What Is a Finish Nailer?

A finish nailer is a type of nail gun. It can be corded or battery operated and comes in a variety of styles to suit different carpentry jobs.

Types

Finish nailers are grouped by the gauge of the nail they can accept. The most popular finish nailer is a 15 gauge. Other options are 16 and 18. You can also get them angled.

Function

Finish nailers rely on a hammer mechanism in the barrel of the nailer that fires when the trigger is pulled. Another mechanism moves the next nail into position. As with all nail guns, only specific nails will work in a finish nailer. Much like staples for a stapler, the nails come stuck together in strips. Finish nails are thin and lightweight.

Uses

Finish nailers are used to install trim work, including baseboards, shoe moulding, mantels and door trim.

Distinction

Brad nailers use smaller nails than a finish nailer and are really appropriate only for making picture frames and other lightweight pieces where a small (as in 1-inch) nail would be sufficient. Finishing nails are lightweight but much longer to get through molding pieces and into walls.

Cost

Finish nailers can cost between $100 and $400 depending on whether you get a battery-powered, corded or pneumatic (air-compressor powered) one. It also depends on the gauge of the nail you need to put in the tool.

Resources

• Galt Tech