Coil Framing Nailer VS Stick Nailer (What is the Difference)

Published on: January 28, 2022
Written by Eric Devin / Fact-checked by David Rowan

Nailer is a standard term for a woodworking job. After inventing the framing nailer, a worker gets rid of hammering. That’s why the work becomes faster.

A framing nailer is used for heavy-duty work. According to the holding capacity, framing nailers have two types. One is a coil framing nailer, and another is a stick framing nailer.

Before starting the job with the nailer, the big question comes to mind which one will be the best? Now to find out the answer, we will discuss it in detail.    

Comparison Between Coil Framing Nailer And Stick Nailer

The coil framing nailer is not so popular, but it is a versatile tool. Both coils framing nailer and stick nailer are used for framing work. Though these two tools are used for similar work, they have some differences. These differences are given below:

Coil Framing Nailer

The coil nailer has 200-300 nails in its canister. It has two types of the canister,- framing nails and sheathing nails.

The canister of the nailer is adjustable and nails at 15 degrees. During the work, the builder does not need to reload nails for the holding capacity.

As the coil nailer is compact, it can be used in tight spaces. But if the canister is fully loaded, then the nailer will be heavy. As a result, the user becomes fatigued quickly. For overhead use, the user needs to work with a stick nailer rather than a coil nailer.

Stick Nailer

A stick nailer uses variable nails, and sometimes it comes in handy for the additional options. But we need to make sure that the nail has the right angle and collation style.

The stick nailer has two magazines, which hold 25-40 nails each. For these limited nails, we need to reload them during work. Also, it has a lower weight and less fatigue. The stick nailer has the following nail types:

Plastic nails: the angle between 28 and 30 degrees;

Round-head nails: the angle between 20 and 22 degrees;

Stick nails: the angle of 30 or 35 degrees.

Choosing the right nail is very important. According to the local code, we can dictate which type of nail is used for which one. So before purchasing, we need to know about a specific kind of nail.

Though the two nail guns’ function is similar, there are some differences in their design and features. The main comparison of these two is given below:

Capacity

If you want to finish the work quickly, you need to avoid reloading every time. In this case, you should use the coil framing nailer. The coil framing nailer holds 200-300 nails depending on the needs. On the other hand, if you do not need any nails to complete the work, then the stick nailer is the best choice.  The stick nailer holds 25-40 nails each in two magazines.

Weight

A fully loaded coil weighs 15-18lbs, depending on the model of the nailer. Holding one of these nailers over your head for most of the day increases fatigue and tension. Stick nailers weigh around 9 pounds when it is loaded. This nailer is much easier to handle, and most builders prefer it.

Loading

According to the construction, the coil nail has a round container holding the nails and attaching the nail gun. The hinge design provides a quick start and reduces the risk of a jam.

Stick nailer has nail tape stores. Each stud has two magazines, which length makes it heroic.

Nail Pricing

According to the cost, a coil framing nailer is less expensive. It has fewer dependents on individual angle nails, and filling the unit is relatively more comfortable. If you worry about cost, then the stick nailer is always expensive.

Jamming

Sometimes you need to clean the framing nailer unit from jamming. As the stick nailer has a magazine-type nail holder, it is more liable for jamming. So, the stick nailer has a much higher wedge rate than the coil framing nailer.

Due to your personal choice, you can choose any one of them. Both the stick nailer and framing nailer fulfill precisely the same purpose. If you work in a tiny place, then choosing the framing nailer will be the right choice.

As the framing nailer is compact and has some advantages, it can get in a tighter space. On the other hand, you can use the stick nailer for its lighter weight to work on the overhead.

Which Type of Framing Nailer is Best for Different Projects?

When it comes to choosing the right framing nailer for different projects, the key is to consider the type of degree framing nailer selection. For heavy-duty construction jobs, a 21-degree framing nailer is ideal, while a 30-degree framing nailer is more versatile for tighter spaces and smaller projects.

Final Words

Both nailers are used for heavy-duty household work. The framing nailer is mainly used for roofing jobs for holding more nails. On the other hand, stick nailers are used for fencing and other framing jobs.

I try my best to discuss details for both of these nailers. I hope that it might help you to make a decision about which one is better for your work.

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