Overall, finding the best finish nailer comes down to balancing the features that matter most to you with your budget. Our top pick is the Metabo HPT Finish Nailer.
A finish nailer is a versatile tool used in woodworking and carpentry projects to attach finishing materials like baseboards, crown molding, and trim.
It is a specialized type of nail gun that uses thin, 15- or 16-gauge nails to attach the finishing materials to wood, drywall, or other surfaces.
The nails are small enough to leave minimal holes that can be easily covered with wood filler, making it a popular choice for finishing work.
When looking for the best finish nailer, there are several factors to consider.
One critical factor is the type of material you will be attaching. Some finish nailers are better suited for hardwoods, while others work well with softer woods or composite materials.
The size and weight of the nailer are also important considerations, as they can affect the user’s comfort and maneuverability during use.
In addition to the type of material, the length of the nails that the nailer can accommodate is another essential factor to consider.
The length of the nails will determine the thickness of the materials that can be attached. Some finish nailers can handle nails up to 2.5 inches long, while others are limited to shorter nails.
Whether you’re a professional carpenter or a DIY enthusiast, a high-quality finish nailer can make your projects easier and more efficient.
In the following section, we will dive deeper into the top finish nailers on the market and help you find the one that’s right for you.
Best Finish Nailers
For any DIY enthusiast or professional carpenter, a finish nailer is an essential tool for attaching trim and molding to any woodworking project.
With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best finish nailers available on Amazon.
From power to precision, these nailers have been tested and reviewed to ensure they meet the highest standards. Check out our top picks below.
1. Metabo HPT Finish Nailer
If you’re looking for a reliable finish nailer that can handle a variety of jobs, the Metabo HPT Finish Nailer is a great option.
Pros
- The integrated air duster is a great feature that helps clear debris from the work site, making for faster and cleaner job completion.
- The tool-less depth of the drive dial allows for flush fastening into varying materials for improved control and a professional finish.
- The angled magazine makes for easier placement and operation in tight angles.
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the internal air leak, which can affect performance.
- The contact foot can leave dents on the work surface, so it’s important to be careful when using the nailer.
- The lowest PSI that can be used is 40 PSI, which may not be suitable for all jobs.
The Metabo HPT Finish Nailer is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable finish nailer. The integrated air duster is a particularly useful feature that helps keep the work site clean and speeds up job completion.
The toolless depth of the drive dial is also a great feature that allows for precise fastening into a variety of materials.
One potential downside of the Metabo HPT Finish Nailer is the internal air leak that some users have reported. This can affect performance and may require repairs.
Additionally, the contact foot can leave dents on the work surface, so it’s important to be careful when using the nailer.
Overall, the Metabo HPT Finish Nailer is a great option for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile finish nailer. With its lightweight design and angled magazine, it’s easy to use in tight spaces and can handle a variety of jobs.
2. Freeman Pneumatic Framing and Finishing Nailer
The Freeman Pneumatic Framing and Finishing Nailer and Stapler Kit is a versatile and powerful toolset that can handle a wide range of renovation and home improvement projects.
Pros
- Includes four commonly used pneumatic nailers for increased productivity
- Durable and resistant to damage
- Comes with a canvas bag and is covered by Freeman’s 7 Year Limited Warranty and 90 Day Wearable Parts Warranty
Cons
- May be heavy and tiring to use for extended periods of time
- Some users have reported occasional misfires or jams
- May require additional accessories or supplies, such as an air compressor and nails/staples
This tool set is a great investment for both DIYers and professional contractors looking to save time and money on their projects.
The four pneumatic nailers included in the kit are designed for everything from heavy-duty framing and subfloors to fine detail finish work like cabinetry and trim (here is the best cordless framing nailer).
The tools are built to last, with a one-piece hardened steel drive blade and anodized aluminum magazine and cylinder that make them resistant to damage.
The 21-degree Framing Nailer, Brad Nailer, 34-degree Angle Finish Nailer, and Narrow Crown Stapler all feature tool-free depth adjustment, no mar safety tip, and 360-degree adjustable exhaust, among other features.
While the tools may be heavy and tiring to use for extended periods of time, they are still a great value for the price and come with a durable canvas bag for easy storage and transport.
Some users have reported occasional misfires or jams, but overall the tools are reliable and effective.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a versatile and powerful toolset for your renovation and home improvement needs, the Freeman Pneumatic Framing and Finishing Nailer and Stapler Kit is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best finish nailer, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Power Source
Finish nailers come in three types of power sources: pneumatic, cordless, and electric.
Pneumatic nailers require an air compressor, while cordless nailers run on batteries (check out the best cordless finish nail guns). Electric nailers plug into an outlet.
Consider your needs and preferences when choosing a power source.
Nail Size and Angle
Different finish nailers shoot nails of different sizes and angles. Make sure to choose a nailer that can handle the size and angle of nails you need for your project.
Magazine Capacity
The magazine capacity of a finish nailer determines how many nails it can hold at once. A larger magazine capacity means less time spent reloading the nailer.
Consider the size of your project when choosing a nailer with the appropriate magazine capacity.
Depth Adjustment
Depth adjustment allows you to control the depth at which the nail is driven into the material. This feature is important for preventing damage to the material and ensuring a professional finish.
Weight and Ergonomics
Finish nailers can be heavy and difficult to maneuver, especially during long projects. Look for a nailer with a comfortable grip and lightweight design to reduce fatigue and improve accuracy.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best finish nailer to meet your needs and complete your project with ease.
If you are working on other applications, here are more detailed guides:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences between cordless and pneumatic finish nailers?
Cordless finish nailers are powered by batteries, while pneumatic finish nailers require an air compressor to function.
Cordless finish nailers are more portable and convenient to use, but they have limited battery life and may not be as powerful as pneumatic models.
Pneumatic finish nailers are more powerful and reliable, but they require an air compressor and hose to function, which can be cumbersome.
Which gauge size is preferable for a finish nailer when working on trim?
The gauge size of a finish nailer depends on the thickness of the trim being used. For most trim work, a 16-gauge or 18-gauge finish nailer is suitable.
16-gauge finish nailers are stronger and more durable, while 18-gauge finish nailers are smaller and more lightweight.
How does DEWALT finish nailers compare to Milwaukee models in terms of performance?
Both DEWALT and Milwaukee are reputable brands in the power tool industry, and their finish nailers are known for their quality and performance.
DEWALT finish nailers are typically more powerful and have better ergonomics, while Milwaukee finish nailers are more durable and have better jam-clearing mechanisms.
What are the advantages of using an angled finish nailer over a straight one?
Angled finish nailers are designed to reach tight spaces and corners that straight finish nailers cannot. They are also more versatile and can be used for a wider range of applications.
However, angled finish nailers tend to be more expensive and require more skill to use effectively (read more about angled vs straight finish nailers).
In what scenarios is a brad nailer more suitable than a finish nailer?
Brad nailers are ideal for delicate trim work, such as attaching thin moldings or decorative trim (find out the best brad nailer). They use smaller gauge nails than finish nailers, which means they leave smaller holes and are less likely to split the wood.
However, brad nailers are not suitable for heavier trim work or for attaching baseboards or crown moldings (for a detailed comparison, check out brad vs finish nailers guide).
What features should be considered when choosing the best finish nailer for professional use?
When choosing a finish nailer for professional use, it is important to consider factors such as power, durability, ergonomics, and ease of use.
Other features to look for include a jam-clearing mechanism, depth adjustment, and a lightweight design.
It is also important to choose a finish nailer that is compatible with a wide range of nail sizes and gauges.