Pin, Brad, & Finish Nailers

When it comes to woodworking and working with interior/exterior trim or paneling, the right nailer can make all the difference. Brad nailers, pin nailers, and finish nailers are three of the most common types of nailers, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. In this article we will discuss some of the main differences between these three types of nailers to help you understand the pros and cons of each, and when to use each, to help you decide which one is the best fit for you and your projects.

Pin nailers are the most delicate among these 3 types. They typically use 23 gauge nails and lengths rarely exceed 1-1/2 inches. Pin nailers are often used for smaller applications like holding pieces in place while glue dries, applying veneers, and delicate trim work. The nails, or pins, from these nailers are the smallest of the bunch and are best used when you are trying to leave almost invisible holes or markings, but you don’t need the extra strength which comes with using a larger nail.

Brad nailers, on the other hand, are designed for slightly more heavy duty work. They most frequently use 18 gauge up to 2 inches in length. Brad nailers are great for applications like decorative trim, cabinetry, and constructing furniture (usually with the aid of glue).

Lastly, there are finish nailers. Finish nailers are the most heavy duty of these 3 nailer types. They usually support 15 or 16 gauge nails up to around 3 inches in length. Finish nailers are typically used in applications like trim work, crown molding, and window/door casings. These nails are a bit larger and more heavy duty than the other 2, so opt for a finish nailer if you need the extra strength and aren’t as worried about the visible marks left behind.

If the 15 gauge nails of a finish nailer are still not heavy duty enough for your job, then you may need to upgrade to a framing nailer. To learn more, visit our article on framing nailers where we compare dozens of the most popular framing nailers available today.

When it comes to deciding which nailer is the best fit for your project, consider the size and type of the project you are working on. If you are working on a fine piece of furniture or intricate trim, a pin nailer may be your best option. If you are working on a heavier duty project like baseboards or window casings, a finish nailer may be a better option. If you are somewhere in between, a brad nailer may be the right choice for you as it strikes a nice balance between strength and discreetness.

The differences between brad nailers, pin nailers, and finish nailers include the typical nail gauges they use, nail lengths, tool sizes, and preferred uses. Each type of nailer has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to consider the size and type of your project before deciding which nailer is the best fit for you. Whether you need a heavy-duty finish nailer or a delicate and discreet pin nailer, there is a nailer out there that will be perfect for your needs. Keep all these factors in mind, and use our comparison table to help search, sort and filter through some of the most popular nailers available today, you’ll be able to find the nailer that best meets your needs and budget.