The heavy-duty sibling of smaller finish and brad nailers, framing nailers are essential if you plan on tackling any kind of structural remodeling to your home. They’re also designed for maximum durability, allowing them to stand up to the rugged environments of busy work sites, and use a long, angled magazine that helps to streamline their body for maximum maneuverability. They’re not suitable for delicate projects or material, but if you’re adding an addition to your home, putting in a deck, or assembling a tool shed, a reliable framing nailer is worth its weight in gold.
What to Consider
Since all framing nailers are going to perform the same task—sinking framing nails—the biggest factor to take into account is their individual power source. While pneumatic nailers have a practically unlimited runtime, it can be a hassle to drag around a compressor and air hose. Paslode models that use a gas fuel cell are more convenient while you work, but you’ll need to keep a supply of cells on hand, and these models are also very expensive. Battery-powered options also allow you to be more mobile, but their high price and limited runtime may not be practical for some users.
How We Selected
Our experiences as residential and commercial carpenters, as well as time spent on a variety of construction projects, have given us a lot of insight into what makes a great framing nailer. We used this experience — in addition to online research and other expert opinions — to populate our list with the most trusted names in framing nailers, like Metabo, Paslode, and Bostitch. It’s worth noting that if you notice a lack of Hitachi products in our picks, that’s because Hitachi nailers are now sold under the Metabo name, and we’ve found no evidence to suggest that the quality of their products has suffered.
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1
Best Value Option
Metabo HPT Metabo HPT NR90AES1 Framing Nailer
1
Best Value Option
Metabo HPT Metabo HPT NR90AES1 Framing Nailer
Now 14% Off
Pros
Low price- Light weight
Cons
For a high-quality nailer at a price this low, you really can’t beat the value of this Metabo option. Its 7.5-pound weight is relatively light, and the tool-less depth adjustment allows you to quickly and easily sink nails to your desired depth. It also comes with a pair of safety glasses, which is always a plus.
This nailer can also be purchased with a pancake compressor, so if you’re just starting out, this could be a great kit to get you started right away. Just like other Metabo nailers, it’s covered by a five-year warranty.
2
Best Overall
Metabo HPT Metabo HPT NR83A5 Pneumatic Framing Nailer
2
Best Overall
Metabo HPT Metabo HPT NR83A5 Pneumatic Framing Nailer
Now 13% Off
Pros
- Tool-less depth adjustment
- Well-balanced body
Cons
The Cadillac of framing nailers, this Metabo model is designed for maximum productivity with minimum user effort. The selective actuation trigger allows you to quickly switch from either contact or sequential nailing, which is not only convenient to use, but will also save a lot of time over the course of a project.
The non-slip rubber grip is one of the most beneficial features of this nailer, and combined with the balanced weight, makes for a surprisingly comfortable operation for such a powerful tool. The five-year warranty alone makes this model stand out from the rest of the pack.
3
Best Fuel Cell Option
Paslode Paslode 906300 Cordless XP Framing Nailer
3
Best Fuel Cell Option
Paslode Paslode 906300 Cordless XP Framing Nailer
Pros
- Eliminates tripping hazard of air hose
- Full one-year warranty
Cons
- On the pricey side
If you’re looking for maximum mobility without sacrificing power, this Paslode model is probably your best bet. Its fuel cells eliminate the hassle of dealing with noisy and cumbersome air compressors, and its 7-volt lithium-ion battery is said to produce 9,000 nails per charge.
We’re also big fans of the bright orange color, making it difficult to misplace or get lost in a busy job site. At 7.2 pounds, it’s lighter than almost any other framing nailer on our list, making it easier to maneuver into tight and awkward spaces while you work. It’s also rated to work in cold temperatures, as low as 14 degrees.
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4
Best Lightweight Option
Bostitch BOSTITCH F21PL Round Head Framing Nailer
4
Best Lightweight Option
Bostitch BOSTITCH F21PL Round Head Framing Nailer
Pros
- Rafter hook
- Depth adjustment guide
Cons
Our favorite feature of this nailer is definitely its lightweight design which, at just 4.17 pounds, is the lightest option on our list. Its comfortable rubber grip—combined with this light weight—makes this option great for reducing the hand and shoulder fatigue that can occur during long projects.
It’s also able to use 1½-inch nails, a smaller size that most framing nailers aren’t designed to accept. An additional nose piece also allows you to use this option on metal framing hardware, a task that can be frustrating with a regular tip.
5
Best Pneumatic Paslode Option
Paslode Paslode 501000 Pneumatic Framing Nailer
5
Best Pneumatic Paslode Option
Paslode Paslode 501000 Pneumatic Framing Nailer
Pros
- Includes safety glasses
- Rafter hook
Cons
This powerful Paslode model is a great option for those who need a heavy-duty nailer, but don’t want to sacrifice convenience. It features a multifunctional trigger that allows you to choose between manual or sequential firing options, and is capable of sinking up to 12 nails per second.
It’s also designed for simple depth adjustment, so you can easily calibrate the depth of your nails. This model is also perfect for toe-nailing, thanks to a spiked nosepiece that allows you to securely bite into wood as you fire. At 8.4 pounds, it is a bit heavy, so keep that in mind.
6
Best Coil Nailer
Metabo HPT Metabo HPT NV83A5 Coil Framing Nailer
6
Best Coil Nailer
Metabo HPT Metabo HPT NV83A5 Coil Framing Nailer
Now 12% Off
Pros
- Selectable trigger action
- Heavy-duty construction
Cons
- Heavy weight
- Expensive
Even though this nailer is the heaviest pneumatic option on our list, its high nail capacity might make this Metabo option worth it to the right user.
Plus, the shorter canister-style magazine allows it to fit into areas that would otherwise be inconvenient with a longer stick magazine. Its heavy-duty tip is designed to stand up to wear and tear during use, and also has a nice claw shape for quick and easy toenailing.
It’s probably not the best option for a beginner, but if you have strength and experience to handle it, this nailer could be a perfect fit.
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7
Best Low-Budget Model
Freeman Freeman PFR2190 Pneumatic Round Head Framing Nailer
7
Best Low-Budget Model
Freeman Freeman PFR2190 Pneumatic Round Head Framing Nailer
Pros
- Air exhaust can be adjusted 360 degrees
Cons
- Heavier than most options
It probably wouldn’t be ideal for everyday, heavy-duty use, but this Freeman nailer could be a good fit for those who need to do occasional framing, and also aren’t ready to make a large investment. It does have many of the useful features of higher-end models though, like a tool-free depth adjustment, and a no-mar tip that can be removed if you’d prefer to use the teeth for a better grip on your wood pieces.
Plus, an anti-dust cap prevents any debris or contaminants from entering the tool when not in use.
8
Best Battery-Powered Option
Metabo HPT Metabo HPT NR1890DRS Cordless Framing Nailer Kit
8
Best Battery-Powered Option
Metabo HPT Metabo HPT NR1890DRS Cordless Framing Nailer Kit
Now 13% Off
Pros
- Battery-level indicator
Cons
- Very heavy
- Not as rugged as pneumatic options
Although this nailer costs significantly more than the competition, its cordless mobility and high-quality construction could be worth it to the right customer. Its 3.0Ah battery can fire up to 400 nails on a full charge, and the control panel allows you to quickly switch from sequential to bump-fire mode, and also provides a light-up battery level indicator.
It’s also designed to prevent dry-firing, adding to the nailer’s overall durability. We would have preferred a hard-sided carrying case for a tool this expensive, but if you handle it with care, you should be all right.
Alex Rennie
Alex Rennie is a freelance writer who specializes in the Home Improvement, DIY, and Tool space. As a former residential and commercial carpenter, Alex uses his hands-on experience to write practical buying guides, how-to articles, and product reviews. His work has also appeared in Business Insider's Insider Picks, and before his writing career, he was a full-time carpenter living in New York City. There, he worked as part of a team designing, building, and installing large furniture pieces, as well as performing a variety of home repair and maintenance projects. Alex currently lives in Los Angeles, CA, and spends his free time exploring the beaches and mountains with his fiancé and their dog Louie.
FAQs
What nail gun is best for DIY? ›
Brad nailers are the nail gun most commonly used by DIYers. Most shoot 18-gauge brad nails up to 2 inches in length. These are very versatile tools with a wide range of applications, including furniture building, light construction, and repair tasks around the home or yard.
What kind of nail gun is best for framing? ›15-degree nail guns can hold a large number of full-round-head nails, which are ideal for floor joists, wall studs and other framing jobs. Full-round-head nails are often required for framing by building codes.
Which is better 21 or 30 degree framing nailer? ›Longer projects benefit from the 30-degree framing nailers' capacity of 88 nails because you won't need to reload them as frequently. You have additional options for the kinds of head nails you can use because they can handle clipped head nails or offset nails.
What kind of nail gun do I need for small projects? ›What kind of nail gun do I need for small projects?
What are the two types of framing nail guns? ›What are the two types of framing nail guns?
Which is better 21 degree or 28 degree framing nailer? ›Framing Angle
These are fixed angles and are not adjustable, so it's critical to buy nails that match the angle of the nailer. A 28-degree nail will not work in a 21-degree nailer. The greater the angle, the more maneuverable the nailer is, which will allow the user to fit the head into tight corners.
A 3 ½ inch nail or 16d nail is often the most recommended size when it comes to framing or fitting together building materials to build a structure and shape. These particular nail sizes seamlessly connect framing materials such as hardwood and engineered wood, along with drywall, concrete, plastic, and masonry.
Which is better 16 or 18-gauge nail gun? ›Gauge is actually the number of nails that are lined up. This indicates that 16-gauge nails are thicker and can hold better when compared to 18-gauge brads. You will have to keep in mind that a low gauge number will have a thicker nail.
Can I use 30 degree nails in a 34 degree framing nailer? ›Now the question is, can I use 30-degree nails in a 34-degree nailer? Yes, you can drive 30-degree nails with a 34-degree nailer.
Can you use 22 degree nails in a 21 degree nail gun? ›A: It does not matter. Either 21 degree or 22 degree nails will work just fine. This nailer has about a 3 degree tolerance on nail angle. Use either 21 or 22 degree nails - you won't be able to tell the difference.
Is it worth buying a framing nailer? ›
Unless you feel like taking your time with a hammer and nails, you're going to want a framing nailer. The heavy-duty sibling of smaller finish and brad nailers, framing nailers are essential if you plan on tackling any kind of structural remodeling to your home.
What type of nail gun is most versatile? ›If you're doing a lot of trim work and don't want to own multiple guns, the 16-gauge is probably the most versatile. These nailers are available in pneumatic and cordless configurations.
What is the most powerful nail gun? ›- 1 Stanley Electric Nail Gun.
- 2 Porter-Cable Cordless Brad Nail Gun.
- 3 Freeman Nail Gun.
- 4 NuMax Pneumatic Nail Gun.
- 5 BOSTITCH Framing Nail Gun.
- 6 Metabo Angled Finish Nailer Kit.
- 7 WEN Pneumatic Brad Nail Gun.
- 8 DEWALT Finish Nail Gun.
Nail Gun - The Equaliser
Although these appliances have been depicted as deadly weapons in Final Destination 3, Casino Royale, and Lethal Weapon 2, probably the most iconic depiction is in The Equaliser when Denzel Washington's character, Robert McCall, kills the main villain with a tap nailer.
The most common and readily available types are 15 gauge, 16 gauge, 18 gauge, and 23 gauge. The higher the number, the thinner the nail and the smaller the hole.
Which is better 16 or 18 gauge nail gun? ›Gauge is actually the number of nails that are lined up. This indicates that 16-gauge nails are thicker and can hold better when compared to 18-gauge brads. You will have to keep in mind that a low gauge number will have a thicker nail.
Do I want a brad nailer or a finish nailer? ›Brads are excellent for trim work, including narrow trim around windows or doors, shoe moulding and quarter-round moulding. Finish nails are versatile nails with a 15- or 16-gauge diameter. They're designed for thicker cuts of wood.
What is the common framing nail size? ›A 3 ½ inch nail or 16d nail is often the most recommended size when it comes to framing or fitting together building materials to build a structure and shape. These particular nail sizes seamlessly connect framing materials such as hardwood and engineered wood, along with drywall, concrete, plastic, and masonry.
What size nail gun do I need for framing? ›30- and 34-Degree Framing Nailers: These guns give you the most radical advantage in tight spaces and are the most common nailers seen on construction sites. Generally, they can hold two full strips of nails of up to 80 nails each.
Can you use 18 gauge nails for framing? ›...
Choosing the Right Nail for the Job.
| Gauge | Common |
|---|---|
| 16 | 0.06 |
| 18 | 0.05 |
| 23 | 0.03 |
Do I need 16 or 18 gauge nailer for hardwood floor? ›
Generally speaking, 16 gauge (larger fastener) would be used to install 1/2" to 3/4" thick Solid hardwoods like Oak, Maple, Pine, etc. 18 gauge cleats (thinner fastener) would be used for softer engineered flooring or more dense exotic woods like Strand woven bamboo, Brazilian cherry, etc.
Do you use 16 or 18 gauge nailer for quarter-round? ›If you're doing lighter molding, such as quarter-round at the bottom of your wall, or installing a chair rail, an 18 Gauge Brad Nailer is fine for the job.
What is a 23 gauge nail gun used for? ›The BANKS® 23 GA Pin Nailer is ideal for fastening all types of trim and molding without splitting the wood. The lightweight, narrow body tool is easy to handle, making it ideal for cabinet trim.
Can I use framing nails in a brad nailer? ›No, you can't use a brad nailer for framing. Brad nailers are designed for finish carpentry projects and lack the holding power to join construction lumber or attach roof sheathing.
What is the difference between Milwaukee finish nailer and brad nailer? ›What's the Difference Between a Brad Nailer vs Finish Nailer? The main difference between these two different nail guns is the size of the nail they shoot. The lower the gauge number, the thicker the nail. The brad nailer fires 18 gauge nails, and the finish nailer fires 16 gauge nails.
What size brad nailer is best? ›Having the right length of brad is crucial for a good result. The rule is simple: a brad should be three times as long as the thickness of the material you are fixing. Example: if the material is 15 mm thick, the brad should be 45 mm long. Choose a brad gun that takes the length of brad you need.
What nail gun to use for board and batten? ›Brad nailer: A popular DIY option, the two-inch nails you'll find in 18-gauge brad nailers make them the skirting board nail gun of choice. Also available in 20-gauge, brad nailers are also the best nail gun for furniture making.
Are Brad nailers worth it? ›For detailed woodwork and trim, where you need more holding strength than a micro pin can provide, a brad nailer is typically the top choice among contractors and weekend warriors alike. Brad nails are formed from a fine, 18-gauge wire, which means they are smaller in diameter and typically have less holding strength.
What is the difference between 18-gauge brad nail and 16 gauge finish nailer? ›Brad nailers use smaller 18-gauge nails.
They vary in length from ½ to 2½ inches. By comparison, a 16-gauge finish nail is 0.0625-inch thick. While the difference doesn't seem like very much, the shorter length is a good indicator that a brad nail won't hold material of the same maximum thickness as finish nails.