As a woodworker, I used to use hammers and nails to get a flawless finish on my trim works. But they did not give me the output that I wanted. At that time I did not know what is a finish nail gun.
One of my friends, who is also a woodworker, recommended that I use 15— or 16-gauge nails. Then, I learned about this finish nailer. When I began to use this tool, I realized that it is the perfect nailing tool for precision woodworking and trim applications.
From then to now, I have used finish nail guns a lot. I have gained experience a lot. Here, I will share my practical knowledge regarding this power tool. I hope it will help you out while you are in your workshop.
Overview of Finish Nailers
Finish nailers are fastener tools that drive 15- or 16-gauge nails. They come in lengths ranging from 1 to 2.5 inches. Unlike traditional framing nailers, finish nail guns are designed for more delicate works that require a fine, clean look.
In terms of magazine style, we can divide this tool into two finish nail guns. One is an angled finish nail gun and the other one is a straight finish nail gun. There are some key differences between angled and straight-finish nailers
They use smooth and slender nails that are often arranged in strips for an easy loading process. Because of their thinness, finish nail gun nails leave tiny marks on the material surface.
These nails are ideal for attaching moldings, baseboards, and home furniture pieces without damaging or splitting the wood. Also, these nail sizes offer versatile works depending on the project type.
15 Gauge Finish Nails
15 gauge means the diameter of the nail. 15 gauge finish nails are one type of strong fastener. This size of nails is required where strong, durable, woodworking and construction are required with minimal visibility.
This gauge nail is approximately 1.8 mm thick, which makes it stronger and more durable than 16 gauge. They are available in lengths ranging from 1 inch to 2.5 inches. Moreover, they always come in stainless steel, galvanized, or plain steel varieties based on the types of materials.
15 ga finish nails are angled at 34-degree collation to fit in angled finish nailers. This feature makes them capable of fitting in tight or corner spaces. These gauge finish nails have a small, rounded, or slightly dimpled head.
15 gauge finish nails are suitable to attach baseboards and crown molding. The main thing is they can penetrate hardwood and denser materials.
16 Gauge Finish Nails
Like 15 gauge, the 16 gauge means the diameter of the nail. 16 gauge nails are another type of finish nail driven by finish nail guns. They are thinner and more delicate than 15-gauge finish nails.
16 ga nails are approximately 1.6 mm thick and the length ranges from 1 inch to 2.5 inches. So it is clear that they are thinner and more delicate than 15-gauge finish nails. Like 15-gauge finish nails, they also come in stainless steel, galvanized, or plain steel versions.
16 gauge finish nails are commonly available in straight or angled collation. But it depends on the type of finish nail gun and the location you are working.
16 gauge finish nails come in small and rounded heads. So, they are suitable to apply in various types of works like installing door and window casings, attaching furniture pieces, cabinet assembling, etc.
Angled Finish Nailer
An angled finish nailer is one type of power tool that is designed with an angled magazine. Angled finish nailers are a great choice while you are working in a tight corner space because of their angled magazine.
Angled finish nailers are commonly available in 20-degree, 25-degree, and 34-degree variations. The most common angled finish nail guns are 34-degree and 20-degree. 34-degree is the perfect and standard angle among the other degrees of angled finish nail guns.
For example, One day I took the initiative to install crown molding in a small powder room. At that moment, This angled finish nail gun supported me for seamless trimming in tight corners. However, a straight-finish nailer could not support me like this. So, it is a valuable tool for every woodworker for detailed woodworking in confined spaces.
In summary, I suggest you double-check your nail gun’s specifications to ensure compatibility with the proper nail magazine angle.
Key Features of Finish Nail Guns
Nail Gauge
You already know the finish nail guns drive 15 or 16-gauge nails that are thicker than 18 or 23-gauge nails. They are strong enough to hold trim pieces without any glue or adhesives.
Nail Length & Thickness
15 gauge nail thickness is approximately 1.8 mm thick and length is 1 inch to 2.5 inches. On the contrary, 16 ga nail thickness is 1.6 mm thick and length is 1 inch to 2.5 inches.
Customizable Depth Adjustment
You can adjust your finish nailer’s nail placing depth depending on your project. It will allow you to handle how deep the nail will be driven into the material. It offers a professional and beautiful finish.
Nail Magazine Capacity
The pneumatic and cordless nail gun magazine capacity is up to 100 nails. But it may reach up to 110 nails but it depends on the brand or models. Moreover, angled finish nailers use angled nail strips. Their magazine capacity may vary from 90-100 nails per strip.
Compact Design
These nail guns come in a compact and lightweight design for better handling in precision tasks. So it is suitable for longer time use without fatigue issues.
Power Source
Finish nailers mostly come in 2 versions. Pneumatic version, battery-powered, or cordless version. Pneumatic versions require to connection of air compressors and hoses while working. The cordless nailer needs a Lithium-Ion battery to operate.
No-mar Tip
This tool is designed with a rubber or plastic tip to prevent damage while working.
Firing Modes
This nail gun features sequential and bump-firing modes. Sequential firing offers precision during individual nail placement. On the other hand, bump modes allow faster nailing operations for repetitive nailing jobs.
Ease of Use
Finish nailers are popular because of their easy maneuverability. They offer a quick reload mechanism that prevents frequent nail reloading during longer projects.
Magazine Capacity of Finish Nailer Gun
Magazine capacity refers to the number of nails a finish nail magazine can hold at one time. The capacity mostly depends on the brand or models.
But this tool is designed for holding enough nails to avoid work disruptions.
Straight Magazine Type
This magazine-style is often found in straight-finish nailers. They are compatible with straight nail strips to hold nails in a straight row.
Angled Magazine Type
This type of magazine is available only in angled finish nailers. They have some certain angles like 20-degree, 25-degree, and 34-degree. You will commonly find this type of magazine in 15-gauge nailers. They are perfect for tight and corner spaces.
General Nail Magazine Capacity
Pneumatic and cordless versions of this nail gun can hold 100-110 nails at a time. But in the case of angled magazines, it can vary between 90-100 nails at a time.
Multiple Strips
Some finish nail gun models can accumulate multiple nail strips. It can enhance the total capacity of the magazine up to.
Collated Nails
The magazine of finish nail guns is designed to hold collated nails. Collated nails are full round head nails angled at 21 degrees. These nails are joined together along with glue to ensure smooth loading.
Magazine Material
Nail magazines are mostly made of lightweight materials such as aluminum or plastics for better longevity. Many finishing nailers often carry transparent or open-sided magazines to monitor nail levels.
High Capacity Magazine
High-capacity magazines offer longer periods of work without any disruptions. They are perfect for large projects like baseboards, and crown molding.
Low Magazine Capacity
This type of magazine capacity requires frequent nail reloading while working on a serious project. It may divert your mind. But do not worry because they are lightweight and easy to use. Low magazine capacity is ideal for smaller tasks.
Pros and Cons of Finish Nail Guns
Finish nail guns are undoubtedly versatile tools in the realm of nail guns. They are appropriate for precise and clean finishing with professional outputs.
However, like other nail guns, these nail guns also have some strengths and drawbacks. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages will assist you decide if the tool is right for your specific project.
That’s why I have created a chart on the pros and cons of finish nailers.
| Pros | Cons |
| Provides a clean and precise finish with less surface damage | Limited use. Not ideal for heavy-duty projects like framing or decking |
| Offers strong holding power for heavy baseboards and trim | Not suitable enough to use in outdoor projects. |
| Lightweight and easy to handle | Finish nails do not allow better corrosion resistance |
| Air-powered versions deal with speedy operations | Comparatively higher initial cost |
| Reduce fatigue. Ergonomically designed for long-time use | Not ideal for all types of materials or surfaces |
| Enough versatile to apply in crown molding, door casings, and cabinetry | Requires regular maintenance, otherwise nail jams can occur |
Different Versions of Finishing Nailers
Pneumatic Finish Nail Gun
A finishing pneumatic nail gun is a version of a finish nailer gun that primarily requires air compressors to drive nails. It is popular with professionals for its efficiency, and reliability.
Air compressors supply air through an air hose to the nail gun. The air creates the pressure to shoot nails. When you pull the trigger the air gets compressed and pushes the piston forward.
You can commonly use them in crown molding, trim installation, and baseboards. You can craft home furniture with very beautiful detailing. Door and window casings also can be secured by a pneumatic finishing nail gun easily.
Cordless Finish Nail Gun
A cordless finish nail gun defines a battery-powered, easily portable tool that drives nails into such materials as wood, trim, and baseboards.
This version of the tool is operated by rechargeable Lithium-Ion batteries. Some cordless models are combined with gas canisters to drive nails.
No compressors, cords, or air hoses are required to operate cordless finish nail guns. Only portability is essential. They do not need much time to be ready, just insert your battery and go!
These features make these versions easily movable. Enough durable and versatile for indoor and outdoor use.
You can use cordless finishing nail guns to install baseboards, trim, and crown molding. This tool also offers small-scale DIY tasks with a professional finish.
Electric Finish Nailer
An electric finish nail gun is a tool that drives nails and is powered by direct electricity, either through a cord plugged into an electric outlet or a built-in rechargeable battery. It means this version offers both a power cord and an internal battery to operate.
The electricity powers activate a solenoid or a small motor that drives the nails into the material. When you pull the trigger the electric current just activates the firing mechanism.
A finishing electric nail gun is easy to use and move because of its minimal setup and user-friendly controls. Battery-powered electric nail guns provide easy portability. They are enough versatile and have adjustable depth settings.
Choose corded if:
- You have standard power outlets near the working area.
- Your jobs are stationary like the workshop.
- You are on a budget.
Choose cordless if:
- You want easy portability.
- You want freedom of movement.
- You work on outdoor projects regularly where power outlets are not accessible at all.
- You can monitor the battery charge percentage.
Pricing of Finishing Nail Guns
Now come to the main point. Many finish nail gun users ask me about the pricing of this tool. Yes, it is a key point to evaluate while you are planning to buy a nail gun.
But pricing depends on the versions, brands, and models. It is quite tough to say the exact price of all models and brands. Moreover, often prices can vary based on market adjustment.
So, here I have just tried to give you a simple overview of pricing:
| Types of Finishing Nail Guns | Price Range (USD) |
| Pneumatic Finish Nail Gun | $50 – $250 |
| Cordless Finish Nail Gun | $150 – $350 |
| Electric Finish Nail Gun | $80 – $250 |
| Straight Finish Nail Gun | $100 – $350 |
| Angled Finish Nail Gun | $120 – $400 |
From this chart, we notice that pneumatic finish nail guns are cheaper than the other versions, whereas angled finish nail guns are expensive in this list.
So, before investing in a nail gun you should think twice about which is the right tool for you.
What is a Finish Nailer Gun Used For?
Installing Baseboards
Finish nail guns are used in baseboards, crown molding, chair rails, window casings, and door casings.
Cabinetry Projects
Finish nail gun nails are strong enough to do such woodworkers as installing heavy-duty cabinetry or crown molding. They attach wood pieces without splitting.
Installing Hardwood Flooring
The thicker nails of finish nailers have the strong holding power to install hardwood flooring.
Staircase Construction
These tools can securely fasten components properly to ensure a professional finish. You can also attach decorative railings to stairs.
Paneling and Wainscoting
They are commonly applicable in decorative wall paneling.
Home Projects
You can use this fastening tool for some small home improvement projects. You can create picture frames, by attaching trim pieces around your mirror. Moreover, these power tools work well to edifice small decorative items.
Closet Installing
These power tools are used to install closets and storage shelves in your room or kitchen.
Furniture Assembly
Finish nails are ideal for attaching furniture assembly. You can create detailed furniture using this tool if you want a precise finish.
How To Use a Finish Nail Gun? Step by Step
Finish nail guns follow a specific mechanism to generate power to push nails into a certain material. The specific operation always depends on the type of version – pneumatic, cordless, and electric.
So, here I have drawn a general working process for finish nailer guns:
Nail Loading
First, you need to load nails into the magazine, generally in strips that are connected by wire or glue. The magazine follows a spring-loaded mechanism for nail penetration.
Power Source
In the case of the pneumatic version, an air compressor is required to operate the tool. If you use cordless models then a rechargeable battery is mandatory, with or without a gas canister. If you carry an electric version then you either need a power socket or a battery.
Nail Firing
Pull the trigger simply to release nails into the materials. To Fire nails accurately the driver blade pushes the nail into the material at a precise and controlled depth.
Depth Customization
You have the right to adjust how deep the nail will penetrate the wood. Before nailing remember to adjust your penetration depth to avoid accidental penetration.
Safety Mechanism
Last but not least, you should follow the safety checklist while using nail guns. Most nailers have safety tips or contact elements. It is mandatory to avoid unwanted situations.
Key Components of Finish Nail Guns
Trigger
There are two types of triggers. One is the sequential trigger and the other is the contact trigger or bump firing mode.
Driver Blade
This component is made from steel to ensure durability. It is forced by motors (Cordless/Electric), and driven by compressed air (Pneumatic). It just pushes the nails out of the nail magazine.
Magazine
Above I have already mentioned this topic broadly. It is a key component where you will load your 15 or 16-gauge finish nails. Without this component your nail gun is nothing.
Safety Tip
It is also called a contact element. Prevent accidental firing and eradicate unwanted situations. It is located at the nose of finish nail guns. It must be compressed.
Exhaust Vent
It is only applicable for pneumatic model finish nailers. It releases compressed air after driving nails to reset the mechanism.
Belt Hook
The belt hook is used to be clipped into the belt or ladder you are using. It will keep your tool along with you while working. Keep caution lest it should drive nails all of a sudden.
Grip Handle
Padded with rubber and lightly textured to ensure a non-slip grip. They ensure better comfort and control.
Indicator Lights
This component helps you monitor battery levels or any error codes for troubleshooting. Some updated tools indicate nail magazine status.
Firing Mode Selector
You can switch between single sequential firing mode and bump firing mode depending on your projects.
Choosing The Right Finish Nailer
If you are heading to carpentry or woodworking projects, choosing the right finish nailer can make a big impact on the quality of work. From molding and trim installation to cabinet assembling each finish nailer serves specific purposes.
When you think about choosing the right finishing nail gun, the first point is choosing the right nail gauge. For heavy baseboards, trimming, and crown molding 15 gauge nails are perfect. If you plan for casing attaching, small trimming, and delicate woodworking without hampering the materials then 16 gauge finish nails are perfect.
Evaluating your budget is one of the core points to think about. Your budget depends on your project. If you are a beginner or hobbyist then go for an affordable model or brand. But if you are a professional worker you can broaden your budget.
If you think about brand reputation Dewalt, Bostitch, and Ryobi are great for all types of users.
So, if you are about to choose a finish nail gun, you should consider your project type, nail gauge, budgeting, brands or models, material, and portability. As simple as that.
Safety Tips for Finish Nail Guns
While you are using any tool you should follow some safety tips during work. It will not only help you stay safe but also help your tool to be long-lasting.
Safety Tips
- Wear protective gear such as safety glasses, hearing protection, safety gloves, etc.
- Check if the safety tip is functioning properly.
- Avoid pointing the nail gun at any individual.
- Keep Your fingers away while shooting nails.
- Ensure the working location is stable.
- Use correct nails.
- Read and strictly follow manufacturers’ guidelines.
- Disconnect power when not in use.
My Final Words
If you are a woodworker, a finish nailer is a must-have tool in your nail gun cabinet. These nail gun nails are stronger than brad nail guns but more detailed than framing nailers.
It does not matter whether you are a professional, beginner, DIYer, or hobbyist, a finish nail gun can save you time and effort. However, choosing the right types of finished nail guns depends on your project.
There is no alternative to maintaining your nail gun properly. You should follow safety rules while working with nail guns. I always give importance to this. Investing in a finish nail gun can be a smart choice for all users.
So, in the end, I want to say not be over-smart and over-confident. Though you are professional don’t be over-confident regarding using this type of tool.