I purchased a 3/8" Ramset on E-Bay for refinishing my basement someday, plus some other projects I had in mind. It was so cheap, I didn't do all my research before my purchase. The main problem is that the pins and loads for this larger unit are not readily available and I'll have to get online. My question was before I shell out $$ for assortment of loads and pins....Is this size fastener OK to use for basements and other DIY jobs or is it too powerful? I won't crack my floor, will I?

John

 

3/8 Ramset and other similar large sized powder actuated tools are pretty popular with contractors and tradesmen so I'm a little surprised that you can only find suppliers on line, especially in PA; but that being the case IMHO your chances of cracking your floor or spliting wood stock aren't really increased - as long as you always choose and use the proper load and pin.

 

Thanks NBK, can't be too sure. I purchased the Ramset MD380, which all the surfing I've done says it's designed mostly for securing sprinkler lines, but didn't think there was any reason I couldn't use it for other projects. Also, big boxes only carry the 0.300 pins/accessories. I haven't checked special supply houses and I've only been able to find limited suppliers online and they only sell in larger quantities.

 

I hear you loud and clear about those "large quanities" and get complaints from customers everyday who only need a couple dozen and don't want or need the 100, 500, or 1000 piece boxes. I don't have a catch all answer for the general practice of limiting sales to large quanities - but in my particular case where I mostly sell to large construction companies that use the fasteners for sensitive connections or use them where the connections are always regularly inspected I need to log, and record and track all fastener lot numbers so I can't possibly split or open boxes.

There are several versions and sizes of powder actuated tools - hand, pole, belt or stick fed, even for underwater - but the pins, loads, attachments, and necessary stuff is out there, don't give up ..... try http://www.thebluebook.com and enter RamSet/RedHead with your location into their search.

 

had experience with these in the Army as an Engineer. It sounds like you have a .38 CAL....a real cannon. All most will need is a .22 CAL Ramset ( or power actuated fastener ). Caution though...tools are nice but you don't want to go to jail over one. some states require a licence to operate these. Most likely a firearms Identification card (FID). Someone hears the bang, calls the cops and your in jail over this!!! Especially after 9-11
If your intent on using it and find your splitting the wood your trying to fasten...try firing through some rags...this tends to break up the gasses from the cartridge and prevent the momentary wood expansion that splits it. We were actually firing through gas mask filters....a sort of mini muffler. Test firing is ecential. If your doing a small job, Home Depot sells the .22CAL Remmington with different loads and fasteners. A cheap single shot is about $30.00....know the law before the first BANG!