How do I size an air compressor kit (HP, psi, gallons) for personal residential nailing. I would like to be able to do framing on average of once a year (finish the basement type stuff). Most of the use will be finish nailing (molding, etc). Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

2.5 gallon pancake should do that fine, you need to match the cfm rating to the tool so look and see what the nail gun pulls first.

most nail guns run on 80lbs, some abit more,,some less..most compressiors will run up to 120 before shutting off at the top end.


don't waste your money on an oilless,,they burn out fast.


ps...drain the tank after EVERY use...before putting it away even if it's only for the nite,,,they rust from the inside out.

Thanks. Good info. These boards are great!

Give any thought to an Impulse gun?

I bought the small Porter Cable pancake compressor last year and it's worked great.

-spence

Did a quick review of Paslode's impulse nailer. Definetly worth a look. The framing use is exactly what I'm looking for and not having to pull out cords/compressor is slick. I'm going to do some further cost comparisons against the air compressor units.

Thanks

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0000225HU/bladesexpress/002-7286054-5226417[/URL]

CS it's not the pressure he needs it's the CFM to match the gun or air tool. Like my big lathe....I got a pancake compressor that runs 150 psi....but it's not going to run the machine that needs 18 cfm just to breathe like my big 80 gallon 3 stage can provide.....

Get a Makita 2400. Runs fine on a 15 AMP circut. I have three of the previous model (2000 and 2200, I think)and one of the DeWalt D55155. The DeWalt needs a 20 AMP circut to run consistently well, and it doesn't like cold weather at all. I definately prefer the Makitas. I use mostly Bostich guns and 3/8" hose. The guns operate more reliable with that then the 1/4" hose. I have been in construction for about 18 years, and owner of my own business for the last 10, so i guess I have put most tools out there to the test. The Paslode guns are OK, but you have to clean them RELIGIOUSLY. I have owned 4 of them (2 trim and 2 framing), and returned one of each because they consistently failed to operate. The two remaining guns work well only if I have one of my guys clean and lube them every day that they are used.
good luck
brandon

Thanks C-5. Did read some of the reviews on the Paslode's that cleaning is a problem. This could be an issue for me since use will be light-residential, where a clear schedule for cleaning may be various. This issue issue may outweigh dragging out the hoses on the air compressor models.

another good rule is:
Have one hose for inside use only! That way you don't have to worry about dragging an embeded stone over a nice wood floor:smash: