MAX has been a leading manufacturer of industrial power tools since 1942, and has specifically introduced innovative nailers since the 1980’s. The MAX SuperFramer is no exception. Yes, this corded pneumatic framing nailer comes to the market at a time when “cordless is king”. While cordless nailers are a great option for punch list items, battery technology doesn’t quite have the run time yet for long, big construction, which is the exact situations MAX designs their tools for. However, the MAX SuperFramer was designed to be small and light to fit in tight spaces with an ease that competes with cordless.
Let’s see how this professional framing nailer handles the pressure.
Who is MAX?
As we mentioned MAX has been around for at least 80 years, and has worldwide recognition as a manufacturer of office supplies, premiere industrial tools, and equipment for the construction industry.
MAX serves clients throughout North, Central, and South America. MAX USA is headquartered in Plainview, NY. Their corporate headquarters is located in Tokyo, Japan, where all of their tools are manufactured in ISO9001 and ISO14001 certified factories.
As a company, MAX prides itself on providing high-quality products that it constantly re-engineers to meet the industries evolving needs. These are just a few reasons why MAX is a trusted name by the industrial and construction industries.
MAX SuperFramer Features
The MAX SuperFramer (SN883RH3) is tiny, but mighty. Okay, it’s not that small, but at 11-7/8 in. it is roughly 30% smaller than conventional framing nailers, and weighs only 7.9 lbs. The operation pressure ranges from 70 to 120 PSI.
The size and weight make it easy to use comfortably when nailing material overhead and working with odd angles. The MAX SuperFramer is a stick nailer that is mostly used for framing, but can also be used to install subfloors, decking, sheathing, and more.
I also noticed the durable metal exterior. It’s an extruded aluminum that is designed to be heavy-duty and withstand workplace accidents.
The MAX SuperFramer features a slim head. “Smaller is better” seems to be the vision behind this nailer. The slim head is perfect for fitting between studs and those hard-to-reach-areas.
The MAX SuperFramer has a slim handle with a rubber overmold. This makes for an easy, comfortable grip while in use.
As we mentioned, pneumatic pressure provides the best power for production nailing. However, the cord can be pesky. So, MAX installed a swivel joint on the bottom of the SuperFramer handle that the hose connects to. The hose can now easily adjust to the angle it’s being used in. You no longer have to fight with, get tangled, or trip over the heavy hose.
Out of the box, the MAX SuperFramer is equipped with a safer, single-fire trigger, and comes with a rapid-fire trigger. The triggers can easily be switched out with no tool necessary.
Whichever trigger you go with, it is easy to reach and operate with the index finger while gripping the handle. Just above the handle on the left side you will find the lock/unlock switch. Both the trigger and switch are bright orange, which stands out against the light silver metal body.
The MAX SuperFramer works with full round head stick nails ranging in size from 2 in. to 3-1/4 in, and nail diameter ranges from .113 in to .148 in. We filled the 21-degree magazine with 65 3-1/4 in. nails. However, because our nails came in strips of 25 nails, we found it easier to just fit two strips of nails in.
The cleated end of the contact arm, or “pointy teeth” as MAX refers to it, grips the construction material and prevents it from sliding.
You can also see the magnet nose where the contact arm meets the body. This prevents jamming and wasting nails by holding the last nail of the strip.
You can easily change the nail’s sink depth with the red adjustment dial. The dial can easily be found on the right side of the MAX SuperFramer.
Another item found at the base of the handle is the rafter hook. So, when you’re not using the MAX SuperFramer you can hang it on a stud or another hook or support.
MAX SuperFramer Performance
With a maximum operation pressure of 120 PSI and multiple accuracy features like the cleated contact arm, nose magnet, and depth adjustment, the MAX SuperFramer proves to be a quick, powerful, and efficient framing nailer. Also, the modest size and weight, and easier movement from the swivel joint for the hose add to the ease of use.
Another benefit is the durability from the heavy-duty, extruded aluminum body. You have extra security knowing it will survive getting dropped and knocked.
Watch what happened when we paired the MAX SuperFramer with the Stud-Master 16.
MAX SuperFramer Valule
The MAX SuperFramer retails for $270 on Amazon, which prices similarly to comparable pneumatic nailers.
This is the biggest trend I’ve noticed when comparing the MAX SuperFramer to other pneumatic nailers. If they’re cheaper it’s because they are missing something in terms of power, features, size, etc.
In addition to the power, performance, and features, the MAX SuperFramer comes with a five-year limited warranty.
MAX SuperFramer Wrap Up
It’s hard to compete with the power and features of the MAX SuperFramer. MAX has been a leading manufacturer of industrial tools for a reason. This stick framing nailer may be more than the average homeowner needs, but the MAX SuperFramer is a fast and reliable tool that is perfect for professionals. On top of that, MAX is a trusted brand that is committed to constantly evolving their products to be better. If framing is a crucial part of your day-to-day work, you will not be disappointed by the MAX SuperFramer.
