Bid Goodbye To Manual Hammering and Nailing With the Best Finish Nailer

Choosing new tools is complex, and the abundance of options makes a choice even more difficult. Here is a buyer’s guide with all the information you require to purchase finish nailers well-informedly.

Brad Nailer vs. Finish Nailer

The gauge difference is what distinguishes the various nail gun types. The gauge designates the nail’s diameter and is expressed as a fraction; the lower the number, the thicker the nail. For instance, a 16-gauge nail is wider than an 18-gauge nail. The gauge typically also determines how strong a nail is. 

Brad and finish nailers have a similar appearance, and it’s mandatory to distinguish between them to make the appropriate selection.

Finish nailer

Compared to brad nailers, a finish nailer is larger and uses higher gauge nails. Usually, 14 to 16-gauge nails are used. Unlike the brad nailer’s flimsy hold, the finish nailer’s thicker gauge produces a relatively solid and firm grip. 

A finish nailer is a very flexible tool that works well for many projects and materials. It should be the nail gun of preference when working on wood projects involving heavier trims. It should be noted that this results in slightly larger nail indentations, which can be later repaired with wood putty.

Brad nailer

Brad nailers are typically 18-gauge, though occasionally, they also come in 21-gauge. The small brad it fires gave rise to the name “brad nailer.” They can either be battery-powered or pneumatic, requiring an air compressor. To avoid larger holes, they are frequently used for precise tasks. 

It can also be used when working with thin, delicate pieces that risk breaking if a more powerful nail gun like a finish nailer is used. They are frequently used in situations where surface and finish are crucial. It is inappropriate for projects involving heavier wood or equipment due to its comparably weaker hold.

Types of Finish Nailer

There are two types of finish nailers; straight and angled finish nailers. The magazine angulation determines the types.

Straight finish nailer vs. angled finish nailer

In contrast to a straight finish nailer’s magazine, which is parallel to the head and the nailing surface, an angled finish nailer’s magazine is at a slight angle to the head and the nailing surface. The angulation of the straight finish nailer is 90 degrees. On the other hand, angled finish nailers typically come in two angulation options: 21 and 35 degrees. A greater degree denotes a sharper angulation.

Compared to the straight finish nailer, the angled nailer offers greater versatility. Even the smallest spaces will fit it. The only drawback is that the angled finish nailer’s nails are much more expensive than straight ones and have a larger gauge, making them more noticeable.

Factors To Consider When Buying Finish Nailer

The following factors can help you in narrowing down your choices. 

Gauge

There are two different gauges for finish nails: 15 gauge and 16 gauge. Your choice will depend on your intention in the context. Compared to 16-gauge nails, 15-gauge nails are thicker and have greater holding power. It’s best to use a 15-gauge finish nailer when greater strength and power are required. On the other hand, picking a 16-gauge nailer when finishing is your top priority.

Nail depth

It refers to how far deep a nail penetrates in the wood. A shallow depth will make the pin protrude, while a high depth will push the nail far too deeply. The nail depth should be adjustable. 

Ergonomic grip

For holding and using the tools comfortably, an ergonomic grip is essential. It enables effortless and continuous tool use.

Safety features

The finish nailer with integrated safety features is the best option because finish nailers are hazardous machinery because they operate with nails and have high torque and power. The finish nailer with a contact safety tip and accidental firing prevention is the most suitable. These two features typically prevent all accidents.

Are Finish Nail Guns Expensive?

Compared to other nail guns, finish nailers are an expensive option. The cost of a finish nailer is typically about 30% more than that of a brad nailer. Prices for finish nailers in 15 and 16 gauges also differ.

It should be mentioned that pneumatic finish nailers are less expensive than cordless, battery-powered ones. The cost of the cordless kits for 15-gauge finish nailers ranges from $250 to $500. The same gauge pneumatic finish nailer runs between $150 and $250.

Only marginally less money is spent on the 16-gauge finish nail guns than on the 15-gauge ones. The price of a cordless kit ranges from $180 to $420. The price range for pneumatic versions is $100 to $220.