This site, more specifically, the professionals posting here are a treasure.

I am attempting to scan all 7000 or so post titles, and read the threads that may be relevant to my circumstance. Having scanned all of "Yikes, I Have Problems" and about half of "General Hardwood Flooring" I've already learned a lot.

Due to the relative rarity of new installs of face nailed 2 by 5/16 strip, I don't see much discussion of the best nailer for that job.

One pro here, Wayne II, mentions that he uses a Powernail 35u with Powernail cleats.

I'm also aware of the HiPRO HP-50. Wayne II called this gun "junk, IMO".

I'd hate to pay $450 for junk. So my questions are:

Does the Powernail 35u sink the cleats to the proper depth? I'm not sure because it is, after all, an underlayment nailer.

There is another nailer that I'd appreciate the opinion of the pros here. Porter Cable 15 Ga. 2-1/2" Angle Finish Nailer Model # DA250C. It will take 1" DA style nails. At $170 at Home depot, if it will do the job this would be the cheapest nailer.

Just use a brad nail with 1" nails.

Jeff

In its hayday there was a nailer specficly designed for this type flooring called a cavanaugh. Due to the lost intrest in these type floors they are near impossible to find parts for and have all but gone the way of the dinosaurs. High pro makes the only other one I know of and I never though they were junk the fastners maybe but the tools seemed of pretty fair quality for the price. the HP-50 is what I would use, a finish nailer doesnt insure the plank is flush with the floor prior to nailing and can lead to some of the nails poping thru the piece.