Somehow, December's crept up and it's already time to grab a holiday deal for your favorite woodworker! If you've got a tool nut on your list, we've got you covered.

You can find an affordable gift for the carpenter, flooring installer, upholsterer or all-around handyman in our holiday tool guide, below. Psst: Special sale prices—and stocking stuffers—are only around while supplies last.

Now, without further delay, Nail Gun Depot’s 2018 Gift Guide...

Under $150—Flooring Tool, Micro-Pinner, & Upholstery Stapler

We love the Freeman PFBC940 Mini 4-in-1 Flooring Tool, not just because it doubles as nailer/stapler, but also because it's completely affordable. The versatile tool drives narrow-crown staples and brad nails from 5/8” to 1-5/8” in length. So you can switch from woodworking to flooring like a boss.

Stocking Stuffer: Free 50’ air hose, complete with fittings.

Grex tools' dependability and power are practically legendary. The robust P635 23-gauge headless nailer features an auto-adjust fastener mechanism and a rear-exhaust with silencer. Part of a special holiday gift set, this micro-pinner's industrial-grade, yet lightweight design, is suitable for craft projects, decorative trim, and light furniture assembly.

Stocking Stuffer: Free edge guide, a $30 value.

Powerful but lean at 1.7” wide and 2 lbs., the German-made. BeA 71/16-421 upholstery stapler drives 1/4" to 5/8" staples with gusto. Great for handling trim work, bedding, upholstery, and cabinetry, this dexterous little tool is reliable and reasonably priced.

$150 to $300—Fencing Staplers, Brad Nailer, & Tool Belt

Freeman pneumatic staplers make installing (and repairing) fences more efficient, and easier on the user. The 10-1/2-gauge Freeman PFS105 fence stapler and 9-gauge PFS9 fence stapler feature ergonomic engineering, quick jam releases and top-loading magazines, not to mention they're relatively lightweight. The 9-gauge nailer includes an optional T-handle for greater control.

Stocking Stuffer: Free 50” hose with fittings & special holiday price.

For those who appreciate the quality and dependability of Hitachi/Metabo tools, the NT50A5 PRO 18-gauge brad nailer is a great choice for the carpenter. Ideal for crown molding, paneling, and window casing, it's powerful and versatile. The NT50A5 even has a thumb-actuated duster for easy cleanup.

Stocking Stuffer: Free stainless steel insulated tumbler.

Really, just take your pick of Occidental Leather's awesome gear. Their hand-crafted tool holders are made here in America, in Sonoma County, California. The leather is top-grain cowhide and reinforced with copper rivets. For the greatest flexibility, we suggest the OxyLight Adjust-to-Fit Belt, which has a high-mount hammer holder. 

$300 and Above—Finish and Framing Nailers, & Air Compressor

Senco's Fusion series eliminates the need for fuel cells, potentially saving hundreds of dollars per year. The 16-gauge F-16S Finish Nailer features a fast-charging battery and nose-mounted LED light. This powerful straight nailer is perfect for molding, furniture and cabinet framing, and paneling. 

For framing, the brawny Paslode CF325XP Cordless framing nailer offers impressive battery life and runs in temps as low as 14°F. For finishing, the Paslode IM250A-Li finish nailer has an angled magazine lets you navigate challenging areas. Each tool comes with a carrying case, battery, charger, and more.

Stocking Stuffer: Free spare battery, plus two fuel cells. 

Finally, we suggest the AIRSTAK Systainer compressor from RolAir. This compact cubical wonder is ideal for carpentry work that requires mobility and a quiet output (70 dB). The compressor rests in a Systainer case with pull-up handle, and has a removable cord that can be stored inside. The compressor weighs about 30 lbs and delivers 2CFM at 90 PSI.

Stocking Stuffer: Free RolAir T-shirt and limited-time sale pricing on select models.

~The Nail Gun Depot Team

Using an air compressor to operate any air-powered nailer, stapler, or other pneumatic tool is common knowledge, but many don't realize it's not simply the air compressor that brings their pneumatic tool(s) to life. Get the most out of any air tool with these top five essential air compressor accessories.

1. Air Hose

Available in 1/4 inch and 3/8 inch inside diameters, the air hose is not only our most common accessory on this list - but also the most crucial. RolAir recommends using a 3/8 inch air hose whenever possible, as it allows for optimal air flow - despite being slightly less nimble versus a comparable 1/4 inch air hose.

Air hoses come in a variety of lengths and materials. Typically found in 25 foot increments, make sure your air hose is long enough to reach the distance required. For a workshop or garage, 50 feet may suffice - whereas a roofer or framer may require 100+ feet of air hose while on the job.

When it comes to selecting the best air hose material, it really depends on the type of environment the hose will be used. Options for air hoses include rubber,  polyurethane, or a rubber and polyurethane blend (commonly referred to as a "Hybrid Hose"). Rubber material handles temperature change well, but for more intense use, contractors generally prefer polyurethane air hoses, which also do well in extreme temperatures (warm and cold), but offer added flexibility with less risk of damage. Polyurethane has been found to stand up better to cuts and kinks too. Hybrid air hoses offer added durability, but at a more desirable price point as compared to traditional polyurethane air hoses.

You can learn more on what type of air hose you need, by clicking here.

2. Oils & Lubricants

Most new air compressors that are not oil-free come with a fresh reservoir of oil, but once that oil has reached the extent of its lifespan, you'll need to make sure the compressor pump is properly lubricated.

Before you start, make sure your compressor is not an oil-free model. Assuming it requires oil, prior to daily operation, make a habit of checking the air compressor's oil level for the compressor pump and engine (if compressor is gas-powered). Every direct-drive, hand-carry air compressor has a dipstick to check and maintain the proper oil level. RolAir belt-driven air compressors are equipped with a sight gauge to make the task of checking oil levels easier. Always maintain the oil level to read 2/3 full on the sight gauge.

As a general rule, RolAir recommends changing air compressor oil once a month - though depending on usage this interval may change. If measuring based on hours, 10WT and 30WT compressor oil should be changed every 200-400 hours, while semi-synthetic air compressor oil can go 1,000 to 2,000 hours, and full synthetic compressor oil can run 2,000 to 4,000 hours between changing. Always use oil specified for use with air compressors, ONLY.

3. Air Hose Fittings

Thanks to their size, air hose fittings are probably the easiest air compressor accessory to forget; but while the fittings may be small, their purpose is significant. Depending on your set-up, you'll be able to choose between connectors, couplers, elbows, manifolds, splicers and more. Most of the fittings on Nail Gun Depot are anodized, which means they are resistant to rust and corrosion. Simply learn the proper size fitting for your air tool configuration before shopping.

4. Air Regulators, Filters & Lubricators

The following three air compressor accessories aren't necessarily mandatory, but can improve operation in many ways. Air regulators are pretty straightforward in their purpose - to regulate air flow. Filters help to keep the compressor motor running more efficiently, by removing unwanted moisture and debris from compressed air; however, if filters are allowed to get clogged, they actually lead to adverse results - reducing the compressor's lifespan and performance. The lubricator helps to ensure a long, trouble-free service life, lubricating the entire compressed air system and eliminating the need to add oil to each tool individually, in some instances.

5. Air Compressor Expansion Tank

Need more air than your air compressor's built-in storage tank can hold? You'll probably need to invest in an air expansion tank for your compressor. Compressor expansion tanks are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, and are designed to hold a surplus of air - providing added pressure and performance between your compressor and pneumatic tool(s). Try to find an air reserve tank that is certified by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), ensuring compliance with the laws and regulations of the United States.

Have a question about what you need for your air tool - air compressor configuration? Send us a message, or check out this Nail Gun Network exclusive video on "How To Connect An Air Compressor Hose."

~ The Nail Gun Depot Team 

In this brief tutorial, we demonstrate how to connect an air compressor. Featured in the video: the RolAir AB5 compressor, RolAir Noodle hose, and Grex pin nailer.

Subscribe to Nail Gun Depot's YouTube Channel for more how-tos.

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Air Compressors

Air Hoses, Fittings & Accessories

We've talked a lot about pneumatic tools, such as nailers and staple guns, but what about the compressors that bring these tools to life? The air compressor you use can make or break your business, so it makes sense that you want to use a compressor that is durable, reliable and capable of providing the right amount of air pressure to your tool.

Air compressors range in price, based on a variety of criteria including size, power and available features. Smaller units, such as Senco's PC1010 portable air compressor, whereas larger, more powerful units, such as Rol-Air's 8422HK30 nine horsepower compressor, is quite a bit pricier.

The first criteria to determine which compressor is right for you - where will it be used? Make sure to choose a compressor with the correct voltage for the space it will be used in. Always operate your electric compressor as close to its source of power as possible. If an extension cord must be used, consider using a heavy duty cord. If electricity is not accessible on the job site, you might find it easier to use a gas powered compressor. Gas powered compressors are generally more powerful as well - which might be useful for heavy duty projects.

Next, you need to determine the appropriate tank size. Contrary to what some believe, tank size does not affect the amount of air delivered, but it does influence how much the motor runs. Planning to use more than one tool at the same time? You will probably want a compressor with a larger tank. The more tools connected, the more air pressure that is being used. If you want to reduce the amount of strain on the motor, consider a larger tank size. However, remember that a larger tank might reduce portability.

Some models also come with available features, such as multi-tool use with the Bostitch CAP2060P (replaced by Bostitch BTFP02012), trays and attachments for tools and fasteners with the Bostitch CAP1512-OF, or low operating noise with the Bostitch BTFP02011 (replaced by Bostitch BTFP02012).

Oil-less or lubricated? Most conventional compressors require regular monitoring of oil levels, which can be a burden if you have multiple people using the same compressor, traveling from job to job. Just as a car, if oil is not replenished, the motor will seize. There is an upside to lubricated air compressors though - they are typically more durable and capable of heavy use. If you are an amateur DIYer, you might find the oil-less compressor more suitable to your needs - if it is only intended for occasional use. Oil-less compressors typically work best with lower volume, less intense use - but don't worry, they still can pack a punch.

Buying a reputable brand, such as Senco, Bostitch or Rol-Air can provide additional peace of mind - and generally brands such as these offer a better warranty.