PC compressor/nailer combo vs. Bostitch
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I don’t have a Home Depot in my area but a friend offered to go and grab one of the combo deals for me. Porter Cable pancake compressor plus 3 nailers (finish, brad, stapler). Cost is $299.
I do have a Lowes in my area and they have the Bostitch combo for $299 but I can get it for $255 with some coupons. The Bostitch comes with a finish and brad nailer, no stapler.
So I guess it boils down to how the two combos compare and having the option to return one of them locally if I have problems.
Appreciate any input on these two combo deals.
Replies
CJH,
I have no experience with the Bostich, but am very happy with my PC "kit". I do see lots of Bostick nailers on jobsites, and have read favorable reviews of some of their tools.
My only suggestion is that you consider how you will use the equipment. The 6 gal. mini-compressor is ideal if you do installation or on-site work, but I wish I had opted for a larger compreesor for my shop.
The 6 gal. unit works fine, but cycles frequently when running anything more than just a nailer.
The PC kit that includes three guns, the compressor and hose is a great deal, but I am already shopping for a larger compressor...
I hope this helps!
STEELHEAD
I bought the P-C kit when all you got was the 16 gauge nailer and the compressor for $275. I subsequently bought the stapler for another $110 or so.The nailer came to me not working correctly, but the local P-C repair shop fixed it under warranty. The stapler has been flawless. I sided my house with it, vertical T&G pine, some 15,000 staples or so. About the end of the job, I lost the little rubber tip for the stapler, no problem to replace.So for $299, and three tools, I'd say go for it. As for the comments about a bigger compressor, the P-C weighs about 34#, and is awkward to carry. I sure wouldn't want to carry something bigger and heavier around.One last thing - the Bostitch uses a proprietary size staple, the P-C uses a standard 1/4" crown. I get nervous when a tool needs a component only made by the manufacturer.Good luck with your decision.Ken Werner
I bought the PC kit when it only came with the 16 gauge nailer. It's been great for the light and finish carpentry that I do (jambs, trim, small box assembly, etc.) I also have the Bostitch 18 gauge brad nailer. I love the fact that it's oil free and shoots a longer brad nail.
Both have been great. I don't think you'll see much differce with either brand at this level. In this particular case, I would opt for the PC and take the extra stapler. It's worth the difference in price.
I agree with the statements that you should review what you want to use the nailers for and what you think you will run in the future. I'm sure the pancake compressor won't handle a framing gun or roofing gun without the compressor constantly running...in fact I know that for a fact since it won't handle quick shots with the brad nailer.
I wouldn't mind having a more powerful one that could deliver higher CFM's for running spray guns.
Thanks for the info. My wife wants me to get a larger, multi-purpose compressor so we can handle additional tasks like spraying the driveway, cleaning the cars, etc. I figure I might as well get something good enough to try my hand at spraying finishes.What kind of SCFM do I need for spraying waterborne finishes?Probably should post this over in the finishing folder.
Spraying the driveway and cars? If you just want to blow things off of them, get a leaf blower or a shop vac that also blows air out ($100 at Sears...I have one.) Leaf blowers put out ~400 cfm's. The compressor that can match that would be one immense and impressive machine!The SCFM's depend on the spray gun. Find out which one you want and get a compressor that can handle it.
My wife's brother has a pressure sprayer that he ran through his compressor. She loved the setup and wants one.I have no idea, I just know I have the go ahead to shop for a larger compressor.
If the compressors are oiless ,direct drive then you will find them very noisy to be around for long periods.
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