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As a hobbyist or DIYer, you may wonder why it’s beneficial to get a brad nailer. They are typically the same size as your finish nailer and use similar nails. However, the primary difference is that they use brad nails.
Wen 61721 18-gauge Pneumatic Brad Nailer Best Values
Bostitch BTFP12233 Smart Point 18-gauge Brad Nailer Kit Best Values
NuMax S2-118G2 18-gauge 2-in-1 Brad Nailer and Stapler Best Values
A brad is a nail with a thinner gauge that’s used to attach your lightweight trim. Therefore, you don’t have to use wood putty or other products. Knowing why you need it is the first step. Then, you have to read brad nailer reviews to figure out which options are the best brad nailers.
Though the review tells you everything you must know about the top 10 options, you also must learn about the factors to consider when purchasing the best brad nailer. You can find that information toward the end of this article. Let’s get started!
10 Best Brad Nailers on the Market
Wen 61721 18-gauge Pneumatic Brad Nailer
Most people love this pneumatic brad nailer because it’s so lightweight. The body weighs just 2.7 pounds and features a comfortable rubber-grip handle to help you get jobs done quickly.
Don’t let the small stature fool you, though. This is a highly-efficient option when compared to other brad nailers. It sets brad nails between 3/8-inch and 2 inches effortlessly. Overall, you might be shocked when you remember how little you paid to get the best brad nailer ever.
Since it’s pneumatic, you require an air compressor to fire nails. The compressed air goes through the air hose to shoot the nails out of the gun and into the wood or material.
With that, this product operates at 60 to 115 PSI and carries an NPT air inlet fitting of just 1/4-inch. The magazine holds up to 106 brads, which means you don’t have to reload it as often.
You’re sure to appreciate that a jammed nailer is in the past here. Your purchase includes oil and adjustment wrenches, which can set any jammed nailer straight.
Plus, it comes with an adjustable exhaust port. You can rotate it 360 degrees to control the air output direction. That’s not all, either! You can customize it with the depth of nails you fire because of the adjustment wheel on its body.
Bostitch BTFP12233 Smart Point 18-gauge Brad Nailer Kit
If you’re on a budget or just starting out with using brad nails, the Bostitch brand is ideal for you. Those who are experienced with using pneumatic nailers are sure to have a great time with this one, even if they tend to overuse them. Those who do renovation work or DIY construction around the house, such as with upholstery or cabinetry, are sure to enjoy this tool.
What makes it possible is that this pneumatic brad nailer allows you to customize it with trigger and countersinking systems unique to the project. The most admirable thing here is the Smart Point technology, which is built right into it.
This technology is found in the nose, which is smaller. That way, you get easy, smooth nail placement. That also means that during selective actuation, you don’t require compression of the tip.
Overall, this nailer can drive brad nails ranging from 5/8-inch to 2 1/8-inch in length. Plus, it operates at 70 to 120 PSI.
With that, this gun doesn’t require oil, so it reduces the risk of staining your garage or workshop. You also get a 1/4-inch air fitting with a rear air exhaust. Plus, it features a belt hook.
You’re sure to appreciate the tool-free jam release lever, too. Plus, the gun includes a dial-depth control slider for precision. It’s possible to switch between sequential and contact operation, too!
Because this is a kit, you get a few other additions. They include extra no-mar tips, sample fasteners, and a carrying case. Overall, this is a quality nailer!
If you tend to use staples and brad nails, it makes sense to choose a gun that lets you shoot both. The NuMax 18-gauge brad nailer has you covered.
It can shoot 1 5/8-inch crown staples or 2-inch 18-gauge brad nails. Therefore, it works well for the exterior and interior trim and to finish cabinetry. Still, you can also use it for other hobbies and crafts.
If that weren’t enough, this brad nailer operates at 60 to 110 PSI, meaning you require an air compressor.
You’re sure to love how lightweight your new brad nailer is. However, it’s still powerful without having to pay a lot for it. There are so many ways to use this nailer, such as baseboards, crates, wire fencing, and window casings.
Some users have claimed there is light denting when you switch from brads to staples. Just remember that the nailer features a tool-free depth adjustment setting. Therefore, you must alter that depth when switching between the options.
Despite the low price, this nailer gives top brand names a run for the money. That’s because the manufacturer is devoted to giving great customer service. You’re likely to use this nailer frequently!
Dewalt DWFP12231 18-gauge 2-inch Brad Nailer Kit
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The Dewalt brand is synonymous with quality, so you know you’re getting what you pay for with it. However, you can’t just see the Dewalt name and be done. You still need to get the rundown on the nailer.
Overall, the Dewalt Brad Nailer Kit has a few great qualities. The motor is designed for durability and reduces the need for maintenance. Plus, the 18-gauge brad nailer body is constructed of magnesium, so it’s lightweight and strong. However, be aware that you require prior practice with handling brad nailers to get the most use from it.
Because of the sequential style on the trigger, you can fire your 18-gauge brad nails that are 5/8 to 2 inches long. Don’t worry about running out of your nails; it features a 100-nail capacity from the magazine.
You’re sure to love the depth of drive adjustment and the tool-free jam release mechanisms. They’re essential for a nailer. With that, there are detents included to ensure the accurate setting of your nail heads.
One feature that stands apart from the crowd is the removable nose tip (non-marring) with an integrated rubber grip. You get more comfort when handling it.
Another plus is the adjustable belt hook. You can work faster when your tools are right beside you.
Pros:
- Includes carrying case, owner’s manual, and 500 1 1/4-inch nails
- Tool-free jam release
- Rear adjustable exhaust port to keep out contaminants
Cons:
- Jams easily
- Might leak oil
Metabo HPT Brad Nailer Kit
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Finish nailers of all types offer tons of adjustment options. They’re more flexible and can be used for many things. The Metabo brand of nail gun lets you adjust your nail depth. That means you control how much of the nail goes into the wood surface. A feature like that is highly useful for professional jobs.
On the nose of this brad nailer, there’s a no-mar protective layer. That helps to eliminate or reduce the scratches you see on the nails. Such scratches could be distracting and make the finished piece look unprofessional.
You also get a low-nail indicator (reload) to show you when the nails in the magazine are getting low. That way, you can reload them and keep working. Since you’re alerted to the quantity, you are prepared for anything.
This brad nailer is pneumatic, so it requires the use of air hoses. However, with one switch, you choose the mode to work in. There are two options: bump fire and contact fire. They can be altered when you’re working, so you don’t have to stop.
You don’t require a tool to clear the nose. Therefore, if a nail jams, clear it fast and go back to work.
Pros:
- Maintenance-free motor
- Bump fire option included
- Adjust depth of nails
- No-mar cap on head to keep nails from getting scratched
- No tool needed for nose extraction
Cons:
- No belt hook
- Not as lightweight as other finish nailers
Porter-Cable PCC790LA 20V Max Cordless Brad Nailer Kit
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There are clear advantages of choosing electric nailers over pneumatic ones. You don’t have to lug a hose everywhere or deal with a noisy air compressor. That means you can do more types of work, too. Plus, you’re sure to save money with cordless nailers because you don’t have to buy gas cartridges and all the rest.
With that, the Porter-Cable PCC790LA is a great option. You’re sure to get reliable and consistent nail sinking with this nail gun. Plus, it features a great depth adjustment wheel. That’s the most important thing to look for when deciding if a brad nailer is worth the money.
The Porter-Cable Cordless Brad Nailer increases your productivity in other ways, too. A good nailer must be easy to maintain. This one includes a tool-free jam release and a release lever for just that purpose.
Another thing to love about the Porter-Cable 20V Max Cordless Brad Nailer is the battery. It features a lithium-ion battery, which lasts longer and serves you well. It’s a huge upgrade because you no longer have to carry hoses with you.
Those who want an electric nailer should consider the Porter-Cable brand. However, it’s not as affordable as others because of the brushless motor and aluminum body. Still, the features make up for all that.
In the long term, you can save money by buying the Porter-Cable brand because you don’t have to purchase extra parts.
Pros:
- Delivers 1,300 18-gauge brad nails per charge
- Tool-free jam release
- Tool-free depth adjustment wheel
Cons:
- Can be heavier because of the brushless motor
- Hard to get into tight corners
Dewalt DCN680B 20V Max XR 18-gauge Brad Nailer
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Are you a professional hunting for the right brad nailer to make your job easier? If so, you might have found it.
What makes this cordless brad nailer perfect for professionals? Well, it can drive brad nails from 5/8-inch to 2 1/8-inch and does it with a brushless motor. That means you get a higher run time with more durability for the nail gun itself.
One small and crucial detail here is the narrow nose. Dewalt made it unassuming and small on purpose, and it actually calls it a micro-nose. It improves accuracy by giving you a clear line of sight while working. Plus, the nailer fires easily and can get into tight spaces better than a pneumatic model.
Since the brad nailer is cordless, it doesn’t need an air hose. Plus, it features an automatic shut-off option, so you don’t overwork the battery when you don’t need it. Many other models forget about that, though it’s crucial to get a long life from the battery and tool itself.
The depth adjustment option for this nailer is effortless. Plus, you don’t get jams frequently and can get rid of them easily with the jam release mechanism. Overall, this cordless brad nailer kit doesn’t give you oil stains in your workshop and is a lightweight tool.
Pros:
- Accurate nail placement with micro nose
- Greater durability with the brushless motor
- Ideal for moldings and baseboards
Cons:
- Quite heavy
- Leaves nail holes
- Doesn’t sit on tool belt
- No reload indicator
Valu-Air SF5040 2-inch 18-gauge Brad Nailer and Stapler
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Pneumatic models are often easier to find and a great choice for some light construction or DIY work. The selling point of this pneumatic nailer is the name itself. You can tell you’re getting good value for money and expect it to work well.
Here are some of the specifications of this brad nailer: It drives your standard 18-gauge brad nails from 5/8 to 2 inches and can also drive crown staples from 5/8 to 1 5/8-inches. Plus, the aluminum-alloy body is lightweight at 3.3 pounds.
You do need an air compressor to make it work, as with other pneumatic nailers. It features air pressure of 70 to 110 PSI to give you a seamless experience. Plus, there’s 360-degree adjustable exhaust air control with a no-mar rubber tip, so you get smooth delivery.
Despite the low price, the nailer sinks nails effortlessly and competes with standard options. It includes a depth adjustment feature with a jam release mechanism, making it a high-quality nailer.
Though most affordable options can’t be used for much, this pneumatic model is ideal for carpentry work around the house. Whether you’re doing finishing work, putting in trim, or fixing a cabinet, this nailer can assist.
Pros:
- Tool-free latch on nose for quick jam release
- Includes two strips of staples/nails with carrying case
- Ergonomic rubber handle
Cons:
- No reload indicator
- Not ideal for woodworking
- Could misfire
Senco FinishPro 18-gauge Brad Nailer (ProSeries)
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Another non-nonsense and straightforward 18-gauge brad nailer comes from Senco, and it’s quite affordable. However, you shouldn’t let its low price fool you because it’s highly durable. This is surprising since it’s quite light at 4 pounds or so.
This brad nailer is also oil-free, which is a nice surprise, especially from a nailer that isn’t as well-known as some of the others. Having an oil-free engine means less downtime because you can work more and spend less on figuring out how to work it. Plus, there are no oil stains!
Another pleasant surprise here is the selective trigger. You can toggle between multi- and single-shot modes to find the right fit for your project and needs. Many people appreciate different trigger mode settings because it means the manufacturer put more thought into its products.
This nailer features a standard exhaust air control at the back and bottom of the handle, which is similar to other pneumatic models. There are no surprises. With that, it adjusts 360 degrees and works with various air compressors.
You also get depth adjustment capabilities, so there’s no need to worry about denting the workpiece. With that, the nailer works well for crowning and casing jobs. If you like to dabble in construction or are a part-time professional, this is a great power tool to have.
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Oil-free motor
- Lightweight body (magnesium construction)
Cons:
- Stuck piston problems
- Potential for magazine to wear out with time
