The choice between paper and plastic collated nails for your DeWalt 20V Framing Nailer may seem like a minor decision, but it can significantly impact your efficiency and the outcome of your projects. In this article, we’ll provide a clear and concise comparison of these two collation types, helping you make an informed decision.
Understanding Collation
Collation refers to the way nails are organized and held together before being loaded into the nail gun’s magazine. DeWalt 20V Framing Nailer is a powerful and versatile cordless nailer designed for framing and similar tasks. It accommodates both paper and plastic collated nails, and your choice depends on your specific needs.
Paper Collated Nails
Paper collated nails are nails held together with paper strips. They offer the following advantages:
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Environmental Friendly: Paper collated nails are biodegradable and considered more environmentally friendly. The paper strips can break down over time.
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Smooth Feeding: The paper collation provides smooth and reliable nail feed, reducing the risk of jams and misfires.
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Compatibility: Many contractors and construction sites prefer paper collated nails, making them readily available in the market.
Plastic Collated Nails
Plastic collated nails, on the other hand, use plastic strips for organization. Here’s what you need to know:
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Durability: Plastic collated nails are known for their durability. The plastic strips are less likely to break, which can be advantageous in high-impact applications.
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Weather Resistance: Plastic collation is more weather-resistant, making these nails a better choice for outdoor projects exposed to the elements.
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Consistency: The rigidity of plastic collation ensures consistent nail placement, reducing the risk of misfires.
Choosing the Right Collation
The choice between paper and plastic collated nails largely depends on your project requirements and personal preferences. Consider the following factors when making your decision:
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Project Type: For indoor framing or general construction, paper collated nails are a reliable and environmentally friendly choice. However, if you’re working in harsh outdoor conditions, plastic collated nails may be more suitable.
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Availability: Check the availability of collated nails in your area. Paper collated nails are more commonly used, so you might find them more readily available.
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Personal Preference: Some professionals have personal preferences based on their experience and the ease of use with a particular collation type.
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Environmental Concerns: If you’re particularly concerned about environmental impact, paper collated nails are the eco-friendlier choice.
Conclusion
The choice between paper and plastic collated nails for your DeWalt 20V Framing Nailer is not a one-size-fits-all decision. Both collation types have their advantages, and your specific project requirements and personal preferences should guide your choice.
For most indoor framing and general construction, paper collated nails are a dependable and environmentally friendly option. If you’re working in rugged outdoor conditions, plastic collated nails offer durability and weather resistance.
In the end, the decision is yours, and it’s essential to consider the unique demands of your projects and your own comfort with each collation type. Making the right choice can lead to more efficient and successful framing work.