NDS gives the example of 30d nails for a 3 ply 2x6 built up column. Is there an acceptable alternative without using 30d nails? One provision (in NDS) is that all fasteners penetrate all plys 75%. I'd like to use 3" or 3 1/2" inch nails as they are more readily available and want to avoid bolting. (A 2x6 column would require substantial bolting.)
Is there a good reference for this or otherwise a "standard" using nails?
What about if 4 ply columns are used? Is bolting the only acceptable way?
Any specific reference books that illustrate (perhaps with a table) the allowable options for built up columns?
Thanks
 

Is this a stand-alone column?  Or is it in a wall?

We use 16 gage nails and glue in various spacings and placements for the 3 nd 4 member columns, and have for years with no problems.   

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering

Yes JAE, it is a stand alone column and is not inside a wall.
ms, I don'tdoubt that such attachment performs well but I can not see where that (16d nails) will strictly satisfy the directives of NDS.
I'm trying to find languae by NDS or other suitabele authority that will justify building the column in "layers" with successive layers being nailed with "commonly available" nails so that I can avoid thru bolting.
Does anyone know of such provisions?
Again, thru bolting a 3 (or 4) play 2x6 column would rewuire two columns of thru bolts at a max spacing of 9 inches (according to my understanding of NDS).
 

The prescriptive requirements of the NDS for built-up columns are pretty clear.  It is also pretty clear that ALL fasteners MUST penetrate ALL laminations.