Bostitch Coil Roofing Nailer RN46-1 review lightweight yet powerful tool tested

Description

Durable Design and Build Quality

I’ve had my share of experiences with roofing nailers, and the BOSTITCH Coil Roofing Nailer, 1-3/4-Inch to 1-3/4-Inch (RN46) immediately stood out for its lightweight yet robust aluminum housing. This thing feels like it was built to last, even when tossed around on rough job sites. Weighing just 4.8 pounds, it’s surprisingly easy to handle for extended periods without that shoulder-numbing fatigue. The addition of skid-resistant pads and aggressive wear guards is a lifesaver—especially when working on abrasive surfaces like shingles. It’s clear that durability was a top priority here, and it holds up well in demanding conditions.

The over-molded rubber grip is another thoughtful touch. It provides a firm, comfortable hold, even when working in less-than-ideal weather conditions. I’ve used tools with slippery grips before, and trust me, that extra traction makes a world of difference, especially when you’re perched on a roof.

Performance You Can Rely On

In terms of performance, this roofing nailer is a beast. The single-action side-load canister is a game-changer for me. Loading nails is fast and straightforward, saving precious time on the job. The dry-fire lockout feature? Absolute genius. It prevents the tool from firing when out of nails, which not only protects the work surface but also keeps you from wasting air pressure. This small yet significant feature saved me from a lot of frustration during testing.

The adjustable depth guide is another highlight. With just a quick twist, I could set nail depths to perfection—whether I was working on thinner shingles or thicker materials. The tool’s carbide inserts on the nosepiece ensure longevity, even after repeated contact with abrasive surfaces. It’s a detail you might overlook until you realize how much wear and tear nosepieces typically go through.

Advantages

There’s a lot to love about this nailer, and some of its key benefits are worth pointing out:

• Lightweight design reduces fatigue during extended use.
• Dry-fire lockout prevents operational mishaps and wasted effort.
• Quick-set depth guide ensures precise nail placement every time.
• Durable construction with aluminum housing and wear guards for long-term reliability.
• Comfortable grip enhances control and usability.

Areas for Improvement

While this product impressed me in many ways, it’s not without its shortcomings:

• Air-powered operation means you’re tethered to an air compressor, limiting portability.
• The magazine capacity could be larger for jobs requiring heavy nailing.
• Its noise level might be a bit high for some users, especially in enclosed spaces.
• The price point may seem steep for occasional DIYers compared to basic models.

Ease of Use and Practical Features

Using this roofing nailer felt intuitive and seamless. The tool-less shingle guide is brilliant for quick and consistent shingle spacing. It eliminates the guesswork and ensures a uniform look across the entire roof. I also appreciated the patented single-action side load canister, which made reloading nails ridiculously easy. No fumbling around, just pop it open, slide in the nails, and you’re good to go.

That said, the tool’s reliance on an air compressor can be a bit of a hassle if you’re moving between multiple job sites or working in areas without easy access to power. But when it’s up and running, the performance makes up for the slight inconvenience.

Competing Brands

In a market filled with roofing nailers, this one holds its own against heavyweights like the Hitachi NV45AB2 and the Dewalt DW45RN. Compared to the Hitachi model, the BOSTITCH nailer offers a more comfortable grip and better durability with its carbide nosepiece inserts. However, the Hitachi wins on magazine capacity.

When stacked against the Dewalt DW45RN, the adjustable depth guide on the BOSTITCH stands out as a significant advantage. Dewalt’s model, while excellent in its own right, doesn’t quite match the lightweight design of the RN46. Both perform well, but the BOSTITCH feels slightly more ergonomic for long days on the roof.

Value for Money

This tool isn’t the cheapest option, but its cost-effectiveness becomes apparent when you consider its features. The durable aluminum housing, dry-fire lockout, and quick-set depth guide are features that make this more than just another nailer. If you’re a professional roofer or someone who takes on larger projects, this investment feels justified. For casual users, the price might seem high, but the reliability and ease of use could make it worth every penny.

All in all, this nailer delivers where it counts. Whether you’re roofing a house or tackling a repair job, its design and performance are hard to beat. While it has a couple of minor quirks, they’re easily overlooked when you see how well it performs under pressure.

Additional information