I've had similar frustrations with cordless tools, especially in colder weather. Honestly, I was skeptical about brushless motors at first, but after switching to one recently, it does seem to hold power more consistently through the battery cycle. Not perfect, but definitely better. Battery age is a big factor too—my older batteries fade fast in the cold, even fully charged. Might be worth trying a newer battery before giving up on your current nailer completely...
"Battery age is a big factor too—my older batteries fade fast in the cold, even fully charged."
Yeah, battery age definitely makes a noticeable difference. I've inspected plenty of roofs in colder climates, and honestly, cordless nailers can be hit or miss. Brushless motors do help, but they're not magic. Still, you're right—before ditching your current setup entirely, trying a fresh battery might save you some headaches (and cash). Cold weather roofing is tough enough without fighting your tools...
"Brushless motors do help, but they're not magic."
Exactly, brushless helps but won't fix everything. If you're on a tight budget, I'd suggest warming your batteries indoors before heading out—makes a noticeable difference. Also, insulating your battery compartment or wrapping batteries in a towel can keep them warmer longer. Sounds silly, but it worked for me last winter when I couldn't afford new batteries right away...worth a shot before spending more money.
"Sounds silly, but it worked for me last winter when I couldn't afford new batteries right away..."
Doesn't sound silly at all—sometimes the simplest tricks make the biggest difference. Reminds me of when my nailer kept jamming up on a freezing day. Thought I'd have to replace it, but just warming the batteries and keeping them insulated between uses got me through that roofing job without extra expenses. Definitely worth trying these little hacks before shelling out cash for upgrades or replacements.
Had a similar experience myself a couple winters back. My nailer was acting up constantly—misfires, jams, you name it. Thought it was toast and started pricing out replacements, but a buddy suggested just keeping the batteries warm between uses. I was skeptical at first, but figured why not give it a shot? Wrapped them in an old sweatshirt and kept them in the truck cab with the heater running. Surprisingly, it made a huge difference. Got through that whole job without another jam.
Honestly, sometimes these little tricks seem too simple to actually work, but they end up saving your butt (and wallet). Now I always keep spare batteries warm in cold weather—beats spending money on new gear when you don't have to.
