Thanks to its cordless design, there's no need to use a hose, gas cartridge, or a compressor. It is fitted with a potent motor that can provide consistent firing power in a variety of different materials an easily withstand heavy-duty use.
Despite its battery-powered design, this brad nailer can give many pneumatic compressor-powered nail guns a run for the money. With that, it's compact and lightweight and using it for prolonged periods of time will be comfy and easy. Loaded with many useful features, it's one of the best cordless tools in its class.
The added features such a capacious magazine, quick-release design, and a depth-adjustment dial makes this brand nailer one of the most versatile and effective tools within its price range.
3 lbs
It is lightweight and has an elastomer grip for a comfy grip. Comes with a carrying case and safety glasses. The bottom-loading magazine can hold up to 100 nails which saves you from having to reload it too often during work.
The Hitachi NT50AE2 is a practical tool that combines lightness and great performance. Ideal for small to medium home projects or carpentry applications. One of the cheapest in the given category, it remains attractive for most handymen, constantly receiving positive user feedback.
The tool is compatible with metal connector nails and framing nails. It's lightweight and durable. Plus, it offers one of the best power-to-weight ratio of driving force (1,050 in./lbs.). Unlike many similar models, it doesn't need oil refilling, which means less mess during use.
Capable of performing both as a metal connector and a framing nailer, the BOSTITCH BTFP12233 is one of the best choices for those who need a versatile tool at a reasonable price. Great for novices, it is also a suitable choice for professionals, thanks to multiple useful features it comes loaded with.
The model is capable of driving not only brads but also staples. So, you'll get a 2-in-1 tool that will serve you both as a nailer and as a stapler.
Under heavy-duty use, the tool might heat up.
It's a great electric nailer and staple gun that will be proper for medium projects such as carpeting, installation of insulation, picture framing, or fastening different sorts of decorations. Thanks to its dual power lever, switching between projects will be as easy as a walk in the park.
Electric, 15A
18 gauge
5/8" - 1/2"
85 staples
Sequential
Power lever, Contoured grip for extra comfort, Flush nose design for tight places, Anti-jam mechanism, 8" power cord, On/Off switch to prevent accidental shooting
2.4 lbs
1-year limited
Just Press the Trigger
If you're looking for a powerful unit for nailing clapboards, wooden cornices, parquetry or for any other type of finishing work, the Porter-Cable PCC790B electric nailer can be a smart option. It is an electric model with a battery-powered design, which makes it a real find for those who seek portability.
Despite the battery-powered design, the tool ensures excellent performance. It features a 20V 1.5A battery and will perfectly shoot brads that have the length of 5/8" to 2”. As for firing, it works in a sequential mode. That means that nailing with it, though slow, will be highly precise, which is a big plus especially when it comes to nailing delicate materials such as wood.
The Porter-Cable PCC790B is ergonomically built and reasonably heavy. You won't strain your hands even if you use it for an extended period of time. Besides, thanks to a bigger weight, the tool can be used for a greater variety of jobs, including some medium-complexity finishing work. That said, do note that the tool is not intended for abuse use and if you need a more powerful rig we recommend choosing from pneumatic models.
But if you seek mobility and convenience of use, the Porter-Cable PCC790B can offer you just that. Requiring no compressors or gas tanks, it will get the job done with a single press of a trigger.
Pick Your Battery
Let's say a few words about safety and ease of use. As mentioned before, the tool has a sequential trigger that provides an accurate shooting. For that, however, you need to press the nailer's nose to the surface and press a trigger. If you don't do both of those things, the nailer simply won't shoot.
Speaking of conveniences, the unit focuses on making its use hassle-free. It features dual LED lights that ensure comfortable working conditions in any environment. Plus it has a special groove that will let you know how many brads are left in the magazine. And a battery indicator will make it easy to track how much power charge's left.
The only negative thing is that the battery isn't included in the kit, which means you will need to purchase it separately. Not very convenient but, we believe, not a deal-breaker. Besides, you'll have a choice which battery to buy, a 1.5-Ah battery providing enough capacity for shooting up to 450 nails or a 4-Ah one packing enough juice to let you shoot more than 1300 brads. You take your pick.
Additional Info
| Last updated price | $149.99 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B017NJMQES |
Simple but Smart
What sells the WEN 61720 brad nailer is its simplicity. Unlike many other pneumatic brad nailers which require buying quite expensive air compressors additionally, this one can work even with the cheapest one (as long as it can deliver as much as 120 PSI), making it a favourite tool for DIYers needing an affordable yet feature-rich stapler.
The WEN 61720 brad nailer has a simple and rather standard design. In fact, it looks pretty much like any other stapler we've seen. What we like about it though is that it's built with a lightweight cast-aluminium housing which allows using it longer without hand fatigue. The handle of the tool is also comfy. With a rubberised coating, it provides a non-slip grip, so you can be sure that the tool won't slip out of your hands in the middle of the process.
Not only is the WEN 61720 brad nailer so easy and straightforward to use, but also it is one of the safest tools on the market. No matter whether you've used a brad nailer before or it's the first time you're going to do that, getting hold of the working principle of the WEN 61720 will be easy. Basically, all that's required is to direct it to the surface you need and press a trigger. Of course, you should wear some safety gear and follow the manufacturer's instructions but that's the case with all DIY tools. In all, the simplicity of the WEN 61720 is what appeals to most customers, deservedly bringing this model to the top of the chart.
Start from WEN
One other thing that's worth mentioning is that this stapler features the Quick Release mechanism. Thanks to it, the process of reloading the brads as well as clearing jams should they take place will take mere minutes allowing you to work without slowing down. As we've said before, the operating principle of the tool itself is pretty straightforward and requires no special knowledge or skills so even if you're a novice, handling this stapler will be a piece of cake.
Of course, the WEN 61720 has a few flaws as well. The biggest one is that it tends to jam nails rather frequently. That, however, is a problem that is common of all pneumatic tools, so we definitely aren't going to blame the WEN 61720 for that. What we could blame it for, however, is its basic engineering. There are many similar tools that look more reliable and better. That said, this isn't a real downside since DIY tools don't necessarily have to beautiful.
To wrap things up, if you're looking for a functional pneumatic brad nailer at a reasonable price tag that will be easy to use and maintain, the WEN 61720 is definitely one of the best tools to get started with!
Additional Info
| Last updated price | $0.00 |
| Stock | May be out of stock |
| ASIN | B000EJW1ZY |
Designed for Detailed Carpentry Jobs
If you are looking for a brad nailer for your home improvement projects that is easy to handle, accurate and doesn't cost a fortune, the Hitachi NT50AE2 can be the best choice. Intended for detailed carpentry jobs, it provides exceptional comfort and easy control, making light work of furniture assembly, fixing windows, replacing crowd moldings and finish work. It is also well balanced and lightweight. With the weight of only 2.2 lbs, working with it for an extended time will not get tiring or cause hand fatigue.
Though small and lightweight, the Hitachi NT50AE2 is a mighty tool. It has a high-capacity motor and can accommodate up to 100 5/8-2” with the head sizes from 0.075 to 1.9 mm. And for added practicality, it has a visual indicator that will show you how many brads you have left in the magazine before a reload's required.
The best thing about this tool though is the dual firing option, which enables you to choose between intermittent and continuous firing with a single turn of a control slider. Of course, as you'd expect from this type of nailers, it also has an adjustment knob that will let you make accurate modifications to the depth of the drive at any stage of your projects. And for greater convenience, it is designed with a 360-degree exhaust vent allowing you to keep debris and dust off the workpiece.
Real Steal
The thing we particularly like about the Hitachi NT50AE2 is that it comes with a special no-mar nose cap. It protects the workpiece from damage while also prolonging the tool's life. And if you want to prevent the nailer from rusting, you can oil the machine's hose a bit before each use. This will help remove moisture and provide a smooth running of the tool.
One inconvenience is that the air hose port of the tool doesn't rotate. What this means is that you might struggle to manipulate the hose when working. But that's about the only issue with the tool.
In all, the Hitachi NT50AE2 offers more advantages than disadvantages and many positive customers' reviews prove it. It's extremely lightweight and durable and will aid you in just about any kind of work ensuring excellent performance. Priced for less than $75, it's a real steal! Moreover, it includes a storage case and safety goggles, so you won't need to buy anything else.
| Last updated price | $85.95 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B000H399PC |
60% Narrower
The absolute best part of the BOSTITCH BTFP12233 Brad Nailer is its Smart Point nose design that will allow you to comfortably use the tool in tight spaces. 60% narrower than average, it will let you achieve pinpoint precision and line nails better once you can clearly see where they are about to go in. So if you have lots of delicate projects where accuracy is important, the BOSTITCH BTFP12233 is what you need. However, a smaller nose of the tool isn't its only advantage, of course.
Other perks of the machine include a wide package of accessories that in addition to the tool itself include a ¼ inch swivel fitting, a carry case and a belt hook. You also get 1000 brands with the size of heads of 2" so you can use the tool right out of the box without needing to buy anything else.
Also, the BOSTITCH BTFP12233 has a selectable trigger which allows you to switch between sequential and intermittent firing modes and, like most other quality tools, it has an exhaust vent in the rear that will help keep dirt and other contaminants away from your tool and the workpiece, thus protecting the machine from damage.
Depth control is another handy feature of the tool that will allow you to nail brads with high precision and make sure they sink in the material as deep as you need and no more. Plus, the tool boasts a quick-release mechanism, meaning if a jam occurs, you will be able to clear it without having to use any tools, making it a great choice for a novice.
More Details
To speak more about design, the BOSTITCH BTFP12233 is featured with a lightweight frame made of magnesium that makes the tool more lightweight than alumimum but just as durable. Not only is it so compact and lightweight, but also it is very comfortable to hold thanks to its non-slip rubber grip, giving you peace of mind that the tool won't slip out of your hands in the middle of the project. For added practicality, it also has a belt hook.
We should also mention that the BOSTITCH BTFP12233 doesn't require any special maintenance and is very safe in use. Moreover, because it doesn't require oiling, your important workpieces, as well as the tool itself, will always be clean. Plus, there's a filter inside the tool to keep it from gathering dust and debris during use. And to make up for maneuverability that you inevitably lose when you choose a pneumatic tool, the BOSTITCH BTFP12233 has a swivel connector - it will allow for the hose's movement when working in confined spaces, making sure nothing gets in your way.
The bottom line, if you need a powerful tool for delicate projects requiring maneuverability and precision, you'll be hard-pressed to find a better model. With the Smart Point Technology, the BOSTITCH BTFP12233 allows for hassle-free nail placement without having to actuate the tool's nose and can shoot like a pro-grade tool despite being much more affordable than many current models from famous brands.
Additional Info
| Last updated price | $104.96 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B00JTYO248 |
A Handy Multitool
The Stanely TRE550Z is an electric nailer, which will be your perfect tool if you don't want to bother with air compressors. Just plug it in, and you are ready to go. At the same time, electric doesn't mean lacking power. When it comes to its driving performance, the TRE550Z doesn't trail behind mid-range pneumatic tools, allowing it to be used in a wide range of applications. Plus, it comes with a long 8-foot power cord, which provides a good reach and gives you more flexibility when you're working in tight spaces.
Speaking of the tool design, the Stanley TRE550 staple gun brings nice feelings. It's made with a plastic frame which feels sturdy and durable. Not only does the tool look solid but also it sits in the hand comfortably, allowing you to operate it without tiring your hand and slowing down. Plus, the plastic body doesn’t add weight to the tool construction, making it much easier to store it and transport with you when needed.
The thing that is particularly great about the Stanley TRE550 is its versatility. Apart from driving 1/2" and 5/8" brads, the tool can shoot even heavy-duty staples. Not all tools from its class can boast the same ability. So if you need to arrange insulation, nail ceiling panels or staple a carpet, the Stanley TRE550Z will be up to the task. Actually, it performs the functions of two tools - brad nailer and stapler - which will allow you to achieve more while spending less money.
Extra Features
However, it's not only the price that we like about the Stanely TE550Z. Another thing that adds value to the tool is the extra features included. It has a dial-depth-control for high nailing precision and features a dual power lever which will allow you to adjust the power between High and Low settings making it easy to switch between different materials. Plus, there's a special mechanism that will prevent jamming, thus eliminating the need to restart the tool during use.
Finally, the tool has a flush-nose design that will be ideal for working in tight spaces and driving nails and staples where most other models fail. And there's a low brad indicator that will let you know of how many nails you have left in the magazine, saving you from the countdown.
All in all, the Stanely TE550Z brad nailer offers good value for the buck and will come in handy for a whole variety of low-key jobs. Without a doubt, it will find its place in the arsenal of any handyman.
Additional Info
| Last updated price | $30.99 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B000BPSUTM |
What customers say about this product
Size & Weight(4)
Features(4)
What Is a Brad Nailer?
Pick a hammer, a few nails and go… It was like that before. How many fingers were hit? How many nails were dropped to the floor? In a nutshell, it’s high time to do away with it! Brad nailers are meant to ease your labor and fasten any piece of wood in seconds. As you can see from the title, brad nailers use brads that make them different from other joinery tools. Brad nailers are a good solution for nailing parquetry, clapboards or wooden cornices. In general, any finishing work will be much easier with a brad nailer.
So, let’s look at the main features worth your attention while choosing a suitable brad nailer.
If you want to discover the other models of nailers, look at our best nailers and finish nailers reviews.
What Features to Compare
Type
The type of brad nailer is the very first thing to decide on. Brad nailers are available in 3 types: pneumatic, gas-powered, and electric.
- Pneumatic brad nailers are powered by air compressors that supply the air via connected hoses. Air compressors need electricity, so power outlets must be in proximity. Pneumatic nailers handle merely wood and are suitable for most finishing works. Their pluses are high speed and low noise, while hoses and compressor are downsides.
- Gas-powered nailers are more forceful as they employ the fuel combustion energy for shooting the nails out. In such a way, this energy suffices for driving brads into concrete or metal, so gas-powered brad nailers are perfect for laborious woodworking projects. The benefit of gas-powered nailers is the freedom from wires and hoses, but exhausts and pricey gas tanks are their drawbacks.
- Electric brad nailers can be either corded or battery-powered. They find application mainly in small finishing jobs where medium brad driving power is enough. The corded models are appropriate for a large amount of work but are tethered to places with a constant power supply. The battery-powered models are great for repairs and touchups and can be used anywhere, being unlimited by a power cord. The portability and zero emission design are the strengths of battery-powered nailers, whereas dependence on electricity and high price are the snags.
Performance
When you pick a brad nailer, you need to know how efficient it is. Particularly, you need to pay attention to the firing methods. The current brad nailers feature sequential and bump firing. The sequential firing is fit for precise nailing in a specific spot, for example, fastening of a thin board to plywood. The brads will be driven sequentially; one brad is fired after each trigger pressing. The bump firing is intended for nailing large jobs that need speed rather than accuracy. When a nailer is set to a bump firing, it shoots a nail every time a nose hits the work surface while the trigger is pressed. Some brad nailers have adjustable drive depth that is important for nailing thin materials of soft wood.
Safety and Usability
The safety of use is also essential. The brad nailers’ manufacturers provided all the necessary safety features, and any nailer needs to pass through 2 steps to shoot a brad. We advise using a nailer in a sequential mode to avoid accidental shooting. Contrarily, you can drive a brad unintentionally when a nailer is switched to a bump firing. The nailer usability depends on its size and weight, as well as portability. Some models come with LED lights for nailing in the dark or may shoot staples instead of brad nails. Also, there are some brad nailers that need no oil to work, which makes them really easy to use.
Sources:
1. How to Choose an Air Compressor, The Family Handyman.
2. Justin Fink Choosing Trim Nailers: Which Gauge Finish Nailers Should You Own?, Fine Homebuilding. November 1, 2012.
3. Nailer / Nail Gun Buying Guide, Lowe's.
4. Tim Nichol Which Type of Nail Gun or Nailer Do You Need for the Job?, Dengarden. January 16, 2016.
5. Mark Hunter Which Nailer is Right For You - A Toolstop Buying Guide, ToolsTop. August 5, 2013.
6. Nail gun, Wikipedia.
7. How to Use a Brad Nailer, About.
8. How Nail Guns Work, HowStuffWorks.
9. Max Fischer HOW IT WORKS: A LEAN, MEAN NAIL GUN, Popular Science. April 5, 2010.