Tools, Sharpening and Power Machinery - air tools or power tools?

For doing woodworking and metalworking, what would be better to invest into?

Apples and pears. For woodworking, definitely electric power tools. For metal working or body work, air tools. Air tools run cooler, but require a ton of air to run continuously.

If you are going back and forth, I would go electric tools. More variety and accessories are available. I have both and use the electric 4 times as much as the air tools. Plus, you don't have that noisy compressor running. Good luck

Hello,
I am starting to get a good grip on basic carpentry and do most things by hand. Slowly, I am adding power tools and measuring gadgets and am considering a nailer gun. There seem to be wardrobes of guns with different purposes but mine is to nail several types of nails into shelving, bookcasements and maybe baseboards/trim in the home. Are there ones that cover all or do I need to have a couple for different purposes. In the above circumstances, cordless is best. Thanks in advance for the input.

Regards,
Al

Al: considering what you plan to do, I believe a 15 gauge angle head nailer to be your best bet. It will shoot nails up to 2 1/2", which is good for base molding, but the shorter nails would be ok for the cabinetry. Now as far as brands go, I can only give you my opinion from what I use daily. My preference is a Senco AirFree 41, which uses 14.4v batteries, and has its own self contained compressor head. It is cordless, hoseless, and super for multiple story finishing. But I also use the Senco SFN40, which requires a compressor and hose, but does a great job. Neither requires oiling, and I have used them constantly for years. BUT, you should go to the tool dept of your big boxes and hold each nail gun in your hand and feel it. Nothing can be more tiring than a tool that you have to fight to use.

Al, I would agree that a finish nailer would be a reasonable compromise for the mix of tasks that you mention. Over time, I have acquired a selection of nailers and staplers, all connectable to the same air hose and compressor. Only a few nailers come in the cordless/hoseless style. If you intend to branch out into other areas, consider a small compressor and 1/4" hose.

I appreciate your help and quick response. The 15 gauge mention was what I needed as well as the compressor info.

Regards,
Al :)