Based on one person's feedback on the #506 (3/8") braces that the design has changed, I decided to make a small to add clarification. The design of the tip was suitable. 1/4" #504, 5/16" #505, and 3/8" #506 staples have diagonally (45 degrees) cut tips to penetrate hard surfaces (e.g. roofing felt when stapled to plywood The 1/2" #508 struts have a different tip design, flat and chiseled. They are for softer surfaces (substrates) that require a longer hold. In my roofing pattern you would never use a 1/2" brad to hold down with paper felt and if you need a staple to hold the edges of the shingle in place you should use 1" professional grade staples with an air gun. "#506 , not 1/2" #508, with a hammer stapler, since anything you get with 1/2" flat-blade staples will get frustrated and messy.