniently runs on a propane cylinder and two AAA batteries. Based on the popularity of its 18 gauge sibling, the GC1850, this Grex 23 gauge cordless should be a hit when it arrives in December. Already trusted for the performance of their corded 23-gauge tools, the cordless micro pinner features durable components, all-metal construction (minus the outside housing) and shoots 2” pin nails.

Grex 23-Gauge Cordless Pinner Video

Metabo HPT’s Slick A5 PRO Nailers

Continuously innovating, the brand formerly known as Hitachi Power Tools adds sleek framing and finish nailers to their A5 PRO lineup. Check out the NP50A 23-Gauge Pin Nailer, the NT50A5 2” Brad Nailer, and the NR90AC5 3” Framing Nailer.

Each nail gun features dry-fire lockout and depth adjust. The 2” brad nailer has an integrated air blower and a “true” dry-fire lockout that lets you use the last nail in the magazine before shutting off, unlike other nailers which cut out with a handful of nails left.

Metabo HPT A5 PRO Nailers Video

Cadex’s 7 For 2019

Cadex has big plans for 2019. Taking the sturdy V3 tool as a foundation, the company, known for precision trim tools, has spawned five different models: two L-series cleat nailers (one with a rolling base), a 20-gauge cleat nailer for thin floorboards (such as bamboo), an 18-gauge cleat nailer, and a 16-gauge brad nailer.

But wait, there's more! Cadex will also release two cordless nailers, a 16-gauge finish and 18-gauge brad nailer with built-in light, 4 amp battery and no-mar tip. Cadex plans to drop all of the new nailers in early 2019, so stay tuned.

Cadex Nailer Video

So, which of these new tool(s) are you most interested in? Let us know in the comments!

~ The Nail Gun Depot Team

Will 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” apart

HardiePanel
• 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

Can’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

The holidays are here, and Nail Gun Depot wants to make sure you’re giving a gift that will stay productive well beyond the holiday season. Check out our top picks for cost-efficient (quality-assured) tools and accessories for the holidays:

First on the list, the Fasco-Maestri 7C-16 3/8” Crown Electric Stapler is great for everything upholstery. This 100% electric fine wire stapler, designed with super durable reinforced fiberglass, is ideal for any picture frame construction, decorative trim, upholstery, carpeting, furniture repair, cable sheathing, and many more projects. Pairing maximum power with high fastening speed, you’ll have no trouble getting the most from any project.

Pairing nicely with the Fasco-Maestri electric stapler, the Spotnails P-97482 Heavy-Duty Upholstery Staple Remover does a great job removing fine wire upholstery staples. The perfect accessory for anyone working with upholstery, Spotnails’ staple remover is designed specifically to reduce the risk of snagging fabric. Its compact size and price also make for a great stocking stuffer.

Back by popular demand, for finish and trim woodworkers, grab a Grex Holiday Bundle:

Grex is offering several holiday gift sets this year. The first, a Grex P635 23 Gauge Headless Pinner Holiday Gift Set, for $148, includes a P635 headless pin nailer plus a FREE FT230.1 edge guide – a $70 value, but only available through Christmas! Give the gift of green, and still have some left in your wallet too. The Grex P635 pin nailer is lightweight, powerful, and has an industrial strength design for added durability. It’s the perfect reliable tool for light wood assembly, finish work, decorative trim, and craft work, among other projects.

The second set, a Grex 1850GB 18 Gauge Brad Nailer Holiday Gift Set, is $168 (until Christmas), and includes a 1850GB 18 gauge brad nailer and FREE FT230.1 edge guide. If you’re shopping for someone who loves projects working with trim and moldings, cabinet and light wood assembly, window beading, or jig fixtures, you can’t beat this special holiday bundle. This Grex “Green Buddy” features an extremely slim nose for extra precision in tight-to-reach areas.

We’re also offering a Grex P650L Headless Pinner Holiday Gift Set. Currently listed at $248 for the 2017 holiday season, you get a P650L headless pin nailer and FREE FT230.1 edge guide, with savings added up to $70. This Grex bundle is an excellent gift for anyone who works with light wood assembly, rattan furniture, craft work, or mirror and picture frame assembly. For the little details, Grex’s FT230.1 edge guide allows for even greater precision on the job.

Gifting for the level-headed? Stabila is offering a couple “Best of Three” bundles – great for anyone’s workshop:

The first, a Stabila 48370 Classic Set, includes a 37448 48” type 196 spirit level, a 37424 24” type 196 spirit level, a 25100 torpedo level, and a carrying case. Built for quality and durability, and featuring a limited-time only price of $199.99, this deal is a steal. Made in Germany, these levels house crystal clear vials that will never leak, break, fog, or need recalibration. In fact, the vials are guaranteed for life. Talk about a gift that will last a lifetime.

Stabila is also offering a 48380 Type 96M Magnetic Level Set. This set includes one 38648 48” type 96M magnetic level, one 38624 24” type 96M magnetic level, a 25100 diecast magnetic torpedo level, and a carrying case. As the name implies, every level in this set is magnetic – ideal for jobs that require hands-free work with metal. If you’re looking for a new level set for the holidays, don’t pass this deal up!

For pneumatic fanatics, we have a couple awesome bundles to consider:

Our Senco PC1342 23 Gauge Micro Pinner Kit includes an 8F0001N FinishPro 23SXP 23 gauge headless pin nailer, and a PC1010N air compressor. This deal, for the 2017 holidays, is still in stock at $229. The Senco FinishPro pinner is ideally suited for any intricate, light finish wood work and wood assembly. Powerful and precise with an ultra-narrow nose, this tool doesn’t split wood. The perfect mate, Senco’s PC1010N air compressor uses an oil-free pump and induction motor, cutting back on noise and reducing maintenance.

Receiving an honorable mention this year, Cadex has the ultimate finish and trim bundle, exclusive only to Nail Gun Depot. Our Cadex V2/BUNDLE, which includes both 21 and 23 gauge Cadex pin nailers, an air compressor, 75’ air hose and sample pin pack. Priced at $599 with free shipping included, this package deal is only here until supplies run out.

MAX out the volume with a new Bluetooth speaker:

MAX USA Tools is making some noise, and while supplies last, you can too. For a limited-time, get a FREE Bluetooth speaker with ANY MAX framing nailer. This deal includes top-selling models like the SN883RH3 Full Round Head Framing Nailer and SN890CH3/34 Clipped Head Framing Nailer, among others. For roofers, and siding installers, we’re including a FREE tool bucket bag with purchase of ANY MAX roofing or siding nailer – while supplies last.

And finally, for the high tech woodworker on a budget, it’s time to cut the cord:

The Hitachi NT1850DE Li-Ion 18 Gauge Cordless Brad Nailer is a fantastic gift for those who don’t want the hassle of hoses and cords. Equipped with brushless motor technology – this Hitachi brad nailer delivers increased power at reduced weight, a longer tool life, and longer run time per charge compared to most competing cordless brad nailers. As a special holiday bonus, while supply lasts, Hitachi is including a FREE spare battery with this tool!

One more tough-as-nails cordless, battery-only nailer in our holiday line-up, take a look at the new Bostitch BCN680D1 20V MAX 18 Gauge Brad Nailer Kit. Priced just under $299 for the holidays, this brad nailer pairs Bostitch brand quality with the latest cordless technology. Certain to bring cheer Christmas day and beyond.

Be sure to note, our shipping experts recommend ordering no later than December 14, 2017 for delivery before Christmas.

Which gift on this list would make you merry?

~ The Nail Gun Depot Team