On Aug 8, 4:44*pm, Pistol_Pete wrote:
I need some advice about a pneumatic brad nailer. I've never had one,
and they look like they would be a real help when the guys on TV use
them. Question #1: Is an eighteen gauge nailer what I want? I will be
building a bookcase/desk out of ¾” plywood (to be painted) and I'll be
using the nailer to attach trim around the top, and to put on the
backs of the bookcases (½” plywood). Not sure just yet if I will use
it for the shelves, but I'm pretty sure I won't – they will probably
be adjustable.

I really know nothing about brad sizes. If I don't buy any air nailer,
I will probably use 1 ½” brads to attach the backs (with glue of
course) but a pneumatic nailer would make the job a whole lot easier.
I think ¾” or 5/8” brads of any diameter would be good for the trim
but I question if 18 ga. x 1 ½” would be big enough. The piece will be
built-in, and screwed to the wall through the plywood back, which is
the reason for using the ½” plywood instead of ¼”.

Question #2: Some nailers also drive staples. What are staples good
for? Upholstery? Insulation?

#1 I used an 18ga for several years before I bought a 15ga for
heavier work. The 18 is a good, all around nailer for day to day shop
work and holding things together until glue dries. Granted, 22ga is
better for trim work but the 18ga can handle slightly heavier jobs
too. If you are going to hang a lot of trim I would recommend a 15ga
nailer.

#2 Staples are a nice add-on but I would opt for a good 18# nailer and
then go for a cheapo stapler. In addition to my Porter Cable 18ga and
Bostich 15ga I sprung for a 18ga nailer/stapler a few years ago at
Harbor Freight. Not the same quality as the other two but it gets the
job done, proven durable; and it cost $20 at one of their entry
display sales.

RonB