Symptoms
- Two nails visibly exit together, often bent
- Happens intermittently, not every shot
- Worse near the end of a nail strip
- Jams shortly after a double-shot
Likely causes
- CommonWorn or weak magazine feed springA tired spring doesn't push the strip forward firmly enough, letting the next nail creep into position early.
- CommonWrong collation angle or gauge nails for the magazineNails that don't match the magazine's design can misfeed.
- PossibleBent or damaged nail stripA kinked strip can let two nails present at once.
- Less commonWorn magazine follower or pusher shoeA worn part here fails to properly separate individual nails.
What to do
- Disconnect air before inspecting the magazine.
- Remove the nail strip and check it for kinks, bends, or damage; discard a damaged strip.
- Confirm the nails match the exact collation type (angle and gauge) specified for the gun.
- Check the magazine pusher/follower for smooth movement along its track without excessive play.
- Load a fresh, straight strip of correct nails and test on scrap material.
- If double-feeding continues with correct, undamaged nails, the feed spring or pusher shoe is likely worn and needs replacement.
- Have the tool serviced if the problem continues after these checks, since a worn magazine can also increase jam frequency.
Tools and parts
- None for inspection; magazine spring tool if replacing
Correct nail strips for the gunSearch: “collated nails for [gun brand/gauge/angle]”
Magazine feed springSearch: “nail gun magazine feed spring replacement”
When to call a pro
If a worn feed spring or pusher shoe is suspected, a tool repair shop can replace these internal magazine parts.
Safety
Use caution
Disconnect air before working on the magazine, and keep the tool pointed away from yourself and others.