Framing nailers are modern and heavy-duty power tools used for woodwork. There are five different types of framing nailers from 15 to 34 degrees. They are characterized by the angle of the magazine rail with the body. Can I use 30 degree nails in a 34 degree nailer
Yes, it is possible to use a 30-degree version of nails in a 34-degree nailer. The magazines of most of the 34-degree nailers are designed in such a way that they can receive nails varying from 30 to 34 degrees of collation angle.
Though many professional users find it okay to use 30-degree nails in a 34-degree nailer, it is advisable to use only 34-degree paper collated nails in a 34-degree nailer. 34-degree nailers are only compatible with clipped( D-head) nails.
We can use 30 degree nails in a 34 degree framing nailer, because-
- Magazines of 34-degree nailers are designed to receive higher angle collated nails.
- Both 30 and 34 degree nails are mostly clipped heads.
- Nail jamming occurs very rarely.
We can not use 30 degree nails in a 34 degree nailer, because-
- Nail jamming occurs at the tip.
- There would be a risk of damage to the tool.
Comparison between 30 degree nailer and 34 degree framing nailer.
| 30 Degree Framing Nailer | 34 Degree Framing Nailer |
|---|---|
| The angle between the magazine rail and the tip is 30 degrees. | The angle between the magazine Raila and the tip is 34 degrees. More compact in size. |
| Receives 30-degree paper-strip collated nail | Receives 34-degree paper-strip collated nail |
| More gaps between collated nails. | No gap between collated nails. More nails can be loaded in the magazine. |
| Accepts both clipped head/ full round head nails | Accepts only clipped/D-head nails |
| 2in to 3½/3¼ in nails are compatible | 2 into 3½in nails are compatible |
| Satisfies building codes of many regions. | Building codes of disaster-prone areas do not accept clipped head nails. |
Best 30 Degree Framing Nailer- METABO HPT NR83AA5
Formerly, one of the best power tool manufacturers, Hitachi has brought a rebranded version of a 30-degree nailer named Metabo NR83AA5.
An aluminum body makes it light in weight. The tool weighs only 9 lbs (without rafter hook) and is very well balanced.
Switchable sequential and bump action actuation mode using a flip switch.
The updated cylinder valve drive system is installed for a powerful performance. Rubber grip reduces fatigue during a long working time.
These options help a user to do precise and accurate nailing. Open nose feature for easy extraction of stuck nails in the rail.
Switchable sequential and bump action actuation mode using a flip switch. These options help a user to do precise and accurate nailing. Open nose feature for easy extraction of stuck nails in the rail.
Magazine of METABO HPT NR83AA5 is designed to receive 30-degree paper strip collated, clipped, and full round head nails. So, it can work in all regions following the building codes.
The nailer takes in nails varying from 2” to 3¼” in length. Longer magazine length holds 86 to 90 nails at a time. The tool operates at air pressure from 70 to 120 PSI.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy maneuverable due to balanced weight distribution. | Lacks dry fire lockout system. |
| Comfortable to use for a long time due to ergonomic design. | No ventilator for exhaust air. |
| Maintenance is negligible. | |
| Firm grip on the surface reduces slipping. | |
| Effective for tight spots, corners, and between studs. |
Best 34 Degree Framing Nailer- Freeman PFR3490
Freeman PFR3490 is an air-powered nailer. It is compatible with 34-degree paper collated nails. The tool accepts nail lengths from 2” to 3½”.
This tool has an adjustable trigger to switch between sequential and bump action shooting mode. Freeman PFR3490 is comprised of a tool-less depth adjustment system.
It is designed to be oil-free, so very low maintenance is required. Magnesium is used as body material resulting in a very lightweight tool.
The handle of the tool is rubberized to give a firm grip. Freeman PFR3490 has an anti-dry firing system. This means the tool automatically stops working when 2-3 nails remain in the magazine and requires reloading.
And so it can be used for a long working shift without arm fatigue. The no-mar tip feature helps to reduce surface damage.
It weighs only 8.6lbs and operates at 70-115 psi air pressure. The dimensions of the tool are 20.13″ x 5.88″ x 13.63″. Magazine of this tool can take up to 90 nails at a time.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very light in weight to work within long-term projects. | Full round head nails are not compatible. |
| Framing angle for tight corners in between the studs. | Does not follow building codes of all regions. |
| 360-degree exhaust system directs the air away from the face. | |
| The Interior remains debris-free and requires less cleaning. | |
| Negligible maintenance is required. |
Uses of 30 degree nails.
30 Degree Nails can be used for-
- Flooring
- Sub flooring
- Wall framing
- Roofing
- Exterior deck
- Window framing
30 degree nails have both clipped and full round head versions of nails available in the market. Most 30 degree nailers are compatible with both clipped and full round nails. Thus 30-degree nails can be used in all weather and geographical locations. Its full round type does not violate the building codes.
Uses of 34 degree nails.
34 Degree Nails can be used for-
- Engineered wood fitting.
- Window building.
- Wall sheathing
- Mobile homes
- Modular houses.
- Interior and exterior decking.
34-degree nails are the highest angle collated nails available in the spots. It allows the compatible nailer to be easily maneuverable and can be fired to such spots where lower angled nails are unreachable. 34-degree nails have only clipped or D-head type.
That is why many natural disaster-prone regions do not allow this type of nail due to its comparatively low holding capacity. Moreover, the paper strip used for nail collation often gets damaged in humid and hot weather.
Know the nail size in your manual of the nailer and pick the right one. You can also check our guide on picking the right size nails.
Yes, it is possible to use a 30-degree version of nails in a 28-degree nailer. The magazines of most of the 34-degree nailers are designed in such a way that they can receive nails varying from 30 to 34 degrees of collation angle.
Conclusion
Judging by the specifications and features of the 30 and 34-degree nailer and the compatible nails, we can answer the question. Can I use 30-degree nails in a 34-degree framing nailer?
Yes, we can use 30-degree nails in 34-degree nailers. Because magazines of most of the 34-degree nailers are designed to comply with 30 to 34-degree nails. But, it is recommended to follow the user guides and company-suggested nails in a specified nailer to avoid unfortunate damage to the tool.