Joist hanger fastener

So I'm replacing a floor joist while I'm also replacing a section of band joist. The band joist is perpendicular to the floor joist.
I'm planning on using a joist hanger on both ends of the new floor joist.
The Simpson catalog for their joist hangers specifies using 16d nails when fastening into the header. That seems weird to me as the header in this case is only a 2x thickness, so 1.5". So a 16d nail will go clear through the header and stick out on the other side. Not quite sure what I'm missing. Are they assuming a double band joist?
I can see where you'd use a 16d or even 10d to toenail through the hanger, through the floor joist, into the band joist, but I'm asking more about fastening the outside flange of the hanger to the band joist. This would seem to be where the 1.5" 10d joist hanger nails would come into play. Am I mistaken?

 

On second thought, using a joist hanger at the band joist, above a foundation wall may not even be necessary.

 

To answer the question anyway, they make special stubby nails specifically for that application, galvanized I believe. I gave my son a palm nailer and those tight spaces were one of the applications. I believe there are some very tough screws but the hanger instructions will probably say nails, and the inspectors may look for them.

Bud

 

Simpson came out with galvanized joist hanger hex head screws which can be installed with an impact driver or drill. Double check with your building inspector to see if they are acceptable. They work great in areas where it is tough to swing a hammer. They come in a couple of gauges and several lengths. Per Simpson they are comparable to 10d and 16d nails. Simpson has charts but advises checking with local building departments for permission to use the screws in place of nails.