How should nails be driven into wood for maximum strength?

Driving nails into wood at a slight angle is the preferred method for maximizing their holding strength. When nails are angled, they create a better mechanical grip within the wood fibers, which enhances the overall stability of the joint. This angle helps to distribute the force exerted on the nail more evenly, reducing the chances of splitting the wood and improving the nail's resistance to being pulled out under stress.

Additionally, angling the nails can effectively increase the shear strength in the connection points since the angled nail engages more material than a nail driven straight down. This technique is especially beneficial in applications where additional strength against withdrawal or lateral forces is needed, such as in framing or structural applications.

In contrast, driving nails straight down or sideways could lead to a weaker bond, particularly if the wood is prone to splitting or if the nail is not fully engaged with the wood grain. Driving nails at a right angle may not provide any significant advantage over a slight angle and could even leave the connection vulnerable under load.