Greetings everybody!!

I'm looking for some questions to be answered. I'm installing the Wellmade Golden Arowana bamboo(www.bamboofloorings.com). It is 5/8" thick, 4''x38'' planks. It's prefinished. This is being installed on 3/4'' plywood. Here is a picture of it, cross sectional:





My questions are regarding what type of nailer to use. I have read that people are using the Bostitch MIIIFS with 1½'' staples. This nailer takes a 15.5 gauge staple. And from what I've read people are using a shim to compensate when using it for 5/8'' hardwood. Searching thru the previous posts I have read that some people have used the HighPro AS-4090 which uses the 1½'' staple but it's 18 gauge. I own neither of these nailers and all local rental shops are just carrying the 2'' nailers. So I need to purchase one. Obviously I've seen alot of write up on the Bostitch but the price for one is pretty steep. Anyone have any luck with the HighPro tool and is it useable with this particular wood.

No, you don't. A 2" stapler/nailer will accept shorter 1.5" fasteners. I use my same Bostitch M111 FS to install either 1.5" or 2" staples. The same applies to ALL brands of flooring nailer/staplers utilized for installing 3/4" T&G flooring.

Thanks for the reply Gary. That is good to know. Do you have to use a shim to drive the staple correctly when using the Bostitch? Have you and can you use the HighPro AS 4090 with this type of material?

When using the Bostitch on the 5/8'' material have you noticed any dimples in the surface during installation. I've seen in other posts some problems with this.

Yes, one needs to place a thin shim ( I use cardboard ) under the "foot" of the nailer. This is not difficult.

I have not but if High Pro says it is for 5/8" flooring, I'm sure it would work.

I haven't on my jobs.