The Difference in a Brad Nailer & a Finish Nailer
Wood hobbyists are often concerned with making their final product the best it can be. Finishing nails help ensure that projects look professional, but either brad nailers or finish nailers can be used depending on the project. A quick comparative analysis can help hobbyists decide which to use for their project.
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Applications
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A brad nailer is used for fewer purposes than a finish nailer. The brad nailer is well suited for trim jobs like installing linear strips, window casings, paneling and facing strips, wall paneling or corner fillets. Art projects like affixing needlework canvas, a painter's canvas, and framing are also good uses for brad nailers.
The finish nailer is more powerful and can be used for light and heavy trim. The woodwork capabilities extend beyond trim to panels and even cabinets, book cases, and other furniture for the home. Even brick mold or plastic projects can be completed with a finish nailer.
Differences
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Brad nailers are very useful for jobs that need a pin that can make a strong connection. Yet, because brad nails have small heads, the hole is easily concealed upon project completion. The advantage of a finish nailer is a flexibility - hardwood, particleboard, and plastic can all be finished. The nail sizes are slightly larger (1 1/4 inches to 2 1/2 inches) to ensure a solid finish on the end product.
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Specifications
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Brad nailers use a small brad nail, typically around 11/16 inch or 18 millimeters. These smaller nails are also referred to as tacks. The brad nails can have a range of size from 3/8 inch to 2 inches. The finish nailer uses heavy duty brad head finishing nails. They can range in size from 1 1/4 inches to 2 1/2 inches (32 - 63 mm). Galvanized nails are also available.
Choosing between the brad and finish nailer
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The choice between the two types of nailers is one of functionality. For smaller projects that use lightweight materials and thinner wood (no more than 1 1/2 inches) a brad nailer is acceptable. Any project with thicker or heavier wood is going to require a finish nailer. With lightweight, thin wood molding, the nail should be chosen based on the desired finish quality. If the job requires a smaller hole that is more easily filled, you can choose the brad nailer.
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References
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