I've read that given the hardness of rosewood, it's recommended to pre-drill the tongue. Then I thought if it's predrilled how would an amateur get the sweet spot with a nailer? Is it necessary to predrill? Would a pneumatic be better over manual (I understand that nail cleats are better than staples)? Currently I'm doing it by HAND...crazy eh? Needless to say, I'm thinking about this all the time as I drill and nail one hole after another wondering what @!#@ do the pros do.

Signed,
More time than money and half a brain is better than none at all!

PS. Thanks all for the great advice I've received in the past and most likely until the damn floor is done.

A pnumatic is the only way to go. Save all that drilling and hand nailing for closing up close to walls and obstructions. A pnumatic trim nailer is what most guys use there as well. should have no problems once you get the air pressure set right nailing rosewood.