Which Paslode Nails Fit Your Nailer? (The Compatibility Chart Everyone Needs)

Paslode nail guns are some of the most widely used fixing tools on UK building sites. They’re quick, reliable, and save a huge amount of time compared with hand nailing.

But one of the most common issues tradespeople run into is buying the wrong nails or fuel cells for their nailer.

Different Paslode tools use different nail types, lengths, and gas fuel cells. If the wrong nails are used, the nail gun may jam, misfire, or fail to drive the nail properly.

Whether you use a Paslode IM350+, IM360Ci, or IM65, this guide explains exactly which nails fit your nailer, which fuel cells you need, and how to choose the correct nail size for your job.

Paslode Nail Gun Nails Explained

Paslode nailers use a gas-powered combustion system to drive nails quickly into timber.

Each shot works like this:

1. A small amount of gas from the fuel cell is released into the combustion chamber

2. The battery creates a spark

3. The gas ignites and pushes the piston forward

4. The piston drives the nail into the timber

Because this system is carefully designed, Paslode tools require specific types of collated nails.

These nails must match:

• the angle of the nail strip

• the collation type

• the head shape

• the length and diameter

Using the wrong nails can prevent the nail strip feeding correctly through the magazine.

Paslode Nail Types Explained

There are two main types of nails used in Paslode nail guns.

Framing Nails

Framing nails are used in structural timber construction and are fired by tools such as:

• IM350+

• IM360Ci

  
  

These nails are:

• paper collated

• clipped head

• angled at 34°

  
  

They are designed to penetrate structural timber quickly and securely.

Common jobs include:

• stud walls

• timber framing

• decking structures

• fencing

• roof battens

  
  

Brad Nails

Brad nails are used in second fix carpentry and finishing work. These nails are thinner and leave a smaller hole in the timber surface.

They are used in tools such as:

• Paslode IM65

Typical applications include:

• skirting boards

• architraves

• decorative mouldings

• door frames

• cabinet installation

  
  

Paslode Nails IM350+ Compatible

The Paslode IM350+ is one of the most popular gas framing nailers used by builders and carpenters across the UK.

It fires 34° paper collated clipped head framing nails.

These nails are designed specifically for Paslode framing nailers.

IM350+ Compatible Nail Lengths

Nail Size	Typical Use
51mm	Roofing battens
63mm	Studwork
75mm	Timber framing
90mm	Heavy structural timber

Most Common Nail Sizes

Most tradespeople rely on 63mm and 75mm nails, as these sizes cover the majority of framing tasks.

For roofing battens, 51mm nails are typically preferred.

Paslode IM360Ci Compatibility Chart

The Paslode IM360Ci is a newer generation framing nailer designed to be lighter and more efficient than older models.

In terms of consumables, the IM360Ci uses the same framing nail sizes as the IM350+.

This means many builders can continue using the same nail stock even after upgrading tools.

IM360Ci Nail Compatibility

Nail Type	Nail Angle	Nail Length
Paper collated framing nails	34°	51mm – 90mm

IM360Ci Common Uses

The IM360Ci is widely used for:

• timber framing

• roof batten installation

• decking construction

• fencing

• shed building

Because it uses the same nail range as the IM350+, compatibility is simple for most trades.

Paslode Nail Angles Explained (Why 34° Matters)

One key detail many users overlook is nail strip angle.

Paslode framing nailers use 34° angled nails.

This angle is important because it allows the nail strips to fit correctly inside the nail gun magazine.

Common Nail Angles

Nail Angle	Tool Type
21°	Plastic collated framing nailers
30°	Wire collated framing nailers
34°	Paslode paper collated framing nailers

Using nails with the wrong angle can cause:

• feeding problems

• nail jams

• misfires

• tool damage

Always ensure the nails are 34° paper collated framing nails for Paslode framing nailers.

Which Paslode Fuel Cell Do I Need?

Paslode nail guns rely on fuel cells to create the combustion that drives the nail.

Different nailers require different fuel cells depending on their power requirements.

Framing Nailer Fuel Cells

Used with:

• IM350+

• IM360Ci

These are usually sold as part of nail and gas trade packs, which provide a convenient supply of both consumables.

Brad Nailer Fuel Cells

Used with:

• IM65

These fuel cells are smaller and designed specifically for second fix nailers.

Signs You Are Using the Wrong Fuel Cell

If the wrong fuel cell is installed, you may notice:

• weak nail driving

• inconsistent firing

• complete misfires

Always check the fuel cell packaging before use.

Paslode IM65 Brad Nails – Which Size Should You Use?

The Paslode IM65 is a second fix nailer designed for detailed carpentry work where appearance matters.

Instead of framing nails, the tool fires brad nails, which are thinner and produce smaller fixing holes.

IM65 Brad Nail Sizes

Nail Length	Typical Use
16mm	Light trims
25mm	Small mouldings
32mm	Decorative trim
38mm	Architraves
50mm	MDF skirting
63mm	Thick trim boards

These nails provide strong holding power while keeping the fixing point discreet.

Paslode Nail Length Guide for Framing

Choosing the correct nail length is important for both fixing strength and safety.

If the nail is too short, it may not penetrate deeply enough into the timber. If it is too long, it may pass through the material completely.

Framing Nail Length Chart

Nail Length	Typical Job
51mm	Roofing battens
63mm	Stud walls
75mm	Deck frames
90mm	Heavy structural timber

Many builders consider 75mm nails the most versatile framing size.

Paslode Nails vs Generic Collated Nails Compatibility

Some tradespeople ask whether cheaper generic nails can be used in Paslode nail guns.

While some compatible nails may work, there are potential downsides.

Possible Issues with Generic Nails

Lower quality nails can cause:

• nail strip breakage

• feeding problems

• inconsistent nail depth

• tool jamming

Some cheaper nails also use weaker paper collation which can fall apart inside the magazine.

For reliability on site, many professionals prefer genuine Paslode nails or trusted compatible brands designed for Paslode nailers.

Why Is My Paslode Nailer Misfiring?

If your Paslode nailer starts misfiring, the cause is usually related to the consumables rather than the tool itself.

Most Common Causes

Incorrect nails Wrong nail angle or collation can stop the tool feeding correctly.

Incorrect fuel cell Using the wrong gas cartridge can affect combustion.

Dirty combustion chamber Dust and residue can build up over time.

Low battery Even gas nailers rely on a rechargeable battery to ignite the gas.

Regular cleaning and using the correct nails will prevent most issues.

Best Paslode Nails for Roofing Battens

Roofing battens are one of the most common jobs where Paslode framing nailers are used.

Most roofers use 51mm galvanised framing nails for this task.

These nails provide strong holding power without penetrating too far through thinner timber battens.

Both the IM350+ and IM360Ci handle this nail size easily.

Bulk Buy Paslode Nails and Fuel Cells – Trade Packs

For tradespeople working on large projects, buying nails individually is rarely the most efficient option.

Many suppliers offer Paslode trade packs, which combine multiple boxes of nails with compatible fuel cells.

These packs offer several advantages:

• better value per fixing

• guaranteed compatibility

• fewer trips to the supplier

• easier stock management

For builders completing framing or roofing work, bulk packs can significantly reduce downtime.

Paslode Nail Compatibility Chart

Paslode Nailer	Nail Type	Nail Length	Fuel Cell
IM350+	Framing nails	51mm – 90mm	Framing fuel
IM360Ci	Framing nails	51mm – 90mm	Framing fuel
IM65	Brad nails	16mm – 63mm	Brad fuel

Final Thoughts

Paslode nail guns are extremely reliable tools, but they depend on the correct nails and fuel cells to work properly.

Framing nailers such as the IM350+ and IM360Ci use 34° paper collated framing nails between 51mm and 90mm, while finishing nailers like the IM65 use brad nails from 16mm to 63mm.

Using compatible nails helps prevent jams, misfires, and wasted time on site.

When in doubt, always check the nail size, angle, and fuel cell type before loading your tool.

Suggested internal links for D2D Fixings include framing nails, brad nails, Paslode fuel cells, nail guns, and nail and fuel trade packs.