Value, value, value. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newbie do-it-yourselfer, the Porter-Cable PCFP12234 combo kit is one of the best bang for the buck air compressor sets available. Along with the best-selling C2002-WK air compressor are three of the most commonly used nailers and stapler. This package replaces the well-known PC3PAK by including newer versions of the nail guns and stapler. Anytime you’re considering buying an air compressor combo kit, you need to consider if you will be using all the tools. Fortunately, Porter-Cable included three of the most commonly used air tools in a single package.
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At-A-Glance Specs
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Brand:
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Porter-Cable
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Model:
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PCFP12234
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Category:
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Consumer
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Style:
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Combo Kit
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Weight:
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47 pounds
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Tank Size:
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6 gallons
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Peak HP:
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1.0
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CFM@90 PSI:
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2.6
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Max Pressure:
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150 PSI
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Pump Type:
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Single-stage
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Oil Type:
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Oil-free
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Noise:
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82 dBA
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Rating:
(1-5 stars)
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>> Check Current Price of the PCFP12234 Combo Kit <<
Size
As noted in the standalone air compressor review, the C2002 pancake compressor has a 6 gallon air capacity, allowing you to drive a good amount of nails on a single tank fill. Many people believe this to be almost a sweet spot when it comes to air tanks. Much smaller, and the compressor will have to cycle on more. Larger, and you’re getting into a higher price range. With the compressor itself weighing only 30 pounds, it’s quite portable. When you add the three nailers in this package, you’re of course looking at slightly less portability but some type of bag to hold all your gear will help.
The Air Tools
- The FN250C 16 gauge finish nailer is able to drive 1″ to 2-1/2″ straight collated finish nails. It’s no maintenance, powerful, and easy to use. Those who have used finish nailers in the past will notice how light it is. Jams are almost non-existant.
- The BN200C 18 gauge brad nailer can drive 5/8″ to 2″ length nails quickly and effortlessly. Very easy to load. This brad nailer is one of the best on the market and is included in this affordable combo kit. Another quality, lightweight nailer from Porter-Cable. Don’t be surprised to drive 1000 nails without a single jam.
- The NS150C 18 gauge narror crown stapler is able to flawlessly drive 1/2″ to 1-1/2″ staples. Very lightweight and comfortable, loading staples and pressing the trigger seems quite natural. Like the other two, this air tool is oil-less and completely maintenance free. A must for any finish carpenter.
If you were to purchase these three excellent air tools seperately, you would be paying well over $300 at the time of this review. By purchasing the PCFP12234 combo kit, you’d actually be spending less and basically getting a FREE air compressor!
Performance
Porter-Cable is one of the most trusted brands in power tools for good reason. When you consider price, these air tools simply get the job done. While 2.6 CFM at 90 PSI is nothing to get overly excited about when comparing the compressor to those costing 2 or 3 times as much, it’s more than most people will need. Unlike some of the competition, the Porter-Cable C2002 is easy to start in cold climates due to its low-amp, 120 volt motor. All the equipment in this kit is oil-less and maintenance free making it perfect for new DIYers or those who simply don’t want to deal with the maintenance aspects. The nailers and staplers are not just cheap add-ons, but actually highly rated tools on their own. Nail and staple jamming is extremely rare and depth adjustments are a set and forget.
Noise Level
The Porter-Cable C2002 compressor which powers the included tools is rated at 82 decibels. This makes it about average for an oil-less compressor. It’s always a good idea to have some sort of ear protection no matter what air compressor you’re using.
Who It’s For
Whether you are a first-time homeowner with no experience with air tools or a seasoned DIYer looking to replace/upgrade your current compressor or simply know a great value deal when you see one, the Porter-Cable PCFP12234 combo set is a great choice. This would be a great starter set for home use or if you’re looking to start your own cabinetry business. Also would do a good job as a good backup compressor on a construction site.
Pros
- Excellent value when you add up the cost of individual components
- No maintenance required
- Good quality air tools (not some junk the manufacturer just threw in)
- Light weight
- Can connect two hoses at once
- Easy depth adjustment and low jamming on tools
Cons
- Case is not included
- Only middle-of-the-road noise level
- Needs a better air hose
- Compressor has a tendency to rotate or move around on slick surfaces
Final Verdict on the Porter-Cable PCFP12234 Compressor Combo Kit
This Porter-Cable combo set is simply one of the best air compressor combo kits you can buy. While we rate the stand-alone compressor at 4-stars, adding three quality nail tools to the package for only a slightly higher cost makes the Porter-Cable PCFP12234 a best buy. Even if you feel you have no use for the finish nailer, brad nailer, and stapler, you will quickly be surprised just have many projects and small fixes around the house these tools can do. While I personally don’t use a stapler that much, my wife is constantly using it for crafts or fixing up the saggy back of our couch at home. If you’re looking for a quieter compressor combo kit but with air tools that are of slightly lesser quality, the Bostitch CPACK300 combo kit is also a good option and great value as a reconditioned set.
