Hitachi Koki has been making power tools since 1948 and pneumatic tools since 1960. They back up their tools with a 5-year warranty.
Now that you’ve narrowed it down to Hitachi, how do you decide between these two framing nailers? Let’s look at their specifications.
Hitachi NR83A3(S) 2 Inch to 3-1/4” Plastic Collated Full Round Head Framing Nailer
Old Reliable
The NR83A3(S) has been used by professional framers for years and has proven to be a durable tool. It has a two-piece steel magazine that can be replaced individually in case it is damaged.
The nailer accepts up to 3-1/4-inch-long full round head nails ranging in diameter from .113 to .131 inches. The magazine holds two clips at a time, which is 64 to 70 nails. The nailer only accepts magazines of nails with a 21-degree angle.
Depth adjustment, or how deep the nails sink into the material, is done at the air compressor. Hitachi recommends 70 to a maximum of 120psi. The nailer has a 3/8-inch air inlet for a hose. The lack of an on-board depth adjuster is a con for new builders who may have to waste nails and time determining the correct pressure to sink nails to a desired depth.
The nailer has a flip-switch near the trigger that changes it from single-fire to sequential shots. Hitachi warns of the risk of recoil causing double-fires in sequential mode if the nose makes contact a second time.
If there is a jam, the nose opens to clear it quickly.
The nailer measures 21-13/16 x 4-1/4 x 13-3/8 inches and weighs 8.6 pounds. The rubber non-slip grip makes it easy to hold.
Of course, like most pneumatic nailers, this one has to be lubricated. Hitachi recommends their own product which is not included in the box.
Features
• Reputation for durability
• Accepts full round head nails from 2 to 3-1/4-inches long
• Holds up to 2 strips totaling 70 nails
• Steel magazine is replaceable
• Open-nose design to clear jams
• Box includes safety glasses
Hitachi NR90AEPR 3-1/2” Plastic Collated Full-Head Framing Nailer
More flexibility and control
Hitachi’s NR90AEPR is quickly becoming another legend. It has some new features that the NR83A3(S) lacks.
For example, the NR90AEPR has a depth adjustment dial right by the trigger. No more need to go back to the compressor to adjust pressure to countersink a nail.
It accepts longer and thicker nails, up to 3-1/2 inches long and .148” diameter. Note that the nail magazines are specifically angled at 21 degrees—no other angles will work.
The anodized aluminum magazine is replaceable and holds up to 64 nails, or two strips. The minimum amount of nails that can be loaded is five at a time.
It also has a flip-switch to alternate between single and sequential firing. The single shot requires a pull on the trigger each time. Hold the trigger and get sequential shots by touching the nose repeatedly to the material.
The NR90AEPR weighs less at 7.5 pounds, and is smaller at 20.8 x 4.9 x 7.5 inches. It has a rubber non-slip grip and a more balanced feel.
Remember to lubricate the nailer before and after use. Hitachi’s oil is sold separately.
Features
• Holds nails from 2” to 3-1/2” long and up to .148” in thickness
• Dial right by the trigger for quick depth adjustment
• 1 pound lighter and somewhat smaller than the NR83A3(S)
• Holds up to 64 nails
• Replaceable aluminum magazine
• Open nose design to clear jams
• Safety glasses included in the box
Recommendation
If you want to go with tested and true, consider the NR83A3(S). Professional builders have chosen this framing nailer for years.It has a durable design and uses a standard size air hose.
If you have a need for 3-1/2-inch nails or the .148” thickness required in some places, go with the NR90AEPR.
If you are new to framing and using nailers, also consider the NR90AEPR. It has an easy-to-use depth adjustment dial located right above the trigger so there is no guesswork at the compressor. It is also lighter to hold and fits in tighter spots than the NR83A3(S).
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