“Ease up nailing and hammering with finish nailers”
Finish nailers are popular for precise finishing work due to their ability to leave small, inconspicuous nail holes. Compared to brad nailers, finish nailers tend to handle longer nails (up to 3 inches) for stronger fastening.
Here are few key factors to consider while buying:
- Type of Finish Nailer: We feature both pneumatic and cordless models, offering options for those who prefer traditional, air-compressor driven tools as well as the convenience of battery-powered devices.
- Gauge: The thickness of the nails used varies, with options including 15, 16, 18, and 23 gauge. This variety ensures compatibility with different materials and finish requirements.
- Nail Length: Our recommendations cover nailers capable of handling lengths from 3/4″ up to 2-1/2″, accommodating everything from delicate trim work to more substantial paneling tasks.
To learn more, consult the “Buying Guide” for finish nailers featured in this article. Using the guidance provided, we’ve selected the top finish nailers for your consideration.
Best Finish Nailers – Comparison Table
| Finish Nailer | Gauge | Nail Length | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| DEWALT Gauge Finish Nailer | 16 gauge | 1 inch to 2 ½ inch | Check On Amazon |
| Metabo Angled Finish Nailer | 15 gauge | 1 ¼ inch to 2 ½ inch | Check On Amazon |
| NuMax SFR2190 Framing Nailer | 12 gauge | 2 inch to 3 ½ inch | Check On Amazon |
| CRAFTSMAN Cordless Brad Nailer | 18 gauge | Up to 2 inch | Check On Amazon |
| Freeman Framing Finishing Combo Kit | 15 gauge | Up to 2 ½ inch | Check On Amazon |
| Bostitch Finish Nailer Kit | 16 gauge | 1 ¼ inch to 2 ½ inch | Check On Amazon |
| Valu-Air Gauge Finish Nailer | 16 gauge | ⅞ inch to 2 ½ inch | Check On Amazon |
| Makita Straight Finish Nailer | 16 gauge | Up to 2 ½ inch | Check On Amazon |
| 3Plus Angled Finish Nailer | 15 gauge | 1 ¼ inch to 2 ½ inch | Check On Amazon |
| PORTER-CABLE Pin Nailer | 23 gauge | ⅝ inch to 1 ⅜ inch | Check On Amazon |
| Hitachi Finish Nailer | 16 gauge | 1 inch to 2 ½ inch | Check On Amazon |
Top 11 Finish Nailers – Reviews
1. DEWALT DCN660B 20V 16 Gauge Finish Nailer
Dewalt is quite a popular brand that offers a wide range of power tools. It even makes finish nailers, including the electric options present here.
Dewalt’s DCN660B is present in the 1st position as it is one of the best electric finish nailers. It uses 20-volt batteries for its power that offer a decent battery life with this 20 degree angled finish nailer.
You get a gauge rating of 16 in this finish nailer along with a supported nail length of 1 inch to 2 ½ inch that should be more than enough for most users. Since this is made by a highly reputable brand, you also get a 3-year warranty with it for peace of mind.
Best Features
- 16 gauge finish nailer
- 1 inch to 2 ½ inch nail length
- 20-degree angle
- 3-year warranty
- Uses 20-volt batteries
- Great build quality
- Integrated LED lights
Components
- Finish nailer
- User manual
- Warranty card
2. Metabo HPT NT65MA4 Pneumatic Angled Finish Nailer
Metabo is a power tool brand that is owned by Hitachi that offers various reliable products. And it also makes finish nailers like the one mentioned here.
The Metabo HPT NT65MA4 is present in the 2nd position in this article as it is a highly reliable option. This is due to the reason that it comes with a 5-year warranty. You get this along with a 15 gauge finish nailer that supports a nail length ranging from 1 ¼ inch to 2 ½ inch.
Another great thing about this finish nailer is that you get an integrated air duster that keeps this pneumatic tool clean. You also get a selective actuation switch and a 360-degree exhaust portal all of which can be quite handy.
Best Features
- 14 gauge finish nailer
- 1 ¼ inch to 2 ½ inch nail length
- 5-year warranty
- Integrated air duster
- Selective actuation switch
- 360-degree exhaust portal
- Highly reliable
Components
- Carrying case
- Finish nailer
- User manual
- Warranty card
3. NuMax SFR2190 Framing Nailer
NuMax is another excellent pick if you are looking for finish nailers. But unlike the various other options present in this article, this is made for heavy-duty applications.
It is a 12 gauge finish nailer that is made for using with large sized nails. And this 21 degree angled pneumatic finish nailer offers a nail length range of 2 inches to 3 ½ inches. Unfortunately, it only has a 1-year warranty.
Thankfully, it offers a very decent build quality to its users, which is quite given for its affordable price tag. And as you would expect, it is a great value for money option since it is made for heavy-duty applications.
Best Features
- 12 gauge finish nailer
- 2 inch to 3 ½ inch nail length
- 21-degree angle
- 1-year warranty
- Made for heavy-duty applications
- Great value for money
Components
- Air tool oil
- Interchangeable triggers
- Hex wrenches
- Finish nailer
- User manual
- Warranty card
4. CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Brad Nailer
Craftsman is another lesser-known brand of power tools out there. But it offers some great power tools options including the finish nailer mentioned in this article.
This 18 gauge finish nailer is completely electric and uses 20-volt batteries for its power. Since it is cordless, it is quite easy to use. You get a nail length limit of up to 2 inches with this finish nailer.
It even comes with a 3-year warranty that makes it quite reliable when compared with other electric finish nailer options out there. You can also find a belt hook on its side that is quite useful for carrying this finish nailer with you.
Best Features
- 18 gauge finish nailer
- Up to 2-inch nail length
- 3-year warranty
- Belt hook in the side
- Uses 20-volt batteries
- Completely cordless
- Fits up to 420 nails at once
Components
- Battery
- Battery charger
- 1-inch nails
- 1 ¼ inch nails
- 2-inch nails
- Finish nailer
- User manual
- Warranty card
5. Freeman P4FRFNCB Pneumatic Framing & Finishing Combo Kit
Freeman can be another great option if you are looking for power tools like finish nailers. But unlike other options in this article, this is a complete kit of various tools, including a finish nailer.
The finish nailer included in this kit has a gauge rating of 15 gauge along with a supported nail length limit of up to 2 ½ inches. But the best part about this kit is that even though it includes 4 tools, you get a 7-year warranty with it that makes it highly reliable.
It includes a finish nailer, a framing nailer, a straight brad nailer, and a narrow crown stapler. All of these things can be quite handy for your carpentry projects. And since it even includes a few accessories, it offers excellent value for money.
Best Features
- 15 gauge finish nailer
- Up to 2 ½ inch nail length
- 7-year warranty
- 4 tools in a single kit
- High build quality
- Useful for various applications
Components
- Carrying bag
- Framing nailer
- Straight brad nailer
- Narrow crown stapler
- Finish nailer
- User manual
- Warranty card
6. Bostitch Finish Nailer Kit
Bostitch supplies the best pneumatic tools with rigid quality at amazing budget-friendly prices. The nailer kit we have here can drive the prominent 16 GA nails ranging from 1-1/4 to 2-½ -inch length effortlessly.
The nailer undergoes a complete oil-free operation which means you don’t have to worry about oil stains after every job.
This nailer offers a trigger system for sequential or contact operation which you choose based upon your requirement.
It also has a tool-free jam release mechanism for effortless nail removal. Moreover, the nailer has a Dial-A-Depth feature that gives great precision to countersinking of nails which means creating exact size for the screw to fit smoothly.
The brand offers a 7 years limited manufacturer’s warranty on the product.
Best Features
- 16 gauge finish nailer
- Effortless jam release
- Selectable trigger system
- 7-year warranty
Components
- One Nailer
- A 1/4-inch Air Fitting
- One Carrying Case
- Extra No-Mar Tips
7. Valu-Air T64C 16 Gauge Finish Nailer
Valu-Air is a lesser-known manufacturer of finish nailers present in this article. But just like its name, it offers excellent value for money to its users.
Even though the Valu-Air T64C is the cheapest option present in this article, this 16 gauge finish nailer has a nail length support of ⅞ inch to 2 ½ inch. And since this is quite a wide range, you can use this finish nailer for various kinds of applications.
It even comes with a 360-degree adjustable exhaust deflector that is quite useful in a pneumatic power tool. Despite its affordable price tag, you get multiple accessories with it. Unfortunately, it only comes with a 1-year warranty.
Best Features
- 16 gauge finish nailer
- ⅞ inch to 2 ½ inch nail length
- 1-year warranty
- 360-degree adjustable exhaust deflector
- Heat-treated aluminum construction
- Value for money
Components
- Carrying case
- Oil
- Adjustment wrenches
- Strip of 2-inch nails
- Finish nailer
- User manual
- Warranty card
8. Makita AF601 16 Straight Finish Nailer
Makita is one of the more premium brands of power tools that make all kinds of options.
The Makita finish nailer is a 16 gauge finish nailer with a supported maximum nail length of 2 ½ inches. Since this brand is quite premium and reputable, you get a 3-year warranty with it. As a result, you can expect it to last for a long time without any issues.
A great thing about this finish nailer is that it offers tool-less depth adjustment for better precision. You also get a mode selector with 2 modes for different applications and nail operations using this finish nailer.
Best Features
- 16 gauge finish nailer
- Up to 2 ½ inch nail length
- 3-year warranty
- 2 mode selector
- Inbuilt air duster
- Tool-less depth adjustment
Components
- Carrying case
- Finish nailer
- User manual
- Warranty card
9. 3Plus HDA1564SP 15 Gauge Angled Finish Nailer
3Plus is another popular brand that offers a limited number of products including construction, fishing, flooring, fastener, and compressor products. The brand’s products are priced affordably and offer great value for money.
3Plus’ nailer drives15 gauge angled finish nails up to a depth of 1-1/4 to 2-1/2 inches. You can adjust the depth easily without using any tools for fastening the nails into a wide range of materials with improved accuracy. The nailer comes with a work contact element to prevent accidental damage. There is also a no-mar tip to protect the work surface from damage.
The angled finish nailer features a 360-degree fully adjustable exhaust portal that diverts air exhaust away from you and the workpiece. It has two modes – single shot and bumper fire. You can switch between the modes using the interchangeable trigger. The nailer has a 34-degree magazine angle that allows you to fasten nails into corners and tight spaces. There is a quick release jam for easy maintenance.
Best Features
- 15 gauge angled finish nailer
- 1-1/4 to 2 -1/2 inches nail length
- 34-degree angle
- Single shot and bumper fire function
- Work contact element
- 360-degree fully adjustable exhaust portal
- Quick release jam
Components
- Finish nailer
- User manual
- Warranty card
10. PORTER-CABLE Pin Nailer
We have yet another finish nailer option from Porter Cable in this article. But this one is quite different and cheaper than the last one.
This one can be a great option if you want to use smaller pin-like nails since it is a 23 gauge finish nailer. It offers a nail length range of ⅝ inch to 1 ⅜ inch as per your requirement. Just like the previous porter cable finish nailer, this one also comes with a 3-year warranty.
A great thing about this finish nailer is that it offers a great build quality. It even automatically adjusts according to the given length of nails for getting your work done faster.
Best Features
- 23 gauge finish nailer
- ⅝ inch to 1 ⅜ inch nail length
- 3-year warranty
- Great build quality
- Automatically adjusting tool
Components
- 2000 pin ¾ inch nails
- ¼ inch plug with cap
- Wrench
- Carrying case
- Finish nailer
- User manual
- Warranty card
11. Hitachi NT65M2S 16-Gauge Finish Nailer
As mentioned earlier, Hitachi also makes power tools under the name Metabo. And just like the previous one, this is a highly reliable and high-quality finish nailer option.
This 16 gauge finish nailer also comes with a 5-year warranty that makes it quite reliable. It offers a nail length range of 1 inch to 2 ½ inches that can be easily adjusted by the user as per the needs and requirements.
Since this is a pneumatic finish nailer, it comes with an integrated air duster that keeps it clean and functional from the inside. You also get an elastomer grip that is quite comfortable and makes this finish nailer quite ergonomic.
Best Features
- 16 gauge finish nailer
- 1 inch to 2 ½ inch nail length
- 5-year warranty
- Integrated air filter
- Ergonomic and comfortable elastomer handle
- 360-degree adjustable exhaust port
Components
- Carrying case
- Finish nailer
- User manual
- Warranty card
Things to Consider While Purchasing the Best Finish nailer
Similar to any other products, it is very important to analyze the models available in the market before making a purchase. This helps you make the right decision that suits your requirements and budget as well. And this is same with finish nailer as well. If you are not aware of the factors you have to consider, then the below buying guide will be of a great help.
1. Type of Finish Nailer
a. Pneumatic Finish Nailers
Why It Matters: Pneumatic finish nailers are powered by compressed air, making them a favorite among professionals for their reliability and consistent driving power. They require an air compressor to operate, which can be a consideration for portability and additional investment. Their performance is typically superior in terms of speed and power, making them ideal for heavy-duty tasks and prolonged use.
What to Look For
- Air Compressor Compatibility: Ensure the nailer is compatible with your air compressor’s PSI (pounds per square inch) and CFM (cubic feet per minute) ratings.
- Weight and Balance: Since they can be lighter than electric models, look for one that feels balanced in your hand to reduce fatigue.
- Adjustable Depth Control: This allows for precision nail depth adjustment, which is critical for finish work.
- Swivel Connectors: These can reduce hose tangles, improving maneuverability and ease of use.
b. Electric Finish Nailers
1. Corded Electric Nailers
Why It Matters: Corded electric finish nailers provide a consistent power supply without the need for a compressor or gas cartridges, offering convenience and simplicity. They are well-suited for lighter tasks and indoor projects where mobility isn’t a primary concern. The absence of a compressor also means quieter operation.
What to Look For:
- Power Cord Length and Durability: A longer, durable power cord increases your work area and reduces the need for extension cords.
- Ergonomics and Weight: Since they can be heavier due to the internal motor, finding a model that is comfortable to hold and use for extended periods is crucial.
2. Cordless Electric Nailers
Why It Matters: Cordless electric nailers offer the ultimate in portability and convenience, eliminating the need for cords and hoses. They are powered by rechargeable batteries or gas cartridges, making them highly versatile for projects where mobility is key. These models are particularly useful for jobs in locations without easy access to power outlets or where dragging a cord could be hazardous.
What to Look For:
- Battery Life and Type: Look for models with long-lasting, lithium-ion batteries to ensure maximum runtime and minimal downtime.
- Balance: Given the added weight of the battery, finding a well-balanced nailer that’s comfortable to use is essential.
- Brushless Motors: These offer greater efficiency and durability, extending the nailer’s lifespan and battery life.
- Tool-free Adjustments: Features such as tool-free jam release and depth adjustment can greatly enhance usability and efficiency on the job.
2. Gauge
Why It Matters: The gauge of a finish nailer refers to the diameter of the nails it uses. Common gauges for finish nailers include 15, 16, 18, and 23, with 15 being the largest diameter and 23 the smallest. The gauge affects both the holding power of the nail and the visibility of the nail hole; larger gauges offer more holding power but result in more visible holes, while smaller gauges create less visible holes but offer less holding power.
What to Look For
- Project Requirements: Consider the demands of your projects. Use larger gauges (15 or 16) for thicker trim and molding that requires more holding strength. Smaller gauges (18 or 23) are ideal for delicate trim work where a less visible nail hole is desirable.
- Compatibility and Availability: Ensure the nailer supports the gauge of nails most appropriate for your work, and that these nails are readily available for purchase.
3. Nail Length
Why It Matters: Nail length capacity is another critical factor, as it determines the thickness of materials the nailer can effectively secure. Finish nailers typically accommodate nails ranging from about 1 inch to 2.5 inches or more. The correct nail length ensures that the nail penetrates sufficiently through the material for a firm hold without protruding unnecessarily.
What to Look For
- Adjustable Magazine: Look for a nailer that can handle a range of nail lengths to offer versatility across different projects.
- Material Thickness: Match the nailer’s maximum nail length to the thickness of materials you frequently work with, ensuring it can provide adequate penetration and holding power.
4. Power
Why It Matters: The power source of a finish nailer impacts its mobility, the effort required to maintain it, and its suitability for different work environments. As previously mentioned, finish nailers can be pneumatic, corded electric, or cordless electric, each offering distinct advantages and considerations.
What to Look For
- Consistent Driving Force: For pneumatic nailers, ensure your air compressor can deliver a steady PSI and CFM as required by the nailer. For electric models, consider the amperage or battery voltage that correlates with power and longevity.
- Portability vs. Power Needs: Assess whether the convenience of a cordless model outweighs the consistent power supply of corded and pneumatic options, based on your mobility needs and access to power sources or an air compressor.
5. Straight Vs. Angled
Why It Matters: The orientation of the magazine in finish nailers—whether straight or angled—plays a pivotal role in determining the nailer’s suitability for tight spaces and the types of nails it can accommodate. Straight nailers have a magazine that aligns with the length of the tool, while angled nailers have a magazine that is, as the name suggests, at an angle.
What to Look For
- Access to Tight Spaces: Angled nailers are especially useful for fitting into tight corners or spaces where a straight nailer might not reach. Consider an angled nailer if your work frequently involves intricate areas.
- Type of Nails: Angled nailers often use thicker, da-head nails, which offer greater holding power. Straight nailers typically use thinner nails, suitable for more delicate trim work. Choose based on the types of materials you work with most often.
6. Nail Depth and Jamming
Why It Matters: Effective depth control allows for precision in how deep the nail is driven into the material, essential for finish work where appearance is key. The ability to quickly and easily clear nail jams minimizes downtime and frustration during projects.
What to Look For
- Depth Adjustment Mechanism: Look for a nailer with an easy-to-use depth adjustment feature. This can be a dial or a knob that allows for tool-free adjustment, enabling you to set the nail head flush with or below the surface of the workpiece as needed.
- Jam Clearance: A tool-free jam release mechanism is highly beneficial. It should allow you to quickly clear jams without the need for additional tools, thereby maintaining workflow efficiency.
7. No-Mar Tip
Why It Matters: A no-mar tip is designed to prevent the nailer from damaging or denting the work surface. This is particularly important in finish work where the aesthetics of the final product are critical. A no-mar tip ensures that your workpiece remains unscathed during the nailing process.
What to Look For
- Material and Design: Ensure the no-mar tip is made from a soft, durable material that won’t scratch or dent your work surface. Some models offer replaceable tips, which can be beneficial for long-term use.
- Compatibility and Availability: Check that the no-mar tip is compatible with the nailer model and that replacements are easily available. Having spare tips on hand can prevent project delays.
8. Actuation Mode
Why It Matters: The actuation mode of a finish nailer dictates how a nail is fired. Common modes include full sequential, single sequential, contact (bump) nailing, and selectable trigger. Each mode offers different levels of safety and speed. For instance, sequential triggers require the trigger to be pulled for each nail, prioritizing safety, whereas contact nailing allows for rapid firing, suitable for high-speed applications but with a higher risk.
What to Look For
- Selectable Trigger: Opt for a nailer with a selectable trigger if you desire versatility. This feature allows you to switch between actuation modes based on the task at hand, balancing speed and safety as needed.
- Ease of Use: Consider how easily you can switch between modes and whether the tool provides clear instructions or indicators for each mode, enhancing usability and reducing the likelihood of accidental misfires.
9. Dry Firing
Why It Matters: Dry firing occurs when a nailer operates without nails, which can potentially damage the tool over time. Continuous dry firing can lead to wear on the driver blade and other critical components, reducing the lifespan of the nailer.
What to Look For
- Dry Fire Lockout: A feature that prevents the nailer from firing when it’s out of nails. This not only protects the tool from damage but also serves as a convenient indicator that it’s time to reload.
- Nail Quantity Indicator: Some models include an indicator or window to show how many nails are left in the magazine, helping you anticipate reloads and avoid dry firing.
10. Exhaust
Why It Matters: The direction in which a finish nailer expels air (exhaust) can affect your comfort and the cleanliness of the work area. Exhaust air can carry debris and oil, which might be problematic when working in clean or sensitive environments. Moreover, exhaust directed towards the user can be uncomfortable and potentially hazardous over prolonged periods.
What to Look For
- Adjustable Exhaust: Look for a nailer with an adjustable exhaust port, which allows you to direct the expelled air away from yourself and the workpiece. This feature enhances comfort and keeps the work area cleaner.
- Oil-Free Operation: Consider nailers that offer oil-free operation if cleanliness of the workpiece is a primary concern, as this reduces the risk of oil and debris being blown onto the surface by the exhaust.
11. Grip
Why It Matters: The grip of a finish nailer is critical for comfort and control during extended use. A well-designed grip can reduce fatigue, improve accuracy, and enhance overall user satisfaction. Ergonomics play a key role in preventing strain and injury, especially in projects requiring prolonged tool use.
What to Look For
- Material: Look for grips made from rubber or a similarly soft material that can absorb vibrations and provide a comfortable hold.
- Ergonomic Design: Seek out a design that fits naturally in your hand, with contours that support a secure grip without causing cramps or discomfort.
- Non-Slip Surface: A grip with a non-slip texture ensures the nailer stays in hand even when you’re wearing gloves or when your palms get sweaty.
12. Magazine Type
Why It Matters: The magazine of a finish nailer holds the nails and feeds them into the firing mechanism. The type and design of the magazine affect the tool’s balance, capacity, and ease of reloading. Common types include stick and coil magazines, each with its own set of advantages.
What to Look For
- Capacity: Higher capacity magazines reduce the frequency of reloads, improving efficiency for larger projects. However, they can also add weight.
- Ease of Reloading: Consider how easily and quickly you can reload the magazine. Look for designs that allow for straightforward, hassle-free reloading.
- Durability: The magazine should be constructed from durable materials to withstand regular use and occasional drops.
14. Safety Features
Why It Matters: Safety features are paramount in preventing accidental injuries when using a finish nailer. These features can include trigger locks, safety noses, and other mechanisms designed to reduce the risk of unintentional firing or nail ricochet.
What to Look For
- Trigger Locks: A trigger lock or safety switch prevents the nailer from firing when not in use, reducing the risk of accidental discharge.
- Contact Safety Tip: This feature requires the nose of the nailer to be pressed against the work surface before the trigger can activate, ensuring nails are only driven when intended.
- Anti-Dry Fire: This mechanism stops the nailer from firing when it runs out of nails, preventing damage to the workpiece and the tool itself.
Tips and Tricks For Finish nailers
Nail guns are usually simple to use and come with a quick learning curve. But with some tips and tricks, you can make the carpentry process even simpler, efficient and with better finish. Below are these tips and tricks.
1. Maintaining Nail Gun
Similar to any other power tool, you have to take proper maintenance of the nail gun for a longer lifespan. Keeping it clean, lubed and using it properly are some basic maintenance tips. Applying oil to nail gun has to be done regularly. For that you can just apply 4 to 5 drops of compressor oil or 30-weight non-detergent oil to the air fitting. This will keep the action smooth and O-rings supple.\
2. Taking Advantage of Bump Triggers
The functioning of a nail gun is pretty much same as the normal gun – set the target and pull the trigger to fire the nail. But some nail guns come a bump trigger which eliminates the need for pulling the trigger. It just fires the nail when the barrel bumps against the wood. This is suitable for heavy-duty applications like roofing or framing.
3. Adjust the Drive Depth
All the finish nailers have depth adjustment feature which is helpful for people using it for different applications. For some delicate applications, you may need the nail to be shallow without splitting the trim and just lie on the wood surface. When it comes to framing, the nail has to be driven deeper to lock it properly.
4. Empty Firing
Every nail gun fires even if there no fasteners loaded in the magazine. This compressed air is powerful enough to cause indents in the boards and visual problems. So, make sure to check how many fasteners the hair gun has. Or else, it can impact the putty.
5. Avoid Pushing Too Hard
Many amateur carpenters push the finish nailer perpendicular to the nailing surface which presses it against the wood. Back off the pressure a little bit and provide some room for the nail gun to provide precise functioning.
Nail Gun Accessories
Most of the nail gun finishers come with certain accessories which make the functioning even simpler and efficient. So, having them is a major advantage. Below are some of the accessories beneficial to have along with the finish nailer.
1. Batteries
Even the best cordless finish nailers have limited battery life. Most of the brands provide multi-compatible battery systems but it isn’t a good option if you are mix and matching power tools. However, it provides great efficiency if you are loyal to a single brand. It is worth to have an extra battery backup always ready. So, when you run out of juice, you can pop in another battery and fire off another thousand nails.
2. Hoses
Most of the people who have pneumatic finish nailer known the facts that they are noisy, expensive, rely on air compressor and hard to maneuver. However, they are a necessary evil for people who have to drive large quantity of nails. One of the ways to solve these issues with pneumatic finish nailer is adding the extra-long hose which enables to move around with such tight lease. Also make sure the air hose you purchase is compatible with hose fittings. Purchasing a 100-foot hose makes the life easier and you can find several options under 50 bucks.
3. Holsters
With finish nailers type like pneumatic have an air compressor that needs to be dragged around which can be quite difficult. You will find several options like holster belt loops to accommodate the transfer easily.
Also Check: Best Siding Nailers
Some Frequently Asked Questions:
Ans: It is not possible to use a finish nailer for framing purposes as they cannot accommodate large nails. Even the most efficient models are capable of shooting only 2.5 inches long and 15-gauge nails. Framing needs 3.5 inches length and 16D nails which is larger than finish nails. A framing nailer is suitable for these larger nails.
Ans: You can follow the below directions for operating the finish nailer in the right and safe way.
*You have to load the nailer using finish nails. This can be done by sliding the nails back into the magazine.
*Now adjust the depth as per the requirements. Remember that you may need higher setting for hardwood and thick materials.
*Most of the finish nailers come with a safety feature which prevents the nailer from firing. Make sure this safety is off so that you can engage for triggering.
*Nailers come with a contact safety tip on the head which has to be pressed down to fire up the gun.
*Make sure to place the tip in the area you want to drive the nail.
*Also make sure to press the safety tip firmly on the surface you want to drive the nail. And then pull the trigger which drives the nail into the wood.
*For disengaging the motor, make sure to pull the nailer away from the wood.
Ans: All the finish nailers are capable of firing only 15- or 16-gauge nails. As brads have 18-gauge nails, it is not possible use a finish nailer for driving them. For brad nails, you will have to use a brad nailer.
Ans: Actually, trim nailers are differentiated based on the gauge or thickness of the nail they drive. The main thumb rule to consider is – higher the gauge number, the smaller will be the nail you drive. Power tools that drive the larger trim nails are categorized as finish nailers and range between 15 and 16 gauges.
If you are looking for finer finishes on door trims, we recommend to use a finish nailer with bigger gauge, which means smaller nails. Actually, small nails barely leave a hole, so you will have less filling to do and result in a smoother finish.
Ans: Finish nailers come in two sizes – 15-gauge or 1-gauge nails. When it comes to answering the question about which one is the best, we recommend choosing the nailer suitable for your purpose. If you need a finish nailer with higher holding power, we recommend to pick up 15-gauge nailer.
For smaller jobs on delicate wood or for trimming and cabinetry projects, you can go for a 16-gauge finish nailer. If you are looking for a nailer for handling ‘honey do’ projects, then we recommend going for 15-gauge nailer. 16-gauge nails are usually suitable for handling delicate works. In most of the cases, we recommend going for a 15-gauge nailer over a framing nailer as it can handle other household tasks as well apart from just framing.
Ans: Some companies produce other power tools other than finish nailers. Some of these brands in our competitors list are Porter-Cable, Bosch, Milwaukee and Dewalt. Though these brands provide the best nailers, one brand specifically runs a mile extra to provide the best of the best and that brand is Paslode. Though, they come with a premium-priced product, they are commonly known to be the best in the market.
Conclusion
Finish nailers are handy tools for home carpentry, much easier than using a hammer. With a wide variety available, we’ve compiled some of the best options in this article, along with a detailed buying guide to help you choose the right one.
- For an affordable yet powerful option, consider the NuMax SFR2190 Framing Nailer. Despite its low price, it handles large nails (12 gauge, 2 to 3 ½ inches) flawlessly, though it only offers a 1-year warranty.
- If you need a finish nailer for smaller pin-sized nails, the Bostitch Finish Nailer Kit is a good choice. It uses 16 gauge nails (1 ¼ to 2 ½ inches) and includes a 7-year warranty at a fair price.
- For a comprehensive kit, the Freeman P4FRFNCB is worth considering. This 4-piece set includes a 15 gauge finish nailer, supporting up to 2 ½ inch nails, and comes with a reliable 7-year warranty.
Share your thoughts and questions in the comments section below! We’re here to help.
