10 Best Air Compressor For Framing Crew | Nail Gun Compressor [2021]

As a professional framer, the work of a nail gun is the most important thing in hand. It is practically useless until things work the right way. For it to work perfectly, an air compressor is always an important part.

To fix and tighten up the joints with nails, the air compressor gun requires drives of power. The pressure applied drives the nails into the wood and then attach them accordingly. But without a handy air compressor, this will never work perfectly.

To be specific, an air compressor having at least 2 CFM and a 2 to 6-gallon capacity can be tempting the professionals to buy one. If this is for the first time, it can get tricky to sort all things out before you buy a new nail gun air compressor for framing crew.

Types of Air Compressor (Especially For Framing Nailer)

Picking an air compressor according to the right type depends on your requirements. Multiple types of compressors are easily available in the market today. Most of them are quite different from each other in terms of style, performance, capacity, and also the working mechanism.

However, if you’re looking for the best air compressor for framing crew that goes well with the nailing process, there are four types. They are:

Pancake Type Compressor

The pancake type is one of the most unique types of compressors available in the market today. Not only they have a different shape than others, but they are quite small and easy to carry.

The shape of the tank is precisely round and flat which looks more like a pancake. As a result, they are quite compact and also eat up just a minimum space. So you can expect a maximum of 6-gallon tanks with this type of compressor.

Portable Type Compressor

The portable types are the ones that have a decent size and also carry the air compressor with the help of the trolleys or wheels at the base. To reduce the weights, they are mostly constructed with a single compressor tank.

This tank can have a maximum size of 4-6 gallons of air. As a result, they are one of the easiest types of compressors to move around.

Big Bore Type Compressor

By the name, you can guess that this big-bore compressor is specially manufactured for heavy-duty work. The size and shape of this type of compressor are much higher than the regular ones.

As a result, it becomes much more difficult to carry them. They are either formed with a single tank or a dual tank structure. But the best part is that you may get storage space to keep all the accessories in one place.

Heavy Duty Type Compressor

Another type of air compressor available in the market is the heavy-duty ones. They are relatively bigger and come with twin sacks to fit in more air. As a result, they are quite heavier than all other compressors.

They are specifically used by professionals when the duration of work is more and you need a lot of drives. Thus, having a heavy-duty motor and a pump will deliver you exactly what you are looking for.

Best Air Compressor For Framing Crew

	Editor Choice Makita MAC2400	Long-lasting pump life. Low amp draw helps prevent power trips. Excellent air filtration system.	CHECK ON AMAZON
	Premium Choice BOSTITCH BTFP02012	Maximize air tool performance. Easy start-up in cold weather. Extension cord application.	CHECK ON AMAZON
	Value For Money Campbell Hausfeld FP209499AV	Tackle a Variety of Projects. Includes a coiled hose. Compact design.	CHECK ON AMAZON
	DEWALT DCC020IB	Convenient onboard accessory storage. High volume inflation. High volume hose.	CHECK ON AMAZON
	CRAFTSMAN CMEC6150K	Long life and no maintenance. Maximizes portability and stored air. Quick compressor recovery time.	CHECK ON AMAZON

#1. CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor CMEC6150K

This product introduces an epitome of inflation and air compressing mechanism. The durable and oil-free pump is always easy to operate with. Since it is completely oil-free, this product becomes easy to maintain.

The CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor features a 150 Max PSI. For any pancake air compressor, having a 150 PSI of pressure means that it is ready to perform with heavy-duty.

It comes with a quick compressor recovery time. Because of this, the air compressor can work at 2.6 SFM and can perform with a recovery of 90 PSI. Practically, it can easily start up even in the cold weather.

This one comes with a package of 13 accessory kits together with a bundle of plugs, blowers, tire gauge, and even safety nozzles.

Sale

13,412 User Reviews

CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor, 6 Gallon, Pancake, Oil-Free with 13 Piece Accessory Kit (CMEC6150K)

• The portable air compressor is proudly made in the USA with Global...
• PORTABLE: 6 gallon capacity maximizes portability and stored air for...
• NO MAINTENANCE: Durable, oil-free pump of the 6 gallon air compressor is...

$164.00 −$26.26 $137.74

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Last update on 2022-01-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

#2. Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP

The low amperage draw feature allows the tripped breakers to function at the startup. At this point, the noise production is very low and it can secure a smooth start-up. To be fair, with a 4.2-gallon capacity, the air compressor works fast.

It features a complete oil-lubricated pump. This keeps the temperature cooler than others allowing the compressor to work smoothly and without any disturbance. Specifically, it can work at an operating pressure of 130 PSI and delivers around 40 PSI that can be enough for two nail guns.

The product comes with a durable cast iron cylinder. This can reduce wear and also increase pump life. Moreover, it is easily removable so that cleaning and maintenance become easy. Furthermore, it features oil sight glass for easy cleaning.

Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP Big Bore Air Compressor

• Cast iron pump with Big Bore cylinder and piston is engineered to provide...
• Powerful 2.5 HP 4-Pole motor produces 4.2 CFM at 90 PSI for increased...
• Roll-cage construction provides complete protection to withstand extreme...

$319.00

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Last update on 2022-01-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

#3. California Air Tools 8010 Ultra Quiet

The low voltage operation comes with only 8.5 Amps consumption. As a result of this, the product works with ultra-low noise. It is around 60 decibels which is fairly low when compared to other models.

It features an oil-free pump that can provide less maintenance and costs. Since there is no oil, it becomes easy to wipe off the dust and clean the motor and the nozzles easily.

The California Air Tools 8010 Ultra Quiet compressor comes with a powerful motor. Furthermore, one can get a low power operation at 1.0 HP and a peak motor work at 2.0 HP.

This product has a maximum pressure of 120 PSI. For farmers using nail guns, this pressure can be optimum. The air displacement for 3.0 CFM is at 40PSI while it takes 90PSI for 2.20 CFM.

California Air Tools 8010 Steel Tank Air Compressor | Ultra Quiet, Oil-Free, 1.0 hp, 8 gal

• Comes complete with Wheel Kit & Air Filter | No hose included | Consider...
• Product dimensions – 26" L x 14" W x 23” H | Max Pressure – 120 PSI |...
• Oil-Free Pump for Less Maintenance & Costs | Powerful 1.0 HP (Rated /...

$214.37

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Last update on 2022-01-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

#4. Makita MAC700 Big Bore 2.0 HP Air Compressor

When it comes to powerful performance, this device is a great purchase to have. The Makita MAC700 Big Bore 2.0 HP features a high 1720 RPM pump that is energized to perform with greater displacement. Even at lower RPM, it can work fast.

The interior materials are oil lubricated. Because of this, it becomes easy to clean the internal components of the motor and the compressor while using a nail gun. This not only keeps the compressor to be cool but can also minimize the wear.

It features an extra-ordinary high-quality finish that has copper finned discharge tubing. This tubing is specifically manufactured to allow a smooth flow of air through the nozzles. The industrial air filter is also large and increases the air intake.

Makita MAC700 2.0 HP* Big Bore Air Compressor

• Cast iron pump with big bore cylinder and piston, combined with greater...
• Substantially lower noise levels with a large 1,720 RPM pump, enabling...
• Low amp draw reduces incidences of tripped breakers and voltage drop that...

$229.00

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Last update on 2022-01-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

#5. BOSTITCH Pancake Air Compressor, Oil-Free, 6 Gallon, 150 PSI (BTFP02012)

This BOSTITCH Pancake Air Compressor is a specific mid-budget pancake compressor that introduces a heavy performance for completing any frame at the workplace. This device has a maximum capacity of 6-gallon that can be filled with a lot of compressed air.

The best part of having this device is the high-performance pump with 150 PSI of power. Because of this, it allows the air to move freely through the nozzle. Moreover, the air tool performance is maximized by the oil-free pump.

Coming to the performance, the BOSTITCH Pancake Air Compressor features a quick recovery function. Though the noise seems to be higher than most other pancake air compressors, it is still quite efficient to work regularly. To be specific, the noise is around 78.5 dB.

The motor has a smart low operation that delivers a 2.6 SCFM while operating with a 90 PSI pump.

6,013 User Reviews

BOSTITCH Pancake Air Compressor, Oil-Free, 6 Gallon, 150 PSI (BTFP02012)

• The portable air compressor has a long-life oil-free, maintenance-free pump...
• 150 max PSI 6.0 gallon tank (22.7 L) and 2.6 SCFM* delivered @ 90 PSI pump...
• BOSTITCH high efficiency motor of the 6 gallon air compressor is made for...

$101.80

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Last update on 2021-12-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

#6. Campbell Hausfeld Portable Air Compressor

This portable device comes with a 3-gallon horizontal tank. For any portable device, having such capacity will help to provide a faster performance with 0.36 CFM at 90 PSI. Apart from this, it has plenty of power that can operate with a stable 120 volts of regular power.

Oil-less pump technology is very innovative. Because of this, it provides a reliable motor output that can be essential. Sometimes, the motor is overheated, but it won’t crash the compressor under any circumstances.

The Campbell Hausfeld Portable Air Compressor comes with a simple 10-piece accessory kit that includes everything from a coiled hose to inflation needles. It reduces the period for recovery and also works with efficiency.

The product comes with conveniently placed gauges so that they are easy to maintain and to read.

2,766 User Reviews

Air Compressor, Portable, 3 Gallon Horizontal, Oilless, w/ 10 Piece Accessory Kit Including Air Hose & Inflation Gun (Campbell Hausfeld FP209499AV)

• 3 gallon horizontal tank and 0.36 CFM at 90 PSI. 110 Max PSI provides...
• Oil-less pump for maintenance-free ownership and strong, reliable motor...
• Equipped with 10 piece accessory kit which includes a coiled hose, blow...

$309.00

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Last update on 2022-01-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

#7. Senco PC1010 1/2- Horsepower 1-Gallon Matte Finish and Trim Portable Hot Dog Air Compressor

The Senco PC1010 1-Horsepower Peak is completely lightweight and portable. To be fair, the weight is roughly around 20 Pounds and thus, it can be much easier to carry and to place from one location to the other.

The most impressive feature of this device is the high peak pump motor. The best part is that it can work with both high power and low power options. As a result, the product seems to be much more efficient for framing works.

The delivery rate for the peak power and the low power is quite stable than other air compressors available. It is around 20-44 drives per minute and for any regular compressor, it is quite effective.

This product comes with a 1year warranty with the product and gives a great response to the customer service contacts. The product delivers a great aluminum construction that is durable and can reduce the wear.

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Senco PC1010 1/2- Horsepower 1-Gallon Matte Finish and Trim Portable Hot Dog Air Compressor, Gray/Red

• Lightweight and portable--easy to carry from site to site as you work
• One horsepower peak ,1/2 horsepower runningand one-gallon capacity
• Ideal for a range of renovation and home improvement jobs, as well as for...

$149.00 −$10.01 $138.99

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Last update on 2022-01-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

#8. PORTER-CABLE CMB15 Oil-Free Fully Shrouded

The PORTER-CABLE CMB15 Oil-Free Fully Shrouded comes with a great low peak power that can perform well. It features a 1.5 Gallon tank that can give proper support to the framing work present.

Apart from this, the product comes with an inlet water drain valve. This valve is made to maintain a clear pressure inside the valve that allows driving faster water pressure. Furthermore, it also comes with rubber feet.

It has a proper oil-free pump that has a long life and no maintenance at all. Moreover, the max tank pressure is much higher and it has decent productivity when it comes to the rate of use.

The most impressive part about the PORTER-CABLE CMB15 Oil-Free Fully Shrouded is the low 120 Voltage start. It can start easily in cold water and with multiple extension cords.

1,108 User Reviews

PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor Kit, 1.5 Gallon, Oil-Free, Fully Shrouded, Hand Carry, 25-Feet Hose (CMB15)

• 2.0 SCFM @ 90 psi of the portable air compressor allows for quick...
• 1.5 gallon tank in shroud of the electric air compressor is easy to carry,...
• 150 psi max tank pressure of the PORTER-CABLE air compressor stores more...

$134.08

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Last update on 2022-01-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

#9. DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Tire Inflator (DCC020IB)

The DEWALT DCC020IB 20V Max Inflator comes with a high-pressure inflation mode and it gives a peak impact. Because of such automatic work, the product comes with an automatic shutoff module.

This product features convenient accessory storage. Because of this, it becomes much easier to carry the spare tools and all the multiple accessories that are available with the product.

It features proper led lights that can indicate the working status of the product. As a result of this, it becomes much easier to know what the current status of the air compressor is.

The DEWALT DCC020IB 20V Max Inflator follows up with three sources for power. It gives the users every source of operation with 20 V batteries, 12 V DC or even a 110 V AC.

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DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Tire Inflator, Tool Only (DCC020IB)

• Air compressor tire inflator comes with high-pressure inflation mode with...
• Digital tire inflator has high-volume inflation and deflation modes
• LED light of the portable tire inflator for car helps to provide...

$139.00 −$10.00 $129.00

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Last update on 2022-01-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

#10. VIAIR 150 PSI High-Flow Air Source Kit

The VIAIR 150 PSI High-Flow Air Source Kit comes as a complete compact model which makes it easy to carry. As a result, the weight is cut only to 0.16 Ounces while the dimensions are around 22 x 16 x 9 inches.

It has a maximum working pressure of 150 PSI that can get a powerful performance for additional airflow. Moreover, it works up to 40 minutes of continuous use with the product. The restart pressure is then set to 200 PSI.

This product comes with a maximum current consumption of 16 Amps. Since it works both at peak power and low power, it is flexible to use for both indoor and outdoor requirements. A 1-year manufacturer’s warranty makes it much easier for the professionals to deal with.

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VIAIR 150 PSI High-Flow Air Source Kit

• Designed as an onboard air solution for actuate air horns.
• Includes pre-installed parts which is as follows, 110/145 PSI automatic...
• 150 PSI maximum working pressure

$257.50 −$44.20 $213.30

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Last update on 2022-01-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

How To use an Air Compressor Gun?

Using an air compressor is not the most difficult task in hand. Especially when you have a proper compressor that goes well with the nail gun. If you have already purchased a new air compressor, you can easily follow the steps to use the compressor with the nail gun.

Start with the nail gun

The first thing that you need to do is to start with the right pair of nail guns with the right set of nails. Count the number of nails that you will possibly need. If they are more than 15-16, carry a storage bag.

Match it with the compressor

If you have prepared your air compressor gun, you will know how much pressure it will require. Match it up with the air compressor according to the number of drives you require and also the pressure that you need. This will ease your work.

Prepare the compressor

Before you start the compressor, you must check if everything is in the right order. You need to complete a small preparation like fitting in the air hose and attaching a Teflon Tape around it. This will hold the hose in a proper position even if it vibrates.

• Turn on the compressor

The next step that you need to do is to carefully connect the hose to the gun. Make sure that there are no leaks. Once it is done, simply turn on the compressor so that the air flows into the gun. It should read 0 PSI while turning on.

• Operate the Gun

Now, everything is ready and all that you need to do is to operate the air compressor gun. Place the gun on the frame and then apply the trigger once. The nail will slide into the piece of wood and get attached to it.

How to Choose the Best Air Compressor For Framing Crew?

PSI

The PSI or the pounds per square inch is the measurement of pressure that the air releases. While working with a nail gun, it releases air pressure so that the nail can affix to fame. As a result, it requires a minimum air pressure or the PSI to complete the nailing procedure. The ideal air compressor must have a decent psi which is neither too high nor too low to work. A good psi will allow the nail to properly get attached to the frame without any setback.

CFM

The CFM defines the performance of the air compressor. It is the calculation of the air pressure released by the compressor in a stipulated time or particularly in a minute. So the CFM stands for cubic feet per minute. To be specific, the CFM of the air compressor should match that of the nail gun.

This will allow the air compressor gun to release perfect air pressure and will make sure that it does not malfunction. If there is a huge difference in the CFM, the nail gun will not be able to load the nail and complete the work accordingly.

Design

Another important factor to consider is the design of the air compressor that you are going to choose. Now the design and the size depend on the type of compressor that you are choosing. Based on the type, every compressor differs from each other.

There is also a significant change in power and output as well. But before choosing the right type, make sure that what size air compressor for nail gun is compatible enough for you to keep the compressor at a proper place and without much storage problems. This will allow you to easily place or to carry the product from one place to another.

Tank Size

The next factor that you need to consider is the tank size of the air compressor. The measurement of the tank size is based in gallons and it allows you to get the relevant air pressure as per your needs.

Surely, the bigger tank size you have the more number of drives you can get. If it is just specific for the nails, you can get a decent size of 2 to 6 gallons of tan space.

This will be just enough for you to complete short works. However, if you are going to use the guns for heavy workloads, it is better to have a proper air compressor gun that will serve you with a bigger tank present.

Noise

Air compressors have multiple motors specifically for pumping out the air and another one for driving the air. Since they are completely motor bound, you will be able to hear noises. But what noise level can be comfortable for you to work with.

Some of the heavy-duty types of machinery can produce 90dB of noise. But if you are working on a residential property, such noises will be questionable.

So it is better to stick to a compressor that will have a maximum of 70dB noise. The lower you can get, the better it will be for you to work with.

Portable

If you are a professional, you may not be able to complete all the work in just a single space and a single position. You may have to carry the air compressor to multiple locations as per your requirement. So, having a product that is easily portable will give you multiple benefits. It’s not only the weight of the product that decides whether you can transfer it or not.

It’s the option of carrying the machine. If the heavy compressor has a simple carry handle or wheels or even a trolley, it becomes much easier to carry. If your compressor is heavy, make sure that it has carry options.

Temperature

Several procedures can go inside the air compressor while it is working for a long time. In such a case, it can easily heat up and stop working. This is a common problem that you may face if the product does not have proper measures to cool down the motor. Some of the compressors do use oil-lubrication to bring the temperature under control. When infused with oil, the heat generated by the friction may reduce.

As a result of this, the motor always tends to cool down and then can take more load to perform. Some models do come with heat dissipation technology which makes them more durable.

Material

An important factor that most people overlook is the material of the product. The cylinder or the tank of the compressor stores in gallons or air pressure. As a result of it, it is evident that the cylinder may be exposed to oxygen.

This is a common cause for the formation of rusts on the material. So if you want to get rid of this, make sure that the cylinder is either made up of aluminum or stainless steel.

On top of this, there should be a paint coating that will prevent the formation of rusts on the cylinder. This will make the heater easy to work with and cleaning hazards will be less.

Buildup

Just like the material used for the compressor is important, the construction is an important factor similarly. Most of the professionals do need to carry the device from one place to another. As a result of this, there are severe chances that the compressor falls off to the ground. To be fair, there are a lot of loose parts fitted inside the compressor that may not be prepared for sudden vibrations.

This is the reason why the frame of the product is important. Having a sturdy and steel frame will prevent the machine from having such accidents. It will also protect the compressor from damaging itself.

Power consumption

The one important factor that you need to consider is the electricity consumption. To work with a proper air compressor, you will need to provide a constant electrical power supply. Infact, for heavy-duty work, the power consumption will be much higher.

So before you opt to buy a new product, make sure that you have checked the Amperage. The lower amperage it has, the lower amount of power it will consume. You need to make sure that you have sufficient power output to run the 0machine for multiple hours as well.

	Editor Choice Makita MAC2400	Long-lasting pump life. Low amp draw helps prevent power trips. Excellent air filtration system.	CHECK ON AMAZON
	Premium Choice BOSTITCH BTFP02012	Maximize air tool performance. Easy start-up in cold weather. Extension cord application.	CHECK ON AMAZON
	Value For Money Campbell Hausfeld FP209499AV	Tackle a Variety of Projects. Includes a coiled hose. Compact design.	CHECK ON AMAZON
	DEWALT DCC020IB	Convenient onboard accessory storage. High volume inflation. High volume hose.	CHECK ON AMAZON
	CRAFTSMAN CMEC6150K	Long life and no maintenance. Maximizes portability and stored air. Quick compressor recovery time.	CHECK ON AMAZON

Frequently Asked Questions [Faq’s]

Conclusion

Having an air compressor is not only for inflating tires. A kind of best air compressor for framing crew can solve multiple problems that any framer would experience in daily activities. Of course, it’s also not the toughest thing to look for. But picking out the right one can be a daunting task in hand.

You need to be specific about the product that you buy.

I hope that following out through this guide and review of each product will give you a clear idea of what you are looking for. Don’t miss out to let us know down below about which air compressor you are using and which one do you want to buy next.