Bostitch RN46
Score: 85/100
Dotool CN45C
Score: 72/100Rankings
The Bostitch RN46-1 is a lightweight pneumatic coil roofing nailer designed for high-volume professional tasks, featuring a patented side-load canister for fast reloading. It delivers exceptional power-to-weight ratio and includes a dry-fire lockout to prevent damage. However, it requires perfect perpendicular alignment to avoid angled nail sets and may cause accidental discharges in tight spaces.
The Dotool CN45C is a lightweight pneumatic 15° coil roofing nailer designed for residential applications, featuring tool-free adjustments for depth and jam release. It offers an ergonomic design and 360° exhaust adjustment, but suffers from specification inconsistencies and a lack of verified performance data. Best for DIY roofers and small contractors needing a versatile tool for siding and shingles.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1.75 inchesbest | 1.75 inchesbest | |
120 nailsbest | 120 nailsbest | |
— | 120 PSIbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 4.9 lbsbest | 5.6 lbs |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Power & Performance(1) | ||
Air Inlet Size | 1/4 in | 1/4" |
Ergonomics & Build(3) | ||
Weight (lbs) | 4.9 lbs | 5.6 lbs |
Housing Material | Aluminum/Magnesium | Aluminum |
Grip Type | Overmold | Ergonomic |
Controls & Adjustments(1) | ||
Actuation Mode | Contact | Sequential |
Nail Compatibility & Magazine(3) | ||
Nail Gauge | 11 Gauge | 15 |
Collation Type | 15 Degree Wire | Wire |
Nail Type | 15 Degree Wire Coil | 15 Degree |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers, including Fine Homebuilding, praise the Bostitch RN46-1 for its exceptional power-to-weight ratio and low recoil. Experts highlight its ability to drive nails flush through thick materials and appreciate job-site features like the zero lockout and precise shingle guide.
Everyday users and contractors generally praise the tool for being lightweight, durable, and fast-reloading. Common themes include time savings from the lockout feature and consistent performance on shingles and insulation.
Professional reviewer coverage is sparse, with no in-depth tests from major outlets like Pro Tool Reviews. Manufacturer claims emphasize the tool's versatility and durability, specifically highlighting the heat-treated housing for heavy-duty use. One video review exists but lacks transcribed details to extract specific expert opinions.
There are no direct consumer reviews or complaints quoted in the available data. Inferred praise centers on the ease of loading nails and the utility of the shingle guide. Recurring potential issues involve unverified specification mismatches, which could lead to customer dissatisfaction regarding weight and capacity expectations.
Choose the CN45C for lightweight residential use, or Bostitch if heavy-duty commercial durability is required.
