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Top 8 Best Brad Nailers
- Tools Guru Staff
- January 16, 2022
Crown staplers and brad nailers both work like powerful nail guns ordinarily charged by compressed air (pneumatic). Both tools come in electric versions as well as battery-charged versions. Brad nailers use a small thin nail, more like a pin.
These kinds of nails link moldings and trim to walls and are perfect for discrete tasks. They are helpful in areas where putty to cover holes is unfeasible.
Brad nailers are very impressive for decorative trim and molding, paneling, cabinetry and furniture projects. They are used to drive tiny 18-gauge nails which are so small and barely visible once pressed into the wood. In this article, we will cover all the facts and figures, features and factors which you must consider while looking for the best brad nailer.
We will point you in the right direction so that you can choose the best brad nailer for your domestic as well as professional projects.
Table of Contents
| # | Preview | Product | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  | DEWALT 18 DWFP12231 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | |
| 2 |  | PORTER-CABLE PCC790LA | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | |
| 3 |  | WEN 61721 Pneumatic | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| BEST CHOICE |
|---|
|
| DEWALT 18 DWFP12231 |
| ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| PREMIUM PICK |
|---|
|
| PORTER-CABLE PCC790LA |
| ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| BEST VALUE |
|---|
|
| WEN 61721 Pneumatic |
| ⭐⭐⭐ |
1.1. DEWALT 18-Gauge Brad Nailer Kit DWFP12231
DEWALT DWFP12231 18-Gauge 2-inch Brad Nailer drives 18 gauge brad nails from 5/8 inch to 2 inch which makes it absolutely perfect for joining decorative molding, encasement, kitchen crown and shoe shaping.
With its endured and low maintenance motor, the DWFP 12231 DEWALT brad nailer is ready to operate. It is also equipped with a variable belt hook which helps you to keep your tool near you while working and makes your task convenient.
It offers exhaust at the back end to keep polluted substances away from work. DWFP12231 is light in weight as it comes with a magnesium body thus making it the best brad nailer for time-taking tasks.
It is furnished with a unified rubber grip for better comfort. DEWALT DWFP 12231 is a tool-free device, which means you can quickly repair jams, modify the drive depth and much more without taking special tools to pull, twist and fix things.
This model is not only for high-performance projects but also works best in non-professional tasks. This product has the capability to execute all kinds of brad nailing jobs varying from fastening decorative moldings and kitchen crowns.
This super-light tool weighs only 4.8 pounds that helps you to work all day long. Nailer is easy to drive and provides smooth transferability. It also features a demountable non-marring nose tip to secure the work surface.
Whether you have previous experience with brad nailers or not, still you will be surprised by DEWALT’s DWFP 12231 for its professionalism and simplicity. Undoubtedly, it is an excellent choice for nailing.
Pros
- Drives 18 gauge nails from 5/8” to 2”
- Portable and Lightweight magnesium body
- Long life and maintenance-free motor and can be operated without oiling
- Demountable non-marring nose tip
- Unified rubber grip for better comfort
- Absolutely perfect for all kinds of nailing jobs
Cons
- Difficult to work in compact places with straight-angle magazines
- The trigger system is steady and not automatic. You will have to pull it every time the nail is released
1.2. PORTER-CABLE Cordless Brad Nailer PCC790LA
The 20V Max 18-gauge cordless brad nailer kit is powered using a battery, eradicating the need for a compressor, hose and an expensive gas container. The particular motor originated to provide compatible firing power into a variety of materials and weather conditions. This nailer features several tool-free settings to deliver upgraded efficiency and consumer security.
This unit is light-weight and weight is evenly dispersed and all sides are in balance to provide user relief in different positions lowering hand fatigue
Its multi-skilled double LED lights function for workspace lighting and error pointing. Product dimensions are 13.88×5×12 inches and weight is about 5.9 pounds.
This transportable lithium ion 18GA cordless brad nailer designed by PORTER-CABLE is charged by a 20V lithium-ion battery and needs no loud compressors and air hoses.
This device is ideal for applications like furniture building, sub-flooring, inserting various runs of poplar, pine and maple woods and other brad nailing projects.
PCC790LA is prepared with a cozy grip that will fit in any hand making the operation move comfortable and convenient.
The lithium battery unit is situated under the grip handle and is easy to open and restore with gliding action. PORTER-CABLE can handle various lengths of brad nails assisted by magazines. The magazine can stock up to 100 fasteners.
Pros
- Light-weight and cordless brad nailer ideal for renovation, upholstery and furniture building
- Multifunctional LED lights
- No need for a compressor, hose and an expensive gas container
- Can drive a variety of brads and has a powerful lithium-ion battery
- User-friendly design with multiple tool-free settings to increase efficiency
Cons
- Difficult to work in compact spaces as the head design is a bit bulky and heavy
- Reloading speed is slower resulting in delayed firing
1.3. WEN 61721 Pneumatic Brad Nailer
WEN 61721 Pneumatic Brad Nailer is an 18-gauge 2-inch pneumatic brad nailer created to nail and fasten 18-gauge brads anywhere from 3/8” to 2” in length.Its compressed spring magazine helps you accomplish your tasks quickly and easily and can refill with plenty of space to stock up to 106 nails.
The weightless body along with rubber-lined handles lessens tiredness while proceeding with large projects. The operating pressure varies from 60 to 115 Psi with nailers utilizing 0.028 CFM (cubic feet per meter) of air at 88 Psi per nail.
The ¼ inch NPT ( National Pipe Thread) air canal permits rapid connection to the air compressor of your choice. You can also adjust firing depth with a simple depth modification wheel. You can also check the number of remaining nails by a small Gauge window present on the side of the magazine.
It is also equipped with variable air exhaust that helps the consumer to conduct the pneumatic air output in any direction while a powder-coated finish obstructs deterioration.
WEN 61721 comes in a package which also includes lubricating oil, hex keys, 500 3/8 inch nails, 500 ¾ inch nails, 500 1 inch nails and 500 2 inch nails to help you deal with any kind of upholstery task. This pneumatic brad nailer weighs only 2.7 lbs.
Its features and price make it different from other models. WEN 61721 provides a range of useful functionalities and high-powered performance. This brad nailer is one of the straightforward and user-friendly tools.
Loading and reloading is the most frequent thing working with nailers. WEN 61721 lets you reload the magazine effortlessly. This is the best inexpensive brad nail that works well and saves a lot of hammering.
WEN 61721 is ideal for decorative trim, paneling, picture frames and shoe moulding. You can also join thin rims and mouldings without using putty.
Pros
- Best brad nailer at an affordable price
- Easy depth adjustment with depth modification wheel
- Easy loading and reloading
- Lightweight and perfect for long-time-taking tasks
- Integrated rubber grip and a magazine capacity of 106 nails
Cons
- Not appropriate for nails longer than the specific measurements
1.4. NuMax S2-118G2 Pneumatic 2-in-1 Brad Nailer
NuMax S2-118G2 Pneumatic 2-in-1 tool features long-lasting and weightless aluminum framework, steady grip and tool-free variable depth for various applications. It is an example of decorative trim, dado rail, baseboards, window casing and shoe and crown moulding.
This cordless brad nailer provides ultimate versatility and can use two types of fasteners: 18-gauge brad nails and 18-gauge ¼” narrow crown staples.
It can hold nails varying from 3/8” to 2” and staples ranging from ½” to 1-5/8”. It is proficient for a wide range of projects with an operating pressure from 60-110 Psi.
NuMax S2-118G2 is manufactured with the most persistent materials preferable for professional contractors or an amateur. To get the best output, make sure your compressor has the following things:
- Minimum 2.5 CFM @ 90Psi
- Capacity of tanks to hold at least 3 gallons.
- Supplies 60-110 Psi
- The faster you use the nailer, the more power you need.
If you have been using a hammer or hand staples, it’s time to get rid of them. This 2-in-1 tool is feathery but it is super powerful to get the task done. You can modify the firing depth with the help of a wheel on the right side, rotating it in a clockwise direction will increase the depth while in an anti-clockwise direction, the depth decreases.
Pros
- Best 2-in-1 brad nailer at a reasonable price
- Comfortable grip and anti-vibration handle
- Durable and long-lasting aluminum body
- Easy depth adjustment with depth modification wheel
Cons
- Not as genuine and steadfast like other expensive models
- Lacks extra accessories and components that come in a package with other similar devices
1.5. Stanley TRE550Z Electric Stapler and Brad Nailer
The heavy-duty design of Stanley TRE550 electric staple/ Brad nail gun supplies magnificent driving power for an extensive variety of tasks. The tool’s duplex power lever (high/low) originated for use with hard as well as soft materials.
This stapler is equipped with a flush nose design that solves the difficulty of stapling compact spots while a curved grip delivers extra comfort on every task.
It is also equipped with a jam-resistant mechanism which saves time when you are working on big projects. This tool uses Stanley Sharpshooter TRA700 series or Arrow T50 high-performance staples and 1/2, 9/16 and 5/8 inch brads.
The Stanley TRE550Z nail gun includes an 8 foot power cord for professional results. The dimensions of the product are 5.9×3×3.6 inches. This is an expensive and easy-to-use electric staple gun and brad nailer.
You can use it for general purposes like upholstering your dining chairs, fixing your photo frames and carpeting. This well-known electric staple gun weighs only 2.4 pounds. Hi/Lo mode makes it more stimulating for many people. You can also modify the power of penetration with this button.
If you are planning to proceed with softwood, you have to select Lo mode. In reverse, the Hi mode is ideal for thick and hard floorboards.It is not a complex device at all with tons of PCBs and mechanisms. In fact, it is one of the simplest devices around. The excellent driving power of this tool permits one to use it as brad nail gun.
This is helpful when you have to process tough materials. All these features turn the TRE550Z into a multifunctional tool and enlarges its versatility.
Pros
- Double power lever (Hi/Lo) for use with hard or soft materials
- Flush nose for stapling in compact spots and contoured grip for extra ease
- Quick anti-jam mechanism
- Featured with both stapling and driving nails capability
Cons
- As it is made of plastic, and yet plastic is very durable and long-lasting but it can wear off with time
- 8 feet long cord is not very impressive
1.6. BOSTITCH BTFP3KIT 3-Tool Compressor/Combo Kit
BOSTITCH air compressor kit 3-tool is ideal for a variety of finish innermost applications. The 3 piece nailer and compressor combo kit includes a 6-gallon pancake compressor, an 18GA 2” brad nailer, a 2-1/2” 16GA straight finish nailer, a heavy performance 3/8” crown stapler and a 15” air hose.
It is equipped with a compressor which sustains power effectively. It includes two nailers and one stapler.
The BOSTITCH brand has been manufacturing ( nail guns, staplers and glue guns) for more than 100 years. This article from BOSTITCH serves as an amazing initiator for those who want to get into the world of air tools.
The three compiled tools are also user-friendly. Like most similar gun-style fastener tools, the brad nailer, finish nailer and stapler need concurrent pressure on the tool’s nose trigger. It is an affordable initiation to air tools for home or hobbyist craftsmen for general repairs and upholstery.
The pancake compressor is lightweight, easy to use and perfect for roofing. If you want to stick with pneumatic tools while still taking advantage of the convenience of cordless, then the BOSTITCH BTFP3KIT 3-Tool is the best option for you.
Its portable air compressor combo kit is conventionally designed for interior and exterior finishing, home decoration and other embellishments.The best feature of BOSTITCH air compressor is its heavy-duty pump that can supply 2.6 CFM @ 90 Psi. This stipulation is good enough to perform any framing or finishing or brad nailing evenly without much backfiring.
Pros
- Strong but lightweight and easy to carry
- No maintenance required
- Impressive air compressor with 6-gallon tank and a maximum pressure of 150 Psi
- Portable and budget-friendly tool with noise-free air compressor
Cons
- The air hose is very limited
1.7. BOSTITCH F21PL Pneumatic Framing Nailer
BOSTITCH manufactures high-quality innovative fastening tools and fasteners for industrial, establishments and home renovation applications. They offer a variety of products including pneumatic staplers and tackers, coil-fed screw systems, rivet tools, glue guns and carton closing staplers etc.
This 21 degrees plastic combined framing nailer is created to drive nails into harvested woods including hardwoods as well as soft woods. It is lightweight and easy to manipulate and you can easily control the depth penetration with a push button at the bottom.
BOSTITCH framing nailer pneumatic guns are absolutely perfect for framing, sheathing, subflooring and paneling. This tool is best for professionals as well as amateurs. It comes with two quick change nose pieces to transform tools to either framing or metal connector applications.
Its customizable beam hook permits consumers to hang tools on the rafter and braces during work breaks.Its high capability magazine can hold up to 60 plastic collated 21-degree framing nails (2-3.5 inch) or 60 metal connector nails (1.5-2.5 inch).
Its 16-inch format indicator situated on the magazine, helps you to find the correct distance between studs. BOSTITCH F21PL has an excellent anti-jam mechanism which helps you clear the jam in seconds.
Pros
- Tool-free anti-jam mechanism
- Tool-free depth modification feature
- Magazine capacity is quite sufficient (60 nails
- 2-in-1 nose piece for wire-collated and plastic-collated nails
- Comfortable grip and sturdy rubber handle
Cons
- Overall dimension of the tool is 14.25×20.25 inches and a body mass of 8.1 pounds makes it a bit bulkier and heavier
1.8. Freeman P4FRFNCB Pneumatic Nail Gun Combo Kit
Freeman products are designed with durability. Their price, quality and warranty makes them superior in the industry.
Freeman P4FRFNCB Pneumatic framing and finishing nailer and stapler combo kit with Canvas bag (4-piece) is a requisite set of tools for proficient construction for constructors at their working sites as well as for beginners for tackling home renovation and general repair projects.
It includes a 21 degree 3-1/2” full round head framing nailer , 15-Gauge 34 degree 2-1/2”finish nailer, 18-Gauge 1-1/4” brad nailer and 18-Gauage 1-1/4” narrow crown stapler. The strong framing nailer is particularly designed for tasks such as framing, sheathing, truss assembly, roof decking, sub-floor fencing, furniture and shipping crates.
This persistent nail gun is equipped with a one-piece drive blade made of solid steel and a lightweight magnesium body. Its 34-degree angle of the magazine makes it easy to reach corners or tight spots and dual-mode trigger permits easy switching between sequential and bump firing.
The brad nailer is perfect for interior and exterior finish and trim, furniture and cabinetry. Its oil-free mechanism reduces the need for regular maintenance and prevents your work surface from dirt. Its Teflon o-ring provides less deterioration on cylinders and pistons.
Another amazing feature about the Freeman P4FRFNCB Pneumatic Nail Gun Combo Kit is its capability to use a wide range of different sizes of nails. All the tools included in the kit are long-lasting and durable. The stapler is lightweight and easy to use.
Pros
- The anodized aluminum nail can stock up to 100 nails for high-quality performance
- Extremely durable as both magazine and cylinder are made of aluminum and present excellent erosion resistance while ensuring smooth movement of pistons during manipulation
- Each nailer has a depth adjustment feature by which desired depths can be set quickly and conveniently
- The cheapest combo kit with a cost of only $183 while buying all items separately might cost above $300
- Oil-free design and quick jam release nose
Cons
- Quality is not as impressive and premium as other expensive brands
- Jams sometimes
FAQ
Q: Are cordless brad nailers any good?
A: Cordless brad nailers are surely convenient. You don’t need maintenance for air compressors like other cabled nailers. A cordless nailer is ready for operation as soon as you attach a charged battery and fill up some nails in the magazine.
Q: What is the best cordless 18 gauge brad nailer?
A: PORTER-CABLE Cordless Brad Nailer PCC790LA is the best cordless 18 gauge brad nailer powered by means of battery, eradicating the need for a compressor, hose and an expensive gas container. This unit is lightweight with multi-functional LEDs and a cozy grip.
Q: What is the best brad nailer to buy?
A: DEWALT 18-Gauge Brad Nailer Kit DWFP12231 is the overall best brad nailer in every aspect. It is absolutely perfect for joining decorative molding, encasement, kitchen crown and shoe shaping. With its endured and low maintenance motor, the DWFP 12231 DEWALT brad nailer is the best choice to buy.
Q: What is better: a brad nailer or a finish nailer?
A: A finish nailer is much more functional and flexible than a brad nailer. However, a finish nailer will not work well with thin trim pieces. So you have to decide according to your project requirement whether a finish nailer or brad nailer is best for your task
NAVIGATE OUR Best Brad Nailers
- Best Brad NailersBest Brad Nailers
- DEWALT 18-Gauge BradDEWALT 18-Gauge Brad
- PORTER-CABLE CordlessPORTER-CABLE Cordless
- WEN 61721 PneumaticWEN 61721 Pneumatic
- NuMax S2-118G2 PneumaticNuMax S2-118G2 Pneumatic
- Stanley TRE550ZStanley TRE550Z
- BOSTITCH BTFP3KITBOSTITCH BTFP3KIT
- BOSTITCH F21PL PneumaticBOSTITCH F21PL Pneumatic
- Freeman P4FRFNCBFreeman P4FRFNCB