Top 3 Framing Nailers By Comparison: Senco - Paslode - Hitachi

Construction contractors and building framers expect to get the most from their tools. The same tools they depend on everyday to get a job done on time and on budget - with quality fit and finish. But, which tools guarantee the best bang for your buck? Today, we take a look at Nail Gun Depot's top three framing nailers by customer choice. We'll get up-close and personal with each of these framing guns, looking at similarities and differences, all while offering a comprehensive profile for each featured tool.

Today's lineup comes from three core brands in the framing industry: Senco, Paslode and Hitachi.

Senco FramePro 325XP

We start with the Senco FramePro 325XP (4Z0101N). Featuring a lightweight and compact design, this Senco excels in all applications relevant to framing, sheathing, truss building, sub-flooring and deck building. Designed to drive clipped head, paper tape strip framing nails,  this air-powered framing nailer was engineered to fit between studs and joists with ease - and it shows. This Senco framing nailer is easy to handle and maneuver, perfect for tricky corners and tight working conditions.

Oh, and did we mention it also uses less air to drive nails to their proper depth? Pair that with Senco's "TrueDrive" magazine, which reduces jams and mis-feeds, and we bet you'll fall in love at first drive. Senco backs the FramePro 325XP with a five-year XtremePro limited warranty, for added peace of mind.

Paslode CF325XP

Next, let's take a look at Paslode's third-generation CF325 cordless framing nailer, the CF325XP (905600). Replacing the previous generation CF325-Li (902600), Paslode's latest version of its hit cordless framing nailer definitely lives up to expectation - if not exceeding. As we've come to love with previous generation models, no hose or compressor is required - simply slide the tool's lithium ion battery into place, insert a Paslode orange framing fuel cell, and you're up and running. You'll find this Paslode framing nailer features all the great benefits of its predecessor, but with a generous 15% increase in driving power, low temperature usability (tool works in conditions down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit when using all-season fuel cell), and up to 50% longer run time per battery charge. Eligible for Paslode's 2 Year Service Promise [when registered properly with Paslode], and paired with a five-year limited warranty out-of-box, peace of mind shouldn't be an issue with this Paslode nailer.

Other features you'll enjoy on the Paslode 905600 include aggressive teeth for toe nailing, compact design (fits between 16″ o.c. studs, joists and roof trusses), battery standby, tool-free depth of drive adjustment, utility hook, nail lockout to prevent blank drives, and a stainless steel magazine raceway for improved durability and easy loading.

Hitachi NR90AE(S1)

Last, but certainly not least, Hitachi recently launched their NR90AE(S1), which stacks up almost feature for feature with the previous NR90AEPR model. The difference? Look for a refreshed head guard design with exterior head bolts. The new head guard now allows for easier disassembly, which reduces downtime for maintenance. Like its competition above, the NR90AE(S1) is backed by a five-year warranty through Hitachi Tools. And at 7.5lbs, this Hitachi framing nailer is one of the lightest in its class - perfect for preventing user fatigue when used in long-duration projects. The NR90AE(S1) features a selective action trigger, two-piece aluminum magazine to minimize repair expenses, sawtooth safety for maximum grip, and tool free adjustable depth of drive.

As expected, the Hitachi NR90AE(S1) plastic strip framing nailer is great for framing, sheathing, truss building, sub-flooring, decking, fencing and pallet assembly. A true construction contractor's dream... and then some.

Final Results

Now that we've looked at our top three picks for framing, which nail gun should you choose?

If you're looking to cut the cord, we definitely recommend the Paslode CF325XP, as it offers time-tested reliability and industry-leading performance. But, for those who want quality without the extra expense of a cordless nailer, consider the Hitachi NR90AE(S1). The Hitachi offers contractor-grade quality at an affordable price - which is why we tend to see so many of them on the job for years and years. And, we couldn't forget the Senco FramePro 325XP, which is a best-seller on Nail Gun Depot. Packed with popular features, priced to sell, and backed by Senco's five-year XtremePro warranty - there's a reason why so many customers swear by the Senco 325XP.

The decision is yours.

~The Nail Gun Depot Team