Do I Need A Finish Nailer Or Brad Nailer?

While the downside to a brad is its holding power, finish nails are made from heavier 15- or 16-gauge wire, which means they can handle a greater payload. For larger trim, such as baseboards or crown molding, a finish nail is the more suitable choice. However, because it leaves a larger hole in the wood surface, a fully driven finish nail almost always requires followup attention - which includes being puttied over to conceal the "shiner" or exposed insertion point of a nail. A finish nail offers increased support and withdrawal resistance when compared to the brad nail. Finish nailers will run 15- or 16-gauge finish nails, in both angled and straight varieties depending on the tool. Be sure to confirm whether your tool uses a straight, or angled magazine type. Especially important for 15-gauge finish nailers, determine whether your tool runs "FN" or "DA" type nails, as these fasteners are not interchangeable. Cordless models, such as the Hitachi NT1865DM or the Senco Fusion F-16S (6U0001N), are both excellent examples of 16-gauge straight magazine finish nailers. As mentioned earlier, the one risk to using a finish nailer on small trim; an increased probability for wood splitting and formation of imperfections on the wood surface.

According to Senco, "The initial tool purchased by most consumers is typically some kind of brad nailer for attaching trim molding. Most who have used a hammer to drive small brads know the frustration when these nails bend - not to mention the possibility for damage if using too much force. The brad nailer makes these small trim jobs a breeze, with high-quality results." The fact is, most carpenters use a combination of finish and brad tools. If you're just getting started, it's probably best to compare your application against the tools you are considering. From there, consider the tool that will suit your overall needs best. Want more on these tools and their applications? Be sure to check out our video on brad vs. finish nailers; or read more on the difference between finish and brad nailers here.   ~ The Nail Gun Depot Team