You probably are already gaining from the significant headway in battery technology that has birthed grand power tools. For instance, how would you define tools belonging to the cordless nail gun family? Eminent, right?
A case in point is the cordless finish nailer. This power tool has redefined finish carpentry. From unparalleled versatility and unbeatable ergonomics to a whole host of incredible features, this tool is unquestionably in a class by itself.
However, if you have been browsing for the best models, you’ve probably realized that you are genuinely spoiled for choice. Hassle no more! Here, we put invaluable information on the best cordless finish nailers at your fingertips, so you’re certain to discover what you’re looking for.
Best Cordless Finish Nailer at a Glance
- Ryobi P325 18V Li-ion Cordless 16 Gauge Finish Nailer
- PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Straight Finish Nailer
- CRAFTSMAN (CMCN616C1) V20 Cordless Finish Nailer Kit
- DEWALT 20V MAX Finish Nailer, Angled, 16GA (DCN660B)
- Paslode, Cordless Finish Nailer, 16 GA (902400)
- MAKITA 18V LXT Straight Finish Nailer, 16 GA (XNB02Z)
- DEWALT (DCN650B) 20V MAX Finish Nailer, Angled, 15 GA
- METABO HPT 18V Cordless Angled Finish Nailer (NT1865DMASQ7)
- BOSTITCH (BCN650D1) 20V MAX Finish Nailer Kit, Angled, 15 GA
- METABO HPT 18V MultiVoltTM Cordless Angled Finish Nailer Kit
- SENCO 10L0001NFusion 18V Li-ion Cordless 15GA Finish Nailer (F-15XP)
Also Read:
Best Cordless Finish Nailer Reviews 2023
Starting off our list is this tiptop power tool that is a gamechanger for your finish projects. It runs 16-gauge finish nails meaning that your projects will be more durable. The head of this nail gun bears LED lighting that enables you to work even in poorly lit conditions.
The knobs integrated into this tool are super convenient since they allow you to tune the depth without requiring extra tools. You will also fancy the handy switch located at the back of this unit that enables you to increase your nail driving depth.
This tool’s design prioritizes the safety of the work surface. It has a low nail indicator that alerts you when to replace the clip to avoid damaging your woods through dry firing. The separate trigger is yet another ingenious safety feature that helps avoid the random firing of nails.
Pros
- Battery compatibility (all Ryobi’s 18V batteries)
- Easy to clear nail jams
- Tool-free depth adjustments
- LED lighting to illuminate a dim workspace
- Alerts one of the low nail levels
- Separate trigger to prevent accidental firing
Cons
- It comes as a tool only; batteries are purchased separately.
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2. PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Straight Finish Nailer
If you are searching for a cordless nail gun that packs resilience and convenience in one tool, this PCC792LA finish nailer is your best bet. Its superior motor design supplies the unit with exceptional and unfailing firing power, enabling it to last the distance in different climate conditions and various materials.
You sure will love how comfortable it feels when using this tool. With a weight of about 5.7 pounds and an optimal center of gravity, using this unit in multiple positions is quite practical.
Being a fully battery-powered unit, this adds to the meritorious lightweight feature since it eliminates the bulk of a compressor, hose, or gas cartridges. The multiple tool-free settings feature promotes ease of usage. It is also fitted with dual LED lights that serve as error indicators and light sources for workspace illumination.
Pros
- Tool-free jam release
- Drives fasteners ranging from 1” to 2,1/2”
- Exceptional motor design
- Fires up to 1000 nails per charge
- Tool-free stall release lever
- Uses 16-gauge straight nails
- Tool-free depth adjustment wheel
- Bears a magazine capacity of 100 nails
- Backed by a three-year warranty
- Inclusive of a 20V lithium battery and charger
Cons
- Moderately unsuitable for tight spaces due to its odd shape
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3. CRAFTSMAN (CMCN616C1) V20 Cordless Finish Nailer Kit
This nail gun from the accomplished CRAFTSMAN brand counts as one of the top of the range models due to its ergonomics exemplariness. Demonstrating this is a couple of thoughtful features, including a contoured over-molded handle to augment comfort and a belt hook for convenience in storage and access.
The handiness of this tool is impeccable. This is because it allows you to set it up using tool-free depth settings quickly and delivers boosted efficiency through the tool-free stall and jam settings.
Also, this unit fires adhesive collated 16 GA finish nails in varying climate conditions by simply using battery power. This deal will undoubtedly brighten your day since it includes 100 2-1/2″ finish nails, a V20 20V Max Li-ion battery and charger, 100 2″ finish nails, and the tool itself. Quite the package, right?
Pros
- Capable of firing up to 375 2” nails per charge
- Drives 16 GA straight nails
- Tool-free nail jam release
- Lightweight design
- Single tool-free depth settings for quick depth adjustments
- Optimal center of gravity for balance
Cons
- No warrant details provided
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4. DEWALT 20V MAX Finish Nailer, Angled, 16GA (DCN660B)
Are you searching for an angled finish nailer and have not yet found a perfect match? Worry not. You will surely love this nail gun that is of the first order among angled finish nailers. Let’s take a look at some of its rich array of features.
In the event of nail jams, the tool-free jam release feature will come to your aid and clear the jams. Using the tool-free selectable trigger, you can easily switch between contact actuation or sequential modes. You can also easily maneuver through tight spaces courtesy of its inline magazine that enables usage in various orientations.
The motor is crafted with a brilliant brushless design for optimal runtime and durability. This tool includes an adjustable belt hook you can set up for left or right attachment based on your preference.
Pros
- All 20V MAX* DEWALT batteries are compatible with this unit
- LED lights for tool diagnostics and illumination of dull workspaces
- Tool-free stall release lever
- Cordless convenience
- Magazine capacity of 110 1-1/4” nails
- Brushless motor design
Cons
- Available as a tool only
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5. Paslode, Cordless Finish Nailer, 16 GA (902400)
If your finishing projects mainly involve navigating tight spaces, this Paslode finish nailer is an excellent fit for you. Its magazine is angled to enable access to tight spots and promote accurate nail placement for crown molding projects or baseboard installation in the corners.
Its impressive lightweight feature (only 4.6 lbs.) also promotes maneuvering through tight spaces through improved control and comfort. This tool maintains a surface’s smoothness and prevents the formation of marks and scratches on work surfaces via the no-mar tip feature.
The outstanding trait of this model is that a battery and fuel cell power it. The 7V Li-ion battery supplies this tool with enough juice to drive up to 12,000 nails per charge. This lessens the downtime to a great extent to ensure that you perform a significant amount of work in a day. Interesting, right?
Pros
- Lightweight (4.5 pounds)
- Delivers great maneuverability
- Ideal for trim applications
- Backed by a one-year full-coverage warranty
- Harmonious operation between fuel cell, finish nail, and cordless nailer ensures non-stop precision.
Cons
- Utilizes fuel cells
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6. MAKITA 18V LXT Straight Finish Nailer, 16 GA (XNB02Z)
The XNBO2Z from the reputable MAKITA brand is one of the finish nailers that greatly excels at tool and user safety. One of the most prodigious features is the anti-dry fire mechanism that aids in preventing damage to the work surface by avoiding blank firing.
The integration of Star protection technology is advantageous since it protects against overheating, overloading, and over-discharging, therefore preserving the unit. Even better, you will be impressed by the remarkable fast charge time feature that ensures you obtain the most out of your work time.
Its sturdy and compact design complemented by an 18V LXT 5.0Ah battery enables the unit to fire up to 1000 nails per charge. It also prides itself on a significant magazine capacity that scales up to 110 nails. The trigger lock button feature is yet another valuable safety feature that amplifies the user’s convenience.
Pros
- 2-mode selector switch
- Befitting center height for easy viewing of the area around nose tip when working in cramped spaces.
- Reversible belt clip
- Tool-free depth adjustment
- Backed by a three-year warranty
- Inclusive of a no-mar tip and safety glasses
Cons
- The battery is acquired independently (purchased separately)
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7. DEWALT (DCN650B) 20V MAX Finish Nailer, Angled, 15 GA
You probably think this is a tool similar to the previously featured nail gun from the DEWALT brand. Well, they are not. This top rating tool fires 15 gauge angled finish nails that range from 1-1/4″ to 2-1/2″. This makes it ideal for fastening projects like baseboards, casing, and hardwood floor installation.
It is quite the superior tool as it delivers power like pneumatic tools while still offering the freedom of cordless tools. The brushless motor design optimizes the tool’s durability and runtime. It is fitted with an inline magazine that allows you to use the tool in several orientations and tight spots.
A noteworthy feature is a micro nose that helps increase viewing and precision of nail placement. Using the tool-free selectable trigger, you can also choose between contact actuation mode or sequential mode. If you have any 20V MAX batteries, you are in luck. This unit is compatible with all 20V MAX batteries from the DEWALT brand regardless of AMP Hour (Ah).
Pros
- Brushless motor design
- Multi0functionaL LED lights
- Adjustable belt hook
- Easy adjustment of nailing depth
- Bears a micro nose to improve viewing and accuracy
- Tool-free clearance of nail jams
Cons
- The battery is purchased separately
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8. METABO HPT 18V Cordless Angled Finish Nailer (NT1865DMASQ7)
The manufacturers of this angled finish nailer upped the ante when designing this specific unit. They incorporated a handful of premium features that makes this tool secure a spot among the best. To begin with, it delivers pneumatic power without compromising cordless freedom.
You can simply select between bump firing and sequential modes using the integrated actuation on the control panel. You will not have to bother about refilling the air tank when employing this unit. All you got to do is press the trigger for the unit to fire the nail.
This model fires 15 gauge angled finish nails ranging from 1-1/4 to 2-1/2″ in length. This nailer can shoot up to 1100 nails on a single charge when sourcing power from a 3.0Ah Li-ion battery. The brushless motor technology boosts durability and graces you with an extended runtime per charge.
Pros
- Freedom of movement on Jobsite
- It uses a special air spring system
- Low battery indicator
- Applicable in multiple applications
- Tool-free depth of drive
- Supports selective actuation
- Backed by a lifetime warranty on the tool
Cons
- Sold as a tool only (battery is purchased separately)
- Relatively heavier (10.08 pounds)
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9. BOSTITCH (BCN650D1) 20V MAX Finish Nailer Kit, Angled, 15 GA
If you are in pursuit of a finish nailer deal that will give you a bang for your buck, this package is affirmatively your answer. You’ll be delighted to learn that not only do you get the tool itself, but you also get to bag an adjustable belt hook, 20V MAX Li-ion battery (2.0Ah), a charger, and a kit bag.
The versatility of this unit is quite unbeatable. You can employ it in multiple applications, including crown molding, door/window casings, baseboards, or hardwood flooring. To sweeten the pot, you will enjoy the three-year warranty cover that accompanies this deal.
The narrow nose design enhances the line of sight, promoting precise nail placement. If a stall during use occurs, you can engage the tool-free stall release lever that promptly resets the driver blade and get the tool back in operation.
Pros
- Fires 15GA FN Style Angled Finish Nails (1-1/4″ to 2-1/2″)
- Tool-free nail jam release
- Narrow nose design
- Tool-free selector switch for two firing modes
- It offers the cordless convenience
- Brushless motor design
- Tool-free nail depth adjustment
Cons
- Records of sporadic jamming
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10. METABO HPT 18V MultiVoltTM Cordless Angled Finish Nailer Kit (NT1865DMAS)
This superlative finish nailer is thoughtfully designed to meet your requirements. To start with, it displays phenomenal power as it can fire 1100 nails per charge while sourcing power from METABO HPT’s 3.0 Ah Li-ion battery.
Note, it is an angled nailer that drives 15 gauge angled finish nails ranging from 1-1/4″ to 2-1/2″. This makes it appropriate for all construction framing applications, especially punch-put tasks on a job site. You are guaranteed a professional finish across different materials courtesy of the tool-less drive adjustment depth.
It is fitted with an exemplary air spring drive system that makes the unit deliver a performance similar to pneumatic nailers. Since it is available as a kit, you get to bag attachments like safety glasses, battery contractor bag, and charger beside the tool itself.
Pros
- It has a unique versatility of applications
- Brushless motor design
- Drives 1100 nails per charge
- Side lock switch to avoid accidental firing
- Selective actuation switch to choose between two firing modes
- Adjustable position belt hook
- It offers a lifetime warranty on the tool and a two-year warranty on the battery.
Cons
- None to mention
- Tricky to find the rubber tip after purchasing. Tip: It’s hidden on the nailer
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11. SENCO 10L0001NFusion 18V Li-ion Cordless 15GA Finish Nailer (F-15XP)
We review this unique novelty from the prestigious Senco brand to draw things to a close. It sources power fully from a battery (1.5 Ah), conveying cordless freedom. Interestingly, it is incorporated with fusion cordless air-power technology that delivers pneumatic performance to boot.
It also grants you the freedom to choose between consistent flush or countersink drives through a tool-free depth adjustment. There is a cleverly mounted LED light on this unit’s nose to illuminate dull workspaces.
This package includes an adjustable belt hook that enables fast access to the unit when needed and facilitates easy storage. It also has a selectable drive switch that empowers you to switch between sequential or contact firing modes effortlessly.
Pros
- Provides an immediate response to pulling the trigger
- Fires 15 gauge DA style nails ranging up to 2-1/2” in length.
- Drives with no ramp-up time in between shots
- Inclusive of charger, storage bag, and 18V 1.5 Ah Li-ion battery
- Tool-free nail depth adjustment
- Bears an adjustable belt hook
Cons
- None to mention
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Best Cordless Finish Nailer Buyers’ Guide 2023
The cordless wave has demonstrably established its base and proceeded to gain immense reverence over time. Cordless finish nailers are part of this bandwagon that have empirically become in-demand tools for DIYers and professionals.
This increment in demand makes the market flooded with cordless finish nailer units, all presented to be the best. Perhaps you have noted there are ample options to choose from when hunting for the best cordless finish nailer.
Before delving into what to keep an eye out for when examining the countless options available, it would turn out to be useful if you got acquainted with some fundamental particulars of cordless finish nailers.
To start with, what is a cordless finish nailer? It is one of the different nail gun types that drives headless nails and is solely powered by a battery or a fuel cell and a battery.
Finish nail guns are principally used to attach finish materials such as trim by driving fasteners into the material resulting in neat countersinking of the nail head beneath the wood’s surface.
That said, you might wonder, what’s a finish nail gun used for? Brought up below are some of the primary applications, including;
- Installing window and door casing
- Installing hardwood flooring
- Cabinet assembly
- Installing trim such as baseboards, chair rails, or crown molding
- Assembling of furniture and other joinery projects
- Setting up staircases
Having breezed through the sine qua non regarding cordless finish nailers, the next apparent question would be, how do you navigate through the plethora of options in the market today?
The goal is the same for everyone, to settle for the best of the bunch. For this reason, we discuss below the various factors to keep an eye out for to ensure you take the best cordless finish nailer home. They include;
Ergonomics
This is a vital aspect you should consider because it influences the handiness of the unit. You ought to settle for a tool that possesses characteristics that make it easy to use to enable usage for long hours. This means you will have less downtime on the job and minimal fatigue.
Highlighted below are some of the features that make cordless finish nail guns more ergonomic and include;
- Belt hook- a tool that includes an adjustable belt hook is a plus since attaching it to the left or right and storage will be pretty straightforward.
- Handle – this being an area where your hand will continuously rest when using the tool, it should offer comfort to your hand. A contoured over-molded handle or a soft rubberized grip is suitable.
- Lightweight – how much a unit weighs is of prime concern. You will need a lightweight unit bearing an optimal center of gravity for comfort and balance. This encourages use for extended periods. Units weighing below 6 pounds are considered appropriate.
- LED lights – fortunately, most models, if not all, come fitted with multi-functional LED lights. This helps brighten a dark workspace and is also an element of tool diagnostics.
- Nose – the structure of the tool’s nose matters since it affects your line of sight, especially when working in tight spots, and accuracy in placement of fasteners. Units with a narrow/micro-nose are preferable.
Power source
Despite all the featured tools falling under the same category, there is a slight difference existing in terms of the source of power. There are two types of cordless finish nailers based on the power source, namely;
- Battery only – this type sources its power entirely from batteries that flow to a spinning flywheel that then runs the motor. The flywheel is constantly moving as long as the trigger is pressed.
There are multiple advantages attached to this type of cordless finish nail gun. They are ready for use if the battery is well charged. Unlike pneumatic models, they help you save on time since they don’t require any setting up or cleaning of accessories (hoses, compressors) before use.
- Battery and gas cartridge – this type is driven by power sourced from a self-contained air cylinder and a smaller battery. The battery generates a spark that kindles a small amount of gas, resulting in the firing of the fastener.
They are seen as powerful. However, they have a downside. They are an expensive lot since there is a need for regular replacement of the gas cartridges.
Safety properties
One of the crucial factors worth considering when scrutinizing a cordless finish nailer is safety. Safety, in this case, is broad. It refers to the safety of the user, the work surface, and the tool itself.
Power tools can be potential hazards if misused, mishandled, or are of poor quality. Therefore, this suggests you ought to settle for a tool that is incorporated with safety measures such as;
- No-mar tip – a deal featuring this trait has an added advantage since it helps avoid the formation of marks and dents on surfaces, therefore, maintaining the smoothness of a surface.
- Star protection technology – incorporating this technology in some products heightens the protection of the tool and battery against overheating, overloading, and over-discharging. This keeps the tool safe from malfunctioning.
- Anti-dry fire mechanism – this is a safety measure incorporated to help avoid shooting blanks that would otherwise ruin the work surface.
- Low nail indicator – this feature alerts you when the unit is running low on nails indicating that you need to replace the clip. This helps avoid dry firing that would otherwise damage the wood’s surface.
- Trigger lock button – this feature is included to help prevent accidental firing. This means you will not unintentionally shoot nails when you don’t have to, keeping you safe.
Angled vs. straight
Have you noticed that the featured cordless finish nailers are angled while others are straight? What does it particularly mean? There is no substantial variation between the two since they serve the same purpose.
The difference lies in the orientation of the magazine. Angled models have an angled magazine and are crafted with less material. This makes them more lightweight, allowing them to suit tight spaces. They mostly accommodate 15-gauge nails that tend to be appropriate for joining hard places since they are thicker. They are excellent options for building cabinets.
Straight finish nailers on the hand, have their magazine in a straight position. Often, they accommodate 16-gauge nails which neatly countersink below the wood surface, making them barely visible.
The differences between the two are marginal, meaning that either option is suitable. Using other factors in combination with this germane one when making your purchase decision is preferable.
A video illustrating the difference between Brad nailer vs. Finish nailer
Conclusion
It is agreeable that cordless finish nailers are pivotal players in stepping up finishing applications. Driving thousands of nails manually can be tedious and uninspiring.
You now have a chance to switch from traditional methods of joining wood material. With the best cordless finish nailer, you not only get to enjoy accuracy and superior speed in task execution but also seamless finishes with minimal fatigue.
One of the most notable features that make cordless finish nailers eligible is the multiple tool-free settings. You do not have to equip yourself with extra tools to make nail depth adjustments, clear nail jams, or select between modes or clear stalls. This way, you enjoy the grand results of lessened downtime and unparalleled productivity.
