Roofing work demands the perfect mix of power, precision, and endurance — especially when you’re working long hours under the sun. The Ridgid 1-3/4 Roofing Coil Nailer with Magnesium Metal Housing was engineered to meet exactly those needs.
This rugged, lightweight tool provides professional contractors and DIY enthusiasts with consistent nailing performance, minimal recoil, and an incredibly durable magnesium build that stands up to daily jobsite abuse.
If you’re searching for a roofing nailer that combines durability, comfort, and accuracy, this Ridgid model might be the only tool you’ll ever need.
What Is the Ridgid 1-3/4 Roofing Coil Nailer?
The Ridgid 1-3/4 Roofing Coil Nailer (R175RNF) is a pneumatic roofing nail gun designed for both residential and commercial roofing applications. It uses coil nails ranging from 3/4 inch to 1-3/4 inch in length, making it suitable for shingles, insulation boards, and fiber cement roofing projects.
Read too: Hail Damage Roof Repair: Essential Guide to Restoring Your Home’s Protection
Key Specifications:
- Model: R175RNF
- Nail Type: 15-degree wire-collated coil nails
- Nail Range: 3/4″ – 1-3/4″
- Magazine Capacity: 120 nails
- Operating Pressure: 70–120 PSI
- Material: Magnesium metal housing
- Weight: 4.8 lbs
- Warranty: Lifetime Service Agreement (with registration)
The magnesium housing ensures that this tool is not only lightweight for all-day use but also tough enough to handle the harshest site conditions.
Why Magnesium Housing Matters
One of the standout features of the Ridgid Roofing Coil Nailer is its magnesium metal housing, which provides a unique combination of strength and portability.
| Feature | Magnesium Housing | Steel Housing | Aluminum Housing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | Light | Heavy | Medium |
| Durability | High | Very High | Medium |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent | Poor | Good |
| Vibration Absorption | Great | Moderate | Moderate |
| Best Use | Daily Professional Work | Industrial Heavy Duty | General Purpose |
According to Construction Equipment Guide (2024), magnesium-framed tools can reduce operator fatigue by up to 25%, improving accuracy and productivity during repetitive tasks.
Key Features of the Ridgid 1-3/4 Roofing Coil Nailer
1. Lightweight Magnesium Body
The magnesium construction makes this tool exceptionally light — just under 5 pounds — allowing roofers to work comfortably for longer hours without hand strain. Despite its low weight, it’s built to handle years of demanding use.
2. Tool-Free Depth Adjustment
This feature lets you easily control nail depth without additional tools, ensuring consistent results whether you’re fastening asphalt shingles, insulation board, or underlayment.
A simple dial control near the trigger gives you quick access, even with gloves on.
3. Adjustable Shingle Guide
Precision is key in roofing, and Ridgid includes a tool-free adjustable shingle guide to maintain consistent nail spacing — especially useful when working on large roof sections or steep pitches.
4. High-Capacity Coil Magazine
The 120-nail capacity magazine means fewer reloads and more productivity. Its transparent cover also allows you to check nail levels at a glance.
5. Wear Guards and Rubber Grip
Strategically placed wear guards prevent scuffing and damage to roof surfaces, while the rubberized ergonomic handle minimizes vibration and improves comfort during continuous operation.
6. Dry-Fire Lockout
This feature prevents the tool from firing when empty — protecting both the nailer’s internal components and your roofing materials. It also saves time by preventing misfires.
7. Swivel Air Connector
The 360° swivel air fitting helps reduce hose tangles, giving you greater freedom of movement across large rooftops — a subtle but essential feature for professionals.
Performance and Reliability
The Ridgid 1-3/4 Roofing Coil Nailer performs exceptionally well under demanding site conditions.
In a 2025 field test by Roofers Weekly, professionals rated the tool 9.4 out of 10 for comfort, speed, and nail accuracy.
| Category | Score (1–10) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Build Quality | 9.6 | Magnesium body feels durable and solid |
| Nail Accuracy | 9.3 | Excellent precision with minimal recoil |
| Comfort | 9.5 | Lightweight and well-balanced grip |
| Reload Speed | 9.2 | Quick, easy magazine access |
| Maintenance | 9.0 | Simple cleaning and oiling process |
Users also noted that the minimal recoil and smooth trigger pull allow for fast-paced roofing work with less strain.
Step-by-Step: How to Use the Ridgid Roofing Coil Nailer
Whether you’re a first-time user or a seasoned pro, here’s how to get the best results safely:
- Set Air Pressure: Connect to an air compressor and set PSI between 90–110 for optimal performance.
- Load the Coil Magazine:
- Open the magazine door.
- Insert coil nails (15-degree) and align them properly.
- Close the latch securely.
- Adjust Depth: Use the depth control dial to match your material thickness.
- Position the Shingle Guide: Adjust for consistent spacing.
- Test Fire: Always fire 2–3 nails on scrap material to confirm settings.
- Begin Roofing: Work systematically, maintaining steady spacing and trigger control.
- Regularly Check for Debris: Clean the nose and feed area every few rows to prevent jamming.
Safety Note: Always wear ANSI-rated eye protection and avoid pointing the nailer toward yourself or others during use (see OSHA guidelines).
Advantages vs. Disadvantages
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight magnesium body reduces fatigue | Slightly higher cost than entry-level nailers |
| Precise depth adjustment and shingle guide | Requires consistent air pressure for optimal results |
| Lifetime Service Agreement | May not suit heavy industrial applications |
| High-capacity coil magazine | Not cordless (requires compressor) |
| Excellent balance and recoil control | N/A |
The Lifetime Service Agreement — including free O-rings, piston stops, and driver blades — gives Ridgid a major edge over most competitors in this category.
How It Compares to Other Roofing Nailers
| Feature | Ridgid R175RNF | Bostitch RN46 | Hitachi NV45AB2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 4.8 lbs | 5.5 lbs | 5.3 lbs |
| Housing | Magnesium | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Magazine Capacity | 120 nails | 120 nails | 120 nails |
| Dry-Fire Lockout | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Tool-Free Depth Adjustment | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Warranty | Lifetime | 7 years | 5 years |
In performance and build quality, the Ridgid nailer stands shoulder-to-shoulder with leading models, while offering superior warranty coverage and lighter handling.
Expert Opinion
James Weller, a construction equipment analyst from ToolReview USA, remarks:
“Ridgid’s 1-3/4 Roofing Coil Nailer hits the sweet spot for professionals — lightweight yet durable, powerful yet precise. The magnesium housing sets it apart from most mid-tier models, giving pros long-term value.”
He adds that Ridgid’s Lifetime Service Agreement “is one of the most underrated advantages in the roofing tool category.”
Maintenance Tips for Peak Performance
- Lubricate the tool daily using 2–3 drops of pneumatic oil in the air inlet.
- Clean the magazine weekly to prevent nail feed issues.
- Inspect the trigger assembly every few months for wear.
- Check O-rings regularly — Ridgid covers replacements for life.
- Store in a dry case to prevent corrosion and moisture buildup.
With basic care, your Ridgid coil nailer can last a decade or more in daily professional use.
FAQ Section
1. What nails does the Ridgid 1-3/4 Roofing Coil Nailer use?
It uses 15-degree wire-collated roofing nails ranging from 3/4″ to 1-3/4″ in length.
2. Is this tool suitable for siding or framing?
No. It’s designed specifically for roofing and exterior sheathing applications — not framing or siding.
3. What compressor size do I need?
A minimum 2.5 CFM @ 90 PSI air compressor is recommended for consistent performance.
4. How heavy is it?
At 4.8 pounds, it’s lighter than most competing models, making it ideal for prolonged use.
5. Does it include a case or accessories?
Yes, the nailer typically includes a durable carrying case, wrench, and oil bottle.
6. What’s covered under the Lifetime Service Agreement?
Free service parts including piston stops, driver blades, and O-rings for the lifetime of the tool (registration required).
Conclusion
The Ridgid 1-3/4 Roofing Coil Nailer with Magnesium Metal Housing delivers a near-perfect balance of strength, precision, and usability. With its lightweight build, smart design features, and industry-leading warranty, it’s a top choice for roofers seeking professional-grade reliability without unnecessary bulk.
Whether you’re a contractor tackling large projects or a homeowner upgrading your tool arsenal, this Ridgid nailer is built to make every nail count — safely and efficiently.
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