They are capable of driving nails through hardwood, plywood, or any other material. They are much faster compared to standard nailing and hammering. It is very important to choose the right finish nailer as a wrong one can sabotage your task and result in a dirty finish. Choosing among the varied choices can be a hurdle for anyone so we came up with the main factors you have to consider.
Pneumatic or Cordless
Choosing between them depends on the tasks you handle, preference and budget. Pneumatic are mostly preferred by professionals because of their heavy-duty performance. While the cordless option is suitable residential purposes and small DIY jobs.
Straight Vs Angled
Angled finish nailers can provide versatility as they help in driving nails even in tight spaces. However, straight finish nailers can drive nails only in a straight line. So, make a choice based on your project requirements.
Gauge
Gauge of finish nailers are available from 15 – 23. Lower the nails, better the thickness. Higher the numbers, thinner the nails. Based on your tasks, you can choose the right option. For more information, you can check out the “Buying Guide” for finish nailers provided in this article. Based on the same information, we picked out the best finish nailers for your reference.
Best Finish Nailers 2023
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. Types of Finish Nailers
Based on their power source, finish nailers are categorized into three types that include Pneumatic, Electric and Gas. To determine which type is suitable for you, we recommend reading the clear description of every type mentioned below.
Pneumatic
When it comes to finish nailers, Pneumatic nailers are considered to be the quickest and lightest model. These finish nailers are mostly suitable for professional contractors because of their efficiency, especially on the harder materials. Pneumatic finish nailers have air compressor which is connected to handheld gun through a high-pressure hose. Due to the presence of air compressor, it is light in weight compared to gas or electric guns as they have additional weight of power source. Being lightweight, they are much easier to handle. Another major advantage of using a pneumatic nailer is that – they use the same air compressor for multiple guns at the same time. When it comes to the drawbacks of pneumatic finish nailers, they are less portable because of the air compressor presence. This compressor needs a power source for operation. And moreover, they are quite noisy as well because of the same reason.
Electric
The Electric finish nailers are further categorized into two types – corded and cordless. And each type has its benefits and drawbacks. Corded Electric Finish nailer – They can be used till they are connected any power source. And because of the same reason, you don’t have to worry about the batteries and fuel replacements. However, the need of continuous power outlet nearby the working area can be an issue for some tasks. It is much more difficult for professional contractors as they finding a power outlet in every working place can be a major hurdle. Battery Operated or Cordless Finish nailer – Unlike the corded option, these finish nailers provide portability and eliminate the need of searching for a power outlet. However, they come with a set of drawbacks as well. The major issue with this model is the battery life. And another issue is their efficiency. They are weaker compared to other finish nailers. So, you can use them for only small and quick jobs which don’t need much power usage. And the last issue is the durability. However, this may vary depending on the manufacturer.
Gas
These finish nailers have a simple working mechanism that includes a rechargeable battery and a fuel cell which create a small explosion in the combustion chamber to power up the gun. They are light in weight and don’t need any cord which makes it easy to operate and handle. When it comes to their drawbacks, the first is the exhaust released during the each shot because of the propane gas usage. This exhaust can be unpleasant while working indoors. As these devices have both fuel cell and battery, they have significant maintenance. The fuel needs a replacement in every 1,000 nails and battery has to be charged once in a while. Another drawback is the noise and price. Actually, in some areas like California, they are considered illegal because of the high emissions. But this issue is same with other tools as well.
2. Power
It determines the efficiency of the finish nailer in terms of size finish. Though cordless models provide convenience, they cannot offer the same efficiency and power of an air compressor. Most of the battery-powered models have the efficiency of driving 16-guage nails into 2.5 inches of softwood. When it comes to pneumatic nailers, they have the capacity to drive 15-guage nails up to 2.5 inches into any hardwood material.
3. Straight Vs. Angled
The major difference between these two options is the shape of nail magazine. Straight finish nailer comes with magazine parallel to nailing surface. In the angled finish nailer, the magazine comes with an angle from the nailer head. Angled finish nailers come with 21 and 35-degree options. While analyzing this option remember that – the higher the number, the sharper the angle. The shape of the finish nailer doesn’t have any impact on the nail delivery. The only advantage is versatility offered by the angled position lets you fit the nailer even in tighter spaces compared to straight finish nailer. And remember that steeper the angle, the more space the finish nailer will save. Nails used by angle finish nailers are usually costly and have larger gauge as well. Larger gauge performs better in holding two wood pieces together. However, it can be difficult to hide the nail head. Apart from that, angled finish nailers, their cartridges are also costlier compared to straight ones. However, they can perform all the tasks of a straight finish nailer. When it comes to a straight finish nailer, it cannot do the same. We recommend to choose angled option over straight one. As you start trying to upgrade your carpentry skills, you will find the limitations of the straight finish nailer. However, if budget is your priority and if your job doesn’t require nailing into tight angles, then straight finish nailer is the right choice.
4. Gauge
An ideal gauge of finish nailer depends on your project requirements. They usually range from 15-23 – lower numbers are suitable for thicker nails and higher numbers are suitable for thinner nails. For amateur handymen, 16-gauge or 15-gauge finish nailer is the right choice. However, some tasks may need higher gauge. Finish nailers that use 16-gauge are smaller and light in weight compared to 15-gauge option. With that being said, a 15-gauge nailer can hold much better than 16-guage nailer.
5. Nail Length
This factor depends on the project you are working on rather than the finish nailer device. Most of the finish nailers are designed for accommodating different nail lengths. Trim nailers are specifically developed to drive the nails with varying lengths from 1 to 2.5 inches. Another great analyzing factor is to choose a finish nailer that is 2.5 times thicker than wood you are working. For nailing a 1-inch board, you may need a box of 8-penny with 2.5 inches sized nails.
6. Nail Depth and Jamming
All the finish nailers mostly come with depth adjustable feature. This lets you dial the right amount of force required to drive the nail into the wood. If the depth of the finish nailer is very low, there is a chance of nail head protruding from the surface of the wood. However, if the depth is too high, then the nail will surely embed into the wood deeply. If you set the depth very low, then the nail gun can get jammed. Sometime, the jam can also occur when the force is not sufficient for driving the nail into the wood. This can lead to a kick back into the nailer head. Most of the finish nailers come with an option to take apart from the head for removing the jammed nails.
7. No-Mar Tip
This feature is responsible for preventing the friction between the barrel and wood piece you are working. Though it is a standard feature, you still have to check for it before making the purchase.
8. Actuation Mode
This is a default feature in most of the finish nailers. It is activated only when the triggered is pulled after the contact tip is pressed over the surface. Some nailers also come with bump mode where the nailer pushes the new nails when the trigger is fired. It is mostly useful for heavy-duty applications.
9. Dry Firing
Dry firing occurs when the finish nailer fires continuously even after the magazine is empty. This will damage the workplace and the gun as well. Make sure the model you choose has a feature that prevents the dry firing.
10. Exhaust
We recommend to invest in a model that comes with adjustable features. Or else, the released air will dust your face while coming out.
11. Grip
It is better to invest in a model that has a comfortable grip. No matter how long or short you work duration is, having a good grip ensures easy handling on the tool.
12. Weight
It is another important factor to consider while purchasing the best finish nailer. For handling complex jobs, you may go for a heavy-duty finish nailer. However, these models are difficult to use for longer durations as they lead to fatigue. So, you may have to find a balance between power and weight. Remember that, it is waste of money and time if you invest in a powerful tool that you cannot use. Below, we have mentioned average weight based on the types of finish nailers.
Pneumatic finish nailer – around 4 pounds Battery-powered finish nailer – 2 times more weight than the above because of the battery and on-board processor presence. Gas nailer – weighs around 4 or 5 pounds
When it comes to dimensions, most of the finish nailers are about 12 inches in length and 12 inches in width.
13. Magazine Type
The magazines of a finish nailer are categorized into two types – coil and stick.
Stick magazines are projected over the nailer and have the capacity to hold dozen nails at once. They are suitable for beginners as they are much better to use or operate. Coil magazines are projected over the nailer through a ropey thread. They have the capacity to hold hundreds of nails at a time. They are mostly used by professionals who have nailing tasks regularly.
14. Safety Features
Finish nailers can drive nails into the surface at higher speed which makes them extremely dangerous. To prevent accidental firing and injuries, most of the manufacturers embed safety features into these devices. Safety switch and contact safety tip are some of the common safety features in nailers. Safety switch is present near the trigger. It is responsible for preventing the trigger from working when the switch is engaged. Some nailers come with a contact safety tip which is usually located at the head of the nailer. It has to be compressed against the object for firing the nailer. This prevents any accidental fires of nail gun into the air which is actually pretty similar to the actual gun firing.
15. Warranty
Last but not least feature to consider is the warranty duration. Even the best finish nailer product is prone to defects or malfunctions. This can be because of shoddy quality or not. Because of most of the mechanisms are prone to wear outs. To say in simple terms, finish nailers undergo a lot of the stress and pressure from the motor. So, a warranty duration helps to claim any free repairs or replacements in case the product doesn’t work. Usually, the warranty lasts between 2 to 5 years. Some even provide longer than that. It is better to go for longer duration if your budget allows.
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.
Conclusion:
Finish nailers are a perfect tool for working on home carpentry projects and much easier than using a hammer. As they are quite popular, there is a wide range of finish nailer options available out there. Therefore, we are here with some of the best finish nailer options in this article. This article even has a detailed buying guide that has all of the information regarding finish nailers. All of these things can be quite useful to easily choose the perfect finish nailer for you.
If you want one of the cheapest yet quite a powerful finish nailer, then you can go with the NuMax SFR2190. Despite its affordable price tag, it works flawlessly with large sized nails of 12 gauge and a length of 2 inch to 3 ½ inch. While it only has a 1-year warranty, it is one of the best performing finish nailers present in this article. On the other hand, if you are looking for a finish nailer that works with smaller pin-sized nails, then you can get the Bostitch Finish Nailer Kit. As per its name, it uses 16 gauge nails with a compatible length of 1 ¼ inch to 2 ½ inch. And you even get a 7-year warranty with this finish nailer even though it has a very justified price tag. But if you want a full kit for your carpentry jobs, then the Freeman P4FRFNCB can be a great pick. It is a 4 piece kit that also comes with a 15 gauge finish nailer. And supports up to 2 ½ inch nails without any issues. But the best part about this finish nailer is that you get a 7-year warranty that makes it highly reliable.
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