Fasteners 101: The Complete Overview of Bissett Collated Fasteners

Whether you’re just starting in the trades or need a solid refresher, understanding the core categories of collated fasteners is critical.

At Bissett, we offer over 400 SKUs of collated fasteners, divided into four main categories:

• Coil Nails
• Stick Nails
• Finishing Nails (Brad Nails)
• Staples

Let’s break down the fundamentals every pro should know- so you can choose the right fastener, every time.

Coil Nails vs. Stick Nails: The Structural Backbone

While coil nails and stick nails may look different in form, they’re functionally the same fastener joined in different collation styles. Both are available in:

• Lengths: 1″ to 4½”
• Diameters: .080″ to .162″
• Shank Types: Smooth, Ring, Spiral
• Finishes: Brite, Electro-Galvanized, Hot-Dipped Galvanized, Stainless Steel

Regional Supply Variations

Nail type usage often varies by region:

• West Coast: Coil nails & 28° stick nails dominate
• Rest of Canada: 34° paper tape stick nails are most common

Use our Fastener Finder to find the right match for your tool and region.

Coil Nails: Packed for Productivity

Coil nails offer high-capacity loading, cutting down reload time by 3–4x and improving jobsite efficiency. Their full-round heads and 15° wire-welded collation make them ideal for seismic-rated structures and compact nailer designs.

Key Benefits:

• More nails per load = less downtime
• Full-round heads = better structural integrity
• Compact design = lighter nailer profile (e.g., roofing tools)

Typical Range: 1″ to 4½”
Available in: Brite, EG, HDG, Stainless | Smooth, Ring, Spiral shanks

Stick Nails: Versatility and Cordless Compatibility

Stick nails are available in 3 collation angles:

• 21° – Plastic-collated; hybrid performance
• 28° – Wire or paper-collated; safety advantages
• 34° – Paper tape; ideal for toe-nailing

Why Choose Stick Nails:

• Lighter pneumatic tools
• Greater cordless platform availability (gas or battery)
• Lower tool investment cost

Safety Tip: Choose paper-collated 28° over wire to reduce debris risk on site.

Compatibility Note:
Our 30° paper tape nails work in tools rated from 30° to 34°- including brands advertising 31°.

Myth Busted: Our paper-collated nails withstand long submersion without degrading- tested in QC.

Finishing Nails: Brad Nails by Gauge

Finishing nails, or brad nails, are essential for trim, cabinetry, and fine finishing. They’re measured by length (inches) and gauge (thickness of steel):

Bissett Brad Nail Range:

Compatibility Alert:

• 15 GA comes in two types: DA (standard) and FN (used by Bostitch only)
• 16 GA available as straight or angled magazine styles
• Know your tool to avoid mismatched fasteners!

Staples: Narrow, Medium, and Wide Crown

Staples are more complex than nails, requiring attention to gauge, length, and crown width. Bissett supports over 30 staple types, but on jobsites, focus falls on three:

1. Narrow Crown Staples

• Gauge: 18
• Crown: ¼” (L-series) or 7/32” (SX-series)
• Used for: Cabinet backs, furniture assembly, trim
• SX-series: Exclusive to Bostitch staplers

2. Medium Crown Staples

• Gauge: 16
• Crown: ½” (BCS or Paslode – not interchangeable) or 7/16” (N-wire)
• Used for: Subfloors, fencing, pallets, stucco mesh

3. Wide Crown Staples

• Gauge: 16
• Crown: 1”
• Used in: Radiant floor heating (no-puncture noses)

Pro Tip:
Choosing the correct crown width ensures optimal hold and tool function. Check your model with our Fastener Finder.

Final Thoughts: Know Your Tool. Know Your Fastener.

The right fastener depends on:

• Your application
• The tool you’re using
• The material you’re fastening into
• Your working environment (indoor, outdoor, marine, seismic, etc.)

Misaligned fasteners can cause jams, blowouts, or premature corrosion- costing you time and money. Need more help to find the right fastener for your tool or job? Contact our team today!