Finish Nailer Reviews – Your Guide to Find the Top One
What kind of nail gun do you need for construction/carpentry projects? There’s many options and one of the most popular ones is a finish nailer. This type of power tool is one of various kinds of nail guns. The main goal is to do carpentry finish work in a fast and efficient way. It does that by providing a method of nailing that’s easier than using a hammer.
The number of options when picking a finishing nail gun is quite high. For example, you can find corded and cordless units, which both have pros and cons. Another issue is the size of nails that the nailing gun is designed for. The nails are sold in strips and loaded into the tool.
How should you shop around for a finishing nailer? The key is to pick the best unit for your particular preferences and needs. However, this can be quite difficult and especially if you’re new to carpentry and/or nail guns in general. In both situations the number of options can be overwhelming and especially when certain units have similar features. What’s a consumer to do?
We understand your situation completely. That’s why we’ve compiled and reviewed a list of some of the top nailers for finishing. Each of them has different features, advantages, and disadvantages. This info can help you to choose wisely when selecting a particular unit.
In fact, this can save you lots of time and effort. It’s especially important when you want to focus on your construction/carpentry jobs. In that case it’s critical to get the information you need about power tools then make the best decision.
Our reviews can help to speed up the process. You can then focus more on the jobs and projects you have to complete, which can help to boost your productivity and efficiency. This is critical to get the best results in the shortest time from the right tool.
NT65MA4 1.25 Inches to 2.5 Inches 15-Gauge Angled Finish Nailer by Hitachi
This finish nailer from Hitachi weighs 4.2 pounds, which increases mobility and reduces arm fatigue. It features a switch for selective actuation that allows you to switch to sequential/contact nailing very easily. There’s no tools/parts required. An integrated air duster can be used to clear dust/debris from your work surface to prepare for nailing/gluing. The nose is also easy to clear without a tool so you can extract a nail if it jams while operating the nailer. The exhaust portal is 360° and moves all air exhaust away from a user/workplace. The depth of drive is tool-less and adjusts for fastening into different materials for better control/results. The magazine angle of 34° lets you get into tight areas or corners very easily.
N62FNK-2 15-Gauge 1.25-Inches to 2.5-Inches Angled Finish Nailer by BOSTITCH
This nail gun for finishing is light at 3.8 pounds. The Bostitch tool is durable and includes a magnesium housing that’s lightweight. It includes a magazine that’s angled and removable without a tool. It also includes depth control that’s adjustable. There’s 4 profile tips w/ sample fasteners. Another feature of the nailing gun is it includes a 7-year warranty that’s limited.
BTFP72156 Smart Point 15-gauge Angle Finish Nailer by BOSTITCH
The Bostitch nail gun for finishing includes smart point tech. the nose makes nail placement easy and eliminates the need to press the contact trip down in order to actuate this tool. The unit drives angled nailers ranging from 1.25-inches to 2.5-inches in length. Dial-a-Depth control provides exact counter-sinking of nails. Nails are also easy to remove due to the jam release mechanism that requires no tools. This kit includes the nailer, fasteners, air fitting, no-mar tips and carrying case.
D51257K 1-Inches to 2.5-Inches 16 Gauge Finish Nailer by DeWalt
This finishing nail gun includes a motor that works without oil/oil lube. The nailing gun works with nails that are 1-inches to 2.25-nches as well as straight collated 16-gauge nails. Other features include a sequential action trigger and no-mar paid that’s low profile. The nail gun is also bundled with sample finish nails and carrying case. It includes several tool-free features including nail depth adjustment, adjustable belt hook, 360° exhaust, and jam clearing.
4G0001N FinishPro 42XP 15-Gauge 1.25-Inch to 2.5-Inch Finish Nailer by Senco
The Senco nail gun is lightweight at 4.5 pounds and includes a magnesium housing. It is still comfortable to use for long periods of time. No lubrication is required for the power tool due to the Neverlube tech. This tech is built to prevent mess/damage that result from oil spills. The depth of drive is adjustable via a thumb wheel. This nail gun also includes an adjustable exhaust that’s 360° and an EZ-Clear latch that can clear nail jams quickly.
Let's Compare The Best Finish Nailer
Detailed Comparison List
Product Name | Product Weight | Product Dimension | Price | Total Review |
---|---|---|---|---|
NT65MA4 1.25 Inches to 2.5 Inches 15-Gauge Angled Finish Nailer by Hitachi | 4.2 pounds | 16.9 x 4.8 x 15 inches | ||
N62FNK-2 15-Gauge 1.25-Inches to 2.5-Inches Angled Finish Nailer by BOSTITCH | 9.1 pounds | 6.5 x 14.6 x 4.3 inches
| ||
BTFP72156 Smart Point 15-gauge Angle Finish Nailer by BOSTITCH | 3.1 pounds | 11.3 x 3.2 x 9.5 inches | ||
D51257K 1-Inches to 2.5-Inch 16 Gauge Finish Nailer by DeWalt | 3.9 pounds | 4.49 x 13.46 x 14.96 in | ||
4G0001N FinishPro 42XP 15-Gauge 1.25-Inch to 2.5-Inch Finish Nailer by Senco | 9.1 pounds | 17.5 x 5.5 x 16 inches |
NT65MA4 1.25 inches to 2.5 Inches 15-Gauge Angled Finish Nailer by Hitachi Nailer
Short review
This finish nailer is from the Japanese corporation Hitachi. The company is made up of almost a dozen business segments. It was founded more than 100 years ago in 1910 and is headquartered in the country’s capital city Tokyo. It’s now one of the largest companies in the world and was ranked by Fortune as one of the top 40 largest international companies in 2012.
The NT65MA4 is a reliable and sturdy nail gun for installing base and crown moldings, chair rails, interior trim, window/door casings, and staircases. It uses 15-gauge nails that range from 1.25 inches to 2.5 inches at 34 inches. Meanwhile, the magazine can store up to 100 nails and is angled, which allows the nailer to fit around tight corners and small spaces.
You can also select from a wide variety of quality Hitachi accessories. They’re designed with high standards and thoroughly tested for better durability and performance. Hitachi has become a world leader in terms of research for power tools as well as the power tool market.
One main feature of this unit is an exhaust that’ fully adjustable. The 350° exhaust can be directed away from users. This helps to avoid debris, exhaust, and oil. Oil is required from time to time in order to keep the tool well-lubricated and functioning at top-notch performance. It’s important to read the owner’s manual about the routine maintenance that’s required when operating this unit.
Another feature of the power nailer is the air duster, which includes a unique button. This button is situated above the grip and can be reached easily. This lets air in the compressor skip the nailing function. It’s then released from a hole located in the front of the nailer.
Why is this important? This allows the user to remove dust/debris from their work surface to prepare for nailing/gluing or conduct clean-up. The key benefit is this helps to save the user’s time/energy.
The NT65MA4 also includes select actuation. The user just has to flip a basic switch to provide compact fastening (nail drives every time the tool’s tip contacts) or sequential (pull the trigger and press the tip each time to drive the nail). One of the main benefits of this feature is you won’t need any extra tools or parts, which provides more convenience.
This Hitachi nailing gun also includes a depth of drive adjustment that’s tool-free. The dial is located beneath the rubber-like grip trigger. You can make adjustments based on the air pressure needed and materials’ density.
Afterwards better control is provided by driving the nails consistently. The end result is a more professional finish thanks to the application, which is one of the top goals when using a nailer for finishing.
Things We Liked
- Fast
- Quality nails
- Value
- Powerful
- Lightweight
Things We Didn't Like
- No belt clip
- Counter-sinking
- Jamming
N62FNK-2 15-Gauge 1 1.25-Inch to 2.5-Inch Angled Finish Nailer by BOSTITCH
Short review
Stanley Bostitch was previously known as Bostitch. The US company is headquartered in the USA state of Rhode Island and was founded over 120 years ago in 1896. Bostitch is now under the umbrella company Stanley Black & Decker. The company produces a wide range of products including staple guns, riveters, and nailers. Bostitch’s product lines include various applications for homes and offices.
Bostitch was founded by Thomas Briggs in the US state of Massachusetts. He invented a machine that used a coil of wire to stitch books. Afterwards the company started to make various other types of stables for business use. Over a century ago in 1914 Bostitch unveiled the company’s first “stapling machine” that became the modern-day desk stapler.
The Bostitch N62FNK-2 is an angled nailer for fishing. It includes a magnesium body that makes the unit durable yet lightweight. It’s also easy to use due to features like easy-load magazine and oil-free maintenance. You can set nail depths you need for a job based on the adjustable settings. That’s the case whether you’re working with trim, molding, or furniture.
The Bostitch unit is a good nailer for doing finishing work at your job or home. You can use it for various applications like crown molding, window/door trim, or furniture projects. All you need is a basic air compressor.
If you want to create a shiny finish you can pick from 4 profile tips that are angled. This will help to provide you with an accurate drive each time you press the trigger. Another major benefit of the nail gun is it’s oil-free so it won’t make your workplaces messy and the power tool is also very easy to maintain.
The unit includes a magazine that requires no tool for operation. It stores up to 130 nails that can vary from 1.25” to 2.25”. This allows you to do multiple tasks with one load. That’s not all. The magazine can also be removed easily for routine cleaning and clearing jammed nails.
The unit includes many adjustable features for the particular task/project you’re doing. For example, there’s an adjustable operating range (70 to 120 PSI), and nail-depth settings. This makes it easy to set the depth for the particular job you’re doing fast and easily. The nail gun also has a 400 in/lb driving power. This makes it very easy to set 15-gauge nails for finishing in various types of materials including hardwoods.
When you’re done using the nail gun you can then use the protective carrying case. The unit itself as well as profile tips can be stored neatly in the case. The Bostitch nailer is also protected with a limited warranty that’s valid for 7 years after your purchase.
Things We Liked
- LED light
- Consistent
- Lightweight/powerful
- Removes nails
- Belt clip
Things We Didn't Like
- Double-fires
- Trigger
- Customer support
BTFP72156 Smart Point 15-gauge Angle Finish Nailer by BOSTITCH
Short review
Here’s another nailer for finishing from Stanley-Bostitch. The company was founded in 1896 by Thomas Briggs. It was originally known as the Boston Wire Stitch Company and made wire-stitching machines that were treadle operated. The machines were used for fastening calendars, books, hat boxes, and other items.
After launch the company developed many innovative products. They included the desk stapler Model A0 in 1914, and strip staples a decade later. The company later became known as Bostitch in 1930. Then in 1965 the company introduced the world’s first-ever coil nailer for the construction market.
The Bostitch BTFP72156 is a Smart Point nailer for style finishing. It drives “FN’ style angled finish nails with a length ranging from 1.25-inches to 2.5 inches. The company’s Smart Point tech provides nail placement that’s simple. This is due to the nose that’s smaller than other models of Bostitch nailers.
Another feature this unit provides is a jam release mechanism that requires no tools. This makes it easy to remove nails. A Dial-A-Depth control helps to provide precise counter-sinking when driving the nail gun’s nails.
You also won’t have to compress the nailer’s contact trip in order to actuate the tool. This helps to reduce work damage. The unit also has a built-in air blower that makes it easy to clear off debris.
An on-center gauge that’s 16-inches long flips out. This allows the user to measure 16 inches from one end to the unit’s nose. This features is used for wall trim installation. There’s also a selectable trigger system. This provides for contact/sequential operation.
The BTFP72156 includes a wide variety of other features. They include 1.25-inch air fitting, oil-free operation, belt hook with integrated pencil sharpener, and rear air exhaust. These are all features that improve the performance of the nailer.
Things We Liked
- Power
- Value
- No oil required
- Smart point
- Quality
Things We Didn't Like
- Jams
- Nail feeding
- Nails hard to find
D51257K 1-Inches to 2.5-Inch 16 Gauge Finish Nailer by DeWalt
Short review
DeWalt is the manufacturer of this finishing nail gun. The US brand manufactures hand tools and power tools for manufacturing, woodworking, and construction. The company is part of Black & Decker, which is itself is under the parent company Stanley Black & Decker. DeWalt was founded in 1923 by the developer of the world’s first radial arm saw.
The company experienced many changes since the original company’s launch. It became known as DeWalt Inc. in 1947. Since then the company went through many changes including being bought/sold by various corporations. Today the company has manufacturing facilities in various US states.
The DeWalt D51257K includes game-changing tech that allows the user to operate the nailer with oil or without it. This provides you with the ability to complete a wide range of tasks/projects in a fast and efficient manner.
The nailer for finishing has an operating pressure ranging from 70 to 120 PSI. It also uses nails that range from 1 inch to 2.5 inches. This DeWalt unit uses 16-gauge straight nails that are also collated. This provides more versatility for the owner.
Another plus of the D51257K is there are various tool-less advantages. These include nail depth adjustment, 360° turning exhaust cap, and opening for fixing nail jams. The result is a nailing gun that offers smooth and reliable performance.
The DeWalt nail gun also provides various other features. They include a 1,000 2-inch finish nails, sequential action trigger, carrying case, no-mar pad, and trigger lock off. You should note that safety glasses aren’t included with this unit so you’ll have to purchase them separately for eye protection.
An important matter to consider is that you can use DeWalt finish nails. However, another option is other brands of nails. It’s still critical to avoid cheap nails since they tend to have difficulty staying attached as a strip in the magazine. This could have a negative effect on the performance of the power nailer.
Things We Liked
- No jams
- Easy loading
- Powerful
- Consistent
- Depth adjustment
Things We Didn't Like
- Feeding/jams
- Quality
- Durability
4G0001N FinishPro 42XP 15-Gauge 1.25-Inch to 2.5-Inch Finish Nailer by Senco
Short review
Senco is the manufacture of his nail gun. The company’s history dates back to 1935. That’s when the founder Albert Juilfs produced a device that ended frequent vibration issues with cars and trucks. The company’s first product was the Springtramp Eliminator and resulted in the development of other game-changing mechanical products. That included various brad/frame nailers during the 1990s.
This nailer for finishing includes several features that are powerful and game-changing. It includes a design that’s ergonomic and balanced. Meanwhile, the light weight can help to reduce wrist/arm fatigue, which will make you more efficient.
This nail gun can drive nails through hard wood like white oak. It can be used for various tasks like interior/exterior trim work, base molding, cabinets, door/window casings, crown molding, hard/soft wood flooring, and chair rails.
The 4G0001N is a sturdy yet lightweight and comfy air nailer with a magnesium housing. It includes an upgraded main body that offers better durability, lower trigger reach, and better ergonomics for the trigger. The unit provides 70-120 operating pressure.
This Senco unit also includes a wide variety of other features. They include NeverLube technology that eliminates the need to lubricate the unit. It also features comfort grip and depth-of-drive that’s adjustable. If nails get jammed in the nailer you can clear it easily with the EZ-Clear latch.
Another feature is an adjustable exhaust that’s 360°. There’s also 2 no-mar pads that include onboard storage in order to safeguard your work materials. The nailer also has a balanced belt hook that provides the user with storage that’s easy/convenient.
In terms of nails the nail gun requires 15-gauge finishing nails. The nails you can use for the air nailer range from 1.25-inch to 2.5-inch. Meanwhile, the magazine can store a maximum of 100 nails. This is lower than some models that can store hundreds of nails, but is still higher than others that only store 30/60 nails, for example.
Safety and comfort are major features of this air nailer. The unit is designed to prevent double nailing and misfires. The top-notch custom trigger/grip will help to provide safety and comfort for users.
Things We Liked
- Lightweight
- Quiet
- Quality
- Easy depth adjustment
- Accurate
Things We Didn't Like
- Misfires
- Large
- Durability
DC618K XRP 18-Volt Cordless 1.25 Inches – 2.5 Inches 16 Gauge 20° Angled Finish Nailer by DeWalt
Short review
Here’s another finish nailer from DeWalt. The company is headquartered in the US state of Maryland and was founded almost a century ago in 1924. The company is under the parent company Stanley Black & Decker. It produces a wide variety of power tools including nailers for finishing.
The DEWALT DC618K is a durable nailer kit for 20° angled nails. The unit works with 16 gauge nails that range from 1.25” to 2.5” in length. It can also fire as quickly as 5 nails/second. The unit is powered by in-house 18V XRP batteries. The kit is bundled with 1 battery as well as a 1-hour charger.
The engine design of the DeWalt nail gun allows the unit to function quickly while providing consistent drives of nails into soft/hard materials. The angled magazine of the unit has a capacity of 120 nails. In addition, the rear-load magazine unit accepts 20° nails from DeWalt and Paslode.
In the case you have to remove jammed nails you can do that by accessing the nail gun’s nosepiece. This allows you to clear the unit without using tool wrenches or screwdrivers. You can also disable the trigger when the unit isn’t being using via the lock-off of the contact trip.
The DEWALT DC618K includes the company’s in-house XRP battery system for extended life. This keeps the unit running at 100%. In fact, the battery provides a run time that’s 40% higher than basic Ni-Cad batteries.
Another plus is you can add the XRP battery to all 18V DeWalt tools. This provides more flexibility since you can swap batteries in/out with different DeWalt power tools. The nailer for fishing is also bundled with a 1-hour charger.
The power nailer isn’t just durable but also convenient/comfortable. You can pick sequential operating model to provide precise placement of nails. What if you want to get top speed? You can use the bump operating mode in that case.
The DeWalt unit is also lightweight at 8.5 pounds. This allows you to maneuver the power tool easily and also helps to reduce fatigue of your arm and wrist.
There’s a 6-position dial so you can move between various applications while not making adjustments for a precise depth setting. There’s even built-in LED lights that allows you to place the nail gun perfectly when operating it in shadowy and low-light regions.
Another feature of this nailer is a 3-year limited warranty. It coves any defects due to workmanship or faulty materials. There’s also a 2-year DeWalt free service contract. This provides the free replacement of worn parts due to normal use.
Things We Liked
- Reliable
- No compressor hose
- Value
- Safety switch
- Powerful
Things We Didn't Like
- Durability
- Heavy
- Only 20° nails
902400 Cordless 16g Angled Lithium Ion Finish Nailer by Paslode
Short review
Paslode is a maker of tools whose name is an acronym meaning PAcking Sipping LOading DEvices. The company was founded several decades ago back in 1935. Paslode’s niche industries are building maintenance and construction markets. The company’s brand can be spotted easily due to the orange/black coloring.
This nailer only weighs 4.5 pounds, which includes the battery. This helps to provide more control and comfort when using the nail gun. It’s a key feature since it improves the functionality of the unit.
The fuel system makes the can much easier to install. This results in more reliability and can also be used with the angled nailers from Paslode.
The nailer includes other features. They include high-end depth of drive adjustment, and sturdy belt/rafter hook for more durability at jobsites. This is critical to prolong the lifespan of the nailer.
The Paslode nail gun also includes better handle ergonomics. That includes better handle design to provide better finger grip comfort and more wrist comfort. These are all important features and especially when the air nailer is used for several hours at a time. increasing the unit’s comfort helps to make the nailer more effective and efficient.
Things We Liked
- Ergonomic
- Single charge
- Lightweight
- Quality
- Reliable
Things We Didn't Like
- Depth gauge
- Jams
- High altitudes
DC628K XRP 1.25-Inch to 2.5-Inch 15-Gauge 34° Angled Finish Nailer by DeWalt
Short review
Here’s another nailer for finishing from DeWalt. The DC628K is a sturdy 34° angled nailer for finishing. The unit is built to function with any DeWalt 18V battery. The power nailer offers fast and reliable nail drives in both hard/soft materials.
It’s just 8.8 pounds so the nail gun is lightweight and can be maneuvered in small areas. The weight also makes it practical for lowering operator fatigue.
The engine’s design lets the power tool to work as quickly as you need it to. Here’s an interesting fact. You can fire a maximum of 5 nails/second. This helps to boost your productivity and make completing your jobs/projects faster and more efficient.
The DeWalt nailer for finishing includes a magazine that’s rear-loaded. It’s very easy to operate so you can quickly refill it with nails. You can add up to 110 34° nails from DeWalt or other manufacturers.
In terms of efficiency you can also use the 6-position dial. This allows you to toggle between different applications without stopping the unit to change the depth settings.
One feature of this nailer is you can pick between sequential operating mode if you want precise placement of every nail. There’s also the bump operating mode so you can enjoy top speed instead.
In the case the nail gun gets jammed you can easily clear it via the nosepiece that’s easy to access. You also won’t need any extra tools to unjam the nailer.
Another feature is built-in LED lights. This is an important safety feature since it allows you to drive nails with accuracy even when you’re working in low-light areas. :Another safety feature is the lock-off for the contract trip. This turns of the trigger when you’re not operating the power tool, which helps to provide safety.
This nailer is bundled with various items. They include an 18V XRP battery, 1-hour charger, reversible belt hook for use by both right/left-handed operators, no-mar tip, kit box for storage, and safety glasses.
Things We Liked
- Portable
- No cords
- Very reliable
- Easy to use
- Quality
Things We Didn't Like
- Plastic body
- Heavy
- Charging sound
VALUE SECTION

Key Features When Buying a Finish Nailer
If you’re in the market for a finishing nail gun here are some of the key features to look for:
Air Compressor
A major part that’s sometimes included with nailers for trimming is the air compressor. Portable units are used for various applications including framing, roofing, upholstery, and crafts. You can find them offered by companies like Bostitch, Senco, and others. They’re available in different grades including DIY and industrial grade.
Pneumatic/Cordless
There’s many issues to take up to pick the best one for your needs. A cordless nail gun tends to be 2x pricier than a similar pneumatic unit. Both units will require a battery or compressor as a power source. If you use several nailers you should add 1+ battery units.
In terms of performance neither type of finishing nailer is jam-free. however, pneumatics fire the moment you pull the trigger. However, cordless units take some time before they start firing nails. Some companies like Hitachi have solved this problem but the mechanics can reportedly result in heat build-up.
Another issue is time for set-up and take-down. If you want faster times you should go with a cordless nailer. That’s because they can often be up and running in less than a minute. Meanwhile, a pneumatic unit requires more equipment, which requires more time for set-up and take-down. The amount of time becomes exponentially higher when you calculate time finding and transporting the gear.
In terms of maintenance both units have a similar design. However, pneumatic units include more complex mechanics. As a result you have to maintain parts like the hose, couplers, and compressor, and oil the unit periodically. Meanwhile, you won’t have to deal with any of these issues if you pick a cordless nailer.
Gauge
This is related to the size of the nails that the power nailer uses. If you’re a trim carpenter when you should consider units with 15/16/18/23 gauge units. The gauge number is the measurement of the nail’s diameter. So the higher gauges are for thinner nails, and lower gauges are for thicker nails.
This is a good piton if you’re doing projects like:
· cabinet/furniture building
· rim/molding installation
· upholstery trim applications
· picture frame assembly
When picking a 15-guage unit it’s a good idea to look for angled magazines. That’s because angled nailers usually have nails with heavier gauges and are built to work in tight areas. How do you know which one is right for you? Make sure to consider the applications you’ll be using it for and figure out whether a flat or angled mail gun is the best option for you.
15/16-gauge nailers are some of the most common ones for trimming. They’re often used for the same applications like baseboards, window/door trim, jambs, crown modeling, and others.
What’s the difference? 16-guage nails have a diameter that’s a little smaller than 15-guage nails. However, many pros think the 16 gauge nail offers more holding power. It really depends on the type of project you’re doing. There’s many options for 15 and 16-guage nailers from various companies like DeWalt and Hitachi.
If you’re going to pneumatic trim nailer then a 15 or 16-guage nailer is a good option. They fire nails that are up to 2.5 inches long and provide the most flexibility for carpentry. There’s also a good amount of overlap in terms of applications.
Ergonomics
When selecting a finishing nail gun it’s important to consider the ergonomics of the unit. Some of the basic issues to consider are the unit’s weight, size, trigger, etc. However, another issue to consider is the amount of hand/arm force that’s produced when firing the power tool.
This is important because it can help to prevent extra pressure on your arm and wrist. That can reduce the amount of control you have when operating the nailer. Another drawback is it can result in faster arm fatigue, which can be a big problem if you’re doing projects that require tons of time and effort.
The key issues aren’t really about rubber overmolds and handle designs. When using a cordless nailer there’s some sticker shock versus pneumatic models. In terms of weight pneumatic models are a better option than cordless ones. In fact, even when you add in the weight of a cord a pneumatic model often weighs several pounds more than a cordless nailing gun.
However, another factor is a cordless nailer for finishing doesn’t include lots of hose to drag around. The problem is you can trip over the hose and sometimes you can get unbalanced when you’re working at different heights/angles. Another issue is your workspace will be limited based on how long the house is. A cordless unit also doesn’t involve the compressor noise that can disturb people at home if you’re doing nailing work in a residential area.
Pin Nailer
Here’s another option when picking a nailer for finishing work. The drawback is they offer the least holding power. Meanwhile, they’re a good option if your project requires small nails. Some examples include small trim, light wood assembly, picture frame work, and birdhouse building.
These power nailers are available in varieties like 21-gauge or 23-gauge. They’re a good option for applications that need a narrow fastener.
Pin nailers are available in headed and headless variations. The main issue here is to make sure the particular tool you pick is the right one for the task you’re using it for. These units are available from various power tool manufacturers.
Battery
Some trimming-focused nailers are powered by batteries. There’s many options including lithium-ion. This involves the movement of lithium ions to the electrode when discharging then back during charging. These batteries are the most popular type of rechargeable batteries used for portable electronics.
However, there are various other types of batteries available for nailers like nickel-cadmium. It’s important to research the pros and cons of a particular type of battery and consider your applications. This will help you pick the right unit for your work and home needs when doing trimming work.
Brad Nailer
This is a very popular option among DIYers and professionals. For example, the 18 gauge version is designed to handle various types of projects like furniture repair, paneling, and trim. If you’re looking for an all-in-one tool for trim and finish applications then you should consider a brad nailer.
Brad nailers that can use fasteners ranging from 2-inches and longer provide you with the most flexibility. You can also look for features like a narrow nose for accessing areas that are hard-to-reach. These tools are sometimes pneumatic so you’ll have to secure an air compressor to use them. However, the main benefit of these nailers is they can provide ultra-high precision.
Straight/Angled
When selecting a nailer for trimming this is one of the biggest factors to consider. What’s the difference? The terms “straight” and “angled” are related to the nail magazine’s angle. An angled nailer is a good option when you have to work in small areas. The price tag tends to be higher but they’re very accurate and also shoot thick nails. On the other hand, straight nailers are bulkier, usually shoot a thin nail and are less expensive.
An angled nailer offers better access to corners and tight spaces. They also usually have a front end that’s small so they’re good for nailing/trimming tasks in a limited space. They also include a sleek/angled design. This results in basic/precise nail replacement. Another plus is the nailer includes an angled driver, which can help to boost accuracy when driving nails.
However, as always this power tool has pros and cons. An angled nailing gun shoots fatter nails than the ones for straight nailers. This can be tougher for complex tasks and also require the owner to spend more money on nails.
On the other hand, the main issue with straight nailers is they’re bulkier and heavier. This could become an issue if you have to maneuver the tool in tight spaces. Due to the lack of agility and precision these aren’t a good option if you have to do finishing jobs that require tight corners or compact spaces.
Safety Features
As always safety starts with reading the owner’s manual for a nailer unit and following the rules. However, you can also look for features like built-in LED lights, empty magazine-firing prevention, and adjustable exhaust portal. These features add to the total cost of the nailer but certainly help to keep the operator and people around them as safe as possible.
CONCLUSION

So the question is: which nailer for fishing jobs is the best option for you? It can be a tough choice due to the many options. Picking the “right” unit can provide features like durability, reliability, flexibility, ergonomics, and cost-effectiveness. On the other hand, if you make the wrong choice it can cause you a lot of hassles.
We’ve carefully reviewed and evaluated some of the top nail guns for finishing on the market. Each of them has a list of features, pros, and cons, and as with other power tools there’s no “perfect” unit. That said, the best overall choice is the DeWalt DC618K XRP 18-Volt Cordless 1.25 Inches – 2.5 Inches 16 Gauge 20 Degree Angled Finish Nailer.
DeWalt has over 9 decades of experience in the business, which is certainly a plus when picking a power tool. It’s also a brand of Black & Decker, which itself was founded over a century ago in 1910. This is certainly a key issue when picking a power tool like nail guns since the company has tons of experience and know-how.
DC618K provides several features and benefits you should consider when picking a nailer for finishing work. It’s fast and efficient for driving nails into various materials including hardwoods. This is due to factors like the engine and bump operating mode. This nailing gun is also precise. For example, you can use the sequential operating mode for more precise nail driving.
The DC618K also includes various safety features. The contact trip feature is disabled when you aren’t depressing the trigger, which is another key safety feature. Another one is the built-in LED lights, which are effective in low-light areas so you can still use the air nailer effectively .
If the unit has issues they’re easy to deal with. You can remove jammed nails from the nosepiece without using tools. The DeWalt nailer also features a sturdy top cap that’s easy to take off to do trouble-shooting. Yet another plus of this unit is a 3-year limited warranty to protect your purchase.
This DC618K finish nailer is the best overall choice. It helps you do your finishing work effectively and efficiently. DeWalt finishes off the competition!
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