How To Easily Troubleshoot Your Ryobi Airstrike Nail Gun

Ryobi tools are an attractive choice for DIYers. Not only are they competitively priced, but the One+ batteries can be used in over 300 different devices. In fact, it's more than that, because other manufacturers offer a bunch of must-try tools you can use with Ryobi batteries too. Among the most popular products are Ryobi's cordless Airstrike nail guns. With no hoses or cables to get tangled, they make it easy to nail just about anything, anywhere.

There are three models in the range, so there's a good chance one is the right type of nail gun for your next home improvement task, furniture build, or craft project. They are generally reliable, but misfires aren't unknown, and nailing depth can vary. Both of these can be frustrating, but luckily you can easily troubleshoot your Ryobi Airstrike nail gun and be back working again in just a few minutes. Key tips are to check for jams and that the battery is properly charged and connected correctly. Let's look at potential fixes in more detail.

If the nail gun sounds like it's firing, but a nail isn't coming out (a misfire), it could be an empty magazine, and Ryobi recommends checking that first. Before you do, remove the battery so the nail gun can't fire accidentally and hurt someone. If the magazine is okay, the problem is probably a jam.

This is common with all nail guns, not just those from Ryobi. The Airstrike is fitted with a convenient tool-free jam lever, and operating this will often solve the problem. If it doesn't, identify where the jammed nail is and use a flat-bladed screwdriver to lever it out. Not using the right type of nail is one of several common nail gun mistakes, and poor quality nails can also be responsible. Good ones aren't expensive, so don't cut corners. If the nail gun is firing but not driving to the proper depth, check that gun adjustments are suitable for the material being nailed. You may need to increase the power. Also, check that the battery is properly connected and that the charge shows at least two bars.

These quick and easy steps should get you back to work. If they don't, and the tool is still under warranty, Ryobi suggests you contact an Authorized Service Center. Of course many faults can be avoided with a little regular preventative maintenance. With the Ryobi Airstrike nail gun, all you usually need is a cloth and some spray lubricant.