Best Finish Nailer Reviews And Top Pick 2021 – Everything You Need To Know

best finish nailer

Are you a professional woodworker who needs to work on a heavy baseboard? Or are you a DIYer currently working on cabinetry? In any case, what you need right now is a finish nailer.

Along with a stronghold and precise nailing, this tool has a lot more to offer, which will improve your woodworking significantly. But to get consistent and stunning results, you need the best finish nailer.

Finding the best one can be quite challenging, which is why we have handpicked the top available ones out there. Furthermore, we have also included all the necessary details so that you won’t miss out on any information.

Along with that, we have included a buying guide that will help you look according to your requirements.

So, without further delay, let’s get started.

8 Best Finish Nailer Reviews 

Executing a woodworking project properly requires an excellent finish nailer, which can often be difficult to find. Hence, we have handpicked the top eight nailers in the market right now, while providing all the necessary details so that you can get the most suitable one for you effortlessly.

1. Metabo HPT Finish Nailer, (NT65MA4)

If you need to work on your woodworking projects for long hours, then you cannot afford to have a heavy finish nailer. Therefore, here’s a lightweight one that reduces user fatigue and provides top-notch maneuverability. Get to know more about the features that make it the best rated finish nailer.

This 15-gauge finish nailer comes with multiple facilities that will make your work easier for you. For instance, it comes with a selective actuation switch, which enables actuation or contact nailing with an easy flip of the switch.

On the other hand, the machine comes with a tool-less depth of drive dial, which can be adjusted for flush fastening into different materials. This aspect will allow you to have more control over the project while providing a professional finish.

For further convenience, the tool includes a 360-degree fully adjustable exhaust portal. The benefit of this part is that it will direct all the air exhaust away from the workpiece and the user as well, which will make woodworking much more hassle-free.

To make sure you don’t have to clean up all the mess after working, the tool comes with an integrated air duster. This part of the product keeps all the debris and dust away from the work surface.

The product does not include a raptor hook, which can be a major drawback when working on windows and ladders. On the other hand, it does not come with a bumper, so you may end up marring your workpiece if you aren’t careful.

Pros

  • Lightweight design reduces user fatigue
  • Selective actuation switch enables actuation or contact nailing
  • Adjustable tool-less depth of drive dial
  • 360-degree adjustable exhaust portal directs all the air exhaust away
  • Integrated air duster keeps all the dust and debris away

Cons 

  • Does not come with a raptor hook
  • Bumper not included

2. DEWALT 20V MAX Finish Nailer (DCN660B)

Do you dislike it when your tools run out of power while you are in the middle of work? Well, that is not something you will have to face with this product, thanks to its long-lasting battery life. It comes with other fantastic features, which make it the best cordless finish nailer.

To make sure you never go out of light when woodworking, this machine comes with integrated LED lights. The benefit of this aspect is that you would be able to efficiently complete your project even under low light or in the dark.

On the other hand, the bump operating mode of the tool makes sure your wood piece remains undamaged and unscratched. There will be no unintended markings on it, so the project will have a nice and smooth finish when it’s complete.

This 20-degree finishing nail gun only makes your work more convenient for you. The angled tool makes sure you can nail your wooden boards with utmost ease, even if you have no prior experience in this field.

When it comes to power, this tool will surely stand up to your expectations. It comes with a maximum initial battery voltage of 20V and a nominal voltage of 18V. Hence, it will provide you with the power necessary for your project without any hassle.

One of the major drawbacks of this tool is that it jams up way too easily, which can interrupt your project momentarily. Moreover, the manual does not come with enough information; for instance, it does not specify which nails you should be using with this tool.

Pros

  • Long-lasting battery life for long run time
  • Allows you to work under low light or in the dark
  • Bump operating mode prevents damage and scratches
  • 20-degree feature provides more convenience
  • Offers a maximum initial battery voltage of 20V

Cons 

  • Jams up way too easily
  • Manual does not include enough information

3. BOSTITCH Finish Nailer Kit, 15GA, FN Style with Smart Point (BTFP72156)

If you are going to invest a considerable amount of money on a finish nailer, then you should make sure that it’s worth the investment. Fortunately, here’s the best finish nailers for the money, which includes all the features that you could possibly need, and you will find out more in this review.

What makes this tool stand out is its smart point technology. The benefit of this aspect is that it ensures effortless placement of nails due to a smaller nose, and you won’t need to compress the contact trip for actuating the tool.

Do you find it hassle-some to remove nails from the wooden board? Well, not anymore! The tool-free jam release mechanism of this tool will make sure to remove nails with minimal effort and in the shortest time possible, so you won’t have to pause your work.

Moreover, this tool also ensures accurate countersinking of nails, thanks to its dial-a-depth control. Therefore, even if you haven’t used a finish nailer before, you won’t be facing any hassle with this one.

With a magazine capacity of 129 nails, this 15-gauge tool can accommodate style angled finish nails from 1.25 to 2.5-inch length. This aspect will enable you to use a wide range of nails with this product, increasing versatility.

The product requires 25-degree angled nail guns, which are often difficult to find in the market. On the other hand, the tool misfires from time to time, which can be a major source of inconvenience for the users.

Pros

  • Ensures effortless placement of nails due to a smaller nose
  • Provides excellent value for money
  • Removes nails with minimal effort within the shortest possible time
  • Ensures accurate countersinking of nails
  • Accommodates 129 nails within 1.25 to 2.5-inch length

Cons 

  • Requires 25-degree angled nails
  • Misfires from time to time

4. Makita AF601 16 Finish Nailer

If you like to work for long hours, then you need a finish nailer that is lightweight and easy to use. Here’s a product that offers both of these facilities along with a lot more. You will find out about its amazing aspects in this review.

Great performance and power can ensure the ideal delivery of a project- and this tool ensures that. It comes with an efficient motor design, which provides top-notch power performance. So it will be able to execute your projects with perfection.

Despite the power it generates, you won’t have to worry about your workpiece getting damaged, thanks to its nail lock-out mechanism. The benefit of this feature is that it protects both the tool and the work surface from dry fires.

For countersink nailing and a more accurate flush, the tool comes with a tool-less depth adjustment feature. In fact, the machine also includes a two-mode selector switch, which will allow you to have more control over nailing operations.

But that’s not all- the product takes care of the aftermath of woodworking as well. That is, it comes with a built-in duster, which consistently provides an airflow. This aspect clears out dust and debris from the work surface; so you won’t have to do all the cleaning.

However, the tool may end up shooting two nails at the same time, so you will have to be careful when using it. Furthermore, the trigger parts might fall off unexpectedly, which can be quite disappointing for the users.

Pros

  • Lightweight and easy to use
  • Efficient motor design for amazing performance
  • Nail lock-out mechanism protects the work surface
  • Ensures countersink nailing and a more accurate flush
  • Built-in duster provides a consistent airflow

Cons 

  • Might shoot two nails at the same time
  • Trigger parts may fall off unexpectedly

5. PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Finish Nailer, Straight, 16GA (PCC792LA)

Hoses and compressors can reduce the maneuverability of a finish nailer, which is why a lot of people tend to prefer battery-powered tools. Well, here’s the best battery operated finish nailer that comes with all the aspects that you could possibly need in one.

User safety is essential, and this tool hasn’t overlooked that. Hence, it comes with multiple tool-free settings, which also increases productivity. Therefore, you can finish your projects efficiently and safely without any hassle at all.

You will be able to use this tool for a variety of materials and in multiple climate conditions, thanks to its stunning motor design. It offers consistent firing power, which will make sure you won’t have to halt your work.

When it comes to versatility, this tool will surely stand up to your expectations. It comes with a fastener length capacity of 1 to 2.5 inches. Hence, you will be able to use nail guns of various lengths with this tool without worrying about whether or not they are compatible.

On the other hand, the magazine capacity of this tool is about 100 nails. As a result, you will be able to carry multiple nails without worrying about running out of those in the middle of work.

The batteries of this tool may disappoint you a little, as they don’t tend to retain charge for too long. On the other hand, the tool may jam after shooting a few nails, which can be quite inconvenient for the users.

Pros

  • Does not require hose, air compressors or cartridges
  • Increases productivity while maintaining user safety
  • Can be used on a variety of materials and in multiple climate conditions
  • Comes with a fastener length capacity of 1 to 2.5 inches
  • Has a magazine capacity of 100 nails

Cons 

  • Batteries don’t retain charge for too long
  • May jam after shooting a few nails

6. Paslode, Cordless Finish Nailer, 902400

If comfort and control are two of your top-most priorities when looking for woodworking tools, then here’s a product that will adhere to your requirements. Find out more about what makes it the best 16 gauge finish nailer in this comprehensive review.

With a weight of 4.5 pounds and a cordless design, you will be able to move this from place to place quite effortlessly. Hence, if you have multiple workplaces, then this would be ideal for you, as transporting it is quite convenient.

On the other hand, the design of this tool makes sure you get to nail tight spaces without any trouble. The angled magazine ensures precise nail placement even in the hard to reach areas. Therefore, you won’t have to miss out on any spot with this tool at hand.

Even if you have to work for long hours, you can rely on this tool because it got your back! With a 7V Li-ion battery, this tool can shoot up to 12,000 nails with one fully charged battery. As a result, the product can last for a day without downtime.

What makes the tool even better is that it comes with a no-mar tip. The benefit of this aspect is that it ensures a smooth surface while preventing scratches and damage. You won’t see any markings on your work surface.

However, this product fails to work at high altitudes, and that has not been specified in the manual. Moreover, the nailer can jam pretty easily, which can be quite disappointing and hassle-some for the users.

Pros

  • Provides top-notch comfort and control
  • Weighs 4.5 pounds and is cordless
  • Angled magazine ensures precise nail placement
  • Can shoot up to 12,000 nails with its 7V Li-ion battery
  • No-mar tip ensures a smooth surface

Cons 

  • Fails to work at high altitudes
  • Can get jammed pretty easily

7. Senco 4G0001N FinishPro 42XP 15 Gauge 1-1/4″ To 2-1/2″ Finish Nailer

Are you a professional finish carpenter looking for a tool that would provide maneuverability along with excellent value for money? In that case, you have just come across the ideal tool for yourself. Find out more about it in this review.

Woodworking tools require maintenance, but taking care of them can often be hassle-some. However, that is not something you would have to face with this machine, thanks to its anti-lube design.

On the other hand, to prevent scratches and damage at all times, the tool comes with a magnesium-coated design. This aspect of the product will ensure a smooth surface at all times, so you won’t have to constantly worry about it getting damaged.

Another factor that makes the tool even more durable and that is its rugged internal engine. The benefit of this facility is that the engine will not die down anytime soon, and hence it will be able to accompany you for a long time without any hassle.

What makes the tool even better is that it always ensures a smooth finish. As a result, you will be able to paint on your wooden board or workpiece quite conveniently.

One of the major drawbacks of this tool is that it misfires more often than it fires correctly, which can be very disappointing for the users. On the other hand, the product might get jammed after some time of use, which can be inconvenient.

Pros

  • Provides excellent value for money and maneuverability
  • Includes anti-lube design for no maintenance
  • Magnesium-coated design prohibits damage and scratches
  • Includes a rugged internal engine for more durability
  • Ensures a smooth finish at all times

Cons 

  • Misfires a lot
  • Can get jammed after some time of use

8. CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Finish Nailer Kit, 16GA (CMCN616C1)

Gas cartridges, air compressors, or hoses can often be difficult to handle. And the best solution for that is to get cordless finish nailers. Now here’s a product that adheres to that and includes other great features that make it the best electric finish nailer.

If you want to work for a long time, then getting a tool that provides comfort is essential. This tool offers comfort along with maximum balance, thanks to its lightweight design that includes an optimal center of gravity.

Along with that, this tool also ensures enhanced efficiency and ease of use. For that, it comes with tool-free jam and stall settings. In fact, its tool-free depth settings also ensure consistent results along with a quick set up.

What makes the tool even better is that you will be able to work on a variety of materials with this. Moreover, you won’t have to worry about the climate conditions because this tool will provide the best results no matter what the climate is.

With a maximum voltage of 20V, this product drives adhesive collated 16 gauge finish nailer. The amount of power generated will make sure you get to execute all your projects with smooth but great performances.

However, the product may seem a little too costly for what it has to offer, which is why a lot of people may not prefer it. Moreover, the tool is quite big in size, so you may have a difficult time to store it in your workplace.

Pros

  • Does not require gas cartridges, air compressors, or hoses
  • Offers comfort with maximum balance
  • Ensures enhanced efficiency with consistent results
  • Can be used on a variety of materials and on multiple climate conditions
  • Offers a maximum voltage of 20V

Cons 

  • May seem a little too expensive
  • Quite big in size

9. Valu-Air T64C 16 Gauge 7/8-Inch to 2-1/2-Inch Finish Nailer 

The Valu-Air T64C 16 Gauge 7/8-Inch to 2-1/2-Inch Finish Nailer has the maximum potential to drive straight finish nails of 16 gauge from 7/8 to half. It is an ideal item for molding bedding, chair rail, window casing cabinet, furniture, paneling, baseboards, and decorative trim.

In case you are in the industry in search of a heavy-duty usage product, look no more since this product is ideal for you. Furthermore, it has a heat-treated aluminum hosing design, which makes it outstanding for heavy-duty usage. It features an exhaust deflector that you can adjust up to 360 degrees. 

This product comes with other accessories, such as two nails strip, a custom carrying case, dual adjustment wrenches, and oil. Likewise, it has a dimension of 2.95 x 10.63 x 12. 6, and it weighs 4.14lb. It has a functioning pressure of 70- 110 PSI. Therefore, thanks to these fantastic features for making this product gain popularity.

Pros

  • It is a multipurpose product
  • Features an exhaust deflector, which is 30 degrees adjustable
  • This product is easy to use
  • Lightweight and portable
  • It is worth the value.

Cons

  • It is a less durable product

How to Choose the Finish Nailer? 

Whether or not you are a professional in the field of woodworking, there are some aspects that you will need to adhere to before buying any tool. And the case is no different when it comes to finishing nailers.

While finish nailers are great tools, they will actually be quite disappointing and useless if you don’t purchase the right one for your work. That is why there are some key factors that you should always keep in your mind.

To make the task much more effortless for you, we have mentioned all the aspects that you should look out for when searching for your ideal finish nailer. If you keep all of these in mind, then you are sure to get a satisfactory product.

Should You Get a Straight or Angled Finish Nailer? 

Both straight and angled finish nailers come with their own sets of benefits that you should consider before choosing one. However, you should consider how they adhere to your work requirements particularly.

If your woodworking projects are generally straightforward and don’t require access to tight spaces, then straight finish nailers are a good option for you. They are also relatively cheaper, so you can get them in a budget.

On the other hand, angled finish nailers offer more preciseness and agility. As a result, you will be able to get access to tight areas without any hassle. So if your projects include doors and corners, then this is a suitable option.

What Power Type Should You Go For? 

Finish nailers offer three power types for you to choose from.

You will get the most power from pneumatic finish nailers, and both professional woodworkers and DIYers can use them. However, you may need to incur extra costs for them as you will need an air compressor.

Electric finish nailers can come in both corded and cordless forms. They rely on electricity for power, and you can choose either version according to your convenience.

If you need a finish nailer that is both portable and powerful, then you should go for the gas-powered ones. But you will need to face the hassle of using gas or oil as the fuel.

The Magazine Type Is Also Essential 

When looking to finish nailers, you will find that they come with two different types of magazines, and you will choose the one that suits your requirements the most.

Coil magazines are generally more preferred by woodworkers. That is because these can accommodate more number of nails, which ensures less downtime. It also does not stick out, which is more convenient for users.

If you are looking for a more affordable option, then nail sticks are the ones you should be going for. Different finish nailers can accommodate various numbers of sticks, and these are not very portable.

What Gauge Finish Nailer Do You Need? 

There are four different types of finish nailers, all of which come with distinct gauge nails.

Among them, the 15-gauge finish nail guns nailers are the most suitable for working on heavier woods. These are usually used by professionals.

The 16-gauge finish nailers are a smaller and lighter alternative of 15 gauge finish nailers. These can be used for the same projects, except the 16-gauge one is more suitable for lighter projects.

Furthermore, the most popular one is the 18-gauge finish nailer. This tool shoots very thin nails, known as brads. They are mostly used by DIYers and homeowners.

If you need a finish nailer for projects such as building birdhouses, then the 23-gauge one is apt for you. This tool shoots the thinnest nails, which are known as pins.

Focus on the Nail Depth 

Adjustment of the nail depth is quite necessary if you want to complete your projects perfectly.

Hence, make sure the finish nailer comes with such a depth adjustment system that will allow you to have more control over it. That is one that will allow you to make adjustments quite effortlessly.

Most woodworkers prefer tool-less depth adjustment; however, different tools will come with different systems, and you need to pick the most convenient one for you.

Nails Should Not Remain Jammed 

When using nailers, nail jams is something you just cannot avoid. That is why it is important to get a tool that can quickly clear out that jam without wasting much of your time or energy.

Therefore, you should make sure that your chosen tool comes with a tool-less jam clearing feature. Or you can also go for other systems that will take care of this issue.

However, if the tool doesn’t contain any such feature, then it’s not a good idea to purchase it.

Comfort and Control Are Important 

If you have to work on your projects for long periods, then it’s best to choose a tool that provides optimal comfort and control.

For that, go for one that is compact and lightweight. With these facilities, your hands won’t get fatigued even if you work without breaks.

Moreover, such best finish nailers are also easier to transport. And so if you have multiple workplaces, then do focus on these factors.

How Long Can the Tool Last? 

One of the major aspects that you should consider before buying any tool is the durability that it can offer. If you are going to invest a considerable amount on it, then you should ensure that it will last long enough.

For that, check the materials that the tool is made of. Also, go through its reviews to make sure that it lives up to its longevity.

You can also check its warranty to make sure that the tool is long-lasting. More importantly, get a finish nailer that offers at least 4-5 years of warranty. Getting one that will last shorter is just not worth it.

Types of Finish Nailers 

Before you begin to search for a finish nailer, you need to determine the type of finish nailer that you will be needing. Basically, the kinds are differentiated by the gauge size that they can accommodate.

Hence, in this section of the article, we will be discussing the various types of finish nailers according to their uses and benefits. From this, you can choose one according to your project requirements.

15-Gauge 

Finish nailers that accommodate 15-gauge nails provide the most holding power, as these are the thickest nails. Such nailers usually have angled magazines, which provide convenient access to tight spaces.

If your woodworking projects include furniture building, cabinetry, or trimming, then this nailer is ideal for you, as it is suitable for heavier woods and more solid surfaces.

16-Gauge 

If you are looking for a thinner and lighter alternative of 15-gauge nailers, then this is what you should be getting. The smaller nails can be used effectively by just about anyone on multiple projects.

However, this type is more popular for trim installation. But they can be used for projects that require the 15-gauge nailers.

18-Gauge 

The most popular type of finishing nail guns among homeowners and DIYers is the 18-gauge one. This tool is not meant for use in heavy construction or more professional tasks.

However, these can penetrate thin and delicate wooden boards without causing splits or damage. Hence, you should use them for furniture repair, paneling, and other similar projects.

23-Gauge 

This type of finish nailers will shoot the thinnest nails, which are often termed as pins. As a result, this nailer is used for the most delicate woodworking projects.

For instance, you can use this type for birdhouse building, small trim, or picture frame projects.

Benefits of Using a Finish Nailer 

A lot of people may have recommended you to get best finish nailers, but you can’t really entrust them unless you are aware of the benefits that this tool has to offer you.

And we can assure you that finish nail gun can provide you with a lot of advantages, which will certainly improve your woodworking projects. In fact, we can’t stress on what a great addition it will be making to your tools.

Hence, in this section of the article, we will be discussing the benefits of this particular tool, while including all the necessary details so you will be able to understand them better.

Holds Heavier Wood 

Finish nailers are great tools for cabinetry, molding, or baseboards. Basically, this tool is capable of working with thicker and heavier woods in general, thanks to its wider and longer nails.

As a result, you will be able to use this tool for heavy woodworking projects without any hassle whatsoever.

Can Create a Permanent Hold 

One of the major reasons many woodworkers prefer this tool is that it can create a permanent hold, unlike most of its counterparts. That means, once you nail a wooden piece with this tool, it won’t be going anywhere!

As a result, once you have used this on your woodworking projects, you won’t have to worry about those falling apart or anything — they will stay intact for a long time, if not forever.

Quite a Versatile Tool 

Another beneficial aspect of this tool is that it can be used on a variety of materials without any hassle whatsoever. Hence, you will be able to work with different types of woods while increasing the diversity of your projects.

Moreover, this tool can be used during numerous climate conditions as well. Therefore, you won’t have to worry about changing climates while using this tool.

No Hassle of Frequent Reloading 

The task of reloading nailers in the middle of work can be quite hassle-some. But that is not an issue you will be facing with this tool, because the nails come in long strips.

As a result, you won’t have to worry about frequently reloading the tool, as the nailer can shoot without interruption for long periods. You can finish an entire project without having to reload, which will save both your time and energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size Finish Nailer do I need?

This factor depends entirely on the type of projects that you work on mostly. For instance, 16-gauge finish nailers are lighter and smaller, whereas their 15-gauge counterparts are heavier. So if you need something with more holding power, then you can go for 15 gauge finish nailers and vice versa.

Can you use a finish nailer for trim?

Yes, finish nailers are quite suitable for large trims. Since these tools are made from heavy-duty 15 or 16-gauge wire, they are capable of handling more payload. This aspect makes them suitable for large trims such as crown molding or baseboards.

Can I use a finish nailer for framing?

Many woodworkers tend to think that they can get through their framing projects by using a finish nailer — but that actually isn’t the case.

A finish nail guns and a framing nailer cannot be used interchangeably, and even if they seem to have similarities, they are very different from one another, which shouldn’t be overlooked.

Is a finish nailer the same as a brad nailer?

When it comes to the mechanism of both the tools, a few similarities can be spotted. However, the major difference between them is the gauge of the nail. Finish nailers typically use thicker nails, whereas brad nailers go for nails of 18-gauge only. Hence, finish nailers are more suited for heavier jobs.

What gauge finish nailer do I need?

If most of your projects require light and small gauge nails, then it would be recommended for you to choose 16 gauge finish nailers. However, if you have to pick heavier jobs that require more holding power, then 15 gauge finish nailers are the more suitable option for you.

Conclusion

Optimal comfort, great control, top-notch preciseness, and a long run time make the best finish nailer. And all of these qualities are present in the Paslode, Cordless Finish Nailer.

Along with that, this tool also makes sure not to leave any markings or damage on your wood piece. Hence, it’s absolutely safe to work with.

However, an apt finish nailer for you would be the one that suits your work requirements the most. So, choose according to that, and you will be satisfied with your purchase.

Leave a Comment