DEWALT 52051 Sniper Powder-Actuated Overhead Tool Instruction Manual

DEWALT 52051 Sniper Powder-Actuated Overhead Tool

Specifications:

• Product Name: Sniper Powder-Actuated Overhead Tool 52051
• Model Number: 52051
• Manufacturer : DEWALT

Product Information:
The Sniper Powder-Actuated Overhead Tool 52051 is a general powder-actuated tool designed for various applications. It features a muzzle, tail stock, handle, powder strip guideway, and load strip advancement lever for efficient operation.

Product Usage Instructions

Safety Warnings:
Before using the Sniper Powder-Actuated Overhead Tool 52051, it is crucial to read and understand all safety warnings and instructions provided in the manual to prevent serious injury.

Work Area Safety:

• Keep the work area clean and well-lit to avoid accidents.
• Avoid operating the tool in explosive atmospheres or around flammable substances.
• Ensure children and bystanders are at a safe distance during the operation to prevent distractions.

Powder-Actuated Tool Use and Care:

• Use the correct tool for your application to ensure safe and efficient operation.
• Avoid exceeding 700 fasteners/hour to prevent overheating and potential burns.
• Do not use a tool that cannot be controlled; it must be repaired before operation.
• Always remove powder loads and fasteners before making adjustments or storing the tool to prevent accidental actuation.
• Store the tool out of reach of children and only allow trained individuals to operate it.

Definitions : Safety Alert Symbols and Words
This instruction manual uses the following safety alert symbols and words to alert you to hazardous situations and your risk of personal injury or property damage.

• DANGER : Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
• WARNING : Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
• CAUTION : Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury. (Used without a word) Indicates a safety-related message.
• NOTICE : Indicates a practice not related to personal injury which, if not avoided, may result in property damage.

1. Muzzle
2. Tail stock
3. Handle
4. Powder strip guideway
5. Load strip advancement lever

WARNING :

• Read all safety warnings and all instructions. Failure to follow the warnings and instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.
• To reduce the risk of injury, read the instruction manual.

If you have any questions or comments about this or any product, call DeWALT toll-free at: (1-800-433-9258).

GENERAL POWDER‑ACTUATED TOOL SAFETY WARNINGS

WARNING! Read all safety warnings and all instructions. Failure to follow the warnings and instructions may result in serious injury.
SAVE ALL WARNINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE

Work Area Safety

1. Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
2. Do not operate powder‑actuated tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases or dust. Powder‑actuated tools create sparks which may ignite the dust or fumes.
3. Keep children and bystanders away while operating a powder‑actuated tool. Distractions can cause you to lose control.

Personal Safety

1. Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating a powder‑actuated tool. Do not use a powder‑actuated tool while you are tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication. A moment of inattention while operating powder‑actuated tools may result in serious personal injury.
2. Use personal protective equipment. Always wear eye protection. Protective equipment such as dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection used for appropriate conditions will reduce personal injuries.
3. Prevent unintentional actuation. Ensure that the tool is not depressed or stuck before inserting fasteners or installing powder loads.
4. Remove any tools used for adjustments or maintenance before using the powder‑actuated tool. A wrench or a key left attached to a powder‑actuated tool may result in personal injury.
5. Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. Always be sure your body is well braced and stable before actuating the powder‑actuated tool. This enables better control of the powder‑actuated tool in unexpected situations.
6. Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Keep your hair, clothing and gloves away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewelry or long hair can be caught in moving parts.

Powder‑Actuated Tool Use and Care

1. Do not force the powder‑actuated tool. Use the correct powder‑actuated tool for your application. The correct powder‑actuated tool will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it was designed.

2. Never exceed 700 fasteners/hour. The tool will become hot, potentially exposing the user to minor or serious burns and can lead the tool to jam.

3. Do not use the powder‑actuated tool if the tool cannot be depressed. Any powder‑actuated tool that cannot be controlled is dangerous and must be repaired.

4. Remove the powder loads and fasteners from the powder‑actuated tool before making any adjustments, changing accessories, transporting, or storing the tools. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of the powder‑actuated tool accidental actuation.

5. Store idle powder‑actuated tools out of the reach of children and do not allow persons unfamiliar with the powder‑actuated tool or these instructions to operate the powder‑actuated tool. Powder‑actuated tools are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
   Maintain powder‑actuated tools. Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of parts and any other condition that may affect the powder‑actuated tool’s operation. If damaged, have the powder‑actuated tool repaired before use. Properly maintaining the powder-actuated tool can help avoid an accident that can potentially cause an injury.

6. Use the powder‑actuated tool, and accessories and tool bits, etc. in accordance with these instructions, taking into account the working conditions and the work to be performed. Use of the powder‑actuated tool for operations different from those intended could result in a hazardous situation.

Service
Have your powder‑actuated tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the powder‑actuated tool is maintained.

Additional Safety Rules for Powder‑Actuated Fastening Tools
WARNING : Prior to operating the tool, study this manual carefully and develop a thorough understanding of the contents.

Proper training according to the current ANSI standard A 10.3, Safety requirements for powder‑actuated fastening systems must be completed and a DeWALT qualified operator card must be obtained prior to operation of the tool. State, local, or other regulations should also be followed. Laws, regulations, and standards regarding the use of powder‑actuated tools may periodically be revised. Any such revisions may change the safety and operating procedures described in this manual. DeWALT is not responsible for any such revisions which occur after publication of this manual. It is the responsibility of the user to maintain familiarity with the current laws, regulations, and standards that apply to the powder‑actuated tool.

DANGER : To avoid serious injury or death:

• Never close tool with any part of hand over muzzle end.
• Operators and bystanders must wear eye and hearing protection.
• Always assume tool is loaded. Do not advance the load strip by compressing the load strip advancement lever of loaded tool until the muzzle end is against the work surface and you are ready to make a fastening. Never place your hand over the muzzle with a powder load in the tool. If the tool accidentally discharges, the piston or fastener may penetrate your hand resulting in serious injury.
• It is very important that the operator of this tool completely reads and understands the entire tool manual and completes the Qualified Tool Operator Examination on the last two pages of this user manual. The warranty will not be valid until the test is received, with a copy of your receipt, and reviewed by DeWALT. Additional examination forms can be obtained by calling 1-800-4-DeWALT (1-800-433-9258) or downloading a new user manual by visiting www.dewalt.com.

Prior to Operating the Tool
A sign, at least 8 inches by 10 inches (20 cm x 25 cm), using boldface type that is not less than 1 inch (2.5 cm) in height, shall be posted in plain sight where powder‑actuated tools are used. A sign shall be posted in the area of tool use and in areas adjacent to tool use where wall, floor or working surface penetration may pose a hazard. At a minimum, the sign should bear wording similar to the following:

WARNING:
POWDER-ACTUATED

TOOL IN USE

• Approved safety goggles should always be worn by operator or bystander, to protect their eyes from flying particles. Hearing protection should always be worn by the operator and bystanders when using a powder‑actuated tool. Other personal safety protection as required should also be used.
• Never modify or fabricate parts for use in your DeWALT tool. Use only DeWALT fasteners, loads, and tool parts.
• Hands or other body parts must never be placed in front of muzzle/barrel. Accidental discharge can cause piston and/or fastener to pass through the operator’s hand.
• Never compress the tool against any part of the body. Serious injury or death may result in the event of an accidental discharge.
• Always point tool in a safe direction at all times.
• Use the tool for its intended purpose only.

Preparation for Loading the Tool

• Tools must be checked prior to operating to make sure they are not fully or partially loaded with a powder load or fastener.
• Actuating the tool with two fasteners loaded in the barrel will cause serious personal injuries.
• To insure safe operation, perform the daily function test described in this manual. Be sure the tool is not loaded prior to performing this test.
• Do not operate this tool unless all its parts are in place and operating appropriately. Never attempt to use a malfunctioning tool. Call 1-800-4-DeWALT for assistance.
• Never guess about the suitability of a base material. If you are uncertain about the suitability of a base material, perform a center punch test.
• Do not operate the tool until you learn and understand the color code/numbering system used to identify the power level of powder loads.

Operating the Tool

• Only use fasteners and powder loads designed for this tool as supplied by DeWALT.
• Do not use powder‑actuated tools in a flammable or an explosive atmosphere.
• Do not fire a tool without a fastener. The piston will impact the work surface possibly causing serious injury to the operator or bystanders along with damage to the tool.
• Do not load the tool until you are ready to make a fastening. Check the power load level before inserting it into the tool chamber.
• Fastener must be loaded prior to loading the powder load, to prevent injury to operator or bystander in the event of an accidental discharge.
• Hold the tool perpendicular to the work surface at all times. Use a spall guard wherever possible. This will limit the possibility of fastener ricochet which could cause serious injury or death to the operator or bystanders.
• Always perform a test fastening with the lightest load level, and set to the lightest power level designed for use in the tool. If the lightest load fails to set the fastener, try the next highest load until the proper level is attained. Failure to follow this procedure may cause the fastener to be overpowered. If this occurs, the fastener may fully penetrate the base material causing serious injury or death to someone. Overpowering the fastener can also damage the tool, creating a safety hazard to both the operator or bystanders.
• Do not fasten into cast iron, tile, glass, or other types of brittle materials. These materials can shatter and create sharp fragments which may cause injury.
• Do not fire tool within 3″ (76 mm) of the edge of a concrete base material or within 1/2″ (13 mm) of the edge of a steel base material.
• Do not attempt to install a fastener closer than 3″ (76 mm) to another previously inserted fastener in concrete or 1-1/2″ (38 mm) in steel.
• Do not fasten into a concrete base material less than 3 times as thick as the fastener penetration or into a steel base material thinner than 1/8″ (3 mm).
• Never attempt to install a fastener in a cracked or spalled area in concrete. Place fastener at least 3″ (76 mm) away from a spalled area to prevent the possibility of the fastener bending and striking an operator or bystander.
• Do not attempt to install fasteners in areas that have been welded or cut with a torch as these procedures may have caused local hardening of the steel.
• Do not fasten through a predrilled hole unless proper guidance is provided.
• If you decide not to make a fastening after the tool has been loaded, you must always remove the powder load first followed by the fastener.
• Never attempt to override the safety features of this tool.
• Always keep the handle dry, and free of oil or grease.
• Always check for electrical wiring behind the surface into which you are driving a fastener before actuating the tool.
• The tool can only be used overhead and must be used with a DeWALT Sniper pole tool.

Handling the Tool and Powder Loads

• Never leave a loaded tool or the powder loads unattended. Once the tool is loaded, make the fastening immediately or unload the tool.
• Always unload the tool before work breaks, changing parts, cleaning or servicing, and when storing.
• To prevent accidental discharge of loads, never carry the powder loads in the same container as the fasteners or other hard objects.
• Always store the powder loads in the containers provided or in an enclosure provided for them. Never intermix the various power levels. Keep them segregated in clearly identified containers.
• Powder loads should never be used in firearms. They are normally more powerful than the cartridges supplied with the firearms.
• Powder‑actuated tools and powder loads should always be stored under lock and key. Tools must be unloaded when not in use.
• Store the instruction manual, maintenance tools and accessories supplied with the nailer in the case.

Tool Malfunction

• In the event that a load fails to discharge after the tool is depressed, the tool must be kept depressed against the work surface for a minimum of 30 seconds in case of a delayed load discharge. Then carefully remove the entire load strip and dispose of it in a can of water or other nonflammable liquid. Never attempt to force or pry a load out of a tool chamber.
• Never discard unfired powder loads into a trash container.
• Do not attempt to unload or disassemble a jammed, stuck or broken tool as improper handling may cause it to discharge and strike operator and/or bystander. A jammed tool must be pointed in a safe direction at all times. Tag the tool and lock it up. Call your DeWALT representative for proper assistance.

Additional Safety Information

• WARNING : Never modify the power tool or any part of it. Damage or personal injury could result.
• WARNING : ALWAYS use safety glasses. Everyday eyeglasses are NOT safety glasses. Also use face or dust mask if operation is dusty. ALWAYS WEAR CERTIFIED SAFETY EQUIPMENT:
  • ANSI Z87.1 eye protection (CAN/CSA Z94.3),
  • ANSI S12.6 (S3.19) hearing protection,
  • NIOSH/OSHA/MSHA respiratory protection.
• WARNING : Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other construction activities contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Some examples of these chemicals are:
  • lead from lead-based paints,
  • crystalline silica from bricks and cement and other masonry products, and
  • arsenic and chromium from chemically-treated lumber.
• Your risk from these exposures varies, depending on how often you do this type of work. To reduce your exposure to these chemicals: work in a well ventilated area, and work with approved safety equipment, such as those dust masks that are specially designed to filter out microscopic particles.
• Avoid prolonged contact with dust from power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other construction activities. Wear protective clothing and wash exposed areas with soap and water. Allowing dust to get into your mouth, eyes, or lay on the skin may promote absorption of harmful chemicals.
• WARNING : Use of this tool can generate and/or disperse dust, which may cause serious and permanent respiratory or other injury. Always use NIOSH/OSHA approved respiratory protection appropriate for the dust exposure. Direct particles away from face and body.
  WARNING : Always wear proper personal hearing protection that conforms to ANSI S12.6 (S3.19) during use. Under some conditions and duration of use, noise from this product may contribute to hearing loss.
  CAUTION : When not in use, place tool on its side on a stable surface where it will not cause a tripping or falling hazard. Some tools will stand upright but may be easily knocked over.

Air vents often cover moving parts and should be avoided. Loose clothes, jewelry or long hair can be caught in moving parts.

The label on your tool may include the following symbols. The symbols and their definitions are as follows:

SPECIFICATIONS

Intended Use

• Your 52051 Sniper Powder-Actuated Overhead Fastening Tool is a low velocity, semi-automatic .27 caliber tool which can be used to install .300″ head drive fasteners, 8 mm head drive fasteners, 1/4″-20 threaded studs, up to 1-1/2″ (38 mm) in total length.
• The 52051 is designed for overhead fastening applications in concrete, certain masonry materials, and A 36 steel. It must be used with a DeWALT Sniper pole tool.
• DO NOT use under wet conditions or in presence of flammable liquids or gases.
• DO NOT let children come into contact with the tool. Supervision is required when inexperienced operators use this tool.

OPERATION

WARNING : To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, remove loads and fasteners before making any adjustments or removing/installing attachments or accessories. An accidental actuation can cause injury.

CAUTION : Be sure to read and understand all of the safety precautions and training in this manual before attempting to operate the tool. Check to be sure the tool is not loaded, the piston moves freely within the barrel, and no foreign objects or fasteners are in the barrel. Perform the daily function test before using the tool.

Your DeWALT Sniper overhead tool must always be used with a DeWALT Sniper pole tool.

Fastener Functioning
Prior to learning the safe operating procedures for this tool, it is important to understand how a powder‑actuated fastener works. A powder‑actuated fastener is considered to be a direct drive or forced entry type of fastener because it is driven directly into the base material. The driving action causes tremendous forces to be applied to the fastener. DeWALT powder‑actuated fasteners are specially designed and manufactured to withstand the forces imposed during the driving operation. Only fasteners manufactured or supplied by DeWALT should be used in this tool.

Suitable Base Material
WARNING : Failure to follow the warnings and instruction may result in severe injury or death to the tool operator and/or bystanders.

Powder‑actuated fasteners can be used successfully in concrete, certain masonry materials, and A 36 steel, but some materials are not suitable. Never guess when fastening into base materials. Fasteners should never be fired into hard or brittle materials such as cast iron, tile, glass, or rock. These materials can easily shatter resulting in a potential safety hazard. In addition, soft base materials such as wallboard, plaster, or wood are not suitable as the fastener can penetrate the material and protrude through the opposite side

Center Punch Test (Fig. B–D)
A center punch test should always be performed to determine the suitability of the base material for a powder‑actuated fastening. This test is relatively simple and can help to insure a safe, successful fastening. Be sure to wear the appropriate eye protection when performing this test. To begin, select the fastener to be used for the job. Then, place the point of the fastener against the proposed base material. Strike the fastener with a single hammer blow, then examine the point. If the point of the fastener is not blunted and the base material has a clear point indentation, it is acceptable to proceed with the first test installation. Use of a powder‑actuated system is not recommended if the following occurs during the center punch test:

• The fastener point has been blunted. This indicates that the base material is too hard (Fig. B).
• The base material cracks or shatters. This indicates that the base material is too brittle (Fig. C).
• When using an average hammer blow, the fastener penetrates the base material easily. This indicates that the base material is too soft (Fig. D).

Functioning in Concrete
The performance of a powder‑actuated fastener when installed into concrete or masonry base materials is based on the following factors:

• Strength of the base material
• Hardness and concentration of the aggregate
• Shank diameter of the fastener
• Depth of embedment into the base material
• Fastener spacing and edge distance

In addition to these factors, installation tool accessories such as a stop spall which reduces the tendency of the concrete surface to spall during the driving action can increase the performance of the fastener. When a powder‑actuated fastener is driven into concrete, it displaces the volume of concrete around the embedded area of the fastener shank. As this occurs, the concrete directly surrounding the fastener is compressed and in turn presses back against the shank of the fastener. Additionally, the driving action generates heat which causes particles within the concrete to fuse to the shank of the fastener. This combination of compression and fusion holds the fastener in the concrete base material. A similar action occurs when fastening into block masonry. Generally, the performance of the fastener in a given concrete strength will increase with greater embedment depths in a certain range. Depending on the fastener style and base material strength, embedment depths range from 5/8″ (16 mm) to 1-1/2″ (38 mm). For depths greater than this range, there is the possibility of fastener bending or fishhooking which may decrease expected load capacities and create a safety hazard. During the driving action, some localized surface spalling of the concrete may occur. Normally, this is a surface effect which does not effect the performance of the fastener. However, it may pose an aesthetic problem for exposed applications where a fixture is not used. In cases such as this, two methods can be used to improve the appearance of the fastening. A stop spall adapter mounted on the powder‑actuated tool can help to reduce surface spalling. Another method used is to drive the fastener through a steel washer to improve the appearance of the application. spacing and edge distance requirements. Failure to follow these requirements can result in an unsuccessful fastening and create a safety hazard.

Base Material Thickness (Fig. E)
Concrete base material should be at least three times as thick as the fastener embedment penetration. If the concrete is too thin, the compressive forces forming at the fasteners point can cause the free face of the concrete to break away. This can create a dangerous condition from flying concrete and/or the fastener and also results in a reduction of fastener holding power. For applications in the face shell of concrete masonry block, select a fastener length which will not exceed the thickness of the face shell.=

Fastener Penetration Guide
The following table lists typical embedment or penetration depths expected in the base materials listed. The penetration will vary depending on the density of the material. This table should be used as a guide since the consistency of these materials varies. When in doubt, a job site performance test should be conducted.

Edge Distance (Fig. F)
Do not fasten closer than 3″ (76 mm) from the edge of concrete. If the concrete cracks, the fastener may not hold. Closer edge distances for applications such as sill plates may be permitted if specific fastener testing has been conducted.

Spacing (Fig. G)
Setting fasteners too close together in concrete or masonry can cause cracking. The recommended minimum distance between fasteners is 3″ (76 mm) center to center.

Fastener Length Selection in Concrete

• For permanent applications using fasteners in concrete, first determine the thickness of the fixture to be fastened. To this, add the required embedment or penetration into the base material. This will be the fastener shank length required.
• For applications in the face shell of masonry block, select a fastener length which will not exceed the thickness of the face shell.
• For removable applications with threaded studs, the shank length required is equal to the embedment depth required. To determine the minimum threaded length, add the thickness of the fixture and the nut/washer thickness. The nut and washer thickness is equal to the nominal thread diameter.
• Do not over tighten threaded parts. Maximum tightening torque values are listed in the table below. Use of a nut setter is recommended to reduce the possibility of over tightening the fasteners. For critical applications, perform a job site test.

Functioning in Steel
The load performance of a powder‑actuated fastener when installed into steel base materials is based on the following factors:

• Thickness of the steel
• Tensile strength of the steel
• Shank diameter of the fastener
• Depth of point penetration through the steel
• Fastener spacing and edge distance.

When a powder‑actuated fastener is driven into steel, it displaces the steel laterally 360° around the shank of the fastener. Since steel is an elastic material, it presses back against the shank of the fastener to hold it in place.
As the diameter of the fastener shank is increased, the load capacity obtained will generally increase provided the steel thickness is sufficient to accept the fastener. To further increase fastener performance in steel, some fasteners have a knurled shank which allows the steel to form a key lock into the grooves to provide higher capacities than those obtained with a smooth shank. For optimum performance, the fastener point should completely penetrate the steel. Normally, a minimum of 1/4″ (6.5 mm) is allowed for the point length. An increase in performance can be expected until the fastener no longer completely penetrates through the steel. At this point, the elastic properties of the steel cause a compression force to be developed at an angle against the fastener point which reduces load capacity. In thicker steel base materials, adequate load capacities may be obtained for applications in which the point of the fastener does not fully penetrate the steel. Job site performance tests are recommended. Fasteners should not be used in areas that have been welded or cut with a torch as these procedures may have caused local hardening of the steel. Over driving of the fastener should be avoided as the rebound created may reduce the load capacity or cause damage to the fastener. When fastening into unsupported long steel members, it may be necessary to provide support in the area of the fastening to prevent spring action which can cause inconsistent penetration and a reduction in load capacity.

Installation in Steel

The following guidelines are based on the installation of a fastener in ASTM A 36 structural steel with the point fully penetrating the steel member. Recommended steel material thickness ranges from a minimum of 1/8″ (3 mm) to a maximum of 3/8″ (9.5 mm). For use in higher strength structural steel, applications where the point does not penetrate the steel member, or a thickness of steel greater than 3/8″ (9.5 mm), job site performance tests are recommended.

• Base Material Thickness
  Steel base materials should be a minimum of 1/8″ (3 mm) in thickness.

• Edge Distance (Fig. H)
  For installations in A 36 steel, 1/2″ (13 mm) is the recommended minimum edge distance.

• Spacing (Fig. H)
  The recommended minimum distance between fastenings is 1-1/2″ (38 mm) center to center for installations in ASTM A 36 steel.

Fastener Length Selection in Steel
For permanent applications when using fasteners in steel, first determine the thickness of the fixture to be fastened. To this, add the thickness of the steel base material plus a minimum of 1/4″ (6.5 mm) to allow for proper point penetration. This will be the minimum fastener shank length required. Do not select a fastener length longer than that required for the application. An excessively long shank can burnish or polish the hole created in the steel resulting in a reduction in load capacity. For removable applications with threaded studs, the shank length required is equal to the thickness of the steel base material plus a minimum of 1/4″ (6.5 mm) to allow for proper point penetration. This will be the minimum fastener shank length required. Do not select a shank length longer than that required for the application. An excessively long shank can burnish or polish the hole created in the steel resulting in a reduction in load capacity. To determine the minimum threaded length, add the thickness of the fixture and the nut/washer thickness. The nut and washer thickness is equal to the nominal thread diameter. Do not over tighten threaded studs. Use of a nut setter is recommended to reduce the possibility of over tightening the fasteners. For critical applications, perform a job site test.

Daily Function Test

WARNING : This test should be performed without fasteners or powder load in the tool.
Test the tool overhead several times by completely depressing it on a hard surface. You should hear an audible click as the firing pin releases. Let up on the tool and check to be sure that the barrel assembly has opened to the starting position. Next, place the tool, pointing downward, on a hard surface and firmly, completely, depress the tool. Your must not hear the firing pin release. If the firing pin releases, stop using the tool. Do not try to use the tool until the proper repairs have been made.

Loading the Tool (Fig. I)
WARNING : Always load the fastener before inserting or advancing the powder load strip to prevent injury to the operator or bystanders in the event of an accidental discharge.
WARNING : Load ONLY one fastener at a time. Always check to make sure there isn’t a fastener already loaded before loading the tool.

1. Make sure there are no powder loads in the tool.
2. Place the fastener, point out, into the end of the single shot nose until the fluted tip fits inside. Do not use excessive force when inserting the fastener. If excessive force is required, stop and determine why the fastener can not be inserted. Correct the problem before proceeding.

NOTE: If clip assembly 8 is being used, be sure it is positioned in the cutout section of the spall guard. Do not use fasteners longer than 1-1/2″ (38 mm) as listed in Specifications.

Fastening (Fig. J–L)
WARNING : Do not attempt to close the tool by exerting force on the front of the barrel. Never place your fingers or hands over muzzle end of the tool. Hands must never be placed in front of the tool muzzle or barrel. In the event of an accidental discharge, the piston and/or fastener can cause serious injury to the operator’s hand.

WARNING:

• Always use a spall guard 7 whenever possible. This will limit the possibility of fastener ricochet which could cause serious injury or death to the operator or bystanders.
• Always face the powder strip guideway 4 away from you and bystanders when actuating the tool.
• Use only DeWALT safety poles for safe and proper operation.

1. Always point the tool in a safe direction away from bystanders and the operator.

2. Insert a fastener assembly into the muzzle as described in Loading the Tool.

3. Insert a load strip 6 into the powder strip guidway 4 bottom of the handle 3 and push is until your finger is in firm contact with the handle recess. Never try to insert a load strip into the tool from the top of the receiver

4. Carefully raise the tool to the ceiling and depress the barrel assembly where the fastening is to be made. Hold the tool perpendicular and forcibly push upwards on the pole handle to compress the firing pin spring and release the sear to fire the tool. If the tool does not fire, continue to hold it in place for at least 30 seconds and then follow the misfire procedure. Refer to Tool Malfunction. Always point the tool in a safe direction and use care when raising it to the ceiling to avoid bumping objects that could cause the tool to fire. Fig. K

5. Lower the tool, keeping it pointed in a safe direction, and insert the next fastener or assembly.
   NOTE : when the tool is lowered and is opened up, the piston is automatically reset for the next fastening. After inserting the fastener into the muzzle, compress the load strip advancement lever 5 to prepare for next fastening.

6. After all 10 loads in the strip have been fired, pull the used load strip from the top of the tool. NEVER try to pull a load strip 6 from the bottom of the tool.

7. If you are working in an area where dirt or debris can fall onto the tool while making fastenings, check the tool frequently to be sure the muzzle bushing and load strip track are clear.

Use of Partially Used Load Strips
The design of the 52051 is such that the next load to be fired is manually indexed into the firing position by compressing the load strip advancement lever 5 , firing and tool opening sequence of operation. If it is necessary to use a partially used load strip, the end of the strip containing the live loads should be placed into the bottom of the tool handle just as if it were a new strip. By counting the number of unfired loads in the strip before inserting it and keeping count as the fastenings are being made, one can easily determine when all of the loads have been used.

MAINTENANCE

WARNING : To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, remove loads and fasteners before making any adjustments or removing/installing attachments or accessories. An accidental actuation can cause injury.

Cleaning

• WARNING :
  • Blow dirt and dust out of all air vents with clean, dry air at least once a week. To minimize the risk of eye injury, always wear ANSI Z87.1-approved eye protection when performing this procedure.
  • Never use solvents or other harsh chemicals for cleaning the non-metallic parts of the tool. These chemicals may weaken the plastic materials used in these parts. Use a cloth dampened only with water and mild soap. Never let any liquid get inside the tool; never immerse any part of the tool into a liquid.

Clean the tool daily. Always make sure the tool is not loaded before performing any service or repair and always wear safety goggles when cleaning or servicing the tool.

Normal Cleaning
All front end parts shown in the disassembly section are to be cleaned daily with a good detergent oil and wire brush. Remove all dirt and carbon buildup and wipe parts dry with a clean rag. Check all parts for wear or damage before reassembly and replace or repair any worn or damaged parts.

Complete Cleaning / General Maintenance
Heavy or constant exposure to dirt and debris may require that the tool be cleaned more extensively. Complete disassembly and cleaning of all parts may be necessary to restore the tool to normal operation. General maintenance should be performed every six months or more often if the tool is subjected to heavy use. Contact your authorized DeWALT distributor for assistance.

Tool Disassembly (Fig. M–P)
WARNING : Always perform the daily function test before using the tool and after cleaning or servicing.

1. Unscrew and remove the barrel retention nut. Handle the tool carefully after the collar is unscrewed to prevent the two stopper returns from falling out.

2. Push nose piece forward, hold and remove the two stopper returns from the slots on either side of the tool housing. Fig. M

3. Slide the piston guide assembly and the return spring out of the tool body. Note the position of the slots on the sides of the barrel since the stopper return of the pawls are inserted into the barrel slots through the tool housing in re-assembly.
   Fig. N

4. Unscrew the muzzle bushing assembly from the barrel. If this is difficult to do by hand, grasp the barrel and use a wrench on the flats of the nose piece assembly to loosen it for complete removal

5. Remove the piston from the barrel. Fig. P

6. Remove the rubber stop and rubber stop holder from the piston assembly. Inspect all parts for wear of damage and clean or replace as required. Use cleaning solvent and cleaning brushes to remove dirt and powder residues. Wipe all parts dry before reassembly. Wear safety goggles when cleaning tool parts.

7. Check the piston tip for damage and grind flat. The tip of the piston must be 90˚ to the shank. Grinding should only be done by qualified personnel. The minimum overall length of the piston must not be less than 4-7/8″ (124 mm) long. When less than 4-7/8″ (124 mm) long, the piston must be replaced.

8. Reassemble the tool in the reverse order of disassembly. When sliding the piston guide and spring into the housing, align the slot in the barrel with the slot in the tool housing and install both stopper returns and the steel liner nut.

Accessories

WARNING : Since accessories, other than those offered by DeWALT, have not been tested with this product, use of such accessories with this tool could be hazardous. To reduce the risk of injury, only DeWALT recommended accessories should be used with this product.

Recommended accessories for use with your tool are available at extra cost from your local dealer or authorized service center. If you need assistance in locating any accessory, please contact DeWALT Industrial Tool Co., 701 East Joppa Road, Towson, MD 21286, call 1-800-4-DeWALT (1-800-433-9258) or visit our website: www.dewalt.com.

• 52053 6′ Pole Tool for Sniper
• 52061 8′ Pole Tool for Sniper

Repairs
WARNING : To assure product SAFETY and RELIABILITY, repairs, maintenance and adjustment (including brush inspection and replacement, when applicable) should be performed by a DeWALT factory service center or a DeWALT authorized service center. Always use identical replacement parts.

Register Online
Thank you for your purchase. Register your product now for:

•  WARRANTY SERVICE: Registering your product will help you obtain more efficient warranty service in case there is a problem with your product.
• CONFIRMATION OF OWNERSHI P: In case of an insurance loss, such as fire, flood or theft, your registration of ownership will serve as your proof of purchase.
• FOR YOUR SAFETY: Registering your product will allow us to contact you in the unlikely event a safety notification is required under the Federal Consumer Safety Act.

Register online at www.dewalt.com/register

Three Year Limited Warranty

DeWALT will repair or replace, without charge, any defects due to faulty materials or workmanship for three years from the date of purchase. This warranty does not cover part failure due to normal wear or tool abuse. For further detail of warranty coverage and warranty repair information, visit www.dewalt.com or call 1-800-4-DeWALT (1-800-433-9258). This warranty does not apply to accessories or damage caused where repairs have been made or attempted by others. THIS LIMITED WARRANTY IS GIVEN IN LIEU OF ALL OTHERS, INCLUDING THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, AND EXCLUDES ALL INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts or the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so these limitations may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may have other rights which vary in certain states or provinces.

90 DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE
If you are not completely satisfied with the performance of your DeWALT Power Tool or Nailer for any reason, you can return it within 90 days from the date of purchase with a receipt for a full refund – no questions asked.

• LATIN AMERICA:
  This warranty does not apply to products sold in Latin America. For products sold in Latin America, see country-specific warranty information contained in the packaging, call the local company or see website for warranty information.

• FREE WARNING LABEL REPLACEMENT:
  If your warning labels become illegible or are missing, call 1-800-4-DeWALT (1-800-433-9258) for a free replacement.

TROUBLESHOOTING

BE SURE TO FOLL OW SAFETY RULES AND INS TRUCTIONS

For assistance with your product, visit our website at www.dewalt.com for a list of service centers, or call DeWALT at 1-800-4-DeWALT (1-800-433-9258).

QUALIFIED TOOL OPERATOR EXAMINATION

Check the correct answer.

1. It is necessary to read the Instruction Manual prior to operating a DeWALT low-velocity tool.
   • True
   • False
2. When fastening into concrete, the base material should be greater than the shank penetration by at least:
   • 1 time
   • 2 times
   • 3 times
3. When operating a powder-actuated tool, your hand should never be placed:
   • Around the tool body
   • In front of the tool muzzle
   • Over the tool handle
4. To determine the suitability of a base material, use the fastener as a center punch.
   • If the fastener is blunted, do not fasten; the material is too:
   • Soft
   • Hard
   • Brittle
   • If the fastener penetrates easily, do not fasten; the material is too:
   • Soft
   • Hard
   • Brittle
   • If the material cracks or shatters, do not fasten; the material is too:
   • Soft
   • Hard
   • Brittle
5. Unsafe applications for powder-actuated tools may be caused by which of the following?
   • A soft base material
   • Improper powder load
   • Fastening too close to an unsupported edge
   • A malfunctioning tool
   • Fastening into a spalled area
   • Fastening through a pre-existing hole
   • All of the above
6. Which one of the following building materials is not suitable as a receiving material (base material) for powder-actuated fasteners?
   • Sheetrock
   • Wood
   • Fiberglass
   • Sheet metal
   • All of the above
7. When considering the safety of a particular application, the operator must think about:
   • The base material
   • The powder load power level
   • The operator’s safety
   • The safety of bystanders and fellow workers
   • All of the above
8. The proper loading procedure is: insert the fastener first, powder load second. The fastener should always be placed in the tool prior to the load.
   • True
   • False
9. Which one of the following materials is usually suitable for powder-actuated fastenings?
   • Poured concrete
   • Hollow tile
   • Surface hardened steel
   • Glazed brick
10. In concrete, a fastener should be driven no closer to an unsupported edge than:
    • 1/2″ (13 mm)
    • 1-1/2″ (38 mm)
    • 3″ (76 mm)
11. Fishhooking is a condition which can occur when a powder-actuated fastener strikes a piece of hard aggregate or very hard concrete, bends and comes out of the work surface. A fishhook can cause a serious injury or death.
    • True
    • False
12. Placing a hand over the muzzle bushing of a loaded tool can result in serious injury from piston overdrive or an escaping fastener if the tool is discharged accidentally.
    • True
    • False
13. Piston overdrive is caused by overpowering of the tool or by discharging the tool against a soft surface.
    • True
    • False
14. Malfunctioning tools cannot be used and must be removed from service immediately.
    • True
    • False
15. After conducting a Center Punch Test, the best way to check the base material is to set several fasteners using the least powerful load.
    • True
    • False
16. Safety goggles and hearing protection should not be worn by the operator and any necessary bystanders when using the tool.
    • True
    • False
17. A powder-actuated tool cannot be safely used in an explosive or flammable atmosphere.
    • True
    • False
18. List the proper powder load level number (1-6) next to each color listed.
    • Red
    •  Brown
    • Green
    • Yellow
    • Gray
    • Purple
19. The weakest power level should be used when making the first fastening.
    • True
    • False
20. You can fasten into weld areas of steel.
    • True
    • False
21. Before actuating the tool, the powder strip guideway should always be facing away from:
    • You
    • You and bystanders
    • Bystanders
22. Actuating the tool too quickly or leaving the tool at the compression state too long before actuating will lead to powder strip melting or load detaching from power strip:
    • True
    • False
    • Only actuating the tool too quickly will lead to powder strip melting or load detaching from power strip.

52051
The proper procedure if a powder load fails to ignite is to hold the tool against the work surface and wait 30 seconds, then proceed exactly as directed in the Instruction Manual.

• True
• False

DeWALT Fasteners powder loads for the 52051 are .27 caliber rim fire short crimped cartridges in plastic magazines. No other powder load may be used in this tool.

• True
• False

Operators should never compress the 52051 or any other powder actuated tool against any part of their body.

• True
• False

LICENSE ACTIVATION
I certify that I have read and understand the 52051 Tool Operating Instruction Manual and have taken the Qualified Tool Operator Examination. I understand the importance of following all safety procedures and that failure to read, comprehend, and follow the detailed rules and warnings regarding the safe operation of powder-actuated tools can result in serious injury or death to the tool operator or bystanders. I agree to conform to all the rules and regulations regarding the use of powder-actuated tools.
(Please print clearly)

Serial number on the tool

Please send my tool license to:

• Name
• Address
• City
• State
• Zip Code
• Phone

Mail examination to: Tool License Coordinator

• Stanley Black and Decker
• 2 Powers lane
• Brewster, NY 10509

DeWALT Industrial Tool Co. 701 East Joppa Road, Towson, MD 21286

Copyright © 2019

The following are trademarks for one or more DeWALT power tools: the yellow and black color scheme, the “D” shaped air intake grill, the array of pyramids on the handgrip, the kit box configuration, and the array of lozenge-shaped humps on the surface of the tool.

FAQ

Q: What should I do if the tool jams during operation?
A: If the tool jams, immediately stop operation, disconnect the tool from power, and clear the jam following the instructions provided in the manual.

Q: How often should I perform maintenance on the Sniper Powder-Actuated Overhead Tool 52051?
A: Regular maintenance checks should be conducted as per the maintenance schedule outlined in the user manual to ensure optimal performance and safety.

References

• DEWALT® Power Tools Official Site | Guaranteed Tough®
• Sign in & Create Account | DEWALT

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