electric / battery pin nailer

[rtropp]

I am not having a great deal of success with push pins (arthritis). Any thoughts on using an electric or battery powered pin nailer? I would use it for planking or other similar, temporary tacking rather than one of the push hammers such as that on micromark.  

If yes is anyone able to recommend one?

 

Thanks,

Richard

 

[allanyed]

  Nails are not needed if the planks are properly pre-shaped.  Consider studying the planking tutorial by David Antscherl in the Articles data base here at MSW and watch the four videos that Chuck Passaro made on proper planking techniques.

Allan

[James H]

3 hours ago, rtropp said:

I am not having a great deal of success with push pins (arthritis). Any thoughts on using an electric or battery powered pin nailer? I would use it for planking or other similar, temporary tacking rather than one of the push hammers such as that on micromark.  

If yes is anyone able to recommend one?

 

Thanks,

Richard

 

 

Is this for the first layer of planks? Would a nailer with a rounded head be a better option maybe? I'm just thinking it would sit comfortably in the palm of your hand.

 

This is a ModelCraft nailer.

 

[Jaager]

Brute force nailing has worked for a long time in full size construction.  This is usually done with softwood that has enough air space to mostly accommodate the increase in volume.  This strictly friction hold is probably not wise with hardwood at full size and a totally bad idea at miniature scale.

I suggest first drilling a hole with a diameter just slightly less than the diameter of the brass nail.  A test will determine just how much less. 

If the receptor is plywood, it is likely end grain is involved.  End grain makes for a very poor bond. 

With plywood molds, the outer edge may act more reliably if it is seriously primed with PVA ( with no excess ) a few days before anything else is done to it.

If the tool applying force requires serious force from you, the receptor hole is too small.

If the nail wants to bend, the receptor hole is too small.

If an electrical hammer tool is anything but overkill, the receptor hole is too small.

The cylinder type push tool is a poor choice. 

The MM plyer   push pin tool is a better choice. 

A good quality curved Kelly hemostat is a better choice. 

If the nail is to remain,  dipping the nail in 90% PVA - for hardwood or 100% PVA - for plywood may work in your favor.

Edited June 9, 2022 by Jaager

[rtropp]

Thank you all for your responses.  They were very helpful.  It does not appear that anyone has tried an electronic Nailer vs push Nailer.  I'm guessing there is a darn good reason. So I will continue to use rubber bands and modified bulldog clips.  

Richard

by the way, in answer to your question this is a single planking that will be painted.

Edited June 13, 2022 by rtropp