Semi-Automatic Powder Actuated Tools

Slick and fast powder actuated tools provide the power for working in the concrete jungle.

10 MIN READ
Hilti and Ramset are the only tools in the group that are convertible from a single-pin nose to a magazine tool, a detail that really speeds up production.

Photo: David Sharpe

Hilti and Ramset are the only tools in the group that are convertible from a single-pin nose to a magazine tool, a detail that really speeds up production.

HiltiAutomatic CompatibleFastener RangeCaliberWeightLength
DX460 MXYes1/2 to 2-7/8 inches.27 caliber7.78 pounds18.11 inches
Hilti DX460 MX
StoryID
501388
ToolNumber
1
ComponentId
tcm:78-1626976

Tester Comments
This tool is well-designed through and through. It’s well-balanced, feels good in your hand all day, and is upgradeable to fully automatic?great for production speed. And, it works perfectly as a single-fire tool. The box could use some work.

Price
$669

Contact
Hilti
800-879-8000
hilti.com

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PowersAutomatic CompatibleFastener RangeCaliberWeightLength
P3500No1/2 to 3 inches.27 caliber5 pounds13-1/2 inches
Powers P3500
StoryID
501388
ToolNumber
2
ComponentId
tcm:78-1626976

Tester Comments
This is a powerhouse tool with a good, basic layout and a good price. It’s light and easy to maneuver in tight spots. I also like its sensibly laid-out box. It has a hefty recoil and is loud. I wish the grip was a little more comfortable.

Price
$250

Contact
Powers Fasteners
914-235-6300
powers.com

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RamsetAutomatic CompatibleFastener RangeCaliberWeightLength
RT400MYes1/2 to 1-1/4 inches.27 caliber5.5 pounds17-1/2 inches
Ramset RT400M
StoryID
501388
ToolNumber
3
ComponentId
tcm:78-1626976

Tester Comments
I really like the spring action that advances the booster, making this a fast-shooting tool. It has smooth action and comes in both magazine and single shot versions. The fully automatic conversion shoots shorter pins than I often require, so it’s limited on my sites, but might be great for others. The recoil is noticeable and the tool is loud. I wish it had a better box.

Price
$499

Contact
ITW Ramset Red Head
800-348-3231
ramset-redhead.com

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RemingtonAutomatic CompatibleFastener RangeCaliberWeightLength
493 PowerProNo1/2 to 3 inches.27 caliber5.35 pounds14-3/8 inches
Remington 493 PowerPro
StoryID
501388
ToolNumber
4
ComponentId
tcm:78-1626976

Tester Comments
This is a very solid tool with smooth action. It’s better for one-off work than production speed. It has a good, sensible box with plenty of room for a day’s worth of pins and boosters.

Price
$319

Contact
DESA Specialty Products
800-858-8501
desatech.com

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SimpsonAutomatic CompatibleFastener RangeCaliberWeightLength
PTP-27ALNo1/2 to 2-1/2 inches.27 caliber5.56 pounds17-1/4 inches
Simpson PTP-27AL
StoryID
501388
ToolNumber
5
ComponentId
tcm:78-1626976

Tester Comments
This is the price champion?the best combination of features and cost. The tool is well-balanced and deals with both recoil and noise very well. The box is the best in the group and the tool will soon have a fully automatic upgrade.

Price
$350

Contact
Simpson Strong-Tie Anchor Systems
800-999-5099
simpsonanchors.com

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