How to Set and Choose the Right Nail for a Nail Gun

A nail gun is a great accessory if you're going to be doing a lot of construction or have a large construction project. The gun saves a great deal of time on the job and can be an invaluable asset. You need to be able to choose the right nail for the job and the appropriate nails for the gun. Read on to learn how to set and choose the right nail for a nail gun.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Use only nails that are created for a nail gun. These nails are connected together in a roll and indicate on the box that they're for that particular nail gun. Each different make of gun uses its own nails. Besides different brands, there are different nail guns for various types of jobs. Framing and finishing guns are used differently and have different nails. You also need to choose the right nail gun for the job.

2. Select the right size of nail for the job. If you use a wide nail on a narrow piece of wood or thin piece, the nail can potentially split the wood.

3. Choose the correct length nail for both the job and the gun. The nail that you choose should go through the first board and the same measurement as the first board into the second. If you're nailing a board to a stud that is 3/4 inch, use a 1 1/2-inch nail.

4. Adjust for boards that are the same thickness. Use a nail that's slightly shorter when nailing two pieces together that are the same thickness. You do not want the nail to protrude out the other side. Adjust the length of the nail, appropriately.

5. Come back with a hammer and a nail set if the head protrudes to far beyond the board to be flush. Place the nail set on the head and strike it with a hammer to drive it further into the board.