Framing Nailer
The Paslode PowerFramer PF350
by Shannon Luddy, editorial assistant

 On a construction jobsite the most common tools you would look to find (other than a hammer of course) are nailers.  So whenever a new one is being designed it should take into account feedback from those who are using it, and take the time to develop new and better technology to accommodate it.  Paslode took two years and made visits with production framing contractors around the nation to develop the Paslode Powerframer(TM) PF350 framing nailer, taking in the feedback and turning it into a lightweight, durable, well balanced, and powerful tool.

         Most construction contractors can’t afford downtime, so one of Paslode’s goals during the development process was to research typical conditions for nailers in a year, such as how many fasteners are driven by most contractors during that time-frame.  The results allowed them to create a tool that shouldn’t need service for at least the first 18 months and an estimated life span of five years for the tool itself. 

         During the development of the PF350 advanced engineering techniques allowed for a lighter more balanced tool.  Being a full pound lighter then its predecessor, the PowerMaster Plus, at 7.5 lbs is one of the lightest framers.  And after using it, it feels even lighter then that.  Plus, Paslode included a cushioned grip surface and an ergonomically designed trigger, which makes it more comfortable and easier to maneuver. 

         The power of this tool is a testament to Paslode’s engineering and their ability to take in the feedback from their jobsite visits.  They set the minimum standard for the PF350 to be able to consistently drive 3” fasteners into engineered lumber.  After a test drive with it on laminated veneer lumber (LVL) we found that not only did it succeed in driving the fasteners, it did so without jamming.  The “nail lock out” prevents dry firing, minimizing wear and tear on parts including nose bolts, piston, driver blade, and bumper.

         The dual mode trigger allows the user to change from single to rapid cycles quickly without stopping.  The tool-less depth changes were also quick and easy.  We noticed that the nailer is well balanced and easy to use with its comfort grip and ergonomic design, which should increase production. 

         As we were using it, it consistently drove a 16D nail flush, eliminating the need to go back and hammer down nail heads.  It took some doing, but we were able to jam the PF350.  After purposely hitting already seated nail-heads repeatedly, but we were able to quickly clear the jam and continue working. 

         The PowerFramer PF350 drives Paslode Round Drive(TM) or standard clipped-head fasteners from 2” to 3.5” in length and from .113, .120, and .131 in diameter in smooth, ring shank, brite, and hot-dipped galvanized finishes.  It can hold two full strips, or 84 collated fasteners.  It also comes with a retractable rafter hook.

         After all of the development and feedback, Paslode combined past and present features into the PF350 which we found to be an easy to use, lightweight, and durable piece of equipment.