I have sold and serviced many powder actuated tools over the last 20 years including the Hilti DX350 and the clone versions of the tool from many different manufacturers.  They are just such a solid tool with many different uses.   Here are a few points to help you find a good deal on a good used Hilti DX350.  Don’t just accept the statement that the tool fires or works well.  I have seen tools advertised as working well when they were obviously missing parts in the photos. The tool will handle pins from 1/2″ to 2-1/2″ with washer making it a perfect choice for all around general contractors.  As it can be mounted to an extension, it is also a great choice for electricians, ceiling contractors and data comm/low voltage work.  The only use I don’t like the tool for is tasks that are prone to over driving the tool like  putting foam to concrete.  Check us out for pins and loads for the Hilti DX-350.

A Hilti DX350 tool should not just fire, it should fire solidly and advance one load each time you cycle the tool.  The most common thing a used tool may need is a piston or driver.  The piston or driver is what forces the pin into the concrete.  They are a wear part and so they chip up and can even break.  An aftermarket piston to fit the Hilti DX350 goes for around $30.  The driver is easy to replace.  If the tool isn’t advancing the load advance isn’t expensive, but it is a little more tricky to replace.   The little “C” clip that holds the front barrel together can get bent up from time to time.  Again this is a wear part, easy to replace and many of the tools have extra packed along with the tool.  Stay away from a tool that has cracks or breaks on barrel or fastener guide.  If the tool fires and advances but make just a “poof” sound, almost like a bad load, it is likely the return pawl that resets the piston that is warn.  Easy to replace but figure another $20 or so to fix.

When you are looking for a used Hilti DX350 tool you will find clone tools from Ramset, most notably the Cobra tool.  The Cobra is a great tool, but stay away from the Cobra Plus tools, many of the parts are not available.  As for prices, I have seen them all over the board but many good tools can be had for $100-$150 or so.  If you shop around you may find a tool with loads and pins to fit your application.  FYI the tool is a .27 caliber strip tool.  Loads are readily available at most big box stores.  The loads are color coded, going from the lowest, GREEN, YELLOW and then RED.  Start with the lowest power level and work up until your pin sets to correct depth.  Ramset, Simpson and Powers loads will work in the DX350 if they are .27 caliber strips.

Below are a few of the used Hilti DX350 tools available on ebay or click here for a more extensive search