Pin nailers are a type of finishing nailer that use small, headless nails called pins to attach delicate trim and moldings to surfaces without leaving noticeable holes. They are ideal for carpentry and woodworking projects that require precision and a clean finish. With so many pin nailers on the market, it can be challenging to determine which one is right for you.
When shopping for a pin nailer, the most critical factor to consider is the gauge of the pins it uses. Pin nailers typically come in 23-gauge, 18-gauge, and 15-gauge varieties. The smaller the gauge number, the thinner the pin. A 23-gauge pin nailer is ideal for delicate trim work and thin materials, while an 18-gauge or 15-gauge pin nailer is better suited for thicker materials like baseboards and crown molding.
Other factors to consider when choosing a pin nailer include the size and weight of the tool, the magazine capacity, and the depth adjustment options. A lightweight and compact pin nailer may be more comfortable to maneuver in tight spaces, while a larger magazine capacity can save time by reducing the need for frequent reloading. Depth adjustment options allow you to control how deep the pin is driven into the material, ensuring a clean and professional finish.
In this article, we spent hours researching and testing various pin nailers to identify the best ones on the market. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional carpenter, we’ve got you covered. Read on to discover our top picks for the best pin nailers available.
Best Pin Nailers
If you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional woodworker, a pin nailer is an essential tool in your arsenal. Pin nailers are versatile and can be used for a variety of projects, from trim work to furniture building. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best pin nailers on Amazon based on their features, performance, and customer reviews. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced woodworker, you’ll find a pin nailer that suits your needs and budget.
Metabo HPT Pin Nailer Kit
If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile pin nailer, the Metabo HPT Pin Nailer Kit is an excellent option.
Pros
- The automatic adjustment feature allows you to use 5/8 In., 3/4 In., 1 In., 1-3/16 In., and 1-3/8 In. fastener lengths, making it ideal for a wide range of projects.
- The large housing shield, no mar tips, and rear exhaust protect delicate work surfaces from costly damage.
- The dual trigger ensures safe and accurate placement of fasteners.
Cons
- The pin nailer may jam up after extended use.
- The depth adjustment feature may not work as well as expected.
- The carrying case could be more durable.
The Metabo HPT Pin Nailer Kit is lightweight, compact, and easy to use. It’s perfect for cabinets, paneling, small moldings and trim, glazing bead, craft work, and picture frame assembly. The large fastener capacity reduces downtime and offers convenience to the user.
The pin nailer has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars with 1,520 ratings. It has been rated the Pro Preferred Nailer for 9 years running (2014 – 2022) by Builder and Developer Magazine. It’s covered by Metabo HPT’s Professional 5-Year Tool Warranty, making it a reliable investment for your projects.
DEWALT ATOMIC Compact Series™ 20V MAX* Brushless Cordless 23 Ga. Pin Nailer (Tool Only) (DCN623B)
If you’re looking for a reliable and user-friendly cordless pin nailer, the DEWALT ATOMIC Compact Series™ 20V MAX* Brushless Cordless 23 Ga. Pin Nailer (Tool Only) (DCN623B) is a great option.
Pros
- The cordless design provides convenience and portability, with no hoses, compressors, or gas cartridges required.
- Tool-free jam release and tool-free depth adjust make it easy to use and customize.
- The low nail lockout system with LED indicator helps prevent dry firing and informs the user when it’s time to reload.
Cons
- Battery and charger are not included, so you’ll need to purchase them separately.
- While this pin nailer works with several sizes of fasteners, it’s limited to 23 Ga. pin nails measuring between 5/8 in. and 1-1/2 in. in length.
- The trigger goes off very easily, so you’ll need to be careful and wear safety glasses.
This pin nailer is ideal for completing finish, trim, and remodeling work. It’s compatible with 23 Ga. pin nails from 5/8″ up to 1-1/2 in. in length, and it can drive up to 2,000 nails on average per charge. The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to handle, and the brushless motor provides high output and longer tool life.
In terms of performance, this pin nailer is reliable and consistent. The tool-free jam release and tool-free depth adjust features make it easy to use and customize, while the low nail lockout system with LED indicator helps prevent dry firing and informs the user when it’s time to reload.
Overall, if you’re looking for a cordless pin nailer that’s easy to use and provides reliable performance, the DEWALT ATOMIC Compact Series™ 20V MAX* Brushless Cordless 23 Ga. Pin Nailer (Tool Only) (DCN623B) is a great option to consider.
New Ryobi One+ 18v Volt Air Strike 23 Gauge Cordless Pin Nailer P318
If you are looking for a reliable and easy-to-use pin nailer, the New Ryobi One+ 18v Volt Air Strike 23 Gauge Cordless Pin Nailer P318 is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The double-action trigger design allows for convenient, sequential driving.
- The dry-fire lockout feature extends tool life and protects your pin nailer.
- The included non-marring pads keep the work surface free of tool marks.
Cons
- Battery and charger are sold separately.
- The safety is awkward to engage while on the part.
- The trigger lock is a little fiddly.
This pin nailer is perfect for those who want to assemble doors or install crown molding on cabinets. The nailer drives 1/2 in. to 1-3/8 in. 23-gauge pin nails and can shoot up to 3500 pin nails per charge with an 18V 4.0 Ah LITHIUM+ Battery (not included). It is also part of the RYOBI ONE+ System of over 280 Cordless Products that all work on the same battery platform.
The double-action trigger design allows for convenient, sequential driving, and the dry-fire lockout feature extends tool life and protects your pin nailer. Additionally, the included non-marring pads keep the work surface free of tool marks.
However, the battery and charger are sold separately, and the safety is awkward to engage while on the part. The trigger lock is also a little fiddly.
Overall, if you are looking for a reliable and easy-to-use pin nailer, the New Ryobi One+ 18v Volt Air Strike 23 Gauge Cordless Pin Nailer P318 is a great option to consider.
DEWALT Pin Nailer, 23 Gauge, 2-Inch (DWFP2350K)
If you are a contractor, woodworker, or cabinet builder looking for a tool that can deliver professional results, look no further than the DEWALT Pin Nailer. This pneumatic fastening tool is capable of driving 23 GA 2-inch nails recessed into oak, making it the perfect tool for finish and trim jobs.
Pros
- The tool-free jam release feature makes it easy to remove nails that are stuck or jammed.
- The tool-free depth adjustment allows you to easily adjust the depth of the nails, ensuring that they are driven flush with the surface of the wood.
- The oil-free operation reduces the risk of oil stains on your work surface.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the pin nailer can be a bit heavy and bulky, making it difficult to use for extended periods of time.
- The low nail lockout feature can be a bit finicky and may require some adjustment to get it working properly.
- The pin nailer is a bit pricey compared to some other models on the market.
If you are looking for a reliable and powerful pin nailer that can handle even the toughest jobs, the DEWALT Pin Nailer is definitely worth considering. With its tool-free jam release and depth adjustment features, you can easily remove stuck or jammed nails and adjust the depth of the nails to ensure a professional finish. And with its oil-free operation, you won’t have to worry about oil stains on your work surface. Overall, the DEWALT Pin Nailer is a great investment for anyone looking for a top-quality pin nailer that can deliver professional results.
LMParts Milwaukee 2540-20 mm12 12V 23 Gauge Compact Cordless Pin Nailer
If you’re looking for a reliable and compact cordless pin nailer, the LMParts Milwaukee 2540-20 mm12 is a great option.
Pros
- The double-action trigger allows for sequential driving, making it easy to use and control.
- The tool-free drive depth adjustment is a convenient feature that allows you to adjust the depth of the pins without any hassle.
- The LED light provides increased visibility, which is particularly useful when working in dimly lit areas.
Cons
- The magazine capacity is limited to 120 pin nails, which may require frequent reloading.
- The pin length is limited to 1/2″ to 1-3/8″, which may not be suitable for all projects.
- The pin nails are not included in the package, so you’ll need to purchase them separately.
Overall, the LMParts Milwaukee 2540-20 mm12 is a reliable and easy-to-use cordless pin nailer that’s suitable for a range of projects. The double-action trigger and tool-free drive depth adjustment make it easy to control and adjust, while the LED light provides increased visibility. However, the limited magazine capacity and pin length may be drawbacks for some users. If you’re looking for a compact and reliable cordless pin nailer, this is definitely worth considering.
Arrow PT23G 23 Gauge Compact Pneumatic Pin Nail Gun
If you’re looking for a reliable and lightweight pin nailer, the Arrow PT23G could be an excellent choice. Here’s what you need to know before making a purchase.
Pros
- The Arrow PT23G is perfect for small trim and interior molding work.
- The easy side-load magazine makes loading nails and clearing jams quick and easy.
- The safety trigger feature prevents misfires and adds an extra layer of security.
Cons
- The Arrow PT23G only works with Arrow 23G pin nails, which may be limiting if you prefer other brands.
- The pin nails may not be as strong as brad nails, which may be a concern for heavy-duty projects.
- Some users may find the exhaust cover to be inconveniently placed.
The Arrow PT23G is a versatile and durable pin nailer that’s perfect for small trim and interior molding work. Its lightweight die-cast aluminum construction makes it easy to handle, while the easy side-load magazine ensures that loading nails and clearing jams is a breeze. The safety trigger feature requires two triggers to be pulled before firing, which adds an extra layer of security and prevents misfires.
However, the Arrow PT23G only works with Arrow 23G pin nails, so if you prefer other brands, you may need to look elsewhere. Additionally, pin nails may not be as strong as brad nails, which may be a concern for heavy-duty projects. Finally, some users may find the exhaust cover to be inconveniently placed, which could be a minor annoyance.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and lightweight pin nailer for small projects, the Arrow PT23G is definitely worth considering. Its safety features, ease of use, and durable construction make it a great choice for hobbyists and professionals alike.
Metabo HPT Pin Nailer Kit
If you are looking for a reliable and efficient pin nailer, the Metabo HPT Pin Nailer Kit is a great option.
Pros
- The high-grade aluminum magazine provides exceptional durability and prevents jams caused by fastener overlap.
- The 360° adjustable rear exhaust has a built-in silencer to reduce noise pollution and direct air exhaust away from user or jobsite debris.
- The automatic dry-fire lock-out protects your workpiece by not allowing the tool to operate if there are 6 or less pins in the magazine.
Cons
- The plastic material may not be as durable as other materials used in other nailers.
- The depth of drive adjustment may require some extra effort to get it just right.
- The pin nailer is gas-powered, which may not be ideal for some users.
The Metabo HPT Pin Nailer Kit is a great tool for paneling, small molding, and fine trim work. It is rated the Pro Preferred Nailer for 9 years running by Builder and Developer Magazine, making it a reliable choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.
The pin nailer comes with safety glasses, a no-mar tip, case, and lubricant oil, making it a complete kit for your needs. The trigger lock switch protects against unintentional use, and the depth of drive adjustment allows you to countersink or flush drive into a variety of materials.
The automatic dry-fire lock-out prevents the nailer from operating with 6 nails or less in the magazine, protecting your workpiece from damage. The 360° adjustable belt hook helps keep the NP50A by your side at all times, making it convenient to use.
Overall, the Metabo HPT Pin Nailer Kit is a great investment for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient pin nailer. It may have some minor drawbacks, but its pros outweigh the cons.
PORTER-CABLE Pin Nailer, 23-Gauge, 1-3/8-Inch (PIN138) Tool Only
If you’re looking for a lightweight, easy-to-use pin nailer, the PORTER-CABLE Pin Nailer is a great option.
Pros
- The pin nailer uses 23 GA headless and slight head pin nails from 5/8-inch to 1-3/8-inch length, allowing for greater flexibility and time-savings on projects.
- The 23 gauge pin nailer has a long life maintenance-free motor to keep from staining the work surface, making it easy to use for extended periods of time.
- The tool automatically adjusts for different fastener lengths for easier loading and less problems with pins out of spec, which saves you time and hassle.
Cons
- The nailer only includes a 1/4-inch air fitting, which may not be compatible with all air compressors.
- The tool does not include any pin nails, so you’ll need to purchase those separately.
- The nailer can occasionally jam, which can be frustrating and time-consuming to fix.
The PORTER-CABLE Pin Nailer is a great choice for cabinet makers, furniture builders, and mantle builders. The lightweight aluminum body and reversible belt clip make it easy to use all day, and the improved motor design helps reduce the possibility of work surface oil contamination.
The pin nailer is designed to counter-sink a 1-3/8-inch nail into hard materials, such as oak, and provides the option of using headless and slight headed 23-gauge pin nails from 5/8-inch to 1-3/8-inch in length. The increased holding power from slight headed pin nails provides even more applications to use your pin nailer.
The tool also includes additional features that further protect your work surface from being damaged, such as a dry-fire lock-out that alerts you to re-load nails and eliminates empty nail holes, and a low nail indicator that alerts you when nails are running low. The tool comes equipped with a rear exhaust, which directs any potential contaminants away from your work.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable, easy-to-use pin nailer, the PORTER-CABLE Pin Nailer is a great choice.
Bostitch Pin Nailer
If you are looking for a reliable and precise pin nailer for your detailed finish, trim, and woodworking projects, the Bostitch HP118K 23-Gauge 1/2-Inch to 1-3/16-Inch Headless Pin Nailer is a great option.
Pros
- The adjustable high/low power control sets pin depths without requiring you to adjust your compressor setting.
- The low-profile nosepiece offers a clear line-of-site for perfect placement.
- The ergonomic design ensures slip-free handling and comfort during extended use.
Cons
- The pins may be proud and need to be set manually.
- The double trigger safety mechanism may take some getting used to.
- The rear exhaust may blow debris onto your work surface.
This pin nailer is well-suited for use with slim or delicate materials that might be split by an 18-gauge nail or brad. With this tool and set of 23-gauge pin nails, you can prevent damage to work surfaces and create clean finished products. The HP118K provides effective fastening for glue sets that are tough or impossible to clamp.
The Bostitch HP118K is designed to keep you in control at all times. It offers an adjustable high/low power control that sets pin depths without requiring you to adjust your compressor setting. It backs this precision with the ability to deliver 60 in./lbs. of driving power, so you can be sure that each pin is securely seated. With the ability to handle 23-gauge headless pin nails that range from 1/2 inch to 1-3/16 inches, this nailer enables you to utilize a wide range of fasteners for job-specific performance. And its magazine capacity of 200 pins allows you to work without stopping to reload.
The HP118K offers a full range of design features dedicated to smooth, safe, and intuitive use. It features a low-profile nosepiece that tapers down to the contact point which offers a clear line-of-site for perfect placement. An over-molded grip ensures slip-free handling, and it is balanced to sit comfortably in your hand during extended use. And, for added comfort while you work, the nailer’s rear exhaust directs air away from your face. The pin nailer also features a reversible belt hook for convenience on the job.
This lightweight durable tool operates between 70 and 120 PSI and includes a 1/4-inch NPT fitting for easy coupling with your air hose and compressor. This pin nailer is backed by a manufacturer’s 7-year limited warranty.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a reliable and precise pin nailer for your detailed finish, trim, and woodworking projects, the Bostitch HP118K 23-Gauge 1/2-Inch to 1-3/16-Inch Headless Pin Nailer is a great option. Its adjustable high/low power control, low-profile nosepiece, and ergonomic design make it easy to use and comfortable to handle.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best pin nailer, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features that you should look for when making your purchase:
Power Source
Pin nailers can be powered by either compressed air or electricity. If you already have an air compressor, then an air-powered pin nailer may be a good choice for you. However, if you don’t have an air compressor, an electric pin nailer may be a more convenient option.
Nail Size
Pin nailers can typically handle nails ranging from 23 to 18 gauge. The smaller the gauge number, the thicker the nail. Make sure to choose a pin nailer that can handle the size of nails you need for your project.
Magazine Capacity
The magazine capacity determines how many nails the pin nailer can hold at one time. A larger magazine capacity means less time spent reloading nails. However, a larger magazine may also make the pin nailer heavier and bulkier.
Depth Adjustment
The ability to adjust the depth of the nail is an important feature to have. This allows you to control how deep the nail is driven into the material, preventing overdriving or underdriving the nail.
Trigger Type
There are two types of trigger mechanisms: sequential and contact. A sequential trigger requires the user to pull the trigger for each individual nail, while a contact trigger allows the user to hold down the trigger and fire nails rapidly. Make sure to choose a trigger type that you are comfortable with and that suits your needs.
Warranty
Look for a pin nailer that comes with a warranty. This will provide you with peace of mind in case anything goes wrong with the tool.
By considering these features, you can choose the best pin nailer for your needs and get the job done efficiently and effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I look for in a high-quality pin nailer?
When looking for a high-quality pin nailer, you should consider factors such as the weight, size, and power source. A lightweight and compact design will provide better maneuverability and reduce hand fatigue during extended use. Look for a model with an adjustable depth control feature to ensure consistent nail depth and prevent overdriving. A good pin nailer should also have a reliable jam release mechanism and a comfortable grip.
How do cordless pin nailers compare to pneumatic models in performance?
Cordless pin nailers offer the convenience of not needing an air compressor or hose, but they may not have the same power as their pneumatic counterparts. Pneumatic models are generally more powerful and can handle larger nails. However, cordless pin nailers are more portable and offer greater flexibility in terms of where and when you can use them.
What are the benefits of using a 23 gauge pin nailer for fine woodworking?
A 23 gauge pin nailer is ideal for fine woodworking because it leaves a very small hole that can easily be filled and sanded. The pins are also very thin, which means they are less likely to split the wood. Additionally, the pins do not require any glue, which can save time and reduce mess.
Can a pin nailer effectively replace a brad nailer for installing baseboards?
While a pin nailer can be used for installing baseboards, it is not recommended as a replacement for a brad nailer. Pin nailers are designed for lighter duty work and may not have the necessary power to secure larger baseboards. A brad nailer is better suited for this type of job.
What are the key differences between brad, finishing, and pin nailers in terms of usage?
Brad nailers are designed for attaching trim and molding, finishing nailers are used for larger woodwork and cabinetry, while pin nailers are best for delicate work such as attaching thin veneers and decorative moldings. Brad nailers use thicker nails, while finishing nailers use even thicker nails. Pin nailers use the thinnest nails of the three.
Which brands offer the most reliable pin nailers for professional use?
There are several brands that offer reliable pin nailers for professional use, including DeWalt, Makita, Bostitch, and Senco. It is important to choose a reputable brand that offers a warranty and has a good reputation for quality and durability.
