What nailer type?

[DaveO]

I have a couple projects in mind and I'm considering an air nailer. The projects are
~ install crown molding
~ install carpet on stairs

The carpet-on-the-stairs project is to replace carpet continuously on the step and on the riser. The carpet runs up the middle of the stairs with wood exposed on the outer edges, and the current carpet is installed with wire staples tacked under the lip of each step. (The side edges of the carpet are folded under.)

Crown molding is more involved than it looks, I know, and I need to read up on it and practice before I attempt the final install.

Are these projects best done with a brad nailer? A finish nailer? Staple gun? Can I do both projects with one tool, or would I need both?

(PS- I'm looking at a classified ad from someone selling one of each, brand new still in the box and under the tree, so I'm salivating a little here.)

Thanks!

[junkcollector]

What sounds like would work best for your projects is a nailer / stapler combo. It shoots either 18 gauge brads or 18 gauge crown staples.

The only thing is that when you shoot brad nails and the depth adjustment is set slightly deep, the stapler will leave a depression similar to if you shot a staple, because it uses the same driver for both. If you look closely, you will see that the nail is off to one side of the depression. It is more difficult to fill the mark with putty than if a stand alone brad nailer would have been used. If this is a problem, a stand alone brad nailer and a stapler would be best. If you choose that route, look at which tool you will use more. Then invest in a more quality tool. The other one can be a cheaper version. I personally have a cheap nailer and a cheap stapler and they have been working great since I bought them early 2003. (from Harbor Freight)

Just my two cents...

[DaveO]

That combo unit you mentioned is on sale over at HF for $17... talk about the planets lining up. Thanks for your post!

[Ohm1]

What's considered cheap?

[junkcollector]

What's considered cheap?

For example, The nailer that I bought at Harbor freight. ($20) Compared to a brand name. Senco, Bostitch, Porter Cable, etc. retail around $100+

Depends on how much you use it, like anything else. I do very little of this type of work (just around my house) so it serves me well.

Thinking about getting into a little woodworking on the weekend Ohm?