When carrying out construction and installation work, you have to hammer in nails quite often. This operation is monotonous, routine and can be associated with a variety of dangers, for example, with the possibility of hitting your finger with a hammer. To greatly facilitate the work of the master and reduce the likelihood of injury, a tool such as a nail gun was developed. It has recently become quite widespread. This device works quickly and very effectively. With its help, you can almost instantly install a profile for plasterboard systems, lay a soft roof, make furniture and perform a huge number of other works.
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Construction equipment stores offer a wide range of these devices. In this regard, many users, especially those who have not encountered such products before, are lost. To save you from this problem, we have decided to rank the best nail guns of 2022. In the review, we not only analyzed the useful characteristics of each of the models included here, but also allowed ourselves to give advice on choosing and purchasing this tool.
What is the tool
A nailer is a tool for hammering nails that replaces a regular hammer. The device is highly powerful, so it allows fasteners to pierce not only a soft base in the form of wood, but also durable materials, including brick, concrete, etc., without applying almost any effort.
The gun drives nails into the surface with one shot. Thanks to this, construction and installation work can be completed in a short time.
Rating of powder pistols
Powder-type nailers are slower than pneumatic and gas nailers, but do a good job of driving nails into hard material. Models from well-known brands are completely safe to use.
Walte PT 950A
Multi-shot nailer for wood, metal, concrete and brick supports fastener lengths up to 80mm. Works with red and black cartridges, the model provides adjustment of impact power and a wear protection system for the piston and shock absorber. The nailer is reliable and has a long service life.
You can buy a Walte nailer from 17,000 rubles
Toua 307
The gun is designed for driving 15-76 mm nails into brick and concrete; the impact energy when fired is 100-450 J. Among the features, one can note a rubber attachment on the barrel, which prevents the scattering of concrete fragments when shooting. The nailer comes with two hex keys, a plastic case and a cleaning rod for cleaning the tool.
The price of the Toua nail gun is only about 4,500 rubles
Spit P45
The single-shot nailer for concrete and metal is lightweight and compact with a good impact force of 320 J. Most often, the device is used for fastening cellular film and waterproofing; the model works with green, red, yellow and brown cartridges.
You can buy Spit P45 for an average of 42,000 rubles
Peculiarities
A nailer is a tool that looks like a gun. For this reason, it is also called a nail gun.
The device consists of the following elements:
- frame;
- lever;
- a magazine in which fasteners are placed;
- trigger;
- piston.
The tool is easy to use. To drive a nail into a surface, simply place the gun against the base and pull the trigger. When performing a manipulation, the drive transfers energy to the piston. The result is a shot. Immediately after this, the piston returns to its original position.
Then the next fastening element from the magazine enters the barrel of the device and immediately after this the procedure can be performed again.
The tool fires an average of 1-3 shots per second. It is thanks to this that the relevant construction and installation work occurs at high speed.
How to choose the right nail gun?
It cannot be said that this device is something completely complex: the device consists of a body, a handle equipped with a trigger, an element called a “nail magazine,” and a special piston. The latter provides a pressure of about 4-6 atmospheres - this indicator will be quite enough for the nails to optimally fit into almost any material. The piston device is started by pressing the trigger, after which a strictly defined amount of compressed air is selected. The nails are directed with decent acceleration towards the base and firmly enter it. The nails themselves have absolutely no kinetic energy, so when the gun stops, they will also stop. However, such a device also has one significant inconvenience: when using the tool, you need to purchase special nails, since standard ones will not fit it.
When using such devices, it is possible to greatly reduce operating time and save energy. These guns are used by both professionals and home craftsmen. The devices are lightweight, have normal returns, and are quite easy to use. Both battery-powered and mains-powered models can be found on sale. Designs that operate on battery energy will cost much more, but they are much more convenient to use. On one charge you can hammer about 700-1000 nails. Up to 300 nails can be placed in one drum, which is why the mass of products becomes much larger. It is most convenient to work with cassette devices, since the cassettes themselves do not make the devices larger, but they allow you to reach the most inaccessible places.
The speed is about one shot per second - not very much, but in any case it is more efficient than driving nails by hand. The length of the power cable for the network model is specially made quite decent - up to 5 meters. The nail impact adjustment can be adjusted over a significant range. When choosing models for inclusion in our rating, we were guided not only by the above parameters, but also took into account user reviews, as well as price-quality ratio. To ensure that each of our readers can afford these products financially, we tried to include in the review only affordable models. We hope that after studying our rating you will be able to choose the optimal product for yourself. Now is the time to start directly analyzing the useful qualities of nail guns.
Characteristics
The exact characteristics of the nailer depend on the specific model. However, the general parameters of any device are highlighted:
- case material – plastic or metal;
- magazine material – metal;
- weight – 0.8-7 kg;
- length – 269-538 mm;
- width – 128-153 mm;
- height – 273-568 mm;
- magazine type - rack or drum;
- magazine capacity – 150-200 fasteners;
- impact power – up to 100 J;
- operating mode – sequential mode or single shot;
- shot speed per second – from 1 to 3.
In addition, the tool may have additional options:
- Overheat protection . It deactivates devices in case of prolonged use and strong heating of the case.
- Blank shot protection . Does not allow the device to be activated if there are no fastening elements in the magazine.
- Repeated shot protection . This option is relevant for pistols with automatic operation. It prevents several nails in a row from coming out in the same place.
- Adjusting the shot energy . Allows you to adjust the depth of insertion of the fastener into the base, taking into account the material.
- Backlight . Allows you to use the tool even in poor lighting.
Areas of application
Nailers are used in any area where a procedure such as driving nails is required. It is used in construction, when performing installation work. Using the device, you can straighten a fence in the garden, build a gazebo, etc. The device is used for assembling furniture, repairing facades, etc.
Types of tool magazine
As already mentioned, there are two types of pistol magazine:
Rack and pinion
In this case, the fasteners are glued onto a paper or plastic base. The nails here form a straight strip. The main advantage of the store is its light weight.
The only drawback is the small capacity. Up to 100 nails are loaded into the magazine, which is why the clip has to be changed frequently in case of large-scale work.
Drum
Here the nails are connected to each other with wire into a tape. It is wound up and fixed in the drum. This allows you to place up to 200 nails in the magazine, which is especially important when performing installation work, when there is no time to frequently refill the magazine.
The disadvantages include high cost.
Expert opinion
Torsunov Pavel Maksimovich
Rack and pinion magazines reload much faster than drum magazines, so they are in high demand, despite their small capacity.
Scope of application of the drum gun
The power of a drum-type nailer, as well as the magazine capacity, is significantly higher than that of a rack-type nailer.
The magazine of such a tool is loaded with a tape with nails 50 mm in length and above, rolled into a roll. In addition, such pneumatic guns have great penetrating force, which makes it possible to fasten particle boards. Drum-type pneumatic guns are used in construction:
- frame structures,
- fences;
- houses and various purposes of outbuildings.
Varieties
There are several types of pistols, depending on the drive.
Electrical
Such tools help drive nails even into very hard surfaces, including concrete. They are used for types of fastening tools such as staples, pins, and studs.
Electric nailers come in two types:
Network
They work accordingly from the network. Such tools are characterized by high power and light weight. The disadvantage is that it needs to be used near an outlet.
Rechargeable
Powered by its own battery. This indicates their mobility and the ability to use them away from outlets. Disadvantages: low power compared to the previous version, heavy weight.
Pneumatic
These guns are powered by compressed air. For this reason, a compressor is required to use them. They are highly powerful and are capable of driving nails with a diameter of up to 5 mm and a length of up to 22 cm into any surface.
The tools are light in weight, easy to maintain and have an affordable price.
Other advantages of the devices:
- high performance;
- safety of use;
- impressive power;
- low noise level;
- small recoil;
- moisture-resistant housing;
- no special permission required for use.
Flaws:
- requires a compressor and electricity to operate;
- inconvenient high pressure hose connected to the compressor.
Gas
Devices powered by explosion energy that occurs during the reaction of propane-butane and oxygen. Such devices allow you to fix fasteners even in hard-to-reach places.
Advantages:
- ergonomic design;
- convenience and ease of use;
- autonomy;
- suitable for driving nails into any surface, including hard ones;
- relatively light weight;
- no special permission is required for use;
- ease of maintenance;
- You don't need to put much effort into pressing the hook.
Flaws:
- the gases used to operate the device can harm the operator, so tools can only be used in well-ventilated areas or outdoors;
- the need for regular cleaning of the combustion chamber;
- significant sizes.
Powder
To operate, the tools require gunpowder, which is loaded into the combustion chamber. Once it ignites, the gun fires. The device is highly powerful. It allows you to drive a nail into the hardest material, including metal.
Advantages:
- high impact power;
- significant performance;
- mobility;
- autonomy;
- compact dimensions;
- a light weight;
- Possibility of use for different types of nails.
Flaws:
- exhaust during use;
- special permission is required to use the tool;
- high cost of ammunition;
- Regular maintenance is required;
- Difficult to use due to strong recoil.
The sales consultant expressed his opinion on which nailer is best to choose.
Ryzhkov Dmitry, sales consultant, work experience – 7 years
Our store offers a large selection of nailers. The range includes electric, pneumatic and gas models. When advising on the purchase of a pistol, I take into account the purposes for which it will be used.
So, if you need a tool for your home, to hammer nails into walls from time to time, or to straighten fences in the garden, I recommend using electric models. They cope well with their tasks and are easy to use and maintain.
If a gun is needed for work - for builders, furniture assemblers, etc., I recommend choosing pneumatic or gas models. They are characterized by high power, so they allow you to complete even complex work in a short time.
Types of nailers and their prices
As mentioned above, an automatic magazine-type nailer can be drum or rack-and-pinion.
Also, the nailer, depending on the type of drive, can be:
Electric
The least powerful tool, usually working with fasteners up to 50 mm long, and therefore suitable for finishing.
In turn, there is a network (powered from a household electrical network) and a battery-powered one.
The first is tied to the power source by the length of the wire, and the second is demanding in terms of operating conditions.
For example, Li-ion and Li-pol batteries cannot be completely discharged, while Ni-MH and NiCd options are charged only after complete discharge.
Also, the nailer, based on the type of installed electric motor, can be brushed (cheaper) or brushless (with increased efficiency and working life).
Cost 16 – 35 thousand rubles.
Pneumatic
The most wear-resistant tool, which, moreover, has a low mass.
It has the lowest cost per shot, which means this option is the most profitable in operation.
On the other hand, an air hammer requires connection to a compressor with the appropriate technical characteristics, so it is somewhat dependent on electricity.
Models weigh up to 3 kg, are capable of firing up to 3 shots per second, are easy to maintain and have high power.
The tool can be oil-based (requires periodic lubrication) or oil-free.
The latter is preferable for finishing work, since it will most likely not stain the surface being bonded with oil.
Price from 2 to 15 thousand rubles.
Gas
Autonomous, powerful and easy-to-use nailer, weighing no more than 4 kg.
Its main feature is its versatility, as some examples can replace a hammer drill.
The tool uses a canister filled with flammable gas, so that its operation is ensured by the explosion energy of the latter.
Such models are used for installing dowels in hard materials, such as brick or concrete; during operation they emit exhaust gases, and their combustion chamber requires regular cleaning.
The average cost is 30 – 40 thousand rubles.
Depending on their purpose, nailers are divided into:
Frame
For installation of rafters and similar structures made of wood.
Use nails 50 - 220 mm with O- and D-shaped heads.
Based on the magazine capacity and power, the length of the hardware is limited to approximately the following limits: 50-90 mm, 90-120 mm, 100-160 mm.
Cladding
Used for covering furniture and various structures, the length of fasteners with a wide head is 25-75 mm, such models are often equipped with a capacious drum magazine.
Suitable for installing fabric upholstery, plywood sheets and similar materials.
Finishing
For installation of moldings, glazing beads and similar cash-in elements.
The finishing nailer, as it is also called, uses nails that do not have heads and are assembled in paper or plastic cassettes.
Finishing nailers have smooth adjustment of driving depth and are equipped with a rubber tip that prevents damage to decorative parts.
For perforated parts
Frame models with a special attachment designed for fastening the corresponding products.
Roofing
Mainly a drum tool - used for installing soft roofing coverings and other similar materials.
Most often, such models are loaded with galvanized nails 2-4 cm long and with a large head.
For drywall
Designed for twisted and ribbed nails with an enlarged head and a size of 30-50 mm.
Similar models are used where it is necessary to attach drywall to wooden sheathing.
Parquet (floor)
It is used for installing floor coverings, mainly for driving in so-called crutches (L-shaped studs), and the fasteners are driven in at a certain angle.
For insulation
With the possibility of using a mushroom-type washer, which allows you to hold the insulation without any damage.
Such nailers are used for fixing dense wool, polystyrene foam, penoplex and other insulation materials with similar characteristics.
Palm pistol
This pneumatic tool is used for fastening parts in hard-to-reach places, as it is extremely small in size.
The model is designed to work with single-piece fasteners, and therefore does not apply to automatic nailers.
Microspillar
A tool for finishing work, designed for driving in studs with a length of 12 to 25 – 35 mm.
The weight of models often does not exceed 1 kg.
Direct Mount Models
These are all powder nailers (more on them below), as well as some pneumatic and gas ones.
Direct installation involves driving dowel-nail type fasteners into brick, concrete and even metal structures.
Universal
A nailer whose design allows you to work with several types of fasteners.
Powder nailers are a separate class of tool with automatic or semi-automatic operating modes, the principle of which is based on the release of impact energy when a charge in a cartridge explodes, similar to a firearm.
Purpose – installation of dowels in single shots into a material with high hardness.
Important!
The main feature of this tool is that the operator must have special permits to carry out work.
Such a nailer will cost 10–15 thousand rubles.
Selection rules
When purchasing a nailer, you should consider the following points:
Tool type
In this case, it all depends on what the gun is used for - for work or for use at home. In addition, when choosing, take into account the type of surface into which the nails will be driven and the type of fastening tools.
Fastener type
Some tools only allow you to use branded nails. Because of this, the master has to constantly look for specific fasteners. For this reason, it is best to purchase a gun that works with more than just brand name nails.
Availability of driving depth adjustment function
This option is important if the tool is used for surfaces that do not allow fasteners to be immersed all the way to the head.
Weight
To prevent your hand from getting tired for as long as possible, it is best to choose lightweight models. However, such tools cannot boast of high productivity due to their low power. If the gun is needed for work, then its weight cannot be less than 4 kg.
Magazine capacity
The best option is from 100 units. Magazines with a smaller capacity will have to be reloaded frequently.
Nail thickness and length
Which fasteners are suitable for the tool are indicated in the instructions for the model.
Availability of protection
Options such as protection against overheating, dry firing, etc. not only guarantees the safe operation of the tool, but also increases its service life.
Features of choosing an electric nailer with a battery
Unlike conventional electric pistols, battery-powered models have a built-in supercharger. It provides the energy needed to operate the tool. Most models are equipped with Li-on batteries. Only these storage elements have sufficient capacity. They can provide the current output necessary for the normal functioning of the tool.
Almost all modifications of electric nail guns are equipped with one battery. For this reason, before purchasing, it is advisable to check whether it is possible to purchase a spare battery. Another difficulty lies in the fact that not every battery will fit. The connector configuration may vary between pistols.
It is better to give preference to popular models with an extensive production series. If after a few years a manufacturer stops supplying certain pistols to the market, problems may arise in obtaining replacement parts. It is for this reason that you should avoid limited editions.
It is very important that the built-in supercharger has sufficient power level. Otherwise, the pistol will not have the declared characteristics. He will not be able to hammer 1-2 nails per second. In addition, over the course of a year, the battery wears out and performance will drop even more. Some nailer models do not allow the use of consumables from other companies; they can only work in combination with branded products.
Rechargeable models of nailers are equipped with Li-on batteries
TOP best models
The TOP included only models with optimal characteristics that received a large number of user reviews.
RYOBI R18N18G-0
High performance cordless tool. Recommended for use at home. It is light in weight, so the master’s hand does not get tired even when using the model for a long time. Allows you to drive nails even into hard surfaces.
Characteristics:
- power supply – own battery;
- productivity – 60 beats per minute;
- store type - rack and pinion;
- magazine capacity – 105 nails;
- impact force adjustment – yes;
- backlight - yes;
- nail length – from 15 to 50 mm;
- the minimum diameter of the fastening element is 1.2 mm;
- weight – 2.93 kg.
Pros:
- ease of use;
- a light weight;
- high-quality assembly without backlash;
- ergonomic handle;
- long operational period;
- high performance.
Minuses:
- small magazine capacity;
- not suitable for nails with a diameter of less than 1.2 mm.
Makita DPT353Z
High quality tool with high performance. It has a spacious magazine that can hold up to 130 fasteners. The model can be used regardless of the location of the outlet.
Characteristics:
- power supply – own battery;
- store type - rack and pinion;
- magazine capacity – 130 nails;
- nail length – from 15 to 35 mm;
- the minimum diameter of the fastening element is 10.6 mm;
- weight – 2.1 kg.
Pros:
- ease of use;
- battery operation;
- good balancing;
- ergonomic handle;
- a light weight;
- high quality assembly;
- low return.
Minuses:
- none.
AEG B18N18-0
A high-quality tool that is easy to use and high-speed. Capable of firing 2 shots per second. Equipped with an ergonomic handle and lightweight. Serves for a long time without malfunctions.
Characteristics:
- power supply – own battery;
- performance – 120 beats per minute;
- store type - rack and pinion;
- magazine capacity – 105 nails;
- impact force adjustment – yes;
- backlight - yes;
- nail length – from 15.9 to 55 mm;
- the minimum diameter of the fastening element is 1.2 mm;
- weight – 2.7 kg.
Pros:
- high performance;
- autonomous work;
- ergonomic handle;
- long service life;
- ease of use;
- assembly without backlash.
Minuses:
- small magazine capacity;
- not suitable for nails with a diameter of less than 1.2 mm.
Gas nail guns
Toua GFN3490CHLi
Autonomous products that have found wide application in the production of various frame works. The gun is capable of working with rack nails, the length of which ranges from 50 to 90 mm. This device does not have to be connected to a compressor or electrical network. The instrument belongs to the professional class. It is designed to work exclusively with wood, for example, when constructing sheathing or packaging. It is often used by craftsmen who build houses. In particular, such a model will be quite suitable in the process of manufacturing frame structures, assembling roofing and rafter systems. In addition, this device has proven itself well in the field of working with plywood and fiberboard type boards, especially if they need to be attached to wooden structures.
More: Top 10 laser levels
The device does not require lubrication due to the fact that a mixture of liquefied gas and special lubricants developed specifically for this model is used as a working element. The gun is capable of operating in a wide temperature range – from -15 to + 60 degrees. The maximum pressure in the cylinder is 16 bar. The products are very convenient to use; there is no need to acquire special skills. The kit comes with two batteries, and there is an LED indicator on the handle to indicate when the battery is low.
Advantages:
- A full charge of one battery is enough for approximately 4,000 nails;
- Nails up to 90 mm long can be used;
- The weight of the equipment is not too large;
- Wide operating temperature range.
Flaws:
- Designed mainly for working with wood.
Toua GFN3490CHLi
Toua GSN F1
Engineers developed this mounting gun specifically for work related to electrical installation - in this area, the model is rightfully considered the best. The product is excellent for adjusting clips, organizing platforms for screeds, installing plastic cable ducts, pipe holders for various purposes, installing corrugated hoses, and so on. The main thing that users note is the high efficiency and low weight of the equipment. Thanks to these factors, the fasteners are aimed at the ceiling very quickly and efficiently. There is a narrow barrel used here for all kinds of clips, the diameter of which can reach 16 mm. The barrel itself is used as a clamping mechanism, which operates at a minimum depth, so the plastic fastener remains intact.
The kit also includes one more barrel, which will work at medium and maximum depth, which helps to use the gun for general installation work - installing guides, plasterboard sheets, plywood, and so on. The barrel can be changed within a few seconds if necessary. There is a decent level of power generated when driving nails, so even fairly thick material will be nailed securely to the substrate. The equipment is easy to operate and maintain. The kit also includes two lithium-ion batteries, and a full charge of one of them is enough for 8,000 nails. There is a bracket for hanging the tool on a belt.
Advantages:
- For a gas appliance it is relatively quiet;
- Excellent build quality and components;
- The ergonomics of the device are perfectly thought out;
- The model is characterized by excellent balancing;
- High speed of work;
- The barrel can be replaced if necessary.
Flaws:
- Sometimes oil from the cylinder gets into the valve, so it will have to be cleaned periodically.
Toua GSN F1
Lixie LXJG-III
The gun has a high level of power, which makes it possible to carry out installation work related to fairly durable building materials, for example, steel, concrete, brickwork, and there is no need to pre-drill holes in the base. The tool operates at a very high speed, so even a significant amount of work aimed, for example, at shooting plastic or steel parts, is completed in the shortest possible time. The product is equipped with a very powerful battery with a capacity of 10,000 mAh; in order to fully charge it you will have to spend about 150 minutes. The volume of one gas cylinder will be enough to hammer about one and a half thousand nails into the densest and hardest substrates. The kit comes with two batteries, safety glasses and a durable case.
When working with this tool, you can use special nails with a length of 15 to 42 mm. The device does not require a power source; it can be used completely autonomously for a long time. The device is capable of operating in a temperature range from 0 to 40 degrees. The diameter of the nail shank should be between 2.2 and 3.0 mm. The magazine is located at a zero angle to the surface, which completely eliminates jamming of nails. It holds up to 30 nails. The weight of the equipment is 4.5 kg with overall dimensions of 490x123x350 mm. The maximum shot energy can reach 110 J.
Advantages:
- High battery life;
- Build and manufacturing quality;
- Long service life;
- Can work with absolutely any materials;
- Two very high-capacity batteries included.
Flaws:
- Small magazine capacity - only 30 nails.
Lixie LXJG-III
Questions and answers
What is the best nailer to buy for working at home?
For personal use, it is recommended to purchase an electric tool. If the device will be used near an outlet, it is best to use a corded nailer; if there is no outlet nearby, you should use a battery-powered device.
How to use nailer?
To use the tool, you need to fill the magazine, press the nose to the surface and pull the trigger. Next, the instrument is transferred to another area and the procedure is repeated.
Is it necessary to buy a nailer with overheat protection?
No, but they take into account that this option increases the period of maintenance-free operation of the tool. If the gun is rarely used and is not used for a long period, then you can buy a device without overheating protection.
Can nailer be used on soft roofs?
It all depends on the type of specific model. In the instructions for the tool, manufacturers indicate what type of material the gun can be used for.
Which magazine is better - rack or drum?
Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Thus, a rack and pinion magazine is light in weight and has an acceptable cost, but has a small capacity, while a drum magazine, on the contrary, is more expensive, but can accommodate up to 200 fasteners.
A nailer is a nailing tool that is indispensable for some gardening work, repairs, etc. It helps to fix the fastener in the base without applying much effort.
