Last Updated on February 18, 2023
Gone are the days of swinging the hammer and hurting your fingers as now you have nail guns to the rescue.
Although they have their own fair share of safety concerns, these let you nail with utmost precision in a very short amount of time.
Whatever it is that you’re constructing, you need a framing nailer for precise nailing. The work that could take hours to complete can be done in seconds if you own a nailer.
But there are many varieties to choose from depending on the material you’re working on. Therefore, we are reviewing the best cordless framing nailers to help you decide on the product you need.
Without further ado, let’s begin.
Best Cordless Framing Nailer – Comparison
5 Best Cordless Framing Nailer Reviews
The products that we have selected are among the best rated cordless framing nailers. Below we’re going to tell you about all their features so that it gets easier for you to make an informed decision. We’ll also make sure you know the drawbacks of the products so that you can make a good purchase.
1. Metabo HPT NR1890DRS 18V Cordless Framing Nailer
Features
- Air Spring Drive System
- The Control panel allows mode selection
- Powerful Lithium-ion Battery
- Depth of drive adjustment features
Moreover, with the Hitachi nail gun, you can fire 2 powerful shots every second that will make any framing or flooring job a piece of cake. Now, as for its driving power, you can sink in 3-1/2 inches fastener deep into the board almost effortlessly.
In terms of features, this device is also well equipped. With their own air spring drive system as the compressor, you can drive a nail effortlessly. You can select modes depending on your use. If you need to drive nails rapidly, use the bump fire mode. Otherwise, use the sequential mode.
And the safety features on this are also well designed. The lockout system prevents firing when the nails are low. Although this is for professional use, even amateurs will like its easy handling and its control panel. But the thing that many might find disturbing is, it’s very noisy.
Another useful factor in this is that it also comes with a rafter hook, which lets you place it safely anywhere.
- Easy to handle
- Comes with a rafter hook
- Can fire 400 shots in one go
- Can be noisy
2. DEWALT DCN21PLB 20V Cordless Framing Nailer
Features
- Different nails supported
- Superior depth adjustment
- Two selectable modes
- Stall release lever for resetting the driver blade
Usually, nailers can only support a few types of nails, and that becomes troubling as there are many different varieties of nails. An even greater issue is that most of the time, you can’t find the one you need. This is why it is such a popular device, as it gives you the versatility to drive fasteners of different sizes easily.
Alongside that, you also have superior depth adjustment features that let you decide how deep you want your nails to penetrate. Moreover, you also get a tool-free switch to select between bump fire and sequential modes.
Therefore, in our opinion, this device is perfect for those who want more freedom and control in their work. For precise results, this will be very effective. But that also means amateurs might find it a bit confusing to use.
When it comes to being sturdy and reliable, this will have your back. The aluminum magazine is strong and durable. It also uses good quality material. No matter how efficient a tool is, it will get jammed at some point, especially when it’s running on low power. But DeWalt hasn’t ignored it. With their stall release lever, you can reset the blade in case of a hitch.
In addition, this is much lighter and easier to operate. Anyone will be able to adjust to it easily. Also, the pusher latch on it is very easy to use.
- Lightweight and easy to operate
- Sturdy and reliable material
- Versatile use with a variety of nails
- Controls might be confusing
3. BOSTITCH 20V Max Cordless Framing Nailer Kit
Features
- A swappable trigger for selecting modes
- Easy depth adjustment
- Jam reset lever for stopping lags
- Dry fire lockout to stop firing blanks
If you’re running on a budget, then this is the best battery framing nailer for you. This is priced much lower than most other devices of its kind, but that doesn’t mean it won’t serve you well. You can do most of your regular nailing work with it. Whether it’s framing, sheathing, deck building, or fencing, you can do almost everything with this.
Weighing only around 8 pounds, it has a more compact size that fits right into your hands. You can use it to nail precisely without cracking the wood or breaking the nail. This has two selectable options which you can select using the swapping trigger. The trigger makes switching mode very easy. That brings us to our favorite feature of this; it is very easy to handle.
Be it mode change or depth adjustment; everything is laid out in front of you. The depth adjustments can be made by rolling it with the thumb easily.
In addition, it has all the redeeming features of a professional-grade nailer. It includes the dry fire lockout in case of misfires, a feature only high-end products have. Alongside that, the jam reset lever is also handy when you’re tool starts lagging.
However, due to paying a lower price, you are missing out on a couple of things. The magazine, for instance, doesn’t have a metal body, so it isn’t the most durable. Adding to that, it doesn’t have the best firepower, and you will experience some firing delay.
But considering the price, this will give you great value for your money.
- Compact size and lightweight
- Easy to handle and control
- Price within budget
- Firing delay may occur
4. BOSTITCH F21PL Round Head Cordless Framing Nailer
Features
- Air compressor for faster firing
- Powerful device
- Can support many nail sizes
- Works on both wood and metal
When it comes to nailing, you can use nails of different sizes. It can support from 2- 3.5 inches of nails. Moreover, it comes with quick-changing nose pieces for converting from framing or metal connector application.
It can drive into most lumbers and thin metal sheets. Therefore, you can use this for a variety of work. The magnesium built of this product makes it a very sturdy and durable product. On top of that, weighing only 4 pounds, it is also very easy to use. Everyone can easily adjust to it.
What makes this even more desirable is its rubber skidpad and rubber grip. People with sweaty hands will appreciate the rubber grip for added control. For precise and power driving, this device will be the perfect choice for you.
Since it is cordless, it is very easy to transport from place to place, and it also comes with a hefty rafter hook for safely placing it at your convenience. However, if you live in a colder region, your gun might freeze often. But it won’t be a concern in warmer conditions.
- Light and easy handling
- Rubber grip helps to hold it firmly
- Low priced but durable
- Lags in colder temperature
- Doesn’t have jam reset lever
5. Paslode 905600 Cordless XP Framing Nailer
Features
- Shoots up to 9000 nails in a single charge
- Powerful battery with quick charging features
- Works on LVLs and other hardwoods
- Lightweight
If you want a high performing nailer for fastening in the most efficient and professional manner, the Paslode nail gun will be on top of your list. It straight away stands out because of the powerful battery. With a 7V Li-ion battery, you can shoot up to 9000 nails with a single charge. Further, the total charging time is only 1.5 hours.
Hence, with each charge, you can use it for many hours and might even forget to recharge it. But Paslode even has the answers to that, as the quick charge feature will let you charge it just enough in 2 minutes so that you can meet your crucial deadlines.
Moreover, the tool is strong enough for you to work on LVLs and other hardwoods. You can make do with a feeble tool, but if you actually want a product that serves its purpose and will last a while, then this framing nailer is your best bet.
This nailer is loaded with features that make it easier for us to recommend. Unlike its previous models, jams won’t be an issue on this as this was designed to reduce jams, and it did so significantly. On top of that, the depth adjustment feature is also reliable when you need to be precise.
In terms of design, this is one of the most ergonomic devices. It’s lightweight and has a user-friendly grip to help ease the burden of your work. Alongside that, you get the rafter hook to hang it and avoid accidents.
Finally, it also comes with a convenient case, making it easily portable. However, in including all these features, there were a few that they had to forgo, for instance, the echoic noise when shooting.
- Shoots up to 9000 nails in a single charge
- Powerful battery with quick charging features
- Works on LVLs and other hardwoods
- Durable and lightweight
- Echoic noise when nails are shot
Buyer’s Guide – How to Purchase the Best Cordless Framing Nailer
When you purchase framing nailers, you often disregard features like what material it uses or how precisely it can hit; only seeing what nails it supports is not enough to judge a good tool.
Therefore, in order to buy the best cordless framing nail gun, there are certain features you have to know about.
Types of Nails
When buying nail guns, you will notice, specific products support specific nails. You have to consider how available those nails are and if the sizes line in with your requirements. But newer models of guns support a variety of sizes and types. But even then, there are even greater varieties of nails, so you should keep the nails in mind.
See More: Cordless Brad Nailer, Electric Brad Nailer
Keeping that in mind, our recommendation is to select products that support common and available nails. While a device supporting a unique nail might be tempting, the chances of not finding the nails in the future are also higher. This will then make your whole purchase useless.
Pneumatic and Cordless Nailer
These are the two types that you need to be aware of. Pneumatic nailers are attached to a compressor where it derives power from in order to drive the nail. Cordless ones also work similarly, but their compressors are usually within them, and they are powered by a battery. Cordless nailers while may not give you the same power as a pneumatic gun, but it’s a lot easier to handle and use.
Therefore, your purchasing decision should rely on the type of work you’re planning to do with it.
Trigger Type
There are two main types of triggers, bump and single fire. Bump type requires you to bump the gun with the wood to fire at a faster speed.
With the single-fire mode, you can simply place it and pull the trigger to fire. This gives you a more precise shot. Moreover, with a single fire type by sacrificing a bit of power, you’re getting more control.
Magazine Material
While the body of the gun may have a plastic material, it is recommended for at least the magazine to have a metal body. The magazine deals with the most amount of stress; hence, it’s better when it has a sturdy construction. However, if the magazine uses good plastic, that is also quite durable.
Weight and Handling
Nail guns are used with the whole force of your hands. So a heavier device causes more stress to your hands. Therefore, a lightweight device is recommended for new users.
Another thing to take notice of is the handling and comfort of using the device. For nailing with precision, you need great control. Therefore, the first requirement is for the product to be comfortable and adjustable. If the device feels too heavy or uncomfortable, you should rethink your purchase.
Popular Brands
When you are confused, it is better to go for reputed brands. The brands best known for power tools are Hitachi and DeWalt. Hitachi has been around for almost 100 years. Their experience and variety make them very unique. Also, their products are powerful and durable. You can’t go wrong with a Hitachi product.
If variety is your game, then you can trust DeWalt. Their research and innovative ideas make the best of technology to deliver you the most tech-savvy products.
Benefits of Cordless Framing Nailer
If you’re still unable to decide whether to purchase it or not, take a look at the following benefits of using a cordless framing nailer. Now, the benefits are numerous, and it wouldn’t be possible to list all of them; otherwise, the article would become too long. The best cordless nail gun, contains all the essential features like as- tool-free depth adjustment, stall release lever, dry fire lock system, accessible nosepiece, large magazine, and the least power to drive the nails into tight spaces. So, below, we are going to mention only the significant benefits.
Time-Saving
Apart from making you look like a tech-savvy pro, this will also save you time. You might be the best hammer swinger, but your nail gun will still beat you to it. Moreover, these are battery-driven, so you can just charge it and start using it like any other tool.
Cordless
Constructors prefer tools like hammers because they don’t come with wires and connecting issues.
Therefore, they will definitely love the cordless nailer as it doesn’t bind you to a cord. So, you’ll be able to move freely without the wires restricting your movements. If you are someone who likes to work freely, you definitely want this in your armory.
Nailing Precision
Get the precision instantly that would take you years to cultivate with a hammer. Let your nailer do the hard work while you simply press the trigger.
Alongside your accuracy, there will be lesser nail casualties as well. When you use this tool, your nails aren’t likely to get crooked or break easily. Moreover, you won’t be cracking the wood surface either.
Safer than Hammers
If nothing else convinces you, then at least know that it’s a safe tool. If you follow the safety instructions, you are unlikely to get injured while using it.
The same, however, cannot be said for your hammer. For if you have ever worked with a hammer, you will know that accidents can easily happen with hammers. So, at least for the sake of your fingers, get a cordless nailer.
Some Safety Considerations
Cordless framing nailers are a hefty work-purpose tool that lets you nail into large and hard plywood, lumber, or LVL materials to frame or panel multiple workpieces. Guns are certainly a hundred times safer than hammers, but when you’re dealing with power tools, safety is always a concern. However, if you follow the proper rules, the chance of an accident is always at a minimum.
Beware of All Nail Gun Malfunctions
It is a device, and things can always go wrong with devices. Therefore, you should know what to do when it jams or starts misfiring. If you get worked up and start using force when it malfunctions, things might get messy.
Always Wear Your Safety Gears
Instances of misfiring are not uncommon. Therefore, having your safety gear on is very important. The most important is the eyewear and gloves. But we also recommend wearing helmets and footwear.
Know Your Surface Requirements
Don’t just assume your nailer can drive through everything. Each nail gun is specific about the type of surface it can be used on, and the type of nail it supports. Know the capacity of your gun and the wood.
Hold the Surface down Firmly
While thinking about the nail gun only, don’t forget the surface. Accidents are more likely to occur in cases of the surface being shifted. If you don’t hold it down firmly enough, it can lead to your gun slipping.
Here we have some of the most commonly asked queries regarding cordless framing nailers:
Q: Do I need to buy air compressors separately?
A: If you are using a pneumatic nailer, then you need separate compressors. The guns themselves don’t come with compressors.
Q: What is the main feature to focus on before purchasing?
A: There are a number of things to check, but the most important would be the type of nail it supports and the type of surface you wish to work on. If these two aligns, then other features will also fall into place.
Q: What kind of nails do framing nailers use?
A: For framing nailers, you need good quality nails that won’t oxidize. In the case of shape, clip headed or round-headed nails are used.
Q: What size nails do nailers support?
A: Most nailers support 3-1/2 inches of nails, but some can support different sizes. It depends on the type of tool.
Q: Are cordless framing nailers as powerful as the regular ones?
A: They have similar power, if not more. What cordless nailers lack in power, they make up in easy handling and control.
Q: Do Cordless Framing Nailers Work?
A: Definitely, putting nails into hardwood like mahogany, basswood, ramin, oak, etc is not a piece of cake. But cordless framing nailers do it without sweating or emptying your pocket. A battery-powered framing nailer could last at least 3 years or 1,100 charge cycles.
Q: What are 21-degree nails used for?
A: The 21-degree nails are used for framing, siding, sheeting, or decking. It can bond together two or multiple workpieces very firmly. As it is specially designed nails that have a specific 21-degree angle from the round head.
Q: What is a better 21-degree or 30-degree framing nailer?
A: Both framing nailers are essential for woodworking projects. As 21-degree nailers are used for large and hefty wood joints, while 30-degree framing nailers are used in tight spaces on thin wood joints.
Q: Which is better 21-degree or 28-degree framing nailer?
A: This two also depend on your preferences for work. A 28-degree nailer is slightly large than a 30-degree but used for the same purposes. Both 21-degree and 28-degree nailers feature with rafter hook and dry fire lock system. But the cost between them has a noticeable gap, approximately 21-degree nailers cost more than 28-degree nailers.
Q: What size nails do most framers use?
A: Framers mostly use the 3 ½ inch nails that are commonly known as 16d nails, are highly compatible for framing or fitting together workpieces firmly.
Q: What size nails for 2×4 framing?
A: For the 2×4 framing, 3 ½ inch or 16d nails are highly recommended, has 2 variants named common and sinker. Get one of the variants that suits your projects most!
So, What Should You Buy
If you’re buying cordless products, you are always fretting over the decision because there is a common notion that cordless tools lack power. But for framing nailers, cordless ones give you more precise and cleaner results.
However, if you’re still unable to make decisions on a product, we suggest you go with the Hitachi framing nailer. It is one of the best cordless framing nailers, if not the best. It has the power and precision that makes it superior to others.
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