Best Cordless Brad Nailer to Nail Your Next Project
Do you have a grand project in mind but feel like you’ve been shooting blanks when it comes to finding the right nail gun for the job?
Have no fear – we’re here to give you a pep-talk and help you get your carpentry confidence back because with the best cordless brad nailer in your hand, nailing that next big project just got easier than ever.
How We Choose the Best Cordless Brad Nailers
You don’t have time to read through all the reviews of cordless brad nailers to find the best one.
Who has time for that?
You’re probably juggling a million other things as it is.
Luckily, we’re here to lead you to the promised land.
We’ve read through thousands of reviews and considered the features that make the biggest impact to narrow it down to these choices of the best cordless brad nailers.
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or something more high-end, we’ve got you covered.
Overall Winner – Best Battery-Powered Nailer
DEWALT 20V MAX* 18GA Cordless Brad Nailer (DCN680B)
Key Features
- 20V Brushless motor
- Accepts 18 Gauge brad nails from 5/8″ to 2-1/8″
- Micro nose feature
Why It’s a Great Choice
With this DEWALT Cordless Brad Nailer, your projects are about to get a whole lot easier—and better looking!
This awesome tool features a brushless motor that maximizes runtime and durability so you can concentrate on creating something beautiful without worrying about a pesky power failure.
Plus, its micro nose improves the line of sight and accuracy of nail placement, so you can trust your work will be accurate.
And with its tool-free depth adjustment, you’ll get perfect countersinking every time.
There’s even a tool-free jam release in case you get stuck: simply clear any jams quickly and easily.
Don’t miss the multi-functional LED lights either, which provide illumination as well as helpful diagnostics for the tool itself.
Finally, pick between sequential or contact actuation modes with the tool-free selectable trigger to finish up any project on your list.
With DIYers and pros alike loving this nailer, what are you waiting for? Get your projects done right with the DEWALT Brad Nailer!
Best Compact Brad Nailer
Metabo HPT 18V MultiVolt Cordless Brad Nailer (NT1850DF)
Key Features
- 18V cordless model
- 1,650 nails per charge
- 3 nails per second with no ramp-up time
Why It’s a Great Choice
Get the job done in half the time with the Metabo HPT 18V MultiVolt Cordless Brad Nailer!
This innovative product is here to revolutionize your DIY projects or professional tasks.
It’s 30% smaller and 31% lighter than the previous model, making it easy to maneuver using our air spring drive system that significantly mimics a pneumatic tool.
Plus, you won’t have to stop for quick breaks either as it boasts a whopping 1,650 nails per charge with its included compact 3.0Ah battery!
No ramp-up time is needed, just set up and crank out nails at up to 3 a second!
Best of all, you can double your runtime when you use Metabo HPT’s unique MultiVolt battery that works on both 18 V and 36 V tools AND get up to 8.0Ah of power per charge for complete convenience on the go.
As part of the expanding MultiVolt System from Metabo HPT, this cordless brad nailer will make any project faster and easier than ever before – so don’t hesitate…get nailing now with the Metabo HPT Brad Nailer!
Best Cordless Nailer on a Budget
NEU MASTER Cordless Brad Nailer (NTC0023)
Key Features
- 20V cordless
- 1,100 nails per charge
- Accepts 18 gauge brad nails or 1/4″ crown staples
Why It’s a Great Choice
The NEU MASTER Cordless Brad Nailer is the perfect tool for your DIY and professional projects!
With its amazing spiral-drive technology, this highly efficient cordless brad nailer is an absolute must-have.
It delivers more full-power shots than comparable corded tools, offering versatility that’s hard to beat.
You can fasten 1/4” crown staples from 5/8” to 1”, as well as 18 gauge brad nails from 5/8” to 1-1/4” with ease.
Plus, its non-marring rubber nose promises a flawless finish every time.
The oversized trigger and ergonomically designed handle help prevent grip fatigue and make sure you have control over every aspect of your project.
So when it comes to tackling even the most taxing of tasks, you can rest assured knowing the NEU MASTER Cordless Brad Nailer will help get the job done right.
Don’t wait any longer—now is the time to level up and invest in the smarter way of hammering!
Best Cordless Nailer for Long Days
Ryobi Airstrike 18 Volt One+ Lithium Ion Cordless Brad Nailer (P320)
Key Features
- 18V Cordless
- 1,700 nails per charge
- Low-nail indicator
Why It’s a Great Choice
DIYers and professionals alike, you don’t have to be a professional carpenter to get quality results – now, with the Ryobi Airstrike 18 Volt One+ Lithium Ion Cordless Brad Nailer, you can get the same quality results and more!
This cordless brad nailer drives up to 1700 nails per charge, so you can get your projects finished faster and easier.
Plus, you won’t have to worry about over- or under-inflation thanks to the convenient adjustment dial that regulates air pressure for optimum results.
And speaking of knowing when it’s time to reload – this bad boy has a low-nail indicator so you won’t be caught off guard!
Working in shady conditions?
No need for flashlights or headlamps – the Airstrike is even equipped with LED lighting so you can keep an eye on every detail.
Attach it to your belt and take it anywhere – with its lightweight frame and attached belt clip, it’s easy to bring this nailer wherever your project takes you!
So stop wasting time (and your money!) on tools that are barely enough for the job – grab yourself this Ryobi nailer today!
Best Brad Nailer for Productivity
PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX* Cordless Brad Nailer Kit (PCC790LA)
Key Features
- 20V Cordless
- 1,300 nails per charge
- Multiple tool-free settings
Why It’s a Great Choice
If you’re a DIYer looking for speed and ease, then PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX* Cordless Brad Nailer Kit has got your back.
Not only does it use a motor design that provides consistent firing power into all kinds of materials and climate conditions, but it comes with a tool-free stall release lever so you can get back to the job at hand in no time.
Plus, with its tool-free jam release, you never have to worry about those irritating pauses ever again.
And since the depth adjustment wheel makes sure that your work looks just right, there won’t be any embarrassing oops moments either!
So go ahead and make sure your next project pops by taking care of the nitty-gritty details with PORTER-CABLE.
You’ll thank us later!
Buyer’s Guide to the Best Cordless Brad Nailers
You’re looking for the best cordless nailer, but you don’t know where to start.
With all of the different brands and models of cordless brad nailers on the market, it can be tough to figure out which one is right for you.
We’ve compiled a list of the most commonly asked questions about cordless brad nailers so that you can make an informed decision before buying.
What is a brad nail?
Brad nails are thin, straight nails that are typically used for finishing work, such as attaching trim or molding to a wall or other surface. They are thinner than standard nails and are designed to leave a smaller hole, which can be easily filled and concealed. Brad nails are typically made of steel or other metals and come in a range of lengths and gauges to accommodate different types of woodworking projects. They are often used with a brad nailer, which is a type of power tool that allows the user to quickly and easily drive the nails into the surface.
What is a brad nailer?
A brad nailer is a type of power tool used in woodworking and carpentry to quickly and easily drive thin, straight nails called brads into a surface. It is essentially a pneumatic or electrically powered gun that uses compressed air or an electric motor to force the brads out of the tool and into the surface. Brad nailers are commonly used in finishing work, such as installing trim, molding, or other decorative elements. They are designed to leave a small hole in the surface, which can be easily filled and concealed. Brad nailers come in different sizes and styles, including cordless models that operate on battery power and are often used in combination with an air compressor or other power source.
What is the difference between a brad nailer and a finish nailer?
The main difference between a brad nailer and a finish nailer is the size and thickness of the nails they use.
Brad nailers typically use smaller, thinner nails called brads, which are usually 18-gauge or 23-gauge and range in length from 5/8 inch to 2 inches. They are designed to leave a smaller hole in the surface, making them ideal for attaching thin or delicate trim or molding.
Finish nailers, on the other hand, use slightly larger nails called finish nails, which are usually 15-gauge or 16-gauge and range in length from 1 inch to 2-1/2 inches. These nails are thicker than brads and leave a larger hole in the surface, but they are also stronger and better suited for attaching heavier trim or molding.
Overall, brad nailers are better suited for delicate or intricate finishing work where a smaller hole and less noticeable fasteners are desired, while finish nailers are better suited for heavier trim and larger projects where a stronger attachment is needed.
Is a cordless brad nailer as powerful as a corded or pneumatic brad nailer?
Cordless nail guns have come a long way in recent years and are now capable of delivering the same power and performance as their corded or pneumatic counterparts. However, there are some differences in power and performance between the different types of brad nailers.
Corded brad nailers are generally more powerful than cordless models, as they can draw more power from a constant source of electricity. A pneumatic nailer, which is powered by a compressed air hose, is also very powerful and efficient, making it a popular choice for professionals.
Battery-powered brad nailers, on the other hand, are highly portable and convenient, making them a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts and those who need to move around the job site frequently. The power output of a cordless brad nailer can vary depending on the model and the type of battery used, but many cordless models are now capable of delivering enough power to handle a wide range of woodworking projects.
When choosing between cordless, corded, or pneumatic nailers, it’s important to consider the specific needs of your project and the level of portability, convenience, and power that you require.
How do you use a battery-powered brad nailer?
Here are the basic steps to using a cordless brad nailer:
- Choose the right brads for your project. Select the appropriate length and gauge of brads for your woodworking project.
- Load the brads into the nailer. Follow the instructions provided with your specific model of cordless brad nailer to load the brads into the magazine of the tool.
- Adjust the depth setting. Most cordless brad nailers allow you to adjust the depth of the nails so that they are flush with the surface of the wood. Adjust this setting according to your project requirements.
- Turn on the tool. If your cordless brad nailer has an on/off switch, turn it on before use.
- Position the nailer. Position the nailer at a 90-degree angle to the surface of the wood where you want to place the nail.
- Align the nailer. Make sure the nailer is properly aligned with the surface of the wood and press the tip of the nailer against the surface.
- Pull the trigger. Press the trigger to activate the nailer and drive the nail into the wood.
- Repeat. Repeat the process for each nail, making sure to keep the nailer properly aligned and pressing it firmly against the surface of the wood.
- Turn off the tool. Once you have finished using the cordless brad nailer, turn off the tool and remove the battery.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions when using a cordless brad nailer.
Can cordless brad nailers handle different nail sizes?
Most cordless brad nailers are designed to handle a range of nail sizes within a specific gauge. For example, an 18-gauge cordless brad nailer may be able to handle nails ranging from 5/8 inch to 2 inches in length. Similarly, a 23-gauge cordless brad nailer may be able to handle nails ranging from 1/2 inch to 1-3/8 inches in length.
It is important to check the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific model of cordless brad nailer to determine the range of nail sizes it can handle. Attempting to use nails outside of this range could result in damage to the tool or unsafe operation.
When selecting nails for your cordless brad nailer, make sure to choose the appropriate size and gauge for your project. Using nails that are too long or too thick for your tool could also result in damage to the tool or poor performance.
Are battery-powered brad nailers heavy to use?
Cordless brad nailers are generally lightweight and easy to use, making them a popular choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals.
The weight of a cordless brad nailer can vary depending on the model and brand, but in general, they are designed to be lightweight and easy to handle, even for extended periods of use. Many cordless brad nailers weigh around 5 to 6 pounds, which is significantly lighter than most corded models.
The portability of cordless brad nailers also makes them more versatile and easier to use in tight or awkward spaces where corded models might be more difficult to maneuver. Additionally, most cordless brad nailers are designed with ergonomic handles and balanced weight distribution to reduce user fatigue.
That being said, the weight of the tool may still be a consideration for some users, especially if they have certain physical limitations or need to use the tool for extended periods. It’s always a good idea to try out a cordless brad nailer before purchasing to make sure it feels comfortable and manageable for your needs.
Can a cordless brad nailer be used for different types of woodworking projects?
Yes, cordless nailers can be used for a wide variety of woodworking projects. Brad nailers are designed to be used for smaller, more delicate projects that require precision and accuracy. Here are some examples of woodworking projects where a cordless brad nailer can be a useful tool:
- Trim work: Battery-powered nail guns are ideal for attaching trim, such as baseboards, crown molding, and chair rails.
- Furniture repair and assembly: Battery-powered nailers can be used to attach wood pieces when building or repairing furniture.
- Cabinet assembly: Battery-powered nail guns can be used to attach cabinet frames, as well as attach the trim to the cabinets.
- Picture frames: Battery-powered nailers are ideal for attaching the corners of picture frames.
- Crafts: Cordless nailers can be used for a variety of crafting projects that require attaching wood pieces, such as birdhouses, jewelry boxes, and small shelves.
When using a cordless brad nailer for any woodworking project, it is important to choose the appropriate size and gauge of brads for the job, as well as adjust the depth setting for the desired level of penetration. It’s also important to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions when using any power tool.
How easy is it to switch out the nails on a battery-powered brad nailer?
Switching out the nails on a cordless brad nailer is generally a straightforward process that can be done quickly and easily. Most cordless brad nailers have a magazine or loading area where the nails are loaded and held in place by a spring mechanism.
To switch out the nails on a cordless brad nailer, you’ll typically need to follow these steps:
- Disconnect the nailer from the power source (if applicable) and release any remaining pressure from the tool.
- Open the magazine or loading area by pressing the release button or lever.
- Remove any remaining nails from the magazine and clear out any debris or obstructions.
- Load the new nails into the magazine, making sure they are facing in the right direction and properly aligned.
- Close the magazine or loading area, making sure it clicks securely into place.
- Test the tool to ensure it is properly loaded and functioning correctly before resuming use.
The process may vary slightly depending on the specific model and brand of cordless brad nailer, so it’s always a good idea to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for your tool to ensure proper loading and operation.
What safety precautions should I take when using a cordless brad nailer?
Using a cordless brad nailer can be a safe and efficient way to tackle a wide range of woodworking projects, but it’s important to take proper safety precautions to avoid injury or damage to the workpiece. Here are some general safety tips to keep in mind when using a cordless brad nailer:
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, ear protection, and work gloves.
- Keep your hands and fingers clear of the nailer’s muzzle and trigger area.
- Keep the nailer pointed away from your body and others at all times.
- Always ensure that the workpiece is securely clamped or held in place before firing the nailer.
- Never leave the nailer unattended or with the trigger engaged.
- Use the appropriate size and gauge of nails for the job, and avoid using damaged or bent nails.
- Avoid using the nailer in wet conditions.
- Disconnect the nailer from the power source before loading or unloading nails, or performing any maintenance on the tool.
- Store the nailer and nails in a secure location, away from children and pets.
- Familiarize yourself with the manufacturer’s instructions and recommended operating procedures before using the nailer.
By following these safety tips and using the cordless brad nailer responsibly and appropriately, you can minimize the risk of injury or damage and enjoy safe, efficient woodworking.
Choosing the Best Cordless Brad Nailer for You
Whether you’re a newly minted novice or an experienced tradesperson looking to add a cordless brad nailer to your arsenal, we’ve done the hard work for you and given you the best of the best when it comes to these vital cordless tools.
We may not know exactly which project you have in mind – maybe it’s a new deck, installing molding trim around windows, or just whipping up some shelves for Grandma’s house – but with one of these great selections, there’s no doubt that the job will turn out perfect.
Pick one, click the link to check its price on Amazon, and order it today.
As always, make sure you measure twice and cut once – and then get out there and nail it!
