A good metal connector nail gun is important because it helps ensure that the nails are properly driven into the connector and that the connector is securely fastened to the framing. A metal connector nailer also helps prevent the nails from bending or breaking, which can cause the connector to come loose and potentially fail.
Driving nails into metal connectors can be difficult because the nails are often harder than the connector material. This can cause the nails to bend or break, which can lead to the connector coming loose. A modern connector nailer helps to prevent this by providing more force to drive the nails into the connector and by holding the nails more securely so they are less likely to bend or break.
5 Best Nail Gun from Metal Reviewed
- BOSTITCH Framing Nailer — Rating by reviews 4.7 out of 5. Perfect choice
- DEWALT Metal Connector Nailer — Good Overall
- Metabo HPT 36V MultiVolt Cordless Metal Connector Nailer — Popular brand
- BOSTITCH StrapShot Metal Connector Nailer
- SENCO JN91H2 1-1/2 in. Metal Connector Nailer
1. BOSTITCH Framing Nailer
When you need a reliable and durable framing nailer, look no further than the BOSTITCH 21-degree Plastic Collated Framing Nailer. This tough and powerful nailer is designed to drive nails into engineered lumber, and can easily handle any tough job you throw its way.
With a push button depth adjustment, you can control how deep the nails are driven, ensuring a perfect finish every time. The BOSTITCH framing nailer is also lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it a breeze to use even for extended periods of time. If you’re looking for a top-quality framing nailer that will get the job done right, the BOSTITCH 21-degree Plastic Collated Framing Nailer is the perfect choice.
- Lightweight
- Easy to control nail depth
- Durable
- May not work with all types of lumber
Specifications
- Brand: Bostitch
- Power Source: Air Powered (Pneumatic)
- Size: 1 1/2 inch to 2-1/2-inch
- Scoring angle: 21-degree
- Weight: 4.17 pounds
2. DEWALT Metal Connector Nailer
The DEWALT Metal 
Connector Nailer is a great tool to have on hand for any home improvement projects that require. This metal hanger nailer is lightweight and fits conveniently inside 12″ on-center framing and other tight areas, making it ideal for use in tight spaces.
The exposed nail tip and tool-free adjustable rafter hook make it easy to place the fasteners exactly where you need them, while the low nail lockout helps prevent jamming. With a 29.0 magazine capacity and operating pressure of 70-120 PSI, this nailer is sure to make quick work of any hanger-related projects you may have.
- Convenient size
- Tool-free adjustable rafter hook
- Low nail lockout to prevent jamming
- Well balanced
- Magazine capacity of only 29 nails
- The metal connector nailer is only 4.6 pounds, not good for users who prefer a heavier tool
Specifications
- Brand: Dewalt
- Power Source: Air Powered (Pneumatic)
- Weight: 1 pounds
3. Metabo HPT 36V MultiVolt Cordless Metal Connector Nailer
If you’re looking for a powerful and efficient cordless metal connector nail gun, the Metabo cordless metal connector nailer is a great option to consider. Thanks to the unique Air Spring Drive System, this nailer provides a similar feel to using a pneumatic nailer, but without the need for a compressor or long hoses.
The Strap-Tite Probe Tip allows for precise placement of each nail, saving you time and money. And with the included 2.5 Ah MultiVolt 36V battery, you can get up to 900 2-1/2″ x 1.162″ nails per charge. Whether you’re working on a framing job or a punch list, the Metabo HPT 36V MultiVolt Cordless Metal Connector Nailer is a great tool to have on hand.
- No hoses to navigate around the jobsite
- Strap-Tite Probe Tip for precise placement of every nail
- Air Spring Drive System for a similar feel to using a pneumatic nailer
- 900 2-1/2″ x 1.162″ nails per charge with the included 2.5 Ah MultiVolt 36V battery
- It is a bit larger than an equivalent air nailer
Specifications
- Brand: Metabo
- Power Source: Battery Powered
- Size: 1-1/2-Inch and 2-1/2-Inch
- Scoring angle: 35 degree
- Weight: 17.06 pounds
4. BOSTITCH StrapShot Metal Connector Nailer
BOSTITCH StrapShot Metal Connector Nailer is perfect for fastening metal connectors, and its exposed nail tip ensures that you’ll get a precise and fast application every time. The built-in safety feature prevents the nailer from firing when not placed properly, and the low nail lockout feature prevents jams. The BOSTITCH StrapShot Metal Connector Nailer also comes with hardened steel wear guards and an adjustable exhaust to keep the air away from you.
- Exposed nail tip for precision
- Built in safety
- Hardened steel wear guards
- Adjustable exhaust
- Nail clip can loose force towards the end of a strip
Specifications
- Brand: Bostitch
- Power Source: Air Powered
- Size: 2-1/2-Inch
- Scoring angle: 35 degree
- Weight: 33.2 pounds
5. SENCO JN91H2 1-1/2 in. Metal Connector Nailer
The SENCO JN91H2 1-1/2 in. Metal Connector Nailer is a top of the line product that is specifically designed for fastening pre-punched metal connection hardware to dense engineered lumber, like LVL. The JN91H2 is fitted with an extended magazine to hold two full racks of 1-1/2 in. nails, which allows for less downtime and higher production rates. The nosepiece design leads with the point of the nail, ensuring precise placement on each drive. The JN91H2 is compact and lightweight for easy, all-day operation, and includes 1-1/2″ Metal Connector Nailer w/Extended Mag – JN91H2, Wrenches, Oil, Safety Glasses, Air Plug.
- Lightweight and compact for easy maneuverability and comfortable use
- The extended magazine holds two full racks of nails for less downtime
- Nosepiece design leads with the point of the nail for precise placement
- A bit pricier than some of the other models on the market
Specifications
- Brand: SENCO
- Power Source: Corded-electric
- Size: 1-1/2 in
- Weight: 5.88 pounds
Product Buyer’s Guide
What is a Metal Connector Nailer?
A metal connector nailer is a specialized type of pneumatic nail gun that is designed for use with metal connector plates. These nailers have a unique magazine that holds metal plates instead of nails, and they are equipped with a special driver that is used to install the plates onto the lumber.
What is a metal connector nailer used for
A metal connector nailer is used to attach metal connectors to wood framing. It is a specialized type of nail gun that is designed to shoot nails into metal connectors with precision. This tool is essential for anyone who is doing any type of wood framing that involves metal connectors. Without a metal connector nailer, it would be very difficult to attach metal connectors to wood framing. This tool makes the process much easier and quicker. It is a very popular tool among contractors and builders.
How to Pick Metal Connector Nailers?
Size of the Nailer
The size of the metal connector nailer is important because it will determine the size of the nails that it can use. If you have a small nailer, then you will be limited to using small nails. If you have a large nailer, then you will be able to use larger nails.
Size and type of nails:
The size and type of nails you need will depend on the size and type of connectors you are using. The most common nails used for metal connector nailers are 16d common nails.
Size and type of connectors:
The size and type of connectors you need will depend on the size and type of wood framing you are using. The most common connectors used for metal connector nailers are 3/8″ and 1/2″ 20-gauge connectors.
Type of Nailer
Metal connector nailers are used to connect metal plates together. There are different types of metal connector nailers, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. One type of metal connector nailer is the pneumatic nailer. This type of nailer uses air pressure to drive nails into metal plates. Pneumatic nailers are very powerful and can drive nails into very thick metal plates. However, they are also very loud and can be difficult to use. Another type of metal connector nailer is the electric nailer. Electric nailers are not as powerful as pneumatic nailers, but they are much quieter and easier to use. Electric nailers are also less likely to damage metal plates. The type of metal connector nailer that you choose should be based on the thickness of the metal plates that you will be connecting and the amount of noise that you are willing to tolerate.
Capacity
The capacity of the nailer will determine how many nails it can hold. If you have a large project, then you will need a nailer with a large capacity.
Price
Metal connector nailers can range in price from $50 to $200.
How to Use Metal Connector Nailers?
Before using your metal connector nailer, be sure to read all manufacturer’s instructions and warnings. To avoid serious injury, always wear eye and ear protection when using this tool.
- To load your nailer, first insert the proper sized fastener strip into the magazine. Make sure that the nails are facing the correct direction (refer to your nailer’s manual for guidance).
- Next, cock the nailer by pulling back on the cocking lever. This will load a nail into the firing chamber.
- To fire the nailer, simply press the trigger. The nail will be driven into the workpiece.
- Continue loading and firing nails until all of the fasteners have been used.
- To unload the nailer, first remove any remaining fasteners from the magazine. Next, release the cocking lever, which will eject any remaining nails from the firing chamber.
What Are the Benefits of Metal Connector Nailers for Home Use?
Metal connector nailers are a specialized type of nail gun that is designed to drive nails into metal plates or brackets. This type of nailer is often used in construction applications where metal framing is being used. There are a number of benefits to using a metal connector nailer over a traditional nail gun, including:
- Increased accuracy – When nailing into metal, it is important to have a high degree of accuracy to ensure that the nails are driven into the correct location. A metal connector nailer is designed to provide this accuracy, making it ideal for use in construction applications.
- Increased speed – Metal connector nailers can drive nails much faster than a traditional nail gun, which can save a significant amount of time on a construction project.
- Increased safety – Metal connector nailers are equipped with safety features that help to prevent accidents. For example, most metal connector nailers have a built-in trigger lock that prevents the nailer from being fired accidentally.
- Increased durability – Metal connector nailers are built to withstand the rigors of construction use, making them much more durable than a traditional nail gun.
The Different Types of Nails for Metal Connector Nailers
There are different types of nails for metal connector nailers. The most common are the round head and the flat head. The round head nails have a round head and a small diameter. They are used for connecting two pieces of metal together. The flat head nails have a flat head and a larger diameter. They are used for connecting metal to wood.
Table comparing the characteristics of Metal Connector Nailers
| Power Source | Size | Scoring angle | |
|---|---|---|---|
| BOSTITCH Framing Nailer, Pneumatic (F21PL) | Air Powered | 1-1/2-Inch to 3-1/2-Inch | 21-degree |
| DEWALT Metal Connector Nailer DWMC150 | Air Powered | 1-1/2-Inch | 35-degree |
| Metabo HPT 36V MultiVolt Cordless Metal Connector Nailer Kit NR3665DA | Battery Powered | 1-1/2-Inch to 2-1/2- | 35-degree |
| BOSTITCH StrapShot Metal Connector Nailer MCN250S | Air Powered | 2-1/2-Inch | 35-degree |
| SENCO JN91H2 Metal Connector Nailer with Extended Magazine | Corded-electric | 1-1/2-Inch | 34-degree |
Metal Connector Nailers for Home Use FAQ
Can you use a framing nailer for metal connectors?
A framing nailer can be used for metal connectors, but it is not the ideal tool. A better option would be to use a metal connector nailer, which is specifically designed for this purpose.
What kind of nailer do you use for nail gun joist hangers?
A simple finish nailer will do the job for most joist hangers, but if you’re working with particularly heavy-duty hangers, you may need a more powerful metal connector nail gun.
Are nail guns better than screws?
Nail guns are typically used for construction projects, while screws are more versatile and can be used for a variety of projects. Nail guns are faster and easier to use than screws, but they are not as durable.
Conclusion
A good metal connector nailer is an important tool for any homeowner or contractor who wants to ensure that their metal connector nails are properly installed. Metal connector nails are used to connect two pieces of metal together, and they must be properly installed in order to create a strong and secure connection. A good metal connector nailer will have a variety of features that make it easy to use and ensure that the nails are properly installed.
One of the most important features of a good metal connector nailer is an adjustable depth setting. This feature allows the user to adjust the depth of the nail so that it is properly seated in the connector. If the nail is not properly seated, it can come loose over time and cause the connection to fail.
Another important feature of a good metal connector nailer is a jam release lever. This lever allows the user to clear any jams that may occur during the nailing process. Jams can occur if the nails are not properly aligned or if they are too long for the connector.
Finally, a good metal connector nailer will have a safety trigger. This trigger prevents the nailer from firing unless the safety is engaged. This safety feature is important to prevent accidental firing of the nailer, which could result in injury.
This tool is an incredible addition to your tools set. Check our other articles about tools for cutting tile, mixing concrete and others.
Thanks for your blog, nice to read. Do not stop.
Hey there, You have done a great job. I’m really impressed by your site. I’ll definitely dig it and in my view recommend to my friends. I am sure they will bee benefit from this web site.
Cool description of the models. I have been looking for the perfect model in terms of features and price for several weeks. Now I am choosing literally between several models, but I am inclined to DEWALT, as I have other tools of the same brand.
A cool overview of metal connectors. It’s good that you indicated the characteristics and comparison, it saves a lot of time. So far I am inclined to choose Metabo, because it is battery powered.