Milwaukee’s 15-Gauge Finish Nailer got a big upgrade with the 2839 model. Improved visibility, design, and a new nitrogen air spring drive system are just a few things we’ve noticed that make the upgrade worth it. The shop’s under construction, but Kenny’s at his traveling desk to tell you more about the nailer that’s just hit the market.

Wanna know more? Read the full written review here.

The post Milwaukee M18 Fuel 15-Gauge Finish Nailer Video Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

A rock solid tool with a price that wont break the bank

Could you benefit from a battery-powered narrow crown stapler? We got our hands on the Ryobi 18V cordless narrow crown stapler (P361) to see if it might make for a good investment. At first glance, it looks like an affordable solution for DIYers or anyone working with wood fences, drawers, fascia, or other materials where crown staples make a great fastener choice. Our questions centered around runtime, and what materials it would work well with.

Pros

• Single- and bump-fire modes
• Supports 3/8-inch to 1.5-inch narrow crown staples
• LED light
• 18V ONE+ battery system works with over 225 tools
• 3-year warrenty

Cons

• 1-inch fasteners was the deepest it will drive into oak

The Case for Using Narrow Crown Staplers

Have you ever put together IKEA furniture or a cheap bookshelf system? The frame of these shelf systems remains quite frail until you fasten the thin veneer back panel. That thin back panel typically attaches via small ring shank nails. Professional cabinet shops build their custom shelves a little differently—but with the same principle in mind. Instead of small individual nails, they tend to use narrow crown staples to attach the backs. It provides a more secure hold, and the tools used to fire the nails speed up the process.

Editor’s Note: Check out our article on How to Use a Narrow Crown Stapler for some more great insights into using these tools.

Ryobi P361 Narrow Crown Stapler Performance

Pick up any of the Ryobi nailers and staplers, and you can really feel the excellent build quality. I am sure they can take a beating. It has rubber overmold in all the right spots both to protect the tool and also to protect the surfaces of any materials you may be working with. As long as you don’t set this on the belt clip, you can safely lay the Ryobi narrow crown stapler on a client’s countertop without fear of scratching it.

When it comes to driving the fasteners, I had no trouble driving 1.5-inch fasters in any material except hardwoods like oak. This should not be an issue as these are almost always going to be used in sheet goods, construction lumber, trim, paneling, or molding. In oak, I could drive any staple 1-inch or shorter.

Ryobi Narrow Crown Stapler Design Notes

Prior to picking up the P361, I already owned the Ryobi P360 “Airstrike” narrow crown stapler. It has worked well for me, so I was anxious to see any improvements Ryobi might have made. If you own the P360, you probably don’t need to upgrade. However, if you’re on the fence about buying a narrow crown stapler, the new P361 has a few welcome changes. Once Ryobi gets through their existing inventory this will be a rolling replacement to the older model.

The first “upgrade” is a simple sticker and a few other identifiers letting you know which Ryobi nailer you are picking up. You may not think it is all that important, but to me it is huge. I own five different Ryobi nailers and they all look alike. Having a way to tell them apart is very helpful.

Ergonomics

The handle is a little more ergonomic on the new Ryobi P361 stapler. Also, the power control on the top has been changed. Instead of a dial that was rather stiff and hard to turn (especially if you have arthritis as I do), it now features a lever that I found easier to adjust. When driving fasteners into harder wood like oak, turn the power up. When working with softer materials (or if your fasteners drive too deep), dial the power down.

Loading the staples is very easy. Press the release mechanism located near the battery on the bottom of the tool. The magazine slide opens, and you can install a new magazine of staples by dropping them in place. Push the magazine slide closed, and you can begin firing staples.

Ryobi P361 Controls

The Ryobi P361 narrow crown stapler has two modes: single-fire and bump-fire. I leave mine in single-fire mode all the time for more accurate positioning of fasters one at a time. With bump-fire, you hold the trigger down and every time the nose of the staplers comes in contact with the material it shoots a nail. This is faster but not as accurate unless you do this all day every day like a roofer. This method also comes with some safety concerns since it makes it easier for accidental misfires.

Depth adjustment is very easy on all the Ryobi cordless nailers. Simply turn the dial on the side to make the head of the fastener sink deeper or stick up higher from the material. The dial on the P361 is smaller but much easier to turn than the oversized one on my P360.

Ryobi Narrow Crown Stapler Price

The Ryobi P361 Narrow Crown Stapler is available at the Home Depot as a bare tool for $149 (supply issues notwithstanding). You may even find it as a kit for a bit more. That will include a charger and 2.0 amp-hour battery.

The Bottom Line

The Ryobi P361 Narrow Crown Stapler is an excellent tool for anyone who builds cabinet carcasses, bookcases or other box-type assembles and is tired of hand nailing the backs on. If you use a ring shank nail to hold thin sheet goods on, you are probably better off using a narrow crown stapler most of the time. Anyone with a lot of wall paneling or lattice to install should also give this a serious look. It even works great for installing or repairing fence pickets.

In my opinion, all of Ryobi’s cordless nailers represent the best value for a good price. They do this so well, I bought almost the entire Ryobi line of cordless nailers/staplers for myself!

Ryobi Narrow Crown Stapler Specifications

• Model: Ryobi P361
• 3/8-inch to 1.5-inch norrow crown staples (1/4-inch wide)
• Grip-activated LED light
• Single/bump-fire modes
• 3-year tool warranty
• Price: $149

The post Ryobi Cordless Narrow Crown Stapler Review | P361 appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Ryobi Improves Its Cordless Brad Nailer with an Updated Model

Out of the five Ryobi nailers and staplers I have bought, the one I reach for most often is my Ryobi Cordless 18 Gauge Brad Nailer. Ryobi refreshed many of their cordless nailers, including the handy Ryobi P326 16ga nailer as well as their narrow crown stapler. Having owned the first-generation Ryobi P320, I got my hands on the new Ryobi P321 cordless brad nailer to see what changed from the older 18 gauge brad nailer.

Pros

• Good build quality
• New tip allows more precise nail placement
• Improved ergonimics
• Better tool-free jam clearing
• Work light that activates without firing the tool
• Drives 18-gauge brads from 5/8-inch to 2-inches
• ONE+ 18V battery works with over 225 Ryobi tools

Cons

• Still can’t drive the very longest nails into hardwoods like oak

Ryobi P321 Cordless Brad Nailer Performance

Perhaps the most welcome change to the new Ryobi P321 Cordless Brad Nailer is the reduction in the size of the protective tip on the nose. It is 45% smaller than the old model. The more precise placement of nails is very handy when firing into thin moldings like around doors and windows. Like all Ryobi cordless nailers, this one included a replacement tip stored on the tool.

A side-by-side comparison of the old and new Ryobi 18-gauge brad nailers reveals a slight change in the shape of the handle. Having used both, I don’t have a preference for either handle. They both feel comfortable to use. Neither one gives you any sort of hot spot on your hands, even with all-day use. I also like the huge “18 gauge” gray band that quickly identifies the tool.

The new Ryobi P321 cordless brad nailer can drive 18 gauge nails from 5/8-inch to 2-inch. When using this brad nailer on plywood, plastic trim, softwoods, and similar construction materials, the Ryobi sings. It drives nails quickly and accurately. That’s exactly what you want from a brad nailer.

It had no issues driving nails of any length except for the longest nails into hardwoods like oak. The more I test out nailers the more I appreciate how dense and hard oak and maple are. It has been my experience that only the most premium nailers can drive the very longest nails into these materials.

Ryobi P321 Cordless Brad Nailer Design Notes

Since I have five nailers and staplers from the same manufacturer, they all look alike. It can be difficult to tell the difference between them. Ryobi has finally started adding clear branding to help you tell them apart. Especially helpful has been the addition of color-coded stickers near the magazine release which clearly label each nailer.

One complaint I had about the old 18-gauge brad nailer had to do with the power control knob. Located on the top, I found it stiff and hard to use if you have arthritis (as I do). The Ryobi P321 cordless brad nailer replaces the knob with a much easier-to-use lever. Incidentally, the new brad nailer also comes with a belt clip. Unfortunately, someone at the office seems to have misplaced it! You can attach the belt clip to either side of the tool.

Ryobi even made it easier to clear jams. The P321 now has a sleeker, more ergonomic release latch for flipping open the nose—no tools required.

Ryobi P321 Cordless Brad Nailer Price

The Ryobi P321 cordless 18-gauge brad nailer should hit Home Depot shelves before the end of the year (2021). This tool will replace the P320 18-gauge brad nailer. Hopefully, you will also be able to purchase a kit version with a battery charger and 2.0 Ah battery as well.

The Bottom Line

I have been very happy using my old Ryobi brad nailer. The new improvements make an already excellent tool even better. Anyone looking for a brad nailer should definitely consider the new Ryobi P321 cordless 18V brad nailer. A great value and offers solid performance for the $129 price tag—something Ryobi has made their reputation on.

Ryobi P321 Cordless Brad Nailer Specifications

• 18V battery
• 105 brad nail magazine capacity
• Up to 1900 nails per charge
• 3 year limited warranty
• Price: $129

The post Ryobi Cordless 18 Gauge Brad Nailer Review | P321 appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Do you need a narrow crown stapler? What is a narrow crown stapler and how do you use it? Are there wider crown staplers? Which narrow crown stapler should you buy? If you have questions about these handy carpentry tools, we have answers!

What is a Narrow Crown Stapler and Do You Need One?

If you have ever put together IKEA furniture, shelves other such pre-assembled furniture yourself, you may have noticed shelves almost fall apart until you put the back on. The back is thin and held together with small ring shank nails. Professional cabinet shops building custom, high-end furniture, use this method to add strength to their cabinet cases- they just use much better materials. They also don’t use ring shank nails. They use narrow crown staplers to attach the backs.

Narrow crown staplers are 1/4-inch wide staples and range in length up to 1.5-inch long. They are great at holding across the grain on thin strips like lattice without splitting the wood. Because of their shape, they provide a lot of holding power if you go across the grain.

Also, because of the small head size, narrow crown staples work well when installing decorative wall paneling.

Are There Wider Crown Staplers?

Now that we’ve introduced narrow crown staplers, what about wider crown models? Pros use medium crown staplers for attaching OSB or plywood siding, flooring, and roofing to houses. They come in 7/16-inch or 1/2-inch wide versions and use a thicker wire gauge (16 gauge). Narrow crown staplers use smaller 18 gauge staples.

Fence Staplers

You can also get stockade fence staplers that fire either 3.155mm (10-1/2ga) staples or 4mm (9ga) staples. These help secure stockade fencing to posts and are beloved by ranchers all across the world. If any tool benefits from battery-powered, cordless freedom, these tools fit the bill. If you can’t locate a battery-powered solution like the cordless fencing stapler, go for the Stockage ST400i fence stapler which uses gas cartridges.

Electrical Wire Staplers

More recently, manufacturers have announced electrical wire staplers that use proprietary staples for securing Romex and 12/2 wire directly to studs. One product that comes to mind includes the DeWalt 20V cable stapler.

Cordless Narrow Crown Staplers

Cordless narrow crown staplers provide plenty of power for the most common stapling applications. They do, however, add some serious weight. Pick up any of the Ryobi cordless nail and staple guns, for example, and you will immediately notice they weigh considerably more than a pneumatic tool.

Are Cordless Narrow Crown Staplers Powerful Enough?

The biggest question we get with cordless narrow crown staplers deals with power. Are these cordless narrow crown staplers powerful enough for most tasks? In a word: Yes. When it comes to driving the fasteners, I had no trouble driving 1.5-inch fasters in any material except hardwoods like oak. This should not be an issue as these are almost always going to be used in sheet goods, construction lumber, trim, paneling, or molding. In oak, expect to drive staples 1-inch or shorter in length.

Depth adjustment is very easy on all the Ryobi cordless nail guns. Simply turn the dial on the side the make the fastener sink deeper or stick up higher.

How to Use a Narrow Crown Stapler

If you want to known how to use a narrow crown stapler, first realize that it works exactly like a finish nailer. To fire it you basically line up the nose of the tool, press it against the workpiece, and pull the trigger. Unlike larger staplers designed to go around cables or wire without penetrating, a narrow crown stapler fastens material flush.

This gives you some leeway on where you place the staple. It also speeds up the process considerably since you aren’t placing the head across or overtop of a wire. Even so, let’s break down the steps:

1. Remove the Battery or Air Supply and Load the Staples

Before you do anything with the tool, like loading nails, you want to make sure to disable it. For a battery-powered crown stapler, that means removing the battery. On a pneumatic tool, you disconnect the air supply hose.

Next, load the staples. For most crown staplers, this involves pressing a button to open up the magazine. Often it slides back towards the user and crown staples drop into the magazine parallel from the bottom. On other models, the staples drop in from the top.

This is different than when you slide a stick of nails into the magazine from the end. Just make sure the points of the staples face in the direction you intend to fire. That may seem obvious, but if it’s your first time, this could save you some hassle!

2. Secure the Magazine and Staples

Once loaded, secure the magazine by sliding the spring-loaded cover back in place until the feeder button or lever locks.

3. Reconnect the Battery or Air Hose

You’re almost ready to get to work. Reconnect the air hose or reinsert the battery to get the tool ready. On a battery-powered crown stapler, you may also have to turn on the tool.

4. Select the Firing Mode

Some crown staplers have the option of bump-fire (contact actuation) or sequential-fire modes. Select it using a switch near the trigger. On some antiquated models, you may need to do more steps to switch the mode. For battery-powered crown staplers, you typically get a button to press or switch to slide.

5. Aim and Fire the Staple

Next, place the head where you want the staple to emerge and pull the trigger. You should hear the tool activate and the staple should fire directly into the material.

6. Check Fastener Depth/Penetration and Adjust if Needed

Check your fastener to see if you achieved the desired depth of fire. Is it flush? Is it “proud” (standing out from. the surface too far)? Adjust the depth settings on your cordless tool or the air pressure on your pneumatic tool to help get the results you want in the material you’re fastening.

The Bottom Line

A narrow crown stapler works really well for building cabinets, bookcases, drawers, or other box-type assemblies. If you can use a ring shank nail to hold a thin sheet good material in place, a narrow crown stapler can likely save you time. Anyone with a lot of wall paneling or lattice to install should also check out these handy tools.

The post How to Use a Narrow Crown Stapler and Why appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Ryobi updates their 18V Cordless Finish Nailer

Driving 16 to 15 gauge nails between 0.75-inch to 2.5-inch, finish nailers are extremely useful on the jobsite or around the house. They are great at installing door casings, crown molding, window sills, and other carpentry jobs where strength is important. We use brad nailers for trim that is more delicate and likely to split with a thicker nail. The outgoing cordless Ryobi P325 cordless 16-gauge finish nailer performed exceptionally well—even earning a Pro Tool Innovation Award. The updated Ryobi P326 cordless finish nailer has improved features such as a slimmer tip for more precision nailing.

Pros

• 0.75-inch to 2.5-inch 16 Gauge nails
• Stops firing when the magazine is almost empty
• Tooless jam clearing
• Work light that activates without firing the tool
• Easy to use controls
• Easy to reload nails

Cons

• Will not sink 2″ or longer nails into hardwoods like oak

Ryobi P326 Finish Nailer Performance

If you have never used a nail gun before, you will be impressed at how fast the Ryobi 16 Gauge Finish Nailer can drive 2.5-inch nails. If you have used other cordless nail guns, you will know what to expect. This is a little faster than my old one. It is not as fast as the premium models but it does not come with the sticker shock of those models either. It may not be quite as fast as the fastest performers but it is no slouch either. The Ryobi Finish Nailer will drive 2.5-inch nails below the surface of most woods all day long.

I have to give it the caveat “most woods.” It will still drive nails into hardwoods such as red oak and maple, but not 2-inches and over. Only some of the premium nail guns will. Some furniture makers may want to pass because of this but everyone else should ask themselves if they would ever be driving fasters that deep into hardwoods. I don’t think I ever will, and I’m a woodworker who uses exclusively hardwoods. I still chose to buy the previous Ryobi model for my own tool collection as I thought it was a great value and a great performer.

Some people may wonder why this tool doesn’t include a bump fire mode. This is not a framing nailer. It is a finish nailer. Finish nailers are for neat, controlled precise work, not sloppy “get it done as fast as possible” work.

Ryobi Finish Nailer Design Notes

Controls

The Ryobi Finish Nailer places a lever on the top of the tool to control power. Move it one way to increase it; move it the other way to decrease it. I found that you get the most power not when the lever is pointing at full power but when it is one stop short of full power. I found the same thing to be true of the Ridgid 18-gauge brad nailer.

Moving on down the tool is the depth gauge which is very easy and straightforward to use. The depth gauge sets a mechanical distance on the head that modifies how deep the nail goes into the wood. You use the power control dial like the psi setting on a compressor. Ensure you have enough power to drive the nail into the material. Then, set the depth gauge depending upon whether you want your nails flush or recessed into the material. The two controls work very well together.

To load nails in the tool, simply pull back on the side handle until it locks into place. Next, slip a clip or section of 16 gauge nails into the end. Up to 105 nails fit into the magazine at a time. Push the release button to slide the side hangle forward again which feeds the nails into the firing mechanism. If you ever encounter a jam (I did not) Ryobi provides a toolless release mechanism to clear the jam from the firing mechanism.

Other nice details of the Ryobi Finish Nailer include an LED light that is triggered by a secondary switch on the handle. There is also an additional non-marring rubber nose cone stored on the tool itself should you lose the one on the firing mechanism.

Ergonomics

As usual for a battery-powered nailer, the Ryobi P326 cordless finish nailer weighs more than a comparable air nailer. On the plus side, you don’t need to deal with a compressor or air hose, so pick your poison. Best of all, you don’t have the noise of the compressor running which I hate with a passion.

The nailer itself is very comfortable to use. I like having the included belt clip if for no other reason than for going up and down ladders the OSHA-approved way (hands-free).

It may be a small detail, but one of my favorite changes from the old model is the inclusion of a “16 Gauge” logo on the side of the nailer. Some of Ryobi’s nailers are very difficult to tell apart, especially their 18 gauge brad nailer and their 18 gauge narrow crown stapler. I wish their entire lineup had logos, or at the very least stickers on the side to distinguish them when shoved in a toolbox.

Ryobi Finish Nailer Price

The Ryobi 16 Gauge Finish Nailer retails for $228 as a kit including a 2.0 Ah 18V battery and charger. It also comes with some sample nails and a belt clip. We’re fairly certain Home Depot will have a tool-only version available as well.

The Bottom Line

The Ryobi 16 Gauge Finish Nailer is a great tool for DIYers, anyone with a big project, or perhaps even Pros who occasionally need a finish nailer (like paint crews). The Ryobi can get the job done and fits the sweet spot between the premium tools with their premium price tags and less capable tools. In my opinion, they offer the most bang for the buck. That is why I bought almost the entire line of Ryobi cordless nail guns for myself.

Ryobi Finish Nailer Specifications

• Weight: ~7 lbs
• Nails: 3/4 to 2-1/2 in. 16-gauge staight finish
• Magazine capacity: 105 nails
• 3 year limited warranty
• Includes: P326 18V ONE+ 16-Gauge 2-1/2 in. Straight Finish Nailer, belt clip, sample nails, PBP006 18V ONE+ Lithium-Ion 2.0 Ah Battery, PCG002 18V ONE+ Charger, and operator’s manual

The post Ryobi P326 16 GA Finish Nailer Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

When you ask who makes the best tools, the answers vary. It’s a long-held belief around here that the manufacturer with the best cordless drill doesn’t necessarily make the best miter saw. The same can be said for each type of nailer. In fact, the best nail gun in the various categories and styles we cover brings many different manufacturers into the spotlight.

After reading through our list, be sure to leave your comments below and let us know if you differ on any of our picks.

Best Nail Gun for Framing – Pneumatic

Metabo HPT NR90AES1 Framing Nailer

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Without a doubt, the best nail gun for framing has to be the Metabo HPT NR90AES1. Formerly the Hitachi NR90AES1, this is simply the lightest framing nailer we tested. We love the simple depth adjustment—which works with or without gloves. It also powers nails through the toughest materials. You get excellent visibility at the nose, quick and sure toenailing, and very little recoil.

This nailer takes nails up to 3-1/2″ x 0.148″ and has a tool-free mode change. The only crazy thing is it lacks dry-fire lockout and a rafter hook. I know, silly in this day and age, but true. We still love it and recommend it as our best pneumatic nail gun choice for framers. It has easy depth adjustment for various materials and outstanding power overall.

For the price (around $179) you’ll have a hard time beating this pneumatic framing nail gun.

We Also Recommend

• Milwaukee 7200-20 framing nailer – $229
• Ridgid R350RHF framing nailer – $229
• Max USA SN883RH3 Framing Nailer – $238

Best Nail Gun for Framing – Battery-Powered

Milwaukee FUEL 18V Cordless Framing Nailer

When it comes to pneumatic vs cordless nailers, pneumatic still wins for framing work. Still, you can definitely find some great tools for punch work. Available in both 21° and 30°, the Milwaukee M18 FUEL cordless framing nailers quickly impressed us. After testing these tools, however, the data quickly and clearly showed these nailers dominate other battery-powered tools.

While a tad heavy, they offer too many great features that tip the scales in their favor. You get zero delay on firing— even in bump mode. They consistently sink nails on every single shot, including when in rapid-fire bump mode. We even love the folding rafter hook and separate tool belt clip.

You can order an extended magazine for either model which holds 2 full sticks of nails. Most cordless nailers hold just one. Milwaukee clearly listened to its user base and made a great call there. Finally, we found the depth-adjustment easy to use, and we like the electronic switch that flips between the firing modes.

At $349 or $449 for the kit, this is the very best nail gun that runs off battery power alone.

We Also Recommend

• Metabo HPT 18V Cordless Framing Nailer – $229

Best Nail Gun for Framing – Gas or Fuel Cell

Paslode CF325XP Gas Framing Nailer

Though battery-powered nailers like our choice above keep getting better, the Paslode CF325XP framing nailer still finds favor among Pros. This especially holds true when it comes to punch-list work. This tool hit the market well before any of the pure battery-powered options.

We have an article on how fuel nailers work, but this tool drives its 30° nails when a small lithium-ion battery ignites a gas from a cartridge. It functions much more quickly than DeWalt and Bostitch battery-powered nailers with their firing delays. You do get a slight delay and a gas smell to put up with. Of course, there’s also the additional cost of new gas cartridges every 1200 shots or so.

Overall, the Paslode Cordless XP framer remains a popular cordless choice among Pro users. The lack of a bump-fire mode and its limited capacity makes it a tough sell as a primary tool, but it’s a capable cordless option. At $349, we still consider this the best fuel nail gun on the market.

Best Nail Gun for Finish Work – Pneumatic

Metabo HPT NT50AE2M 18 Gauge Finish Nailer

The Metabo HPT NT50AE2M 18 Gauge Finish Nailer is a solid performer. It lacks features like a dry fire lockout and swiveling air intake. That’s the trade-off you’re making for an incredible value while getting Metabo HPT’s pro performance level. This is an excellent option for Pros as their primary finish nailer.

You can’t beat the weight of this tool—just 2.2 pounds. Having used it extensively under the Hitachi moniker, the rebranded tool doesn’t disappoint. The price point also puts it squarely in the range of anyone looking for Pro-level performance. Carpenters, woodworkers, and anyone working with trim or cabinetry should love this tool.

For a bit more holding power, we also recommend:

• Senco Finish Pro 30XP 15-gauge finish nailer – $256.49
• Ridgid R250AFF 15-gauge angled finish nailer – $169

Best Nail Gun for Finish Work – Battery-Powered

Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18-Gauge Finish Nailer

The second-generation Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18ga brad nailer improves both visibility and the rate of fire of the first-gen design. No small update, this finish nail gun truly feels and operates like a completely new tool. It provides fast firing with zero ramp-up delay. Similar to the way the Metabo HPT cordless framing nailer operates, the battery preps each shot before the tool fires. That eliminates any lag.

The tool also has a quick bump-fire mode, though we find ourselves using that less in finish work. Still, the quick firing speed should keep up with just about anyone’s needs. At $279 for the bare tool or $399 for the kit, it doesn’t come cheap. Then again, nothing good ever does.

We Also Recommend:

• Metabo HPT NT1850DESM 18-gauge Finish Nailer – $339

Best Nail Gun for Narrow Crown Stapling – Pneumatic

Senco SLS150Mg 18ga Crown Stapler

The magnesium body of the Senco SLS150Mg 18-gauge Crown Stapler makes it weigh a scant 2.6 pounds. A thumbwheel sets the depth of drive, and a simple selector switch swaps between bump fire and sequential fire modes. This finish nailer accepts 18 gauge 1/4″ crown staples that range from 1/2″ to 1-9/16″ and holds 110 fasteners. The (included!) air inlet also swivels to help avoid tangled air hoses.

You can pick up this excellent stapler for less than $100 at most retailers. The tool also comes with Senco’s 5-year limited warranty.

We Also Recommend

• Metabo HPT 18ga Narrow Crown Stapler (N3804A5) – $169

Best Battery-Powered Nail Gun for Narrow Crown Stapling

Milwaukee M18 FUEL Narrow Crown Stapler

Pro carpenters and tradesmen will love the Milwaukee M18 FUEL narrow crown stapler. We first got our hands on it back in 2019 and it made an impression. Like the Metabo HPT cordless framing nailer, the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 18-gauge 1/4-inch narrow crown cordless stapler has zero firing delay when you pull the trigger. Even in bump-fire mode, we saw around 4-5 staples per second. It fires almost as fast as you can move to the next location. The tool simply has no noticeable lag.

This Milwaukee M18 FUEL stapler has the power to sink 1/4-inch narrow crown staples up to 1.5-inches—even into oak or cherry. The tool also has enough adjustability so you don’t just drive through thinner materials like underlayment.

This battery-powered stapler retails for $279 as a bare tool. You can also pick it up for $399 as a kit with an M18 CP 2.0 battery and charger.

Also Recommended

• Ryobi P360 18V Narrow Crown Stapler – $149
• Milwaukee M12 crown stapler – $189

Best Nail Gun for Pin Nailing – Pneumatic

DeWalt 23-gauge Pin Nailer

The DeWalt 23-gauge pin nailer really takes up the mantel from the venerable Porter-Cable PIN138 pin nailer we loved and used for years. Adding to the design, DeWalt created an exceptionally well-designed pinner that easily installs finer workpieces while eliminating the need to fill nail holes.

It’s also great for attaching small trim pieces and reducing the amount of touchup required before painting. We’ve put the finishing touches on several projects with it and found it easy to work with, lightweight, and reliable. DeWalt included a tool-free jam release—the first in a pinner as far as we’re aware. You even get a reversible belt hook and tool-free depth adjustment.

The DeWalt DWFP2350K pin nailer retails for around $149. The tool also comes with a 7-year limited warranty, 1-year free service contract, and 90-day money-back guarantee.

Best Battery-Powered Pinner

Milwaukee M12 Pin Nailer

We find it difficult not to like the Milwaukee M12 cordless pin nailer. It’s lighter and more compact than any other cordless model we’ve used. And when we say lighter and more compact—we mean it. Its performance has also been flawless to date. Though you can still go lighter with air nailers, the Milwaukee M12 23-Gauge Pin Nailer is a no-brainer switch to make as a full-time pneumatic replacement for carpentry and woodworking projects.

The Milwaukee 2540-21 pin nailer retails for around $199 as a bare tool or $249 for the kit. The cordless 12V pin nailer also includes a 3-year warranty.

We Also Like

• Makita XTP02 18V Cordless Pin Nailer – $189 (bare tool)

What to Look for in a Nail Gun

Pneumatic or Battery Power

When we think about what to look for in a nail gun we start at the top. Do you want ultimate portability for smaller projects or are you looking for the lightest-weight tool possible for extended use? For now, pneumatic nail guns still beat battery-powered models by a long shot. If you want a lightweight tool, grab a compressor and get going.

For framers and roofers, the choice is obvious. Pneumatic tools still have a clean edge and provide the smoothest, most consistent work experience. When you get down to punch lists, however, things begin to change. Now, battery-powered tools begin to gain in. their practicality and convenience. We know several roofing crews who employ the DeWalt cordless roofing nailer for repairs. It speeds up setup and tear down.

Switching Firing Modes

For framing nailers and roofing nailers, switching firing modes used to be a real hassle. Even the best nail guns at the time required you to swap out triggers to change modes. Now, most tools have some form of tool-free mode change. Some companies do it using a slide switch or button near the trigger. Several battery-powered models use electronics to control the mode.

In either case, if you often switch between bump-fir and sequential firing modes, be sure the tool you get makes it easy to go back and forth.

Other Features

Most nailers are catching on. Few miss any important features anymore. Still, make sure you’re getting what you need. In addition the firing mode switch above, look for dry fire lockout. That keeps you from firing “blanks” when you run out of nails. It can be frustrating at best. At worst, it can damage the material you’re working on by creating the impression of a nail—without actually firing a nail.

We also want to see adjustable rafter hooks on larger tools like framing nailers. For roofing nailers not so much. And for finish nailers we care more about a belt hook for convenience.

On tools where you’re likely to be in a variety of positions behind the nailer, adjustable exhaust vents help out. I remember getting blown in the face repeatedly by a non-adjustable nailer when doing some siding work several years back.

Swivel Me This

Aside from that, be sure to buy swiveling 1-4″ NPT fittings for your nail guns. These make maneuvering around a hose so much easier. We carry a pile of them and put them on every tool when it comes in. A few nailers include them by default—but only a few. It doesn’t influence our decision or ratings on tools, but it’s a great tip to pass along.

Weight and Ergonomics

It cannot be overstated how important weight is to nail guns. The best nail guns have tons of power. They just don’t look like they have tons of power. One great example is the difference between the cordless flywheel system used by DeWalt vs the gas piston system Metabo HPT, Senco, and Milwaukee Tool employ. Line those tools up and you can quickly see that the DeWalt head looks gigantic in comparison.

Price and Value

Price matters. After all, if you don’t intend to use a tool every day, you may not need to spend as much. All things being equal—if it drives the nail, you can get the job done. With that said, quality matters and so we recommend taking everything into account when trying to understand both the price and value of a particular tool.

The value a tool offers will be different for everyone depending on what you prioritize the most: features, performance, or price. Regardless, it’s the sum of what you get compared to the price you pay that determines the value for you. That’s how we look at things and it really influences our ultimate recommendations.

Why You Can Trust Pro Tool Reviews

Ever check out a “review” site and you can’t tell if they actually tested the tools or if they’re just “recommending” the Amazon top sellers? That’s not us. We won’t recommend anything unless we’d actually use it ourselves and we don’t really care who the primary retailer is. It’s all about giving you a legitimate recommendation and our honest opinion of each product.

We’ve been in business since 2008 covering tools, writing reviews, and reporting on industry news in the construction, automotive, and lawn care industries. Our Pro reviewers work in the trades and have the skills and experience to know whether tools can perform well in the field.

Each year, we bring in and review more than 250 individual products. Our team will put our hands on hundreds of additional tools at media events and trade shows throughout the year.

We consult with innovators in the technology and design of tools to gain a broader grasp of where these products fit and how they work.

We work with more than two dozen professional contractors around the United States who review products for us on real job sites and consult with us on testing methods, categories, and weighting.

The end result is information you can trust because of the editorial, scientific, and real-world professional experience we collectively utilize each and every time we pick up and test a tool.

The post Best Nail Gun for Anyone in 2021 appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

We’ve been reviewing cordless finish nailers for many years now. In fact, many products are in their second or even third generation of tools. Still, should you jump in and pick up one of these battery-powered nailers? In an effort to keep you from spending your hard-earned money on something that sounds too good to be true, we created a great guide on pneumatic vs cordless nailers. After all, you don’t want to get burned when it comes to tools so critical to your business.

Pneumatic vs Cordless Nailers: Cost

Cordless nailers may seem to come with a bit of a sticker shock compared to their pneumatic air-powered cousins. A cordless nailer like the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18ga brad nailer comes in with a bare tool price of around $279. Compare that to products from Makita, Senco, and DeWalt which run between $70 and $99 for a similar pneumatic.

Neither tool can run by itself, however. The cordless model will run $399 with a 3Ah battery and charger. For the pneumatic, you need to toss in a good compressor like the Rolair VT25BIG. Add in a hose and fittings, and your cost of entry is right up there with the cordless nailer.

The other cost consideration is that most Pros don’t live on one nailer alone. Adding a narrow crown stapler and a larger finish nailer, like a 15- or 16-gauge, are par for the course. If you take the Milwaukee M18 FUEL nailers, they will run you around $299 without a battery and charger. Go with the kit and you will pay between $399 and $429.

Realistically, you’re going to want at least one of them to come with a battery if you don’t have other batteries from the same platform already in your arsenal. On the other hand, you can pick up the pneumatics for around half the price or less.

Pneumatic vs Cordless Nailers: Ergonomics

In this debate, the ergonomics are much less about the design of the handle and rubber overmold. The first consideration is weight, which is easily in favor of the pneumatic models. Even when you consider the weight of the hose that is hanging down, there’s a big difference between a finish nailer weighing around 2 pounds and a battery-powered model that can push the 7-pound mark or more.

It doesn’t end with weight, though. With a cordless nailer, you’re not dragging around a hose at all. You’re not tripping over it, it’s not throwing off the balance of the nailer while you work at various heights and angles, and you’re not tethered to a specified length. There’s also no compressor noise in the background. If you’re working in an area where people are present, this is a major bonus.

Pneumatic vs Cordless Nailer Performance

Having tested most of the current batch of battery-powered cordless nailers on the market, they perform very well. Most perform as expected and provide hassle-free nailing. Neither pneumatic nor cordless nailers stay jam-free forever, but proper maintenance keeps them firing effectively.

You will, however, typically notice a significant difference in the firing cycle. Pneumatic nailers fire as soon as you pull the trigger—as you’d expect. Cordless models typically don’t fire nearly as quickly. Part of this has to do with the difference in mechanisms used for these battery-powered nailers. Speaking in general terms, two types of battery nailing technology exist on the market:

Flywheel-based Cordless Nailers

Cordless nailers that use a flywheel require that flywheel to spin up (get up to speed) before firing a nail. Because of this, the first nail takes a second or so to fire. It can be frustrating and differs significantly from the feel of a pneumatic tool. Porter-Cable, Bostitch, and DeWalt cordless nailers all use flywheel technology.

Nitrogen Cylinder-based Cordless Nailers

The defining characteristic of gas cylinder nailers comes from their use of a captive volume of nitrogen. The tool uses the battery and motor to pressurize this cylinder. Once pressurized, it sits ready to fire instantly—much like a pneumatic nailer. The system works as a closed-loop system.

Because the (often brushless) motor applies force on the upstroke, the driver shoots a nail the instant the trigger is pulled. We prefer these nailers over flywheel models. They also tend to be smaller in size since they use a more compact firing mechanism. Milwaukee, Senco, and Metabo HPT cordless nailers all work using a system like this.

Cordless vs Pneumatic Nailers: Run Time

Considering the run time of both types of nailers almost seems unfair. Pneumatic nailers will run until your power goes out or you have to wait for your air compressor to recycle. The lowest run time cordless nailers will still drive hundreds of nails on one charge with a compact battery. Some nailers are capable of firing more than 1600 shots on a single charge.

Where things get interesting is when the nailer stops. For the cordless model, you swap batteries and put the used one on a charger. Even using compact batteries, it’s unlikely you’ll outwork two batteries being cycled.

For longer and larger jobs, pneumatic nailers still make a lot of sense. It’s rare you have an issue with the power, compressor, or hose. For most work, run-time isn’t the limiting factor. Instead, we turn back once again to weight and overall ergonomics.

Maintenance of Pneumatic vs Cordless Nailers

The pneumatic nailer uses a simpler design than its battery-powered, cordless counterpart. However, there are more pieces tied together in the pneumatic. You have to ensure that your hose isn’t leaking. Couplers and NPT connections need to be well-sealed.

The compressor should have enough gas or you need it to be plugged into a reliable power source. You also have to remember to oil your nailer every day and keep track of your compressor’s oil levels (if needed).

All of those considerations become null and void with cordless nailers. You just need a couple of batteries to get working. You do, however, have a lot more moving parts. You also have electronics and a motor. Far from a simple mechanical air-powered tool, cordless nailers introduce additional complexity to an otherwise simple tool.

When we think about the maintenance of pneumatic vs cordless nailers, the manufacturer’s warranty really comes into play. Since most people lack the training and skills to truly repair a battery-powered nailer, having some warranty recourse sets you up to understand how long you can reasonably expect to use the tool at a minimum.

Pneumatic vs Cordless Nailers: Setup and Take Down

Just for fun, I decided to time how long it took to get my gear from the truck until I fired the first nail. With the pneumatic combo, it takes two trips. The first trip brings the compressor and the second adds the nailer and hose. Of course, you have nails and other materials, but that happens with the cordless nailers as well.

By the time I got the gear, found a plug, connected the hose and nailer, and got the compressor up to operating pressure, I was more than 6 minutes in.

My cordless nailer took just 30 seconds from pulling it off the truck to firing the first nail.

I was just running a test at ground level. When you add in hiking through or around a house to the back yard or going upstairs, the time starts to pile on. As you move through your workday, you’ll find that you also have to continue moving your compressor and hose.

Then, at the end of the day, it’s going to take the same two trips to get your pneumatic gear back to the truck. You’ll just be more tired at that point. With a couple of room changes, going with a cordless nailer system can easily save you 30 minutes. You save even more time the more you move around the jobsite.

The Bottom Line

So should you go cordless or stick to the traditional pneumatic way of doing things?

If you can afford it—both. And that’s not a copout. We have and use both types and so do most of the Pros we work with.

We still recommend pneumatic nailers for larger projects. That includes framing, built-ins, or trimming out an entire house. It makes sense from both a cost and ergonomics standpoint. The pneumatic solution costs less and the tool weighs much less in your hand as you use it for extended periods of time.

You will, however, get to the meat of punch list and project work much more quickly with a battery-powered cordless nailer. Small jobs will simply set up and tear down more quickly with cordless tools.

At the end of the day, both pneumatic nailers and cordless nailers have their place. I’m not ready to say that either one can displace the other completely anytime soon.

What do you think about the pneumatic vs cordless nailers debate? Let us know in the comments below or by shouting out on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!

The post Pneumatic vs Cordless Nailers: What’s the Best Choice? appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Arrow PT18G Takes Care of Your Light Work

For small trim and interior molding work, the Arrow Pneumatic Brad Nailer looks promising. It’s light and durable, and it has those key features to make you more productive.

Arrow PT18G Key Features

The Arrow PT18G features a rubber non-marring tip to help keep your work surfaces clear of blemishes. The expected contact safety also prevents misfires.

Arrow has constructed the body of the tool from lightweight die-cast aluminum. In fact, it weighs a grand total of 3.5 lbs. but should be durable enough that you don’t need to baby it.

The PT18G brad nailer features a nail indicator window that lets you see when you’ve started to run low on nails. When it’s time to load more, the side-load magazine works as you’d expect. It easily guides and supports multiple 18-gauge brad lengths.

The Arrow PT18G Pneumatic Brad Nailer retails for $52.52, and it comes with a 3-year warranty against defects in manufacturing and materials.

Arrow Pneumatic Brad Nailer Specs

• Model: Arrow PT18G
• Weight: 3.5 lbs
• Dimensions: 10 x 2 x 10 in.
• Warranty: 3 years
• Price: $52.52

For more information about the Arrow Brad Nailer, check out Arrow’s website by clicking here.

The post Arrow PT18G Pneumatic Brad Nailer appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

The Metabo HPT 18ga Narrow Crown Stapler (N3804A5) is technically a new tool but it’s backed up by the fine pedigree of Hitachi nailers. We use this kind of stapler to install soffits where a brad nail would pass through the material completely. Of course, there are many woodworking, production work, and upholstery applications, too. Let’s take a closer look.

Pros

• Remarkably light at 2.7 pounds
• Handy air duster to blow dust and debris from work area
• Quick-release nose for jams (we didn’t experience any)
• Sequential and bump fire modes

Cons

• No significant drawbacks

Metabo HPT 18ga Narrow Crown Stapler Performance

We don’t always use a narrow crown stapler on the job but, when we do, there’s no other tool that can substitute. Could we be the most interesting contractors in the world? That’s up for debate. What isn’t is that the Metabo HPT 18ga narrow crown stapler didn’t disappoint us as we installed soffits on a handful of recent jobs.

This stapler is compact and feather-light at 2.7 pounds which is excellent because we typically use it for overhead work. Even if you’re doing production work or upholstery, you’ll appreciate its maneuverability.

You may notice an “Oil Daily” reminder on the gun which made us chuckle a bit. That’s not because we think you should disregard the manufacturer’s instructions, but the likelihood of that happening when you’re running a medium or even small crew is pretty low! Still, be sure to maintain the gun as best you can when it gets back to the tool crib.

Metabo HPT N3804A5 Favorite Features

It’s no surprise this 18ga narrow crown stapler from Metabo HPT has all the premium features you’d expect. It has a tool-less depth of drive and belt hook. You get a no-mar nose tip with a quick release for (hypothetical) jams as well as a switch for sequential or bump fire actuation. The magazine seems tough, and an adjustable exhaust and comfortable grip round out the features. Everything comes together very well in a nice compact package.

In addition to all those fine features is one that you don’t see on every nailer: an air duster. That’s the small black button that protrudes from under the exhaust cap.

When depressed, air bypasses the staple chamber and shoots out of the side of the gun to blow away dust, cleaning the work area. It’s a really great feature, though you have to twist the tool to the side to direct air at the workpiece.

Price

The 18ga Metabo HPT narrow crown stapler is a premium tool with a premium price. Here’s a look at some of the competition:

• Ridgid R150FSF: $99
• Makita AT638A: $109
• Bostitch SX1838K: $91.75
• DeWalt DWFP1838: $124
• Metabo HPT 18GA Narrow Crown Stapler: $169.97

The Bottom Line

The Metabo HPT N3804A5 narrow crown stapler easily became our favorite stapler for installing soffits and other fastening tasks where a brad nail won’t cut it. It offers all the bells and whistles you could want and even ones you didn’t know you needed—like the air duster. Compact, very light, and easy to use, we couldn’t ask the stapler for much more. At $169, it does carry a premium price, but we think it’s well worth it.

Metabo HPT 18ga Narrow Crown Stapler Specifications

• Item Number: N3804A5
• Staple Range: 1/4″ Crown 1/2″ – 1-1/2″
• Gauge: 18
• Staple Capacity: 100 Staples
• Magazine: Type Top Loading
• Magazine Angle: 0 Degree
• Operating Pressure: 70-120 PSI
• Adjustable Exhaust Port
• Depth Adjustment: Tool-less
• Jam Clear: Tool-less
• Integrated Air Duster
• Firing mode: Selective Actuation
• Dry-Fire Lockout: No
• Rubber Grip
• Dimensions (LxWxH): 10.3 x 3 x 9.25 in.
• Weight: 2.7 lbs
• Warranty: 5-years
• Price: $169

The post Metabo HPT N3804A5 18ga Narrow Crown Stapler Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

The DeWalt DWFP2350K 23-gauge pin nailer is an exceptionally well-designed pinner that easily installs finer workpieces while eliminating the need to fill nail holes. It’s also great for attaching small trim pieces and reducing the amount of touchup required before painting. I’ve put the finishing touches on several projects with it and found it easy to work with, lightweight, and reliable. I also liked how it could even handle longer nails when needed—though I typically top out at 1-3/8 inches.

Pros

• Accepts pin nails up to 2-inches
• Dual trigger system
• Tool-free depth adjustment and jam release
• Oil-free—no stains
• Low nail dry fire lockout
• No marring or indentation

Cons

• No significant downsides

DeWalt DWFP2350K 23-gauge Pin Nailer Performance

There’s not a Pro carpenter out there who doesn’t have an 18-gauge nailer for finish work. Not as many carry a 23-gauge nailer. If the 18-gauge tool suffices for such a wide range of work, why have another tool? The larger nails come with trade-offs. Larger nail holes need to be filled/covered and that thicker fastener has a greater chance of damaging delicate pieces. The powerful DeWalt 23-gauge pin nailer makes a strong case for itself by saving time, avoiding that potential damage, and including a nice feature set.

It does this because the very thin, headless pin nails are barely perceptible once driven. If you dial in the depth of drive and leave the pinhead flush with the work, you don’t have to fill or cover the result. The no-mar tip and smooth drive leave no indentations behind (more on that in the next section). We installed nosing and thin trim on several jobs—and the wood was always left unscathed. As a bonus, the DeWalt DWFP2350K accepts 2-inch pin nails—longer than the 1-3/8-inch max length of most of its competition.

DeWalt DWFP2350K Dual Trigger Design

The dual trigger design is a safety measure that primarily protects your workpieces. All nailers down to 18GA use nose safeties that prevent the gun from firing unless the nose is depressed. Because a 23-gauge pinner is meant for finer work, there’s no such nose safety on the DeWalt (or any pinner that I know of.) Pushing the nose of a pneumatic nailer into a delicate workpiece often leaves marks. Pinners forego this to allow for more precise and careful work.

In the old days, pinners didn’t have such safety mechanisms. I once knew a carpenter who had chest pains and, at the hospital, found that he’d pin nailed himself earlier that day! Fortunately, he recovered.

DeWalt DWFP2350K Light on Weight

As the DeWalt DWFP2350K is a pneumatic gun for small-gauge fasteners, it stays light and maneuverable. A few reviewers have wished for a battery-operated version, but I really think pneumatic is the way to go for such precise work. Bulky, cordless pin nailers like the Ryobi P318 and the Makita XTP02 simply weigh twice as much or more. For those who’d still balk at dragging out an air compressor, I suggest a compromise. The DeWalt 23GA Pin Nailer’s air demand is minimal, so you can use a small, battery-powered air compressor.

Even though there’s a low-nail lockout, a small window in the magazine gives you a gauge for remaining nails. I felt that the lockout mechanism really helped prevent jams. Most pin nailers I’ve used jam frequently—particularly when nails get low in the magazine. If the DeWalt 23GA Pin Nailer does jam, it may just be the world’s only 23GA pinner with a tool-free jam mechanism. I actually fired many strips of nails and didn’t experience any. That’s one feature I was happy and impressed I didn’t have to use!

DeWalt DWFP2350K Price

The DeWalt 23GA Pin Nailer will set you back $149. As I mentioned, it accepts a longer nail than almost all of its competition (2-inch nails versus 1-3/8-inch standard). Here’s a quick look at the field:

• Porter Cable PIN138 1-3/8-inch: $94.99
• Ridgid R138HPA 1-3/8-inch: $134.95
• Makita AF353 1-3/8-inch: $97.95
• Hitachi NP35A 1-3/8-inch: $126.47
• DeWalt DWFP2350K 2-inch: $149
• Bostitch BTFP2350K 2-inch: $121.80

The Bottom Line

With a large nail range, tool-free jam clearance, dual-trigger safety, and lots of finessable power, the DeWalt DWFP2350K pin nailer makes a compelling case for itself. If you thought you could get along with an 18GA nailer, you might reconsider when you see how much time it saves and workpiece marring it avoids. After this review, it’s hard to imagine finish carpentry without it!

DeWalt 23GA Pin Nailer Specifications

• Model Number: DWFP2350K
• Fastener Length: 5/8- to 2-inch
• Fastener Type / Gauge: 23 GA Pin Nails
• Magazine Capacity: 135
• Height: 8.75 inches
• Length: 9.2 inches
• Weight:  2.5 pounds
• Trigger Type: Dual
• Price: $149

The post DeWalt DWFP2350K 23-gauge Pin Nailer Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.