Are you tired of using a hammer and nails to split wood? Brad nailers provide a quicker, cleaner, and more professional method for trim, cabinetry, and furniture projects. With numerous options available, selecting the appropriate brad nailer might seem daunting. However, by focusing on three main aspects – nail gauge, nail length range, and power source – you’ll soon be handling nails like a pro.
Here’s what you should consider:
- Nail Gauge: Select thinner 18-gauge nails (1.1mm) for delicate trim, leaving tiny holes. For stronger hold on thicker materials like crown molding, choose 16-gauge brads (1.6mm).
- Nail Length Range: Choose a brad nailer that handles brads from ½ inch to 2 inches. For most trim work, select brads between ¾ inch and 1 ½ inches. Furniture projects often need longer brads for added strength.
- Power Source: Opt for pneumatic nailers for the most power, but they need an air compressor. Choose cordless nailers for mobility, keeping in mind they need battery charging. Select electric nailers for small jobs, though they might lack power for tougher tasks.
Top Brad Nailer – List
| Brad Nailer | Nail length range | Power Source | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| WEN 61721 Brad Nailer | ⅜ to 2 inch | Pneumatic | Check On Amazon |
| Porter PCC790LA Brad Nailer | ⅝ to 2 inch | 20V Battery | Check On Amazon |
| Dewalt DWFP12231 Brad Nailer | ⅝ inch to 2 inch | Pneumatic | Check On Amazon |
| KIMO 20V 18 Brad Nailer | ¾ to 2 inch | 20V Battery | Check On Amazon |
| Makita AF506 Brad Nailer | ⅝ to 2 inch | Pneumatic | Check On Amazon |
| NEU MASTER Electric Brad Nailer | up to 1-1/4'' | Electric | Check On Amazon |
| Ryobi P320 Brad Nailer | ½ to 1 3/16 inch | 18V Battery | Check On Amazon |
| Craftsman CMCN618C1 Brad Nailer | 1 to 2 inch | 20V Battery | Check On Amazon |
| Metabo HPT NT50AE2 Brad Nailer | ⅝ to 2 inch | Pneumatic | Check On Amazon |
| NuMax S2-118G2 Brad Nailer | ⅜ to 2 inch | Pneumatic | Check On Amazon |
Best Brad Nailer : Reviews
1. WEN 61721 Brad Nailer
The WEN brad nailer offers reliable performance and versatility for various carpentry tasks. Ideal for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts, it delivers precise nail placement and consistent results every time.
The nailer can shoot 18-gauge brads from 3/8 to 2 inches long, perfect for woodworking tasks. In tests, it showed consistent depth control and easy handling. Its lightweight body and rubber-lined handle reduce fatigue, great for long projects.
A standout feature is the hassle-free nose latch for clearing jammed nails quickly. It also has a depth adjustment wheel, rotatable exhaust, and a magazine that holds 106 nails. Operating at 60 to 115 PSI with a 1/4-inch NPT air inlet fitting, it easily connects to most air compressors.
Best Features:
- Easy to adjust for precise nailing.
- Quick release for jammed nails.
- Directs air away from the user and workpiece.
- Reduces user fatigue during extended use.
- Holds up to 106 nails for longer work sessions.
Pros:
- Consistent depth control
- Easy to clear jams
- Comfortable rubber-lined handle
- High magazine capacity
- Durable build with metal components
Cons:
- Air leaks at the tip (minor issue)
- Requires an air compressor (not included)
- Lacks an on/off switch
- Nails and case not included
2. Porter PCC790LA Brad Nailer
Porter Cable is mainly known for making electric and battery-powered tools. As a result, its brad nailer is also powered by a battery for portable usage.
This is one of the best options in this article if you are looking for a battery-powered one. It is powered by a powerful 20-volt battery that also offers a decent battery life. You can use this battery to drive ⅝ inch to 2 inch long nails that is the same as other pneumatic options out there.
Another great thing about this nailer is that you get a 3-year long warranty with it. Apart from offering a great build quality, this brad nailer is quite small and lightweight. This makes it a great option for portable and on the go usage thanks to its battery system.
Best Features:
- ⅝ inch to 2-inch length support
- 18 gauge rating support
- 3-year long warranty
- Uses a 20-volt battery system for power
- Small and compact
Pros:
- Decent performance
- Great for portable usage
- Value for money electric option
Cons:
- Battery life could have been better
3. Dewalt DWFP12231 Brad Nailer
The DEWALT brad nailer combines precision engineering with durability, making it an indispensable tool for carpentry projects of all scales. Its seamless operation and ergonomic design ensure smooth and efficient performance in various woodworking applications.
This nailer is pneumatically powered with a tool-free depth of drive adjustment and tool-free jam release. The best feature of this brad nailer is its maintenance-free motor and the nailer itself has a long life. Using this nailer, you can drive 18 gauge nails of ⅝ inches to 2 inches in length. It uses a sequential style trigger that allows you to drive nails effortlessly.
The body of this brad nailer is made of magnesium that is lightweight. It features a rear exhaust that prevents your workplace from being contaminated with dust. The handle comes with a rubber grip that provides comfort while operating this nailer.
Best Features
- ⅝-inch to 2-inch length support
- 18 gauge rating support
- 7 years limited warranty
- Maintenance-free motor
- Tool-free depth of drive adjustment and tool-free jam release
- Sequential style trigger
- Adjustable belt hook and rear exhaust
- Long lifetime
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to operate
- Affordable option
- Comes with multiple adjustment features
Cons
- Not durable
4. Kimo 9418A Brad Nailer
Kimo is known for making electric, and battery-powered power tools that generally come with various accessories for ease of use. This is also true for its brad nailer offering mentioned here.
This nailer uses a powerful 20-volt battery system that allows you to enjoy 2 function modes. These modes allow you to drive nails or staples as per your need. You can use 18 gauge nails or staples without any issues. As for the length support, these nails can be ¾ inch to 2 inch long without any issues.
Another great thing about this Kimo brad nailer is that it offers a decent build quality along with a 2-year long warranty. And for the given price, it is quite decent when compared with other options. You also get various accessories with it, like a carrying case and extra staples for ease of use.
Best Features:
- ¾ inch to 2-inch length support
- 18 gauge rating support
- 2-year long warranty
- Decent build quality
- 2 working modes
Pros:
- Works with both nails and staples
- Decent performance
- Includes various accessories
Cons:
- Build quality could have been better
- A bit large and heavy
5. Makita AF506 Brad Nailer
The Makita AF506 brad nailer offers precision and power in a compact design, perfect for diverse woodworking tasks. Trusted by professionals, it effortlessly drives brad nails for delicate trim work or heavy-duty projects with ease.
This nailer is known for its strong build and user-friendly design. It can drive 18-gauge brad nails ranging from 5/8 to 2 inches into both hard and soft woods. Its aluminum body, magazine, and cylinder make it sturdy yet lightweight at 2.9 lbs.
A standout feature is its narrow nose, which makes it easy to nail in tight spaces. It also has a built-in air duster to clear the work surface for precise nailing. Adjusting the depth is simple with the tool-less dial, perfect for different finishing jobs. It operates between 70 to 120 PSI and includes a multi-directional exhaust port to keep air away from the user.
Best Features:
- Narrow Nose Design.
- Built-in Air Duster.
- Quick and easy to use.
- Lightweight Aluminum Body.
- Multi-directional Exhaust Port.
Pros:
- Precise and accurate nailing
- Durable aluminum construction
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Convenient built-in air duster
- Adjustable exhaust direction
Cons:
- Initial issues with air leaks reported
- Some units may arrive with defects
- Replacement parts can be costly
- Requires regular maintenance
6. NEU MASTER Store Electric Brad Nailer
NEU MASTER is known for providing high quality products at decent price range. Their electric brad nailer is capable for wide range of applications that include upholstery, exterior decorative lightweight trimming, repairs, craftwork and several others.
It is capable of driving 1/4” crown staples up to 1” and 18-gauge brad nails up to 1-1/4” inch. For comfort and convenient operation, it is equipped with ergonomic control, quick release mechanism and overmolded grip.
This brad nailer can also be used for light-duty projects as it comes with an adjustable power function. It is quite durable and long lasting as well because of the high-quality materials used.
Best Features:
- Adjustable power
- Non-marring rubber nose
- Compact and portable
- Quick-release mechanism
- Power adjustment dial
- Oversize trigger
Pros:
- Wide range of applications
- Flawless finish
- Convenient use
- Ergonomic design
- Suitable for heavy and light-duty projects
Cons:
- Some people experienced jamming issues
7. Ryobi P320 Brad Nailer
Ryobi is another popular brand if you are looking for battery-powered electric power tools. It even makes a great brad nailer that is powered by a battery.
Ryobi’s P320 brad nailer is one of the cheapest options on our list. While it only has an 18-volt battery system, the performance is quite decent for the price. You can easily drive ½ inch to 1 3/16 inch long nails using it without any issues. These nails can be of 18 gauge rating while using this brad nailer.
One of the best things about this Ryobi brad nailer is that you get a 3-year long warranty with it that is much better than other affordable options out there. Although, the build quality could have been on the better side.
Best Features:
- ½ inch to 1 3/16 inch length support
- 18 gauge rating support
- 3-year long warranty
- Decent performance
- Low nail indicator for ease of use
- Various adjustment dials for high precision
Pros:
- Affordable electric brad nailer
- Great for portable usage
- Includes various smart features
Cons:
- Average build quality
- Only an 18-volt battery system
8. Craftsman CMCN618C1 Brad Nailer
Craftsman is one of the oldest power tools brands out there that makes all kinds of options for its users. Its brad nailer mentioned here is a battery-powered option.
The CMCN618C1 brad nailer is powered by a 20-volt battery system, as you can tell by its name. This means that this 18 gauge brad nailer can be a great pick for portable usage. To further make it ideal for portable usage, you get a small and compact form factor with this brad nailer that is also lightweight. It uses 1 inch to 2 inch long nails.
Unfortunately, the build quality of this brad nailer leaves the user expecting for more. And the 1-year warranty does not help the user either. Thankfully, this brad nailer comes with a battery and charger so that you can start using it right away.
Best Features:
- 1 inch to 2-inch length support
- 18 gauge rating support
- 1-year long warranty
- Small and compact design
Pros:
- Comes with battery and charger
- Decent performance
- Small and compact form factor
Cons:
- Average build quality
- Only a 1-year warranty
- Expensive
9. Metabo HPT NT50AE2 Brad Nailer
Metabo Hitachi Power Tools that mainly makes high end and heavy-duty power tools. Although, its brad nailer can be a great option for consumers as well.
Metabo HPT’s NT50AE2 brad nailer offers excellent performance to the user because of its ⅝ inch to 2-inch long length support range. Just like most other brad nailers out there, you can use it with 18 gauge nails without any issue.
Another great thing about this brad nailer is that it offers a 5-year long warranty. You also get an excellent build quality with it, which means that it can easily last for a long time. It even includes a carrying case so that you can safely transport it from one place to another.
Best Features:
- ⅝ inch to 2-inch length support
- 18 gauge rating support
- 5-year long warranty
- Great build quality
- Value for money
Pros:
- Highly reliable
- Great performance
- Comes with various adjustments
Cons:
- A bit large
10. NuMax S2-118G2 Brad Nailer
If you are on a budget, then NuMax brad nailers can be a great option since they are generally affordable and value for money products.
The SG-118G2 brad nailer offers a total of 2 working modes to the user for using nails as well as staples. You also get pretty decent performance from this 18 gauge brad nailer for the given price.
It allows you to use ⅜ inch to 2 inch long nails without any issues. As you would expect, this pneumatic brad nailer needs to be connected to an air compressor in order to work. You need to maintain 60 PSI to 110 PSI pressure for using it. However, since this is a budget product, you only get a 1-year long warranty with it.
Best Features:
- ⅜ inch to 2-inch length support
- 18 gauge rating support
- 1-year long warranty
- Works at 60 PSI to 110 PSI
- Affordable price tag
- Small and compact
Pros:
- Great value for money
- Decent performance
- 2 in 1 working modes for ease of use
Cons:
- Average build quality
- Lacks accessories
Key Features to Look For in the Best Brad Nailers
To choose the right brad nailer for your projects, it’s important to understand its key features and options. Making an informed decision can help you save time, money, and avoid frustration in your woodworking tasks. Here are the main features you should consider:
1. Power Source
Brad nailers come in three types: pneumatic (air compressor), electric (corded), and battery-powered (cordless). Pneumatic ones are reliable and powerful, good for tough jobs, running on air pressure of 60 to 120 PSI. Electric ones are handy indoors with power outlets. Cordless ones, using lithium-ion batteries, offer mobility, lasting hours on a charge. Pick based on your project and workspace.
2. Nail Size Compatibility
A brad nailer’s nail size compatibility means the length of nails it can use. Typically, brad nailers can handle nails from 5/8 inch to 2 inches long. This range suits different jobs, like delicate trim work or securing larger moldings. Make sure the nailer you pick can use the nail sizes you usually need for your projects.
3. Magazine Capacity
The magazine capacity tells you how many nails the brad nailer can hold at once. A higher capacity means you don’t have to reload as often, which is handy for big projects. Most nailers can hold between 100 and 130 nails. If you often tackle large projects or don’t want to reload often, go for one with a bigger capacity.
4. Depth Adjustment
Adjusting the depth controls how deep the nail goes into the material. It’s important for a polished look, stopping nails from sticking out or going too far in. Choose brad nailers with easy depth adjustment, for fast and accurate changes. Different models have different adjustment ranges, usually with fine-tuning for various materials and thicknesses.
5. Ease of Use
Ease of use covers several aspects like weight, ergonomics, and balance. A lighter brad nailer lessens tiredness during long tasks, and a design that fits well in your hand makes gripping easier and reduces strain. Brad nailers typically weigh between 2.5 to 5 pounds. Choose one that feels balanced and comfy, especially if you’ll be using it for a while.
6. Safety Features
Brad nailers come with key safety features for user protection. These include a trigger lock to prevent accidental firing and a contact tip that ensures the nailer only works when pressed against the surface. Some models also have an anti-dry fire mechanism to stop firing when the magazine is empty, which helps extend the nailer’s lifespan.
How To Operate A Brad Nail Gun?
The brad nailers are straightforward power tools that let you easy to use, but when operated by an inexperienced person, then it may be a hazard in your workspace. Since they fire nails at high speed, you have to be careful about the workplace and surroundings. If anything happens wrongly, it may end up with a visit to the hospital.
So, here is a simple step-by-step procedure that lets you know how to use the brad nailer, especially, if you are a first-time user.
- Read on the manufacturer-provided user manual instructions for some time to initially get a clear idea about brad nailers.
- If using a pneumatic tool, then ensure to note the warning labels on the nailer, and thereby use the appropriate air pressure.
- Don’t use beyond the manufacturer’s recommended settings (including air pressure) to your tool.
- Applying excessive pressure to let nails penetrate through the material might damage them beyond doing repairs. So, we suggest you check and load the magazine before switching on the power or attaching the air hose.
- Also, load the nails properly and exactly in the manufacturer recommended direction for its efficient usage.
- The magazine is designed with special grooves for seating the nail heads, in which the heads rest in the groves while magazine loading. Also, ensure to close the magazine to lock them in the proper place.
- The air hoses need to be hooked up while using a pneumatic model by carpenters and then switch on the compressor before you use the nailer. It will take quite a lot of the time for a compressor to reach capacity. If it is charged fully, then you will enjoy a seamless, steady nailing operation from the nailer.
- Ensure that your battery is charged fully while operating an electric model. Also, allow the battery till it reaches maximum capacity after completing your work yet beforehand proceeding to another project.
- Operate your nailer always at an angle of 90° perpendicular to the workspace. If doing hardwood nailing, then slightly adjust the tip of nailer to set the size and shape of the growth rings in the material.
- In case, when you have over-angled the nail gun on the material, then it leads to nail blowing at the back of the wood. Then don’t let your hands close to the nailing area/material. A brad nail gun model will shoot thin nails at high speed, and won’t get into the hands or fingers.
Also Check: Best Siding Nailers
Frequently Asked Questions:
Ans: Generally, brad nailers use brad nails (18-gauge) with little to no head on them. For instance, if using a brad nail to hold together two wooden pieces, which are placed under stress, then the wood will pull off the brad nail. However, thicker diameter nails having a large head is great for certain types of projects, yet they need a different type of nailer.
Ans: Mostly, brad nailers load nails from the magazine’s bottom. For this, slide brads stick on the magazine’s bottom and pull the spring-loaded latch down past the nails to involve them with the nail gun.
Ans: A gauge is defined as the thickness/diameter of the nail. Here the brad nailer uses 18-gauge nails, which are thinner and won’t offer sufficient strength to support or connect the weight of the heavy pieces of trim or wood. For this type of work, prefer a finish nailer using 15- or 16-gauge nails. While 18-gauge brad nails are considered an ideal option for lighter, thinner pieces of wood.
Ans: Brad nail guns shoot thinner nails (18-gauge) which are less prone to split fine or delicate moldings, while finish nailers use thicker nails (15 – 16-gauge range) that might split the workpiece. Also, a brad nailer comes with a smaller nose that easily tucks into the tight or hard-to-reach spots.
Ans: The main purpose of using a brad nailer is to do a variety of finishing work like driving thinner 18-gauge nails. Thus, it let you handle paneling, trim, crown molding fastening, installing baseboard, casing, preparing birdhouse or picture frame, and so on.
Ans: A brad nailer should load with brads/nails that are properly hooked up to air or power. Press the nose of this gun on the workpiece to drive a nail with fingers away from the trigger. Then set and release the trigger at the right placement to fire/shoot the nails into the materials.
Ans: Here are some safety tips you have to follow to make use of the brad nailer properly.
* Always wear hands gloves and eyewear (goggles) for protecting your eyes and hands from dust and debris.
* It is a must to wear a PPE before using a brad nailer to protect yourself from any uncertain things.
* Ensure that the air or power is off while unloading or loading the nailer.
Ans: A list of nail lengths is specified by every brad nailer, in which most advanced models shoot nails that range from 5/8 inch to around 2 inches. Keep in mind that less expensive brad nailers are limited to shorter nails.
Ans: These brad nailers are perfectly suitable for baseboards. Fire brads (as 2 inches) that are sufficient to penetrate 1/2-inch-thick drywall, 3/4-inch-thick molding, and bite into the framing lumber into the wall studs or baseplate.
Ans: Nope. You should not use, why because finish nails are designed for thicker 15- or 16-gauge wire, whereas brad nail steel is of 18-gauge. So, the finish nails are thick to set and use in a brad nail gun to shoot those nails. Ensure to check the gauge of the gun and thereby order nails as per its specifications.
Ans: We suggest you purchase the brad nailer from Amazon, the world’s largest online retailer that offers the best choices at the perfect price range. They offer several benefits with proper buyer protection on the order along with hassle-free returns.
Ans: Usually, finish nailers are considered heavy-duty compared to brad nailers. You may use this brad nail gun to do certain finishing tasks, yet it is not appropriate to use with heavier 15- or 16-gauge nails. So, we suggest using finish nailers on a bit large tasks, such as baseboards or crown moldings.
Ans: Generally, 18-gauge nails of length up to 2-inches are used by brad nailer. They are perfect to fix thinner wooden pieces with not splitting. Here, the 18-gauge nail is as thin gauges as possible, which is apt to do finish works, such as baseboard cove moldings or shoe moldings.
Conclusion:
Whether you want a tool for woodwork or upholstery, a brad nailer can be highly useful. These offer various features and options to the user, as we have mentioned with various brad nailers mentioned in this article. We have even offered a detailed buying with all of the factors related to brad nailers. While all of these things should help you in choosing the best one for you, some of you might be still confused. In that case, you can simply pick one from our brad nailer recommendations:
- If you want a highly reliable brad nailer, you can go with the Bostitch BT1855K nailer. While it has average performance numbers, you get an excellent build quality and a 7-year long warranty with it that makes it highly reliable and durable.
- Although if you are on a budget, you can go with the NuMax S2-118G2 brad nailer. Even though it is the cheapest option present in this article, you get the nail length support for ⅜ inch to 2 inches with this brad nailer. Its build quality is also quite decent.
- You can also consider the Porter-Cable PCC790LA brad nailer if you are looking for an electric brad nailer. Its ⅝ inch to 2-inch nail length support range is quite decent. It even offers a decent 3-year long warranty to the user for peace of mind down the road.
Make sure to share your thoughts in the comments section. You can also post any questions down there if you have any!
