Abstract: A spring tool for actuating explosive fasteners for driving nails into a substrate is disclosed. For the tool to operate at its maximum potential the firing pin guide should be pushed securely against the rear of the fastener and the tip of the fastener should be pushed securely against the substrate. The action of the operator pushing the tool forward to actuate the tool moves the trigger body forward while compressing the firing spring until the trigger body travels the exact distance needed to release the trigger ball. The trigger body must also be in optimal rotational orientation with the tool and means for accomplishing the alignment is disclosed.

Abstract: An improved tool for installing an explosively driven fastener as well as an improved explosively driven fastener for use therewith are disclosed. The fastener includes a nail having a head with an explosive load attached thereto in a plastic cap that includes a buffer. The tool has a plurality of concentric cylinders and springs including a muzzle for receiving the fastener head and explosive load. A spring actuated firing pin ignites the load causing it to explode and drive the nail out of the tool. The explosion also automatically resets the tool. The tool and the fastener provide many advantages over existing explosively driven fasteners and the tools used to install them.