what is a brad nailer

A brad nailer, also known as a pin nailer, is a tool used to drive small pins into wood or another type of material. These nails are very small and have no heads at the ends. Brad nailers typically have a nose cap that can be adjusted to either prevent the nails from protruding too far out of the front of the tool. They’re very useful tools, as you’ll see!

A brad nailer is a type of nail fastener that’s designed to fasten thin pieces of wood or other materials with small-diameter nails (18 gauge). Examples of what a Brad Nailer is used for are trim and decorative wood pieces. Before it was used to drive nails, a brad nailer was used to fasten together pieces of wood that were tack-nailed with brads (tiny nails). They are offered in mainly two different types a cordless (air powered) or pneumatic version.



What Is A Brad Nailer Used For

A brad nailer is used to fasten thin pieces of wood or other materials with small-diameter nails. They’re often used in woodworking when it isn’t practical to use larger nail types such as collated screws (decking) and lath, or when they won’t be visible, such as with moldings and decorative trim.

A brad nailer is one of the most useful tools you can have in your workshop or toolbox. They can be used to fasten molding, small wood pieces (for DIY furniture projects), and various other products together. If you’re looking for your next tool, search no further than a brad nailer.

Types Of Brad Nailers:

There are two main types of brad nailers: pneumatic and cordless electric. Both functions largely the same way, but there’s a key difference to consider before making your purchase. Pneumatic brad nailers are driven by either an air compressor or a gas cartridge and supply the tool with power.

ALSO READ:  Best Wood Router For Wood Signs

Cordless electric brad nailers work independently of any power source, but they’re powered via either rechargeable batteries or disposable batteries (these types typically come along with the tool when you purchase it). For most jobs, we recommend pneumatic brad nailers, as they offer more power and a faster firing rate. However, for large projects or those involving a lot of moving around, a cordless electric brad nailer is probably the better option.

Features To Consider:

There are many features to look for in a quality brad nailer, both important and unnecessary. First of all, you need to consider the driving power of your brad nailer. Most small jobs won’t require you to use anything above a 15-gauge nail, but if you’re building furniture or installing molding for an entire house, then you’ll want something with more force behind it. Also, check how many nails the magazine can hold. More is better, especially if you’re building something large.

A brad nailer should also have an adjustable air exhaust or an air filter to make sure bits of wood and other debris don’t get into the tool (note: this feature is only common on pneumatic brad nailers). For convenience’s sake, also look for nailer models that come with a carrying case.


Nail Gun Gauge Chart at a Glance

Nail GunSize (Gauge)Poplar Usages
Brad Nailer18 gaugenailing slim baseboards
Finish  Nailer16, 15, and 14 gaugebaseboards, crown molding, window and door casings, chair rails, nailing thick baseboards, etc.
Pin Nailer21 and 23 gaugefurniture trimming, trim pieces, super-thin veneers, etc.
Courtesy of Nailerguy.com

What Is The Difference Between A Brad Nailer And A Finish Nailer

A finish nailer is a type of brad nailer that can accommodate nails larger than 15-gauge and has the ability to fasten thicker pieces of material. Brad nailers tend to be more compact and lightweight than finish nail guns, making them better suited for smaller projects. Finish nails are typically painted over once they’re hammered into place, so the head of the nail isn’t noticeable.

ALSO READ:  Electric Hand Planer - Is It The Tool For You

What Is A Finish Nailer

A finish nailer is a type of brad nailer that can accommodate nails larger than 15-gauge and has the ability to fasten thicker pieces of material. Brad nailers tend to be more compact and lightweight than finish nail guns, making them better suited for smaller projects. Finish nails are typically painted over once they’re hammered into place, so the head of the nail isn’t noticeable.


What Do You Use A Brad Nailer For

A brad nailer is used to drive small-diameter nails into a variety of materials. They’re often used in woodworking when it isn’t practical to use larger nail types such as collated screws (decking) and lath, or when they won’t be visible, such as with moldings and decorative trim.


DEWALT Finish Nailer Kit, 18GA, 5/8-Inch to 2-Inch


A brad nailer is used to drive small-diameter nails into a variety of materials. They’re often used in woodworking when it isn’t practical to use larger nail types such as collated screws (decking) and lath, or when they won’t be visible, such as with moldings and decorative trim.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Pressure Should I Use for An 18 Gauge Brad Nailer

18 Gauge Brad Nailer has its own pressure range, it works well with 100 to 120 psi. finish nailer can install thicker materials like crown molding or baseboard.

Can I Use 16 Gauge Nails In An 18 Gauge Nailer

No, 18 Gauge Brad Nailer works with nails from 18 Gauge brad nails. Brad nails are 18 gauge, measuring 0.0475 of an inch. They vary in length from ½ to 2½ inches. Conversely, a 16-gauge finish nail measures 0.0625-inch thick

Similar Posts