Hey folks! So I'm using my Ryobi 18-gauge brad nailer, and I recently bought some 3/4" nails to try out, but I've run into some issues. After shooting about a dozen of these smaller nails, my gun started jamming, shooting multiple nails, or even failing to drive them in deep enough. I switched back to my usual 1-1/4" and 2" nails, and everything worked just fine. I even opened up the nailer to lube it and check for any jams. I'm wondering if I need to increase the pressure when using the smaller nails? Any help would be appreciated!
2 Answers
It sounds like you might be dealing with a combination of factors. Sometimes cheaper nails can cause issues like jamming and deflection, especially if they aren't manufactured to the same standards as more trusted brands. Also, the 3/4" nails may just be too short for your specific gun and the harder pine wood, which could be causing the inconsistent driving. Stick with higher quality nails, and you might find that helps!
You might also want to check your nailer's pressure settings. Some brad nailers work better at higher pressures, especially with shorter nails. Make sure your settings match the nail size you're using for optimal performance. Plus, ensure you're using the right nails for your nailer, as sometimes brands may vary in how they fit and function even if they look the same.
I didn’t think about adjusting the pressure! I’ll definitely give that a shot next time.
Totally agree! I had similar issues before and I switched to a different brand and it made a world of difference.