The 16-gauge finish nails are not going to hold down the deck. They are designed to hold trim. Typical finish nails are not good in weather exposure either because they are not galvanized, but your stainless nails certainly will not rust. Screws are the best attachment in a deck, and hot dip galvenized or spiral shank nails are the normal nailing selection, and even those will back out sometimes.

I don't see what harm there is in nailing with your finish nailer, but you should expect to be back with a screw gun soon as the boards will lift.

Tom - thanks for the reply.

I've given a lot of thought on this and came to the same concern re 16d nails.

So, I've decided to go with 8d, stainless, ring shank nails that have a slightly smaller head. 2 per board.

I know screwing in is always the best, but I'm trying to keep this as clean as install as possible and "do justice" to the beautiful wood I'm laying down. Also, to be perfectly honest, I have 650 sf (1400 lf) of board to secure, and the thought of pre-drilling and screwing mahogany isn't appealing.

I've spoken to some expert deck builders who view it as sacrilege to screw in mahogany decking. However, they also said that nailing is preferred only if done correctly, which, according to them is: 2.5", stainless, 8d, ring shank, 2 per board, straight in, with a 1/16 countersink.

Use the trim head decking screws, they have a small head & you can get them colored.

http://www.screw-products.com/green.htm#gsth

for example.

Under deck fastening is the best with ipe or mohogany decks.

http://www.altereagle.com/

Alter Eagle Construction & Design