When you start working on projects like narrow or decorative window trim and casings, assembling small objects, and other woodworking applications, you need the best brad nailer for woodworking. These nailing machines are perfect for joining delicate pieces unlike the heavy-duty finish nailers that are more likely to damage the delicate wood. Brad nailers use brads that are small enough to be used for holding small wood pieces and are invisible as well. Choosing the best brad nailer for woodworking projects can be a tricky task. But with a little research and effort, one can find a top-rated brad nailer offering plenty of rightful functionality.
Here, we have reviewed the best available brad nailers in the market today ideal for woodworking projects. Have a look at these products and choose the most suitable one for you.
Best Brad Nailer for Woodworking – Our Picks
Product Image | Product Name | Weight | Nails Length | Price |
BOSTITCH Brad Nailer Kit 18GA | 5.6 lbs. | 5/8ˮ – 2.2ˮ | ||
Makita AF506N Brad Nailer | 2.9 lbs. | 5/8ˮ – 2ˮ | ||
PORTER CABLE PCC790LA Cordless Brad Nailer Kit | 5.9 lbs. | 5/8" to 2" | ||
Metabo HPT Brad Nailer Kit | 2.2 lbs. | 5/8" to 2" | ||
NuMax S2-118G2 Pneumatic Brad Nailer | 3.06 lbs | 3/8ˮ - 2ˮ | ||
CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Brad Nailer Kit | 7.64 lbs. | 1ˮ - 2ˮ | ||
Senco FinishPro 18Mg Sequential Brad Nailer | 2.9 lbs. | 5/8ˮ - 2.2ˮ | ||
KIMO 20V Cordless Brad Nailer | 6.2 lbs. | 3/4ˮ - 2ˮ | ||
NEU Master NTC0023 Brad Nailer | 2.9 lbs. | 5/8" to 2" |
Best Brad Nailer for Woodworking – Product Descriptions
1. BOSTITCH Brad Nailer Kit 18GA
Quick Features
- 5.16 lbs. item weight
- Air-powered brad nailer
- 110V voltage
- 5/8Ë® – 2.2Ë® nail length range
- 7-year warranty
Just like a knife that cuts through butter with ease, this brad nailer can get into tight nooks and corners. Its nose is 60% smaller than usual making it a go-to machine. It is a pneumatic 18-gauge brad nailer with a nail gun that supports 2.2 inches nails that is longer than the standard. It allows you to work on home improvement projects with ease.
Bostitch Brad Nailer 18GA is a tool for perfection and precision. It contains a tool-less jam release with depth adjustment and a no-mar tip for great accuracy and easy nail removal. You get both sequential and bumps actuation modes in one machine, you can flip through them with a simple trigger. You also get an ergonomic carrying case so you can carry this nail gun to your workplace with ease.
Unlike some other nail guns, this 18GA brad nailer is absolutely oil-free, eliminating a lot of hassle for the user. Moreover, it is also integrated with an internal filter that extends the lifespan of the motor by keeping it clean. It has an over-molded handle and bumper that makes it easier for you to use this device and protect itself from damage. It provides improved control and flexibility when fastening into various materials.
Pros
- Smart Point Technology
- Oil free operation
- Tool-free jam release mechanism
- Tool-less depth adjustment
- Over-molded grip
Cons
- No dry-fire locket
2. Makita AF506N Brad Nailer
Quick Features
- 2.9 lbs. item weight
- Pneumatic brad nailer
- 5/8Ë® – 2Ë® nail length range
- 70 – 120 PSI Air Pressure
- 2 SCFM Air consumption
The Makita AF506N features a durable and compact design with many ease-of-use features. It is a pneumatic brad nailer that supports 18-gauge 5/8Ë® – 2Ë® nails. It also has a very narrow nose and customized rubber tips to get into narrow angles. There is an indicator that tells you when you need to reload the brad nailer.
Makita AF506N has an integrated adjustable hook that can rotate at 180° making it great for a wide variety of finish applications. Its cast-and-machined nose piece is engineered for precise contact with the workpiece. The non-marring rubber nose is engineered well to protect the work surface. The exhaust outlet of this brad nailer goes 360° allowing to blow debris and air in the direction away from the user.
The tool-less jam release is there with a significant improvement. Whenever a jam happens, the cam-lock opens immediately so, the jam is exposed to you completely. You can easily remove this jam without using any tools. It has been made portable with a hard plastic case, nail oil, and safety goggles included in its purchase. It is definatly one the top picks when it comes to best brad nailers for crown molding, but ideal for trim work, baseboard, flooring, and other woodworking too.
Pros
- No-mar tip
- Aluminum housing
- Tool-less jam release
- Tool-less depth adjustment
- Plastic case and oil included
Cons
- No dry lockouts
3. PORTER CABLE PCC790LA Cordless Brad Nailer Kit
Quick Features
- 5.9 lbs. item weight
- Battery-powered brad nailer
- 20V voltage
- 5/8Ë® – 2Ë® nail length range
- 3-year warranty
Porter Cable PCC790LA is a battery-powered cordless brad nailer that uses a lithium-ion battery. It has a capacity of around 1300 nails ranging from 5/8Ë® – 2Ë® in length. You enjoy the tool-free depth adjustments and tool-free jam release while using this brad nailer. These tool-free adjustments are located behind the battery, you need a bit more effort and a tool-free stall release lever for these adjustments.
It is a battery-powered brad nailer so you don’t need to worry about any annoying air hose getting in your way. It also doesn’t have any bulky air compressors that you need to log around or any expensive fuel canisters that put a lot of pressure on your wallet though if your brad nailer requires that we got you covered with our list of best air compressor for brad nailer. The motor design of this Porter Cable brad nailer provides consistent firing power into various materials and climate conditions.
Another good thing about this device is the LED lights feature. This lighting system immensely improves visibility so you can precisely see where your nail is going. When the battery is down, it has no impact on the performance of this brad nailer, it continues to work until the battery is dried out completely. The multiple tool-free settings are there to provide increased productivity and user safety.
Pros
- No gas compressor required
- Well-balanced device
- Tool-free jam release
- Tool-free depth adjustment
- LED lights
Cons
- A little heavy
4. Metabo HPT Brad Nailer Kit
Quick Features
- 2.2 lbs. item weight
- Air-powered brad nailer
- 360° exhaust port
- 5/8Ë® – 2Ë® nail length range
- 5-year warranty
The Metabo HPT Brad Nailer is excellent for trim work, furniture building, and other finish applications that require precision, and performance. This machine offers great value for the money unlike many of the ones out there. It offers a 5/8Ë® – 2Ë® nail length range offering excellent performance in the toughest conditions. Like most of the nailers out there, you can use it with 18-gauge nails without any issue.
Metabo HPT Brad Nailer offers a 360° adjustable exhaust port that keeps the dust, debris, and oil off the finished project. There is a visual nail reload indicator located on the magazine. It alerts the users when nail quantity is low so the blank drives can be avoided. The brad nailer has an excellent build quality so you can use it for a long time.
A great option of selective actuation is also available in this device. This option allows the users to select bump fire or contact fire modes with a simple flip of a switch. It has a tool-less and easy-to-clear nose for quick and simple nail extraction should a nail jam during use. A carrying case is included in its purchase so you can safely transport it from one place to another.
Pros
- Lightweight device
- Great build quality
- Best value for money
- Comes with various adjustments
- Easy all day usage
Cons
- Nail clip can be improved
5. NuMax S2-118G2 Pneumatic Brad Nailer
Quick Features
- 3.08 lbs. item weight
- Air-powered brad nailer
- 2-in-1 brad nailer and stapler
- 60 PSI – 110 PSI operating pressure
- 3/8Ë® – 2Ë® nail length range.
The Numax S2-118G2 brad nailer is a must-have tool for homeowners having the convenience of a brad nailer and a stapler in one device. It is a great option when you are on a budget and offers great value for money. It is designed to accommodate brad nails ranging from 3/8Ë® – 2Ë® and narrow crown staples from 1/2Ë® – 1.63Ë®. You can easily switch between the two fasteners depending on the job at hand.
This nailer hides the nails well having a thin 18-gauge diameter and a small head. Being a pneumatic brad nailer, it needs to be connected with an air compressor with 60 PSI – 110 PSI air pressure. It works great with delicate wood pieces without any splitting. The ergonomically designed aluminum body is durably constructed resulting in a great tool for extended shifts.
A great feature of NuMax S2-118G2 is its comfort grip handle. This handle reduces fatigue while increasing the control and accuracy of fastener placement. It offers great performance for home improvement and repair projects as well as for professional contractors. Other great features of this brad nailer are the tool-free depth adjustments, a no-mar safety tip, 360° adjustable exhaust, and a reload indicator.
Pros
- Small and compact
- Affordable device
- Tough and dependable device
- Great for multiple applications
- Easy to work with
Cons
- Build quality can be improved
6. CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Brad Nailer Kit
Quick Features
- 7.64 lbs. item weight
- Battery-operated brad nailer
- 1Ë® – 2Ë® nail length range
- 1-year warranty
The V20 Cordless Brad Nailer is efficiently designed to eliminate the need for compressors, hoses, and costly gas cartridges. It has been developed by “Craftsman” which is amongst the oldest power tool brands out there so, you don’t need to worry about the product’s quality or efficiency. It is a 20V battery-operated brad nailer that proves great for a wide array of scenarios.
It is an easily portable machine with a powerful motor that delivers consistent firing power in all weather conditions. Moreover, the single tool-free depth setting allows you to adjust the nail depth quickly. To further enhance the portability of this device, you get a small and compact form factor with this brad nailer that is very lightweight.
The V20 Cordless brad nailer has a nail length ranging from 1Ë® – 2Ë®. You don’t need to worry about hand fatigue as it features a contoured over-molded handle and a lightweight design to minimize the fatigue. It features a non-marring tip that prevents damage to the work surface. The unit comes with a 1-year warranty which can be improved in the future.
Pros
- Fully cordless design
- Tool-free depth settings
- Tool-free jam settings
- Contoured over-molded handle
- Lightweight with optimal balance
Cons
- A bit heavy
- Warranty should be increased
7. Senco FinishPro 18Mg Sequential Brad Nailer
Quick Features
- 2.9 lbs. item weight
- Drives fasteners up to 2Ë®
- 5/8Ë® – 2.2Ë® nail length range
- 70 PSI – 120 PSI air pressure
- 110 nail capacity
The FinishPro 18Mg brad nailer has the power to tackle a wide range of renovations, home improvement, and crafting works. Made efficient, easy-to-operate, and build to last, the FinishPro 18 comes with a sturdy case for compact storage and portability. It is an ideal equipment for working with baseboards, cabinets, and chair rails. It boasts a 110 nail capacity allowing you to work longer with fewer reloading stops.
This brad nailer is full of innovative, and time-saving features with a lightweight design to reduce wrist and arm fatigue. It further enhances the comfort by having an all-mold grip, swivel blog, and an air outlet to blow the air away from you. It has a nail length range of 5/8Ë® – 2.2Ë®. It operates at a pressure of 70 PSI – 120 PSI and is capable of driving fasteners measuring up to two inches in hardwood applications.
This brad nailer has a heavy body for exceptional durability with a rear exhaust for keeping the oil and dust away from your work surface. It also features an adjustable depth of drive for getting the staples to a consistent and controllable length. There is a dual-action mode pump and magnesium housing with a galvanized finish to increase the lifespan of this device. It also features a red indicator in the magazine to warn you about low rail count.
Pros
- Dual-action modes
- Oil-free motor
- Soft grip handle
- Adjustable depth of drive
- Lightweight design
Cons
- No dry fire lockout
8. KIMO 20V Cordless Brad Nailer
Quick Features
- 6.2 lbs. item weight
- 3/4Ë® – 2Ë® nail length range
- 3/4Ë® – 1.75Ë® staples length range
- 100 nail capacity
- Shoots 1400 nails per charge
The KIMO 20V Cordless Brad Nailer is highly capable of being your entry point for remodeling your home. It is a narrow body brad nailer that is extremely easy to handle and work in tight space making it an ideal machine for floor molding. It serves as a nice pal of yours for furniture building and assembly reducing the risk of damaging the thin trim pieces ultimately making it a great brad nailer for woodworking.
KIMO brad nailer features a 2-in-1 bottom load magazine that is compatible with 100pcs 18 gauge brad nails and 1/4Ë® crown staples. Being a cordless brad nailer, you don’t have to worry about the hassle of using gas, compressor, and a hose. It is among the lightest cordless nailers in the market weighing only 5 lbs. It is designed to stay for long in your hands and attached comfortably to your belt.
You get a tool-free depth adjustment for flush and a precise countersinking of nails. It’s charging only takes 45 – 60 minutes, the battery fires up to 1400 shots per charge with a 20 V battery. This machine ensures precise control even in poor light and dark working environments by its dual built-in LED lights. You can use this nailer for fastening decorative molding, casing, kitchen crown, and shoe molding.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact machine
- Dual LED lighting
- Fastens 90 nails per minute
- Ideal for versatile tasks
- Easy to handle
Cons
- A little pricy product
9. NEU Master NTC0023 Brad Nailer
Quick Features
- 7.54 lbs. product weight
- Tool includes 200 staples and 800 brad nails
- 5/8” to 1-1/4” nail length range
- Shoots 1100 shots per charge
Now, we are reaching the summit of best brad nailer for woodworking. This machine is an amazing rechargeable nail gun present on our list. It also serves as a great nail gun for crafts with its Spiral Drive Technology and G Hub. It allows you to deliver more powerful shots than other corded nail guns without the hassle of using a cord, gas, and a compressor.
The NEW Master NTC0040 brad nailer has been powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. This battery can deliver up to 1100 full-power shots per full charge. This brad nailer for woodworking is the ideal choice if you are looking for a reliable nail gun for woodworking at an affordable price. It is a highly recommended tool for beginners, homeowners, and hobbyists with its easy-to-use functions and other features.
This brad nailer for woodworking has a LED light, a belt hook, an oversize trigger, and an ergonomic handle to combat grip. All these features help you illuminating the work area and get the job done with ease. This nail gun also features a quick-release mechanism and an over-molded grip for convenient use.
Pros
- Quick release mechanism
- Ergonomic grip for comfort and control
- Non-marring nose
- Power adjustment dial
Cons
- A bit heavy
Best Brad Nailers for Woodworking – Buyers Guide
Here are the factors one must keep in mind before setting foot in a shop or getting online for a brad nailer’s purchase.
1. Nail Length
A wide range of nails and staples are there that are used for different applications. Therefore, it is important to make sure your device is compatible with the nails you want to use. Many brad nailers out there offer a nail length range that accommodates various nails and staples. They can easily accommodate ½ inch – 2 inches and 3/8 inch to 2-inch nail length range. If you find a brad nailer that offers more length ranges, it will surely serve as a better option because of its versatility and flexibility.
2. Gauge Rating
Another important factor to consider before buying a brad nailer is its gauge rating. Just like other power tools, the gauge rating of a brad nailer tells you about the supported thickness of the nails and staples that one can use. Usually, you will find a brad nailer with a gauge rating of 18 gauge. A higher gauge rating results in thinner nails and vice versa when you compare some of the brad nailers.
3. Nose Design
The nose of a brad nailer is the thing that makes the first contact with the workpiece. The nose design consideration is important because it affects how precisely you can sink nails with it. If the nose is narrow, it will easily reach tighter places by having more precision. It also gives you a better line of sight for placing your nails exactly at the right spot making it easier to use.
4. Housing of Brad Nailers
Brad nailers have two types of housings, i.e. aluminum and magnesium.
a) Aluminum
Aluminum is considered a safe choice for housing. It is because aluminum eradicates the chances of any reaction to any materials and outside elements. Getting dents of cracks is also not an option with aluminum.
b) Magnesium
Magnesium is also not a bad choice for housing but it corrodes easier. It has a higher tendency to react with outside elements. It is also more liable to denting if your device falls as compared with aluminum.
5. Exhaust Air Control
A brad nailer is powered with compressed air from an air compressor. When the trigger is pressed, the compressed air gets into the tool and powers the mechanism responsible for driving the nails into the wood. When the air has done its job, it needs to go out of the nailer through an exhaust, so you can fire another nail. The exhaust air control needs to be at the rear of the tool, not at the front. Failure of operation by exhaust control will lead to poor performance of the brad nailer.
6. Power Type
Brad nailers have a wide range of options available since they are so handy. Most of these available options differ in terms of power input type. Most of the options you will find will be powered by an electric battery, some of the brad nailers out there are pneumatic ones. Pneumatic brad nailers usually have a higher power rating but they need power cords. On the other hand, battery-powered brad nailers are not tethered by any air-hose or power cord. This makes them an excellent option for portability.
7. Power Rating
Checking the power rating of the device before buying can save you from running into any power issues. For pneumatic brad nailers, the power rating is given in PSI such as 70 PSI to 110 PSI, and 80 PSI to 120 PSI. A higher PSI rating results in better brad nailer performance for the user. For battery-powered brad nailers, the power rating is given in volts. You can easily find 18-V and 20-V brad nailers that also perform well for driving nails and staples.
Best Brad Nailers for Woodworking – FAQs
1. What is the difference between a brad nailer and a finish nailer?
A brad nailer is used when space is tight, it is smaller than the finish nailer. Unlike the finish nailer, a brad nailer can be designed to use either metal or plastic tips depending on the type of application. Some brad nailers are equipped with tips at both ends just like pliers.
2. Can you use a brad nailer for baseboards?
Yes, you can use a brad nailer for baseboards. But be careful, not to over-fire when using a brad nailer for baseboard. Otherwise, the brads will come out of your work surface and possibly damage the things in close proximity.
3. What pressure should a brad nailer be set at?
The recommended air pressure for a brad nailer ranges from 60 – 120 PSI depending on the type of application. It should be adjusted accordingly depending on the thickness and density of the material you are using brad nailer on.
4. How deep should a brad nailer go?
There is a simple rule of thumb for the depth of the brad nailer, i.e. a brad nailer should be three times as long as the thickness of the material you are fixing. For example, if material is 15 mm thick, the brad nailer should be 45 mm long.
5. Can you adjust the depth of a nail gun?
Nail guns usually have a slider control or a small dial. Turn or slide the control until it indicates the correct depth.
6. Can I use a brad nailer for fencing?
It isn’t recommended to use brad nailers for fencing as they are suitable for cabinetry and interior trim. The fasteners they shoot are too narrow and short to hold exterior fence boards which have a tendency to move and warp.
Wrapping Up
Brad nailer is an extremely handy tool that will save you a lot of trouble. You can use it for different applications such as woodwork and upholstery. We have mentioned the best brad nailers for woodworking in this article along with a detailed buying guide stating the important factors of it. While all of the mentioned things should help you choose the best one for you so that you are not sidetracked by the options available in the market.