I need recommendations on a compressor to buy. Need one for single tool usage, a framing nailer is probably the biggest thing I would run.
Thanks
I need recommendations on a compressor to buy. Need one for single tool usage, a framing nailer is probably the biggest thing I would run.
Thanks
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Replies
If you're using a framing nailer, a pancake compressor would work well. If all you're doiung is trim nailers, you could get by with one of the little 2 gallon jobs ... much quieter and more portable.
Many people will nix the pancake bvecause of noise, and will say that an oil-compressor will last longer. Probnably true on both counts. But for a one-person operation, a pancake is hard to beat, dollars for performance.
Check for special deals. Frequently you can get a Porter Cable or Bostich pancake with one or two finish nailers as a "kit" for a good price. never have seen one with a frtaming nailer.
"When asked if you can do something, tell'em "Why certainly I can", then get busy and find a way to do it." T. Roosevelt
Edited 12/29/2005 11:08 pm ET by FastEddie
I bought a small Porter Cable dual tank maybe two years ago and have used two framing guns at once. It has held up better than I could've hoped. For $250 if it died today it wouldn't owe me a penny and I would go buy another one.
Does it need to be portable? Are you willing to pay for something good?
They say as tools get older they take more air, as compressors get older they make less air.
Porter Cable6-Gallon Compressor Combo with Finish Nailer, Brad Nailer and Crown Stapler for $299. Description is:
This 2 nailer, stapler and compressor combo kit includes all of the tools you need to complete heavy-duty installation, assembly and construction on the job with more convenience and efficiency than if you were using manual tools. The 6-gallon, oil-free pancake compressor delivers 3.7 SCFM at 40 psi and 2.7 at 90 psi and requires less frequent maintenance.
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2-1/2 In. finish nailer drives 3/4 In. to 2-1/2 In. 16-gauge nails
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1-1/4 In. brad nailer drives 5/8 In. to 1-1/4 In. 18-gauge brad nails
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1 In. narrow crown stapler drives 1/2 In. to 1 In. narrow crown staples
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Includes nail gun oil, wrenches, 1/4 In. plug, couplers and fittings, safety glasses, 1,000 finish nails and a 25 Ft. PVC hose
Would this run a single typical framing nailer as well?
Thanks,
CastleKing
It will run a framer just fine but it cycles often and they are noisy. Just leave it outside and run a long hose. Just like a sore d*** can't beat it.If I'd known it was harmless I'd have killed it myself.
Have exactly that P-C compressor. It will run a Hitachi NR83 stick nailer - gets behind fast if trying to nail off sheathing or some such rapid fire task; gets behind real fast with a palm nailer.
If you are single handed framing it will keep up. I usually bring it because of size wieght if there is only a small amount of framing to do. Does quite well with the finish guns as they require less air per nail. Yes, it is noisy if inside.
Jim
Never underestimate the value of a sharp pencil or good light.
P-C has a model 3550 that has a high recovery rate. When I eventually blow up my DeWalt/Emglo that's what will replace mine. Still portable and not bad indoors. The SCFM is 6.7 which is 1 1/2 more than my DeWalt that handles most everything I need now.
When I eventually blow up my DeWalt/Emglo that's what will replace mine.
How old are ya ? Ive had my Emglo for 30 years and hasnt died. In fact it nearly out lived me already.
Tim
Yea my old blue pre dewalt 4 gal emglo has been through hell and still works great. I use it for everything including running my air grinder ( it takes a lot for it to keep up but I use it)
I even spray with it using my LVLP.
I dont know about the emglo's after dewalt bought them though......
If I were to buy a new compressor today I think I'd go thomas .
"I dont know about the emglo's after dewalt bought them though......"
Probably got yellow cooties.
Thanks, will have to slip over to the PC site and find out about this model (3550).
Mine was a "package" compressor - about rated about 2.9 scfm @ 90 - I tested it when new and it was actually producing something like 3.1 @ 90. 6.7 sounds better and a lot lighter to carry!
Jim
Never underestimate the value of a sharp pencil or good light.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0001VO1X0/ref=br_lf_hi_2/104-2295191-7683959?n=552660&s=hi&v=glance
This one
GoodLuck
I've had this one by Thomas for 5-6 years, and it is a very good machine -- light, easy to carry, oil-less, very quiet -- the Amazon price in the link below is $270. It is only 10 amps, so it never blows a circuit.
http://tinyurl.com/celd7
I would say this about the smallest compressor you should get for job site work. No problem with finishing guns, and it will handle a framing nailer, but it struggles to stay up if you go really fast.
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"It is what we learn after we think we know it all, that counts."
John Wooden 1910-
How often will you be using it? Mainly for the finish gun or the framing? If you're building walls and occasionally nailing off sheathing, but mostly trim the larger "hot dogs" with a high duty cycle rating and decent tank size are worth a look. The Thomas one mentioned here a sound move. They're lighter than the pancakes so less work on your back.
I think I am going to go with the Thomas. Thanks for everyone's help and noted experiences.
CastleKing