Best Finish Nailer 2018 – Reviews & Ratings

There are two types of nailers required by finish carpenters, and those are brad nailers and finish nailers but also referred to as a nail gun. Carpenters and DIYers need this type of tool in their arsenal like a chef needs his knives. It’s used to drive nails into wood without needing a hammer. It’s driven by compared air (pneumatics), electromagnetism, and flammable gasses like butane, propane, or a small explosive charge.

In our Finish Nailer buyer’s guide, we will do our best to help break down each top brand of Finish Nailer to help you find the one that is just right for your next projects.

Best Finish Nailer Comparison

Hitachi	Bostich	Dewalt	Porter-cable	Senco
Model: NT65MA4	Model: N62FNK-2	Model: D5276K	Model: DA250C	Model: 4G0001N
15 Gauge	15 Gauge	15 Gauge	15 Gauge	15 Gauge
5 Year Warranty	7 Year	1 Year	3 Year	5 year
3.8 pounds	4.4 pounds	3.9 pounds	3.9 pounds	4.5 pounds
Accepts 15-Gauge nails  1-1/4″ up to 2-1/2″	Accepts 15-Gauge nails  1-1/4″ up to 2-1/2″	Accepts 15-Gauge nails  1″ up to 2-1/2″	Accepts 15-Gauge nails  1″ up to 2-1/2″	Accepts 15-Gauge nails  1-1/4″ up to 2-1/2″
$$	$$	$$	$$	$$$
(Editors Choice) Ratings: 4.8	Ratings: 4.7	Ratings: 4.5	(Great Value) Ratings: 4.6	Ratings: 4.5
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Best Cordless Finish Nailer Reviews

Hitachi 18v	Ryobi 18v	Dewalt	Porter-cable 20v	Senco 18v
Model: NT1865DM	Model: P330	Model: D5276K	Model: PCC792LA	Model: 5N0001N
16 Gauge	15 Gauge	15 Gauge	16 Gauge	15 Gauge
2 Year Warranty	3 Year	1 Year	3 Year	2 year
7.3 pounds	6.8 pounds	3.9 pounds	5.7 pounds	6.1 pounds
Accepts 15-Gauge nails 1″ up to 2-1/2″	Accepts 15-Gauge nails 1-1/4″ up to 2-1/2″	Accepts 15-Gauge nails 1″ up to 2-1/2″	Accepts 15-Gauge nails 1″ up to 2-1/2″	Accepts 15-Gauge nails 1-1/4″ up to 2-1/2″
$$	$$	$$	$$	$$$
Ratings: 4.8	(Great Value) Ratings: 4.7	Ratings: 4.5	Ratings: 4.6	(Editors Choice) Ratings: 4.5
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1. Hitachi NT65MA4 Finish Nailer

Here is the Hitachi NT65MA4 2-1/2 inch 15-Gauge Angled Finish Nailer with Air Duster that is an ideal nailer for installing both base and crown moldings, door and window casings, chair rails, cabinets, etc. It’s angled magazine, and compact body makes for easy operation and placement in tight angles. Users can enjoy the convenience of an integrated air duster that clears workspaces of debris. We like how this tool is meant for the everyday pros, beginners and DIYers can enjoy the finish nailer, too, but it’s extra special when a professional can sink their fingers in a beast of a tool to handle demanding jobs while being lightweight.

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Pros

Cons

Integrated air duster to clear dust and debris from the workspace Tool-less, easy-to-clear nose for fast nail extraction if and when a nail jam occurs during use Selective actuation switch for either sequential or contact nailing with a flip of the switch Tool-less depth of drive dial adjusts for flush fastening into various materials for enhanced control and a professional finish 360-degree completely adjustable exhaust portal will direct air exhaust away from the operator or workplace lightweight at 4.2 lbs, this finish nailer reduces user fatigue, while enhancing maneuverability 34-degree magazine angle gives the user the ability to reach into corners or tight spaces without effort

Tip cap storage could use improvement (That’s it – terrific tool!)

Top Hitachi Finish Nailer Questions & Answers

2. BOSCH N62FNK-2 15-Gauge Finish Nailer

Here is the BOSTITCH N62FNK-2 15-Gauge 1 1/4-Inch to 2-1/2-Inch Angled Finish Nailer that comes in lightweight magnesium housing weighing 3.8 pounds reducing user fatigue and increasing productivity. Its engine is oil-free needing no lubrication and will not stain any surfaces. The highest power-to-weight ratio with its 400-inch-pounds of incredible driving power. We like the removable magazine on this tool as its tool-less making it much easier to clean and clear up any jams while using. We also dig the quick countersinking adjustments for depth control plus the tool-free adjustable exhaust that will direct the airflow – this beast of a tool is low maintenance and we like it!

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Pros	Cons
Lightweight, Durable Construction for Everyday Use with magnesium housing Adjustable to Match the Task at Hand Give Your Home a Professional Finish 1-1/4-inch to 2-1/2-inch 15-gauge oil-free angled finish nailer Tool-free removable and angled magazine, adjustable depth control, and bypass nail pusher Includes four profile tips along with sample fasteners	We looked and couldn’t find any, yet 🙂

Top Bosch Finish Nailer Questions & Answers

3. Dewalt D51276K 15-Gauge Finish Nailer

Here is the DEWALT D51276K 1-Inch to 2-1/2-Inch 15-Gauge Angled Finish Nailer that includes a tool-free depth adjustment, tool-free 360-degree exhaust, and a tool-free jam clear for an excellent low-maintenance tool that demands authority on the job site. We enjoy the 3.85 lbs of lightweight goodness this tool holds leaving us with less fatigue which increases our work performance and productivity.

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Pros	Cons
70-120 PSI operating pressure Tool-free depth adjustment, jam clear and exhaust Lightweight at only 3.85 lbs. Low profile no-mar pad Trigger lock-off Sealed lube dual tech motor that is low maintenance with an oil free and oil lube unit	No cons

Top DeWalt Finish Nailer Questions & Answers

4. Porter-Cable DA250C Angled Nailer Kit

Here is the PORTER-CABLE DA250C 1-Inch to 2-1/2-Inch 15-Gauge Angled Finish Nailer that has a compact body created for easier placement and positioning. It also has an internal piston catch mechanism that keeps the piston at its initial position for all around consistent power and non-marring nose tip with onboard storage preventing unsightly marks from nailing. We love how effortless it is to install crown and base molding with this handheld soldier.

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Pros

Cons

Bypass pusher reload magazine pulled from either side for rear and lock-style reloading Internal piston catch mechanism will maintain the piston at its initial position for consistent power Removable non-marring nose tip on tool storage helps prevent ugly nailing marks Sequential style trigger with lock-off switch for added safety measures Contact safety behind the driver guide offers visibility Tool-free adjustable exhaust channels contaminants away from users Tool-free jam release mechanism offers easy nail removal Tool-free depth-of-drive adjustment that has detents for proper nail-head setting Integrated rubber grip delivers an ergonomic handhold

No feature allowing to toggle between modes on the gun without changing triggers.

Top Porter-Cable Questions & Answers

5. Senco 4G0001N 15-Gauge Finish Nailer

Here is the Senco 4G0001N FinishPro 42XP 15-Gauge 1-1/4-Inch to 2-1/2-Inch Finish Nailer that’s designed for tackling some of the most difficult nailing jobs with an operating pressure of 70 to 120 maximum psi that is built to perform. It can drive both the galvanized and bright 15-gauge nails from 1-1/4 to 2-1/2″ inches in the hardest woods. It is ideal for exterior and interior trim work such as base and crown molding, window, and door casings, cabinets, etc. We love the magnesium housing that goes through a war with excessive wear and tear without showing signs of being abused.

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Pros

Cons

Having a pressure operating at 70 to 120 PSIG you can tackle some of the toughest nailing projects 42XP includes a dial-in depth gauge on the side to experience precise, and efficient results Magnesium housing for a lightweight and comfortable tool at 4.5-pounds to use all day without fatigue Thumbwheel adjustable depth of drive Neverlube® technology – no lubrication required EZ-Clear latch- to clear jams quickly and easy 360-degree adjustable exhaust

Some trouble with misfiring

Top Senco Finish Nailer Questions & Answers

6. Dewalt DCN660D1 20v Max Cordless 16-Gauge Angled Finished Nailer

Here is the DEWALT DCN660D1 20V MAX 2.0 Ah Cordless Lithium-Ion 16 Gauge 2-1/2 in. 20 Degree Angled Finish Nailer Kit that is perfect for fastening trim, baseboard, crown and base moldings, door and window casing. The cordless finish nailer gets the job done with no noise and hassle.  The Multi-functional lights deliver both workspace illumination and tool diagnostics, and we like the Tool-free depth adjustment for precise countersinking of nails.

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Pros

Cons

Sequential mode for accurate placement and bump mode for increased production speed Up to 800 nails per charge and a 20-Volt Max 2.0Ah battery included Tool-free jam release to clear nail jams quick and effortlessly Multi-functional lights provide both workspace illumination and tool diagnostics Tool-free depth adjustment for accurate countersinking of nails Integrated tool-free stall release lever

Belt hook is made of plastic

Top Dewalt Cordless Finish Nailer Questions & Answers

7. Hitachi NT186DM 16-Gauge Straight Finish Nailer

Here is the Hitachi 18V Brushless 16 gauge straight finish nailer – NT1865DM cordless and with no need for compressors, hoses, gas cartridges, and more equipped with a brushless technology. The cordless nailer provides enhanced power while being lightweight with longer runtime per charge. We like that it includes a tool-less depth of drive adjustment and a convenient on-tool battery life indicator. Drives around 1500 nails per charge with accurate, and flush results.

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Pros

Cons

A Pivoting belt hook LED light working in low-light areas Side-lock switch for added security measures to prevent accidental firing. Brushless motor for longer run time, less maintenance, and enhanced durability Straight magazine maintains 100 16-gauge fasteners from 1″ up to 2-1/2″ in length Portability with cordless feature Selective actuation switch transitions from sequential mode to bump fire mode when rapid nailing is needed Fast clear nose with tool-less jam release for low and easy maintenance and minimized downtime

None yet!

Top Hitachi Cordless Finish Nailer Questions & Answers

8. Senco 5N0001N Fusion Finish Nailer

Here is the Senco 5N0001N Fusion Finish Nailer loaded with power and the utility of a pneumatic tool but with a more convenience cordless feature. We like their patented reflex-shot design that gives a quick shot when the pulling the trigger with no ramp-up time.

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Pros	Cons
Patented reflex shot design Robust aluminum drive cylinder Nose mounted LED light to illuminate darker work areas Innovative EZ-clear feature Thumbwheel depth of drive Adjustable belt hook	Only has one battery

Top Senco Cordless Finish Nail Questions & Answers

9. PORTER-CABLE PCC792LA

Here is the Porter-cable PCC792LA 20V Max Cordless 16-Gauge Straight Finish Nailer that is battery-driven demolishing the annoying need for a hose, compressor, or even gas cartridges that are expensive. Users will get a consistent firing power for different materials such as crown moldings, cabinets, baseboards, etc. We liked the LED lights that are dual multi-functional for both error indication and workspace illumination.

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Pros	Cons
100% battery power will rid the need for a compressor, hose or those costly gas cartridges Multiple Tool Free Settings to deliver enhanced productivity and user safety Motor design offers consistent firing power into different materials and climate conditions Fastener length capacity at 1″ to 2-1/2″ plus a magazine capacity of 100 nails	A bit heavy and bulky

Top Porter-cable Cordless Finish Nailer

Q – Will this tool work for installing pine flooring which is a more softer wood?

A – Yes, just check out the depth settings and set the impact for thickness and hardness of wood.

Q – Can I use 18ga nails on this too or just 16ga?

A – Only 16ga as you don’t want to damage the striker or get a jam.

Q – Is there a carrying bag or case?

A – No.

10. RYOBI P330 15-GAUGE Finish Nailer

Here is the RYOBI P330 15-GAUGE Finish Nailer that introduces the fourth addition to the AirStrike line-up technology that squashes the annoying need for endless attachments such as bulky hoses, expensive gas cartridges, and loud compressors. Now you get a faster setup and can maneuver around easier with the cordless finish nailer. We like how this tool is a part of a collection that allows you the convenience to build on the ONE+ collection without spending more money for chargers and batteries for additional tools.

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Pros

Cons

Drives up to 750 nails per charge using 18-Volt ONE+ high capacity lithium+ battery the P108 which are sold separately Just by grasping the tool handleGrip-light technology it will illuminate LED light onto dark workspaces Tool-less depth-of-drive adjustment will protect users work surfaces and allow correct setting of finish nails Adjustment lever regulates air pressure for best results Two non-marring pads to keep work surface free of tool marks with 1 in. storage position on the rear of the magazine Dry-fire lockout feature extends tool life Belt clip mounts to both right side or left side for added convenience for right-handed and left-handed users

No trigger lock or safety lock

Top Ryobi Cordless Finish Nailer Questions & Answers

Finish Nailer Buyer’s Guide

When you need to drive many nails fast, the ideal solution is that of a finish nailer, and they sink thousands of nails accurately and consistently. There are a variety of finish nailers to choose from, and one may have features that would work best with a particular task which is why more goes into purchasing reason why we’ve got a finish nailers buyer’s guide here for you.

Nailer Types

Nailers are available in both a coil and a strip configurations.

Coil-style nailers: Coil-style nailers will use a long, flexible string of nails joined with wires. Then there is a round magazine on the tool holds the nails in a coil. These nailers can fit into tinier spaces that will not accept many strip-style models. Coil-style nailers contain more nails than a strip-style model, which also means you won’t have to reload as much as other tools.

Strip-style: Strip-style nailers will use nails arranged on a long, thin strip or stick that slides into an oblong magazine on the device. Pieces of paper, plastic or wire will tighten and keep the nails together. The strip-style configuration gives out the weight of the nails instead of concentrating it in a roll, as this will be giving the tool better balance than a coil-style nailer.

When is A Finish Nailer Needed

Nailers are a huge part of work productivity in many types of high-end and finish carpentry. Some models are useful for more high-volume applications that are heavy-duty, while others work well for smaller tasks such as:

Framing nailers: Will handle many tough projects such as building decks, constructing room additions or framing houses.

Flooring nailers:  Will speed up the installation of hardwood flooring.
Palm nailers are small, pneumatic tools that can drive separate nails in small spaces.

Finishing Nailers: Are much lighter than the framing nailers are and work perfectly for putting furniture and installing cabinets, trim and molding together.

Staplers, Brad Nailers, and Tackers: Lightweight and are ideal for precision work.

Roofing Nailers: Are for applying roof shingles.

Power Sources

When you need a tool with high portability or a tool that can work for longer periods of time then the power source for the finish nailer needs to be considered.

Fuel-Driven Cordless Nailer: Uses combustion to drive nails. Fuel drains out of the disposable gas cartridge and into the burning chamber. Battery delivers an electric charge to start the fuel, and the resulting explosive force will drive the nail. No annoying cords or bulky hoses are needed, giving this type of nailer good mobility and lower maintenance.
Battery-powered cordless nailer: Delivers much greater portability than a pneumatic nailer since it doesn’t need a compressor or a bulky hose. Plus the battery-powered cordless model has a fast start-up time, but it won’t have the power of a pneumatic nailer which is a bummer.