DeWalt 15° Coil Roofing Nailer

Experiencing the DeWalt 15° Coil Roofing Nailer, model DW45RN, truly opened my eyes to the potential and pitfalls of modern roofing tools. Right out of the box, the first thing you notice about this nailer is its robust and sturdy build. Painted in DeWalt's signature yellow, it certainly commands attention. Though slightly heavy at 8.2 pounds with a 2.0ah battery and a coil of 1” roofing nails, the weight is a testament to its solid construction.

One of the standout features is its ability to drive up to 10 nails per second. This rapid-fire capability is impressive and quite useful when tackling large projects. However, I found that maintaining continuous operation at this speed could be somewhat taxing due to the weight of the tool. While the nailer is a beast in terms of power and efficiency, it's not something I would recommend for extended use without breaks, especially on larger roofs.

Another excellent feature is the depth adjustment wheel. This allows for precise control over how deep the nails are driven, ensuring consistency across the board. Setting up this feature was straightforward, and it provided reliable performance whether I was working on shingles, siding, or even some trial runs on OSB. However, I did notice that even the lowest setting could embed nails a bit deeper than expected, which might require some fine-tuning based on the material at hand.

When it comes to ease of use, loading the nails into the coil is relatively simple. The magazine holds a decent number of nails, minimizing reload interruptions during work. However, I did experience a few jams which, although easy to clear, disrupted the flow of work. This can be particularly frustrating during a big project when every second counts.

Powered by a pneumatic source, this nailer delivers consistent power without the noise and hassle of a compressor. This quiet operation is a blessing, especially in residential areas where noise restrictions can be a concern. However, it's worth noting that this quieter operation does not come without some trade-offs. The tool’s motor takes a moment to wind up each time you single-nail it, which, while saving battery, adds a few seconds of delay.

Speaking of batteries, the nailer is compatible with DeWalt's 20V Max batteries. In my experience, the smaller 1.5 Ah batteries drained quickly, especially in colder weather. They barely lasted for 100 nails. On the other hand, the more substantial 6 Ah batteries provided a much better performance, driving around 360 nails per charge even in near-freezing temperatures. It’s clear that for larger projects, investing in higher-capacity batteries is a wise decision.

The lightweight design claim does hold some truth, especially when compared to other coil roofing nailers. However, the tool's overall heaviness, especially with a full coil and a larger battery, can be a burden over long periods. The belt clip included is a nice touch, but you'll need a sturdy, wide leather belt to support it comfortably.

In terms of durability, the steel skid plates with rubber inserts are a thoughtful addition. They prevent the tool from sliding around, adding to its overall stability. However, I did find the plastic components to be less impressive. They felt somewhat flimsy and prone to damage if the tool were to take a fall. This slightly detracts from the otherwise robust feel of the nailer.

One area where this tool truly shines is in its versatility. While primarily a roofing nailer, it performed admirably on vinyl siding and various repair jobs. The convenience of not having to deal with air lines and compressors can't be overstated, especially for quick repairs or smaller projects. This feature alone makes it a great option for those who value mobility and ease of use.

However, it’s not all roses. Some users might find the tool's jamming issues to be a significant drawback. Despite trying different brands of nails, I still encountered occasional jams that required manual intervention. This could be a deal-breaker for professionals who need absolute reliability and continuous operation.

In conclusion, the DeWalt 15° Coil Roofing Nailer offers a mix of power, convenience, and versatility that makes it a compelling choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. Its rapid-firing capability, depth adjustment, and cordless operation provide a great deal of flexibility. However, its weight, occasional jamming issues, and some less-than-ideal plastic components are drawbacks that potential buyers should consider.

Would I recommend this tool? Yes, but with reservations. If you’re in need of a reliable nailer for small to medium-sized projects or repairs and can overlook the occasional jam and weight, then this tool will serve you well. For large-scale, continuous work, you might want to consider alternatives or ensure you have extra batteries and a sturdy belt to manage the load. The DeWalt DW45RN is a solid investment for those who value mobility and ease of use over the traditional compressor-based systems.