Matty F wrote:

In a recent programme of "Grand Designs" it was stated that UK
builders building new houses tend to use hammers to drive in nails
rather than use nail guns.
Is this true at all?

Yes, it's true. There are exceptions, but not many. Builders dont' seem
to like Passlode type nailers except for specialist applications - too
costly for nails and the nailer, I suspect. Compressed air nailers
aren't liked because of the trailing hoses.

I have both a coil nailer and a couple of small staplers/bradders. I
prefer them to swinging a hammer. They are fast and create a good
finish. Air nailers are IMO superior to other types because they set the
nail properly and have little or no kickback. Worst of all are the
electric nailers/staplers. I have a Tacwise model and it's useless.
Noisy, kicks back, makes a mess of the wood.