In the world of tools, Hitachi is a well-known name among professionals and DIY enthusiasts. You will hardly find any workshop not having one or multiple tools from this manufacturer. With no expectation of their best manufacturing characteristics, several Hitachi brad nailers compete strongly with other top brands.
If you are looking for a reliable brad nailer, you have probably come across the NT50AE2 model from this brand. On paper, the tool seems quite promising and comes with features to make woodworking and nailing projects effortless.
In this in-depth Hitachi NT50AE2 review, you will get pretty much everything that you must know about the tool. See if it stands out to be the best for your nailing requirements.
Hitachi NT50AE2 Review
At the first impression, the tool feels too lightweight and extremely comfortable to carry on hand. It weighs just about 2.2 pounds, which might make you wonder about its durability.
Hitachi NT50AE2 18-Gauge Brad Nailer
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Hitachi used durable aluminum material to construct the tool, which gives you the assurance of being a durable brad nailer while maintaining a comfortable weight.
According to its construction and the overall aesthetics, the nailer doesn’t seem to have many corner cuts. So, even though it’s priced quite low, it doesn’t compromise when it’s about longevity and durability.
Technical Specifications
Weight: 2.2 lbsNail Diameter: 18 GaugeMagazine Capacity: 100 nailsMagazine Type: SideloadingNail Length: ⅝ – 2 inchesPower Type: Air-poweredOperating Pressure: 70-120 PSIDimensions: 9.5 x 10 inches
Overall Performance
Compatible with 18 gauge nails, the gun suits best for light-duty projects. The nailer handles trimming, finishing, and remodeling flawlessly.
While dealing with delicate projects, you won’t probably find another brad nailer within its class to deliver such smooth and reliable performance.
Although nail jamming is something you cannot avoid, you will experience much less jamming using the tool. When it’s used with bump firing mode, you are most likely to have some jamming issues.
For optimum performance, you might need to oil the nailer every now and then. It will also make sure the nail gun is in good shape and increase the overall lifespan of the product.
Dual Firing Feature
Whether your nailing projects require you to finish nailing fast or with precision, the nailer got you covered. You can select continuous firing when the project requires fast finishing, and precision doesn’t matter. Also, there is an intermittent firing mode for precise and slow nailing projects.
The firing transitions are tool-less; thus, less time wasting for adjusting and more onto nailing. Just slide the control up using the hand and set the desired firing mode according to the project.
Adjustable Depth Drive
Although brad nailers only deal with thin and small workpieces, you can further adjust the driving depth while nailing delicate materials. The tool features a convenient depth adjustment knob that doesn’t require any additional tools to set it to the perfect depth as per the wood pieces need.
Magazine Capacity
Unlike conventional brad nailers, you won’t need to spend much time while loading and reloading the magazine while dealing with a large project. Depending on the nail size, the magazine can hold up to 100 brad nails. It’s compatible with nails from ⅝ to 2 inches in size.
To prevent dry firing, a visible indicator is there, which will let you know about the remaining nails.
Nose Design
When nailing requires you to drive hard to reach areas, you can rely on its narrow nose. It’s been specially engineered to place the nose piece in tight areas and corners for smooth and flawless nail driving.
Additionally, to protect your delicate surface, the nose has a no-mar tip that doesn’t leave any markings on workpieces whatsoever.
360-degree Adjustable Exhaust Port
Most brad nailers perform quite well, except for a few aspects where the users don’t find convenience. The exhaust port is one of those areas that are overlooked by most manufacturers. However, Hitachi didn’t make the mistake.
The nailer features a 360-degree adjustable exhaust port that you can direct to wherever you prefer to keep the exhaust air away from you while driving nails.
Ergonomics
While buying a handheld tool, you shouldn’t overlook the ergonomic factor, especially if you plan to use the tool for prolonged hours.
The handle on this one has gotten a great grip onto it. You will feel well-control over the nailer while working. For extended periods of nail driving, you are less likely to experience any fatigue and other uncomfortable issues.
Also, the lightweight design of the nailer further complements its user convenience.
Things That I like about Hitachi NT50AE2 Brad Nailer
Lightweight
When it comes to the weight, the nail gun pretty much nails its competitors. It feels comfortably lightweight and easy to use.
Excellent Grip
Your hands will have good control of the nailer due to its Elastomer grip. For projects that require hours of nailing, you can rely on this nailer regarding comfort.
Offers Exhaust Port
It’s worth mentioning that the adjustable exhaust port is extremely useful. It keeps dust and debris away from you.
Requires Fewer Reloads
Less reloading will provide you more convenient user-experience for sure. For small projects, you might not need to reload the magazine at all.
Depth Adjustability
Adjustable depth makes it safer to drive nails on more delicate surfaces.
Sturdy
Although some parts of it are mostly of plastic, the nailer still feels quite solid in hand.
Things That I Didn’t Like about Hitachi NT50AE2 Brad Nailer
Not the Best Side Loading Magazine
Its side loading magazine has some design flaws. If you are not careful, it can catch the end of the nail strip. Major issues can occur if you are unconscious.
Requires Oiling
The gun requires oiling to keep its performance to an optimum level. However, this is a minor issue as the oil doesn’t leak at all.
Plastic Parts Are Prone to Damage
Some parts are made of plastic. Thus, if not handled with care, these parts might break falling on hard surfaces.
Final Words
For small home projects, DIY picture-frame assembly carpentry, cabinet installation, and light-duty and delicate professional nailing, the nailer doesn’t seem to disappoint the customers.
For comparing the Hitachi NT50AE2 review with other nailing guns of its class, do consider the price factor too.
If, within this price, you are looking for a tool to handle tougher jobs, then this one might be the one for you.