How to Remove a Jammed Nail From My Nail Gun

Framing nailer

Pneumatic and battery operated nail guns drive nails with considerable force. On occasion, a nail gets caught in the gun or hits an object and deflects, causing a jam in the gun. Knowing how to remove the jammed nail will get you back to work quickly and safely.

Things You'll Need

• Nail gun
• Nails
• Pliers
• Claw hammer

Instructions

1. Remove the air hose or battery from the nailer.

2. Open the magazine and remove all racks of unused nails.

3. Open the nose of the nail gun. Most nailers have a flip-style locking mechanism on the nose of the gun. If you cannot open the nose mechanism with your fingers, try prying it open gently with the claw of a claw hammer or a pair of pliers.

4. Remove the bent or jammed nail and inspect the nose for any damage.

5. Close and lock the nose.

6. Refill the magazine with nails.

7. Reattach the air hose or battery. Test the gun. If it is working properly, return to the task at hand. If it won't fire, repeat the steps and check for another nail or any damage to the nose mechanism that you might have missed.

Tips & Warnings

• Whenever working with nailers or any other power tools, always wear appropriate safety equipment, including safety glasses.

References

• Isanta: Power Fastening Safety
• Tools of the Trade: Avoid Injuries from Pneumatic Nailers
• Reader's Digest: How to Use a Trim Nailer Gun