Designed for use with a whole range of materials, a nail gun is a handy addition to your tool kit, especially for jobs that require a large number of fixings.
Instead of having to hammer in each individual nail by hand, these power tools shoot ‘brads’ or small nails into the material, saving you both time and effort. Many double up as a stapler, too, making them even more versatile.
In this article, we'll cover:
- How much do nail guns cost?
- What features should I look for in a nail gun?
- How to use a nail gun
- Best nail guns to buy
- Buyer's Guide: Choosing the best nail gun for your needs
- Nail gun FAQs
How much do nail guns cost?
Although the most powerful, and often expensive, nail guns are geared towards professional contractors, those designed for the home DIYer are surprisingly affordable, with prices ranging from around £150.
Look for a battery-powered (rather than a compressor) model, which will provide plenty of ‘oomph’ for light to medium duty tasks. Always check if the product comes with a battery and charger, as if you need to buy these separately, they will bump up the price.
What features should I look for in a nail gun?
Depth control adjustment is a useful feature to look out for, as this will allow you to set how deep or shallow the nail sits, and can be adjusted for different materials and thicknesses. Most products also offer safety features to prevent accidental use.
These tools require little maintenance, so the only thing you need to worry about is making sure that you have the right size or ‘gauge’ nails or staples. Some tools with come with a pack of these to get you started. Nail guns can occasionally become jammed, but the problem is usually easily fixed yourself.
How to use a nail gun
Best nail guns to buy
Worx 20V cordless brad nailer and crown stapler
This battery-powered model can fire up to 2,000 shots on a single charge, and is easy to reload with 18 gauge nails or staples. It also features adjustable depth-drive control.
VonHaus Cordless nail gun and staple gun
With an 18V battery, this design comes complete with 200 nails and 200 staples. It has two different modes, and is fitted with a two-stage safety trigger to prevent accidental use.
Don't miss our roundup of the best glue guns for an alternative option!
Ryobi 18V ONE cordless 16 gauge nailer
Part of Ryobi’s ONE system of cordless tools, this nailer has two modes, a tool-less jam release and ‘dry-fire lockout’ mode which prevents it working without nails which could damage the surface.
NEU MASTER Cordless Brad Nailer
This cordless 2-in-1 staple and nail gun is a handy addition to your DIY arsenal. It drives 5.8mm crown staple from 15mm to 25mm, and 18 gauge brad nail from 15mm to 32mm. It should fully charge in just one hour, which is an added bonus.
Draper Air Nailer/Stapler
This pneumatic stapler/nailer is powered by compressed air, rather than a battery. With quality cast aluminium housing and a safety bump mechanism that helps prevent accidental firing., it's suitable for nails 10-50mm and staples 12-40mm long.
- Buy now from Tool Station (£52.25)
TMech Nail & Staple Gun with Additional Battery
This cordless nail gun is loaded with 300 staples, 300 nails, and an extra battery. Accommodating nails up to 50mm or an 18 gauge brad nail, and staples up to 40mm, it's versatile for any project.
With options for single fire or continuous fire, plus built-in Air Impact design and depth adjustment, it offers precision and safety.
- Buy now from B&Q (£189.99)
Buyer's Guide: Choosing the best nail gun for your needs
With a multitude of options available on the market, selecting the right nail gun can be overwhelming. To help you make an informed decision, consider the following factors:
Types of nail guns
- Brad nailers: Ideal for delicate trim work and light-duty projects.
- Finish nailers: Suited for finishing carpentry tasks like crown molding and baseboards.
- Framing nailers: Designed for heavy-duty framing and construction jobs.
- Staple guns: Perfect for upholstery, carpeting, and general household repairs.
- Roofing nailers: Specifically crafted for roofing installations.
Power source
- Pneumatic (air-powered): Requires an air compressor, offering consistent power and reliability.
- Cordless (battery-powered): Provides portability and convenience, albeit with limited runtime.
Nail gauge and length
Consider the nail gauge and length compatible with the nail gun, ensuring it suits your intended application.
Depth adjustment
Look for models with depth adjustment features, allowing you to control how deeply the nail is driven into the material.
Ease of use
Comfort and ease of use are crucial, especially for extended periods of operation. Look for features like ergonomic handles and lightweight designs.
Brand reputation and warranty
Research reputable brands known for durability, performance, and customer support. Additionally, check for warranties to ensure peace of mind regarding your investment.
Nail gun FAQs
Can I use any type of nail in a nail gun?
Nail guns are designed to accommodate specific nail sizes and types. Always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for compatible nails to prevent damage or malfunction.
Are cordless nail guns as powerful as pneumatic ones?
Cordless nail guns have significantly improved in power and performance over the years. While they may not match the sheer power of pneumatic nail guns, they offer sufficient strength for most applications with the added benefit of portability.
How do I maintain my nail gun for optimal performance?
Regular maintenance is key to prolonging the lifespan of your nail gun. This includes lubricating moving parts, cleaning debris from the magazine, and storing the tool in a dry environment when not in use. Always follow the manufacturer's maintenance instructions outlined in the user manual.
Can I use a nail gun for all types of woodworking projects?
Nail guns are versatile tools suitable for a wide range of woodworking projects, from simple trim work to heavy-duty framing. However, certain applications may require specialized tools or fasteners, so it's essential to assess the requirements of your specific project beforehand.
Hit the nail on the head
We hope we've hammered home just how handy a nail gun can be as an addition to your tool kit. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a DIY novice, consider speeding up your projects with a bit of help from a nail gun.
Expand your toolbox
Looking for more power tools for your next DIY weekend? Head to YourHomeStyle's roundup of the best cordless drills and the best jigsaws.
This article first appeared in YourHomeStyle and HomeStyle magazine.
