First off, it comes with two nosepieces, one for framing and one for metal connector applications. This will save you a couple hundred bucks by eliminating the need to buy a dedicated metal connector nailer. It fires 21-degree plastic-collated full round head stick nails, in lengths of 2 to 3-1/2 inches and shank diameters of .113 to .162 inches. With the metal connector attachment, you’ll need 23-degree plastic-collated full round head metal connector nails, 1-1/2 or 2-1/2 inches and shank diameters of .131, .148 and .162 inches – but with the metal connectors, you can load just one stick at a time.

The nosepiece conversion is quick and easy, provided you haven’t installed the included Smart Trigger (this one is black), which lets you fire in a bump mode, because the metal connector feature can only be used with the factory-installed sequential trigger (the gray one). Nevertheless, it’s a money-saving feature we love.

The depth-of-drive is a pleasure instead of a chore, because it’s regulated by Bostitch’s patented push-button method. After you depress the button, you physically slide the contact arm and release the button. Loading fasteners also is a two-second task – pull the latch back, drop the nails in, let the latch go, and you’re ready to work. They couldn’t have made it easier. And here’s a neat little thing they designed into the gun: a notch at 16 inches, so all you need for on-center work is, well, the nailer.

The gun itself is made of lightweight magnesium, so it’s both light and rugged, and it won’t take a terrible toll on your arms, shoulders and back, even after a day of putting up sheathing, siding, trusses, fencing or even a backyard deck. If you’re considering a metal connector gun anyway, buying this is like getting the other gun for free. We like Bostitch guns, and this one is a keeper.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste

Customer Reviews Average rating - 4.5

Rating - 4 Date: 2008-10-11
Content: I bought this nailer specifically to use the Hurriquake nails on earthquake reinforcement projects. Its been a pleasure to use and have had only a couple of misfeed nails. The plastic debris from the nail clips does make a mess - wearing good eye protection is a must. It is surprisingly light for it's size, and has excellent power.
Summary: Bostitch F21PL nailer

Rating - 5 Date: 2008-09-16
Content: This is a great nail gun if your looking to install metal connectors and do normal framing work. Its very easy to switch from the standard nail to the metal connector nails, its just a matter of switching the nose piece out with a push of a button. I would highly reccomend this nailer for anyone who is installing a lot of metal connectors, it cuts the connector installation time down by at least 50%.
Summary: Excellant Tool

Rating - 5 Date: 2008-09-02
Content: I own 7 other nail guns, and the Bostich F21PL was a great addition to my collection. The Gun's light weight made it easy to use over a long day, and because it is easy to control, I was able to get into tight angles. The rubber foot and the rafter hook were greatly appreciated. The fact that it is multi-purpose makes this an extra value that you don't usually find in today's world of corporate greed.

John
Summary: Exceded My Expectations

Rating - 5 Date: 2008-08-31
Content: I am not a professional contractor, and I don't use this nailer every day. However, I did use it to build a pergola and will use it to build a deck. All pieces were in the box. I shot a few hundred nails with it, and didn't have any jams (I didn't use broken or mangled strips). It is very powerful, and somewhat loud. I had the pressure set to 90 PSIG and had no problems with nails being driven all the way. The exhaust couldn't be simpler to adjust, just turn it away from you. The depth of drive is also idiot proof, just push a button and move the tip in or out. The rafter hanger came in super handy when I was in a precarious position on a ladder, holding a 2X6. Changing the trigger from sequential to bump takes only a moment, and is straight forward, though the process does invite the possibility of losing parts. An extra spring is included. The positive placement tip can't be adjusted for depth and only the sequential trigger must be used. However, it is an AWESOME feature of this nailer, and the reason I bought it over others. It is so easy to use. Do exercise caution, however, because if you don't align the tip in the hole the nailer will easily drive a nail through the metal connector (I found this out - oops). This nailer is pretty big, though it isn't all that heavy. I'm very pleased with my purchase, and know that as long as I oil it and don't drop the thing or otherwise abuse it, it will last me for decades. Unfortunately, it is made in Taiwan.
Summary: Versitile and awesome.

Rating - 5 Date: 2008-07-07
Content: I decided to get one of the refurbished models, and I have been happy with it so far. The price was around $100 cheaper than a new one. The nailer arrived in like-new condition with the metal connector tip and sequencial trigger included. I bought this for jobs around the house, so I cant really compare this to professional nailers, but I have used a Porter Cable frame nailer and I would say that the Bostich performed as well as the PC and is probably 5 pounds lighter. Also, the PC did not have a metal connector option. So far, I have used this nailer to replace about 50 feet of privacy fence. I used 2 3/8 galvanized RH nails using 100 psi, and the gun performed perfectly. The depth adjustment is easy to use and works well. Loading new strips of nails is very easy. My only complaint is that the gun does not come with any kind of case, so I will need to find a tool bag large enough to store this. Overall it seems like a great nailer.
Summary: nice nailer