Building a deck - need a nail gun setup, what compressor should I get?

Hey guys, I'm planning on building a 12x16 deck next month. I want to get a framing nailer and maybe a finish nailer for the railings. I don't have an air compressor yet. Looking for something that can run both guns without running out of air. Budget is around $200-300 for the compressor. Any recommendations? I'm a beginner btw.

For a deck that size, you'll want at least a 6-gallon pancake compressor. I've got a Porter-Cable C2002 and it runs my framing nailer fine. It's quiet too. If you can stretch your budget a bit, get the 8-gallon for more reserve. You'll kick yourself if you have to wait for it to catch up every 10 nails.

Hold up, before you buy, check the CFM requirements of your nailers. Framing nailers need around 2-3 CFM at 100 PSI. A 6-gallon compressor with a 1.5 HP motor should do it, but make sure it says it can handle that. Also, get an inline oiler and moisture trap. You don't want water in your lines or rusting your nails. Safety first, man.

I've got a collection of compressors, but for portability and noise, I'd suggest the California Air Tools 4620AC. It's 4.6 gallons, quiet as a mouse, and can run two nailers at once. Bit over your budget at $350, but you can find them on sale. Also, if you're doing railings, consider a cordless brad nailer to avoid dragging a hose. Just my 2 cents.

I build decks for a living. Forget the pancakes, get a wheeled 20-gallon from Husky or Campbell Hausfeld. More capacity means less cycling, and wheels make it easy to move around. Look for 4 CFM @ 90 PSI. You can pick one up for $250 on sale. And get a 25-foot hose, you'll thank me later.