How to tell if I hit the stud when using a framing nailer

You would use a finishing gun, not a framing.

Use a heavier gauge with a finish head nail that will penetrate your framing 1"

If the elec. & plumbing is done correctly this should leave you clearance.

Set your air compression at probably 90-100 to start and see if it will sink the head slightly below the surface.

Casing will hit 3" to the side of the jamb typically.

The base, you have 1 1/2" above the subfloor to hit at the bottom.

For the top locate a receptacle, typically electricians are right handed so nail the box to the right of the stud.

Drive in a screw to locate the center and sides.

Use a stud finder on a dense setting probably 16" on center (maybe 24") to find the next two. Lay your tape on the floor and go by the on/center marks on the tape, check periodically you are staying with the stud layout with a "screw check" that the nailing is going home.

With more use you will notice a subtle change in sound and feel when you hit home with a finisher, but with chestnut you'll find this difficult as it's a dense hardwood.

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I would say try using a stud finder and mark where each stud you want to nail is located.

Aftereagle’s reply hit the nail on the head, no pun intended. But that is sound advice that will definitely help your situation out. I usually don’t dabble in DIY much, and prefer to even get the guys to install the furniture I buy for me to reduce my trouble.