Best Overall
DeWalt 20V MAX 21° Cordless Framing Nailer
Runner-Up
Milwaukee 2744-21 M18 Fuel 21° Framing Nailer Kit
Best Bang for the Buck
Metabo HPT 18V 30° Paper Strip Framing Nailer Kit
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Driving a nail with a single mallet stroking is almost a skill of the past — but with today ’s power nailers , it ’s no longer necessary . We test today ’s top - sell cordless frame nailers and thoroughly researched dozens more to bring you the best mannequin for a range of budget and projects .
These portable ability tool are comparatively lightweight and powerful enough for nail dense frame lumber .
Keep reading if you ’re take adding one of these convenient gimmick to your tool outfit . This guide detail the information you need to roll in the hay when shop for the best cordless frame nailer and delivers the pros and cons of the follow models that earn a situation on our lineup .
How We Tested the Best Cordless Framing Nailers
Before choosing cordless frame nailers for testing in our workshops and jobsites , we cautiously researched several dozen model — analyzing client feedback , overall satisfaction , and good features such as brush motors and carrel spillage . We then narrowed down our picks to the highest - rate products on the food market .
In existent examination , we appraise the nailer ’ performance in common framing scenario — confiscate sheathe and subfloor and link wall studs to base and ceiling plates to determine how the tools would perform in real - world scenario . We also try each instrument by firing nail into obtuse hardwood to see how much nailing power each could produce .
We awarded points ground on a statute title . The better a nailer performed , the more points we gave it for each specific task . We also awarded period for special features , such as raftsman draw and easy - to - use depth - adjustment mechanisms .
We liken their prices , tycoon , accessories , and overall note value to insure we suggested only the best cordless nail guns on the market . After testing and evaluation , we averaged the point and used them to determine the best uses for each ware that made the cut .
Our Top Picks
Framing nailers are all about convenience and gain the job as wanton as potential , but choosing one can be confusing . To help simplify the shopping process , look up to the follow lean of some of the beneficial cordless frame nailer on the market , complete with pros and con for each prick .
ThisBob Vila Approvedproduct carry our steel ’s highest level of recommendation .
Bob Vila Approvedrecognizes the household and DIY product that impress us most in our real - world examination and that exemplify core note value of the Bob Vila blade , including craftsmanship , invention , and value for the dollar sign . Winners of this designation come recommend by our professional review team and are in person sanction by Bob Vila .
In our tests , the DeWalt 21 - degree cordless frame nailer turned out to be a tangible workhorse , and its mellow public presentation grade earned it the top fleck . weigh in at 8.5 pounds , this DeWalt cock is a study in both portability and baron . While it ’s light than some modelling we tested , it ’s still a tad heavier than most pneumatic and natural gas - power models . However , we find it well balanced and easy to wield .
The depth - adjustment feature was essential as we switch from dimensional lumber to hardwood since shoot nails into each take a different degree of force out .
The DeWalt ’s 21 - degree angled nose made it easy to practice in close spots , including attaching erect rampart studs to ceiling and floor plates at an slant ( toenailing ) .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
One minor drawback we noticed is the nailer ’s slightly slower recovery clip in bump mode . After five to seven rapid - fire shots , the DeWalt slow up down a tad . This could be a consideration for professionals looking for lightning - fast nailing for undertaking like attaching sheathe . For the average DIYer , it should n’t pose any noticeable issue — simply pausing a duad of seconds was all it took for the nailer to keep up .
Ergonomics weigh when cultivate with a instrument for extended periods , and the DeWalt does n’t disappoint . Its comfortable grip made it loose to grasp without slip or make deal fatigue . Additionally , it comes equipped with a handy rafter hook for hanging the nailer on a rafter when working at heights . Anyone who ’s by chance drop a pricey power putz while framing a cap will appreciate a rafter bait .
The nailer includes a stall release lever tumbler , which helps reset the driver vane when a nail becomes stuck in both the tool and the wood , but we did not have any stalls . We did n’t have any nail jams either , but we would have appreciated a quick jam spill in the upshot one pass . This nailer postulate remove the front plate , which is have on with two screw propeller , and then take out out a jammed nail with pliers .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
The DeWalt cordless frame nailer boast a high - strength atomic number 13 cartridge with an well-fixed - to - operate pusher door latch . It take over a grasp of 21 - degree charge plate collated fasteners up to 3.25 inch in length .
We were impressed with the DeWalt and found it to be an excellent choice for frame and subfloor program program . It ’s suitable for both professional and DIYers tackling a compass of project , from residential frame to deck building and sheathe , with its only notable limitation being a more or less irksome recovery time during speedy firing .
Get the DeWalt 21 - degree cordless frame nailer atAce HardwareorThe Home Depot .
Photo: acehardware.com
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel 21 - level cordless framing nailer is a standout performer in its own right . In our hands - on testing , it demonstrated exceptional qualities and remarkable feature of speech , making it a top choice for carpenter and remodelers look for a authentic cordless frame nailer .
One of the cardinal highlights of the Milwaukee M18 Fuel nailer was its outstanding performance . This tool effortlessly drives full pear-shaped - head nails into dumb engineered lumber , make it well suited for demanding framing diligence . Its N spring mechanics go under it aside and kick in it a pneumatic hike . In hard-nosed terms , this translates to remarkable speed and efficiency . During rapid - fire mode , we evoke more than 10 nail in rapid succession without any noticeable slowdown .
We did n’t experience any stall , but we did have two jams , both hap while work with hardwood using bump - fire manner . Although it lacks a flying jam - release feature film , the nailer ’s infrequent jamming means you’re able to work confidently , knowing interruptions will be minimum .
Photo: homedepot.com
Being cordless is specially worthful for project in remote locations or areas without accession to electrical outlets . It eliminates the pauperization for gasoline cartridges and the incommodiousness of cope extension cord .
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel 21 - grade cordless framing nailer amount as a comprehensive kit , including a rechargeable assault and battery , a battery charger , and a contractor bag . This all - in - one software package adds to the tool ’s convenience and value — it ’s quick to use correctly out of the pocketbook after charge the battery .
The Milwaukee nailer weighs about 11 pounds . While it ’s heavier than some competitors , its ergonomic intent help oneself with comfort during prolong use . Ultimately , the alternative between this nailer and others may come down to item-by-item preferences and the specific demand of the task .
Photo: amazon.com
Get the Milwaukee 21 - arcdegree cordless framing nailer atThe Home Depot , Ace Hardware , orAcme Tools .
The Metabo HPT cordless frame nailer is an scotch picking that provide an affordable result without compromising performance . We find it a dependable choice for those on a budget seeking a cordless framing nailer .
However , our initial encounter with the putz was less than ideal , as the first whole we received was a dud — we spent nearly an hour on the phone with customer service troubleshooting it . It simply could not generate the necessary business leader to subside a single nail . However , the manufacturer promptly replaced it , and the replacement model execute praiseworthily . We ’re now fans of Metabo HPT ’s client service .
Photo: amazon.com
This Metabo HPT nailer features a 30 - level magazine slant , which is good when turn in tight spots where a nonangled nailer would be challenge to channelize .
In bump way , the nailer fired nails apace , but there was a little slowdown when we reached the fourth or fifth nail in rapid taking over . This suggests it might not be ideal for professional command lightning - fast nailing when attaching sheathing or subfloor . However , this operation difference is trifling for DIYers or those with small framing undertaking .
One of the standout features is the ergonomic grasp , which fits comfortably in the hand and provides a secure hold , preventing mistake during operation . While it weighs in at 9.9 pound , light than some competition , it still has substantive ponderousness , which could chair to fatigue , specially if working overhead for extended periods .
Photo: amazon.com
The depth - adjustment feature on the Metabo HPT nailer need some tweaking to achieve the desired setting when transitioning between dimensional lumber and hardwood boards . While not as seamless as some premium models , it does the business effectively .
The nailer comes with a 3 amp - hour ( Ah ) battery , which performed well but started to drop off a kick after an hour of continuous purpose . If you plan on using it for longer durations , it ’s advisable to purchase an extra backup battery and keep it charged for prosperous swapping .
The Metabo HPT nailer does not include a cubicle release lever tumbler , but stall risk can be reduced by replacing the battery before it loses power , as stalls are most likely to occur when the battery starts to lag .
Photo: amazon.com
The nailer accepts 30 - point clipped or offset rotund - top dog nails ranging from 2 inches to 3½ inches in length . While it may not match the performance of premium models , it bid reliability and versatility for various framing job . Its 30 - degree magazine angle and ergonomic grip raise its appeal , make it a hard-nosed option for DIYers and budget - conscious professionals .
Get the Metabo HPT cordless frame nailer atAmazonorMenards .
Upgrade Pick
DeWalt 20V MAX XR Cordless 30° Framing Nailer Kit
The DeWalt 20V MAX frame nailer , featuring a 30 - degree slant , pull in its Upgrade Pick award by delivering exceptional power and preciseness , even though it come at a slightly high-pitched monetary value spot . In our test , this nailer was a top performing artist , showcasing several impressive features that set it aside in the existence of cordless framing nailer .
The DeWalt 20V MAX framing nailer stands out for its filmy power . Whether in exclusive - fervency or speedy - attack modes , it consistently fired nails without a hint of meanwhile , even after running a dozen nail through it in bump - fire mode . This public presentation is a game changer for professional search a cordless framer that can keep up with demanding tasks .
The depth - adjustment feature is place on , eliminating the need for constant fiddling . It was easy to gauge how much adjustment was needed to fine - tune the force for nailing dimensional timber and hardwood .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
We really liked the ironic ardour lockout feature film . It prevented the tool from firing when the nail ran out , sparing us from the thwarting of thinking the nailer was still burn down when it was not .
While this DeWalt nailer does n’t have a quick kettle of fish - loss feature film , removing a jammed nail is straightforward thanks to easy access to the nosepiece . as luck would have it , during our testing , the prick performed without any jam .
consider in at just under 8 pounds , it ’s one of the loose options we essay , and its nonslip ergonomic clutch made it well-off to apply , even during prolonged testing .
This cordless frame nailer is designed for complete framing jobs , capable of driving nails from 2 inches to 3.5 inches in distance . Its brushless motor is engineer for increase power and aim calibre . extra feature of speech include a stall release lever tumbler and an adjustable raftman hook .
While it may descend at a somewhat high Leontyne Price point , its performance , ergonomic design , and drug user - well-disposed feature make it a worthwhile investment for residential frame , set trusses , fence edifice , deck building , and sheathe . It ’s an all - around top pick for pros .
Get the Dewalt 30 - degree cordless frame nailer atAmazon , Ace Hardware , orThe Home Depot .
Best Gas
Paslode Cordless XP 30° Framing Nailer
The Paslode cordless frame nailer left a lasting impression on us — all good . Paslode is illustrious for its high - calibre nailers , and this model lives up to the brand ’s reputation with an telling blend of power , eubstance , and adaptability .
What right away caught our attention was the nailer ’s unique ability to tackle two mightiness sources : a battery and gas cartridge . This double - power feature provide unparalleled flexibility and extends the nailer ’s runtime importantly — it offers the undecomposed of both Earth for someone who frequently tackles demanding framing task .
The Paslode handled various framing undertaking effortlessly , including stair - tread installation , subfloor body of work , and wall framing . And we were able-bodied to quickly and easily adjust the nailing astuteness to suit the different material we were working with .
Weighing in at a simple 7.2 pounds , this nailer is remarkably lightweight . We find it well balanced with an ergonomic grip that reduced the risk of hand weariness after prolonged use .
While the nailer will work with various nail brands , it excels when paired with Paslode - marque nail . Loading gasolene pickup into the nailer is straightforward , and the cartridge , while sold singly , are pronto useable at most family improvement stores . Each cartridge gas an impressive capacity , delivering up to 1,200 shot before demand replacement . It ’s deserving take note that the gas pickup , while sinewy , are not rechargeable the way a electric battery is . When empty , the pickup needs to be properly recycled or disposed of and then replace . In term of battery life , the nailer can repel up to 9,000 nails on a single electric battery charge , ensuring that even pro wo n’t take to the woods out of battery power during a demanding day of frame . In our testing , which lasted nearly 2 hours , we did n’t notice any drop cloth in exponent .
The nailer ’s 30 - point angled plan makes it idealistic for work in tight spots . to boot , a bash hook enhances its portability , allow for it to fall handily on a tool bang for quick approach during tasks .
The only downside we noticed — and it ’s not a deal breaker — is that the nailer operate solely in single - flak ( sequential ) mode . There ’s no jut style . However , the nailer ’s impressive speed and consistent performance easily made up for that lack in our test .
Get the Paslode cordless frame nailer atLowe’sorThe Home Depot .
Best 30-Degree
Milwaukee 2745-21 M18 Fuel 30° Framing Nailer Kit
The 30 - degree framing nailer from Milwaukee impressed us with its performance and the let in high - capability 5Ah shelling and battery charger , making it a quick - to - go option .
What stood out most about the nailer was its sheer might . It effortlessly ram nail into hardwood as chop-chop as it did into dimensional baseball bat . With the included 5Ah shelling , we had full world power throughout our entire testing and no lagging or call for to reload .
Weighing in at 11 pound , this nailer is gruelling than most of the other models we tested . But do n’t let its weight deter you — it surpass in tasks such as bind subfloors and frame paries . Our only challenge was working overhead for extend periods , where the weight became slightly cumbrous . Someone with a strong upper body might have no problem at all .
A bash hook and a rafter hook admit us to stow the nailer firmly on our tool belt or hang it on a baulk or joist without worrying about it go down and break .
aline the nailing depth was unsubdivided , and the angled - nose design tolerate us to work in pie-eyed spots efficiently . Although this nailer lacks a stall liberation , we never have a nail stall during examination , so its absence was not a meaning concern . Similarly , it does n’t have a quick jam press release , but remove the olfactory organ plate and using a pair of pliers to excerpt a packed nail is straight .
We were soundly print by the quality of this tool . In speedy - fire mood , we ran more than a dozen nail through it , and it did n’t exhibit the slightest jot of lag . The Milwaukee 30 - grade framing nailer is a sinewy and commodious pick for border task . While it may be laborious than some competitors , its performance , adjustability , and overall quality make it an excellent tool for professionals and DIY enthusiasts .
Get the Milwaukee 30 - degree cordless framing nailer atAce HardwareorThe Home Depot .
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Cordless Framing Nailer
Modern battery - powered framing nailer are as capable as their pneumatic brethren but without all the haphazardness and hoses to trip over . Still , there are a few factors shopper will want to weigh before select the good exemplar for their needs . The following sections will nail down some of the most important considerations to keep in judgment when selecting the dependable cordless framing nailer .
Size and Weight
One point to keep in mind is that framing nailers , whether cordless or pneumatic , are not abstemious power tool . Given that a pneumatic framing malleus might weigh just 23 apothecaries' ounce , a 10 - pound cordless frame nailer can experience hefty — and that ’s before adding a stick of nails to the magazine . Ten Irish pound might not go heavy , but it will certainly be noticeable after a long daytime of framing .
Also , it ’s of import to understand thatframing nailersare not belittled . They ’re much larger than finish nailers , and ill designed example can be unwieldy . Finding a model that will agree comfortably between standard 16 - inch studs is essential . Luckily , a cordless framing nailer does n’t have hoses and adapters to vie with , so it ’s still going to be easier to operate than most pneumatic nailers .
Intended Use
Cordless framing nailers are explicitly for frame up or fix geomorphologic floor , bulwark , and roofing materials in place . These power creature are intended to drive large , heavy nails , making them more about social organisation and power than finesse . Since framing nailer can often split woodwind and leave behind German mark , keep in mind that they ’re desirable for mental synthesis framing only .
couch nailer are less idealistic for roofing , as the nail they shoot will tear right through the shingles . They are also not the ripe bet for siding ; the nail will fasten the siding too tightly to the menage ’s social structure . These tools are also far too powerful for cultivation orbrad nailing . For any of these applications , select a cordlessnail gunexplicitly designed for these finical job ; however , be aware that some nail gunsare well-heeled to usethan others .
Brushed vs. Brushless Motor
galvanizing cordless framing nailer utilize an electric motor to fire nail , and those motors are available in both fleecy and brushless models . Getting into the specific of how a brush motor and a brushless motor differ would involve more applied science background than this usher is prepared to cover , but the pros and cons are aboveboard .
Power Source and Runtime
Cordless frame nailers boast two main type of office : gas and barrage .
Framing Angle and Nail Type
Cordless frame nailers operate at four different Angle : 15 , 21 , 28 , and 30 degrees , with 21- and 30 - degree being the most common . The slant is the mensuration between the planer of the nail and the slant of the cartridge clip . Each of these trenchant nailer also takes a specific nail type that must match the angle of the nailer gun .
Beyond nailhead contour , entrap nails also come in dissimilar lengths . Most frame nailer can handle a grasp between a 2 - inch length ( used for sheathing buildings with plywood ) and a 3.25 - inch distance , with some nailers accepting up to a 3.5 - in duration .
Additional Features
Cordless nailers often let in extra features to make them more useful , convenient , and good . For example , some poser might put up a knock hook that slide over a creature whack , so framer can mount a ravel with both hand or manipulate a workpiece without putting the nailer on the reason .
Also , most framing nailers have lockouts that forbid a nail from firing without pressing the crown firmly against a opus of wood . Many provide you to choose between sequent ( driving one nail ) or break fire , which will fire a nail each metre the baksheesh extrusion against a surface as long as the initiation is apply down .
Some manufacturers also declare oneself cordless pecker kits that include a framing nailer . For one purchase , a shopper might receive a framing nailer , a charger , a circular adage , a reciprocate adage , a Seth of battery , and more .
Shopping for a Used or Refurbished Framing Nailer
Framing nailers can speed up a project hugely . However , by the meter that a householder or DIYer resolve to purchase a pneumatic frame nailer and a compressor large enough to operate it , they ’ve probably spent more than they would on a cordless nailer . For that reason , even if they only ask the nailer for one line of work , they ’ll often choose for a cordless framing nailer and then sell it after the job is done . That means the second - hand securities industry sees its sightly share of nailer .
check land site likeAmazon renew , eBay Refurbished , andWalmart ’s attest Refurbished Electronicsis a smart choice when shit for a cordless framing nail gun . These models are used and restore , allowing you to salve quite a bit of money over purchasing a new nailer .
For those purchasing their cordless nailer forthwith from a secret seller , be trusted that the cordless framing nailer exercise properly . Also , they should expect to have to buy a novel battery relatively shortly , so it ’s secure to negotiate the terms to cover the toll .
Tips for Using a Cordless Framing Nailer
The best cordless frame nailer make a tremendous amount of force-out to tug a framing nail through one piece of lumber and into the man next to it . For this reason , it ’s imperative to wear guard glasses , as chunks of splintered Ellen Price Wood , errant nails , and other debris can be heavy to predict .
shopper can buy a unsheathed framing nailer and save money if they ’re already invested in a finical maker ’s battery system . These cock come without stamp battery , but if there are a few compatible batteries already on hand , buyers will be able-bodied to use them without the added expense or the space to store another battery charger .
Do n’t think that purchase a cordless framing nailer will put hammer completely out of mission . On social occasion , a nailer wo n’t be able to take a nail completely through the intended lumber . In those showcase , a few well - come out poke with a hammer will aim the nail home , so keep one nearby .
FAQs
Even with this extensive background on the best cordless framing nailer , you might have some additional questions . The come after section direct to help . It ’s a collection of some of the most oft necessitate motion about cordless frame nailers , so be certain to jibe for your question below .
A cordless framing nailer is used for ensnare rampart , floors , deck of cards , ceiling , and roofs , as well as covering those surfaces with sheathe . They have too much magnate for many other software .
The most vulgar frame nailers are the 21 - level models , with thePaslode cordless frame nailerbeing one of the most pop cordless models .
When it come to framing nailers , the dispute between any two - degree types is the angle of the bakshis where the nail come out and the powder magazine . A 21 - point frame nailer uses plastic - collated nails with full round heads , while a 28 - level framing nailer ( which is n’t available as a cordless model ) uses wire - collate nail with clipped or offset school principal .
No , and essay to do so is probable to cause damage . It ’s important to use thecorrect fastenerfor a framing nailer to work properly .
you could , but it ’s not a good estimation . Even with the nail depth accommodation plump for all the means off , it ’s probable that a framing nailer will pass with flying colors side too tightly to the surface underneath or dissipate the nail through the siding material whole .
Meet the Tester
Glenda Taylor is a product tester and writer specialise in the mental synthesis , remodeling , and material estate industriousness . She and her hubby own a general contracting ship’s company , and Taylor is see in both residential and commercial edifice app . She tests a all-encompassing kitchen range of power tools as well as other base improvement , home , and lawn - and - garden Cartesian product .
Additional inquiry provided by Tom Scalisi .
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