Safety First: 3 Collated Screw Gun Usage Tips

With the screw, nut, and bolt industry employing around 131,949 people and being valued at over $30 billion, it’s fair to say that screw manufacturers are living the good life. From miniature screws to custom shoulder bolts, the custom fastener trade is booming!

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As more and more people pick up their own tools to get the job done, technology has met them halfway; collated screw guns allow an automated way to drill screws deep into the surface of wood, usually around two inches deeper than could be achieved with a regular screw gun. However, with great reward comes great responsibility: let’s take a look at how to use a collated screw gun and some important safety tips.

  • Choose the Right Depth: When screwing two pieces of wood together, you run the risk — especially with the power behind a collated screw gun — to go through them. This can lessen the structural integrity of the bond and even eliminate it altogether; basically, it’s not a risk you want to take! By ensuring that the screw you’re using is set to the right depth for the joint, you’ll have a strong connection.
  • Soft and Hard Wood: As stated above, collated screw guns generate a lot of power. Since there are a variety of wood types out there, you need to be sure that your gun is calibrated to the strength required; too much and it could pierce the entire piece, too little and you won’t make any headway.
  • Watch Your Hands: You know that power we keep mentioning? At roughly 3,500 RPM (rotations per minute), we’re not joking when we say you could seriously hurt yourself if you’re not paying attention. Be very mindful of your hands when using such a device or your deck construction may turn into an urgent care visit.

Screw manufacturers create the product but it’s the consumer’s responsibility to use it properly — and carefully. The next time you need to install drywall, construct a deck, or lay the foundation of a brand new home, turn to your collated fastener screw gun. Follow these easy safety steps and you’ll have a sturdy structure — free of bruises or hospital trips — in no time.

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