Tools, Sharpening and Power Machinery - A couple tool questions...??

What is the best hammer drill (for not too expensive) to use for securing the bottom pre-treated 2x4 to the concrete? I tried pounding in concrete nails but the concrete is too solid and they just bend.

Also, does anybody have any recommended reciprocating saws? I have been looking at the Porter Cable "tiger claw" and the Dewalt 385.

Thanks!

Why buy when you can rent a hammer drill from your local rental yard. I use the Dewalt DW510 with good resuts.
Reciprocating saws? Porter cable or dewalt? Either would be a good choice. I personally use the Millwaukee.

I've had a Dewalt reciprocating saw for about 15 years. It just keeps on running.

Another option for securing 2X4s to concrete is a powder nailer. If you are just going to use it for a project, you can buy a single shot hammer strike type for less than $20. I find it quicker and easier than drilling holes.

Well, my two cents. I use the tiger saw and like the blade release/attachment set up. Twist lock and unlock. Forend is flared and helps in holding it.
Like Wayne, I would definitely use a Ramset or other powder actuated gun for attaching wood to concrete. Drilling will take all day, but it is clearly your choice. Good luck.

That single shot hammer strike is exactly the thing I was looking for! That is like the perfect tool I think. Would 2 1/2" nails be the best size for nailing 2x4's into concrete?

Also, I think I will go with the tiger claw, I like the versatility of the blade positioning.

Thanks again!

I had the hammer actuated kind for a lot of years and had a lot of frustrations with it. If I didn't hit it absolutely square it might not fire or the nail would not penetrate completely. It wasn't too bad it your application (shooting straight down), but I always had a terrible time nailing to walls. Probably "user error", but still frustrating.

I finally got frustrated enough that I bought one of the trigger actuated types. What a huge difference! It's a bit more money, but I'm quite sure I'll eventually pay for it with fewer miss-shots. I gave the hammer actuated one to my brother; maybe he will have better luck than me.

Bruce