[jcmaad]

I don't understand why this is so difficult to find the answer.
I am framing a 2x4s for basement framing, and i want to get nails for a nailgun. Internet says to use 16d nails 3.5 inches. So, I go on homedepot website and I get results like 3.5 x 0.12 gauge, can someone help me out

 

[chandler48]

IF you are using a nail gun framer, 3 1/4 is going to be the norm. You really only need 3", so if you use the longer nail, do it at an angle so your nails won't protrude out the other side. Toenailing won't be a problem. Believe 10% of what the internet says and you'll be good. 16d is hand driven nail nomenclature. Correspondingly 0.012 gauge is similar just in collated nails.

 

[Half-fast eddie]

And if you want the real authority, section 602.3(1) of the IRC.

 

[jcmaad]

IF you are using a nail gun framer, 3 1/4 is going to be the norm. You really only need 3", so if you use the longer nail, do it at an angle so your nails won't protrude out the other side. Toenailing won't be a problem. Believe 10% of what the internet says and you'll be good. 16d is hand driven nail nomenclature. Correspondingly 0.012 gauge is similar just in collated nails.

Thank you so much, the best explanation ever.

If I were to use a screw instead of nail, do i still use 3.5 inch size. I am thinking of getting this, since getting a nail gun might not be worth getting for a small project: I

GRK #10 x 3-1/2-inch Star Drive R4 Multi-Purpose Framing Screws - 50pcs | The Home Depot Canada

GRK's R4 self-countering screw has a new underhead with saw-blade like cutting teeth and six self-contained cutting pockets. Together they act similar to a circular saw blade, transporting the drill dust away from the edge of the screw hole while cutting a perfectly clean hole into even the most...

www.homedepot.ca

 

[GCTony]

FWIW; Before nail guns were common and the code books had about 1000 less pages and Simpson didn't own the code council. We did a lot of hand nailing. We nailed just about everything with 12d coated sinkers (3 1/8") 7D sinkers for sheathing. The only time we used 16D common was when the architect/engineer specified it on the header schedule. Those very big (for the time) mansions built in the 80's are still standing.

 

[Nealtw]

Thank you so much, the best explanation ever.

If I were to use a screw instead of nail, do i still use 3.5 inch size. I am thinking of getting this, since getting a nail gun might not be worth getting for a small project: I

GRK #10 x 3-1/2-inch Star Drive R4 Multi-Purpose Framing Screws - 50pcs | The Home Depot Canada

GRK's R4 self-countering screw has a new underhead with saw-blade like cutting teeth and six self-contained cutting pockets. Together they act similar to a circular saw blade, transporting the drill dust away from the edge of the screw hole while cutting a perfectly clean hole into even the most...

www.homedepot.ca

In BC we use 3" nails and don't use screws for the important load bearing stuff, but for non load bearing walls screws are fine.

 

[GDK3]

the nails are specified in code someone posted above. Nails are more flexible than screws. Screws snap where as nails bend. Some people swear by screws but many prefer the extra strength of a nail. You also need to get the nails that are bound together at the correct angle for your nail gun. Also the type wood you use will be important also.

 

[Nealtw]

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