There are a lot of nailers available on the market right now. There’s the roofing nailer, siding nailer, finish nailer, and pin nailer. You also have the staple gun, the brad nailer, and the palm nailer.
But if you’re planning to have your home remodeled or you want to add a new section to your home, then what you need is a framing nailer.
If you’re planning to purchase a framing nailer as a gift for yourself or a friend or family member and you don’t know one thing about them, then you’re going to find our framing nailer buying guide extremely helpful. We’re going to discuss what it can do, the advantages of owning one, and whether this is the right tool for that specific project.
We have also compiled a list of the best framing nailers available online and in your favorite hardware stores. Enjoy!
- Increased Productivity - Drives nails flush in LVL and other hardwoods that remodelers encounter.
- All Season Formula - Works in temperatures down to 14F.
- Lightweight - 7.2lbs. for better comfort and control while working overhead or in tight spaces.
- Guaranteed Durability 50% Longer Run-time with 7V Li-ion Battery for up to 9,000 nails per charge.
- Compact Design: Fits between 16" o.c. studs, joists and roof trusses.
- Nailed It: This 21 degree pneumatic framing nailer features a lightweight and durable magnesium body, ergonomic secure handle, and interchangeable trigger for quick fire or single shot function. It's ideal for professional construction contractors and home DIY projects.
- Versatile and Powerful: The framing nailer features depth adjustment and a no mar tip, making it adaptable for different working surfaces. It's perfect for framing, and it can also be used to install subfloors, roof decking, wood fencing, and sheathing.Minimum Recommended Air Delivery SCFM @ 90PSI:2.4
- The Right Tool for the Job: We're committed to providing outstanding value, top tier customer service and long lasting, high quality products. We make nailers and staplers for every purpose, from roofing to siding to flooring and everything in between.
- Quality and Durability: We manufacture tools with the most durable materials under strict quality control guidelines, suitable for professional contractors and do-it-yourselfers alike. Our tools are sold, distributed, serviced, and warrantied in the USA.
- Tough and Dependable: We make an array of durable construction tools and accessories, including staplers and nailers for siding, flooring, framing, finish, and roofing. Compare our products to similar items by Makita, Hitachi, Bostitch, Senco, Paslode, and Dewalt.
- Nailed it: This 21 degree Pneumatic framing nailer features a lightweight and durable magnesium body, ergonomic secure handle, and interchangeable trigger for quick fire or single shot function. It's ideal for professional contractors and home DIY projects.
- Versatile and powerful: the framing nailer features tool-free finger depth adjustment and a no mar tip, making it adaptable for different working surfaces. It's perfect for framing, wall sheathing, siding installation, subfloors, pallet building, wood box assembly, and fencing.
- The right tool for the job: We're committed to providing outstanding value, top tier customer service and long-lasting, high-quality products. We make nailers and staplers for every purpose, from roofing to siding to flooring and everything in between.
- Quality and durability: We manufacture tools with the most durable materials under strict quality control guidelines, suitable for professional contractors and do-it-yourselfers alike. Our tools are sold, distributed, serviced, and warrantied in the USA.Operating Pressure: 70 115 PSI
- Tough and dependable: we make an array of durable construction Tools and Accessories, including staplers and nailers For siding, flooring, framing, finish, and roofing. Compare our products to similar items by Makita, Hitachi, BOSTITCH, Senco, Paslode, and DEWALT.
- Great Maneuvering - Low-recoil offers a center of gravity close to the trigger for great balance and less arm fatigue.
- Powerful Performance - Heavy duty power helps frame walls faster - drives nails into the hardest woods, even LVL. Works with fewer jams or misfires.
- Compact - Its size fits between 16" o.c. studs, joists, and rafters.
- Convenient Design - Soft grip handle provides comfort and rafter hook moves out of the way when not in need.
- Versatile Application - The Paslode F350S framing nailer is great for framing, wall sheathing, roof sheathing, floor decking and more.
- Pneumatic coil framing nailer with an adjustable exhaust
- Patented push button adjustable depth guide sets nails to desired depths quickly and easily
- Lightweight magnesium design; aggressive wear guards to protect the tool from damage on abrasive surfaces
- Magazine holds up to 300 nails
- 12 1/4 inches long, 14 inches high; weighs 8.1 pounds; 7 year limited warranty
- Same tools. New name. Hitachi power tools has renamed to Metabo HPT
- New head guard design allows for quicker disassembly during tool maintenance
- Lightweight at 7 lbs and well-balanced for ease of maneuverability and less user fatigue
- Selective actuation switch allows for quick transitions between sequential and contact nailing with the simple flip of a switch
- Accepts 2" up to 3-1/2" paper collated framing nails
- Uses 21 degree 2 inch to 3-1/2 inch full round head plastic collated framing nails
- Tool-free depth adjustment for precise flush or countersink nailing
- Multi-directional exhaust cover rotates 360 to direct exhaust air away from user; no-mar tip eliminates damage to working surfaces; dry-fire lockout feature extends motor life and prevents missing nails
- Hardened claw tip reduces wear on the nose and minimizes slippage when toe-nailing
- Allows for easy change between single shot and bump fire modes
Pros:
- It includes a hard plastic carrying case where you can keep everything organized.
- This is a portable framing nailer. It is powered by a lithium-ion battery and a fuel cell that are easy to install.
- Loading the framing nails into the magazine is a breeze.
- The housing is extremely durable.
- You can easily adjust the depth of the nailer without using a hex key or any other tools.
Cons:
- This power tool is loud. You have to use hearing protectors while using it.
- The replacement battery and fuel cell are expensive.
Sebring Tip:
If you’re going to do a lot of work outdoors or you don’t have access to an air compressor, then the Paslode 905600 Cordless XP Framing Nailer is the ideal nail gun for you. This is a portable cordless framing nailer that is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and a fuel cell. The battery, fuel cell, and charger are already included in the package, so you don’t have to purchase them separately.
Its total weight is 7.2 lbs. While the manufacturer claims that it is lightweight, this is relative. What’s light for one person may be heavy for another. You also have to factor in the length of time that you’re going to work and the size of the project. The good news is that it is compact, so you can get it into corners and tight spaces when necessary.
Keep in mind that it can only accommodate a single strip of framing nails. It’s not as fast as the other Paslode pneumatic framing nailer in the list (this cordless nailer can shoot only two to three nails per second), but it performs well no matter the application.
Pros:
- It is one of the most affordable framing nailers on the list.
- The body is made of magnesium so it’s durable and won’t break easily even if you accidentally drop it.
- It has interchangeable triggers (black for single-fire and red for bump-fire) that allow you to adjust the firing mode for your safety.
- It already comes with a 1/4-inch NPT fitting.
- Installing the framing nails is easy as 1-2-3. Plus, it can accommodate as much as two rows of nails thanks to its high-capacity magazine.
Cons:
- This framing nail gun is not as lightweight as the manufacturer claims.
Sebring Tip:
The NuMax SFR2190 Pneumatic Framing Nailer is one of my favorite framing nailers thanks to its impressive performance and durable metal body that doesn’t crack or get scratched even when you accidentally drop it. There’s no need to get a hex key or other tools as it has a tool-less depth adjustment.
It looks and performs a lot like the Paslode pneumatic framing nailer we’ve reviewed here, but what sets it apart is its affordable price. If you’re looking for a budget yet heavy-duty and reliable pneumatic framing nailer, then this is it.
Keep in mind that this particular model is a 21° full head framing nailer. You can also purchase a 34° model that uses clipped head nails if your application calls for it.
Pros:
- It is made of durable magnesium. The magazine, on the other hand, is made of ultra-lightweight aluminum.
- It has a tool-less depth adjustment. Just adjust the thumbscrew located on top of the nose if you want a flush or countersink nailing.
- It comes with a nice hard plastic carrying case, a set of Allen wrenches, safety glasses, and air tool oil.
- It has an anti-dry fire mechanism. It will immediately stop firing when you’re down to the last 2 to 3 nails in your magazine.
- This framing nailer allows you to switch from contact/bump firing to sequential firing easily.
Cons:
- You have to figure out how to get it to drive the nails deeper when toe-nailing studs.
- It can be heavy for overhead projects.
Sebring Tip:
The Freeman PFR2190 Pneumatic Framing Nailer is a 21º nailer that uses plastic collated full-head nails. If you’re looking for a framing nailer that fits your budget and performs well, then this is the right tool for you.
Loading the framing nails is very easy thanks to its high-capacity aluminum magazine. There’s no need to stop and load in the middle of a large project with a magazine like that.
You might be in for a surprise when you see the tool itself as it is huge. It packs a lot of weight (8.5 lbs), but it’s fine if you’re not going to hoist it above you during overhead work or you’re not going to use it for hours.
Pros:
- It drives the nail smoothly and with less effort on your part. Say goodbye to jams and misfires when you have this nailer.
- Loading the framing nails into its aluminum magazine is very easy. It can even hold up to two strips of framing nails so you don’t have to stop what you’re doing to load up.
- You can switch between contact firing and sequential firing easily.
- The center of gravity is located near the trigger, resulting in reduced recoil.
- The nose is slim so you can fit it between 16-inch rafters and joists.
Cons:
- It can be heavy for some users. Consider its weight because you might be hoisting it for several hours during extensive projects.
Sebring Tip:
The Paslode PowerMaster
Plus 30° Framing Nailer is the ideal tool if you’re a carpenter or a builder tasked with a lot of remodeling projects. This is not your ordinary framing nailer. The body itself is robust and built for heavy-duty applications. The lightweight aluminum magazine can accommodate a lot of framing nails (it uses nail sizes 2″ to 3-1/2″ nails), ensuring that you won’t need to stop and load every time it runs out.
It’s kind of heavy, so prepare your hand and arms if you’re taking on an extensive project. Handling the tool, however, is easy thanks to its rubber-molded hand grip.
This framing nailer, albeit durable and performs well, is very expensive. Plus, it’s not the ideal tool if you’re looking for something portable as it is always hooked on an air compressor.
Pros:
- Unlike other tools in the list, this one has a coil magazine that can store as much as 300 nails.
- The body is made of durable aluminum that can withstand heavy use.
- It comes with a 7-year limited warranty.
- This pneumatic framing nailer allows a keyless depth adjustment with its push-button adjustment.
Cons:
- It is not ideal for getting into tight spaces and nailing corners owing to its bulky magazine.
- It is heavy. Your arms will turn to jelly if you’re working on a large project or nailing overhead.
Sebring Tip:
The Bostitch N89C1 Coil Framing Nailer is one of the most unique tools we’ve reviewed so far. Instead of the usual long magazine, this one has a large round magazine where as much as 300 framing nails can be stored.
Controlling the tool is easy thanks to its dual triggers. You can use the safer contact firing trigger (black trigger) or use the sequential firing trigger (gray trigger) if you want.
The tool’s performance is impressive, but so is the price. If you’re a hobbyist and not a professional, then there’s not much sense for you to purchase this tool.
Pros:
- It accepts both offset round paper collated and clipped head nails (2″ to 3 1/2″).
- It comes with a pair of safety glasses and a 5-year warranty.
- Loading is easy. Just pull the nail stopper back, load the framing nails, and release the nail stopper to lock the nails in.
- This pneumatic framing nailer allows you to switch from contact/bump firing to sequential firing with a built-in actuation switch.
- You don’t have to reach for an Allen wrench to adjust the nailing depth.
Cons:
- It doesn’t have a rafter hook.
Sebring Tip:
Whether you’re nailing rafters or building a deck, you’ll find this Metabo HPT NR90ADS1 Framing Nailer an efficient and handy tool. This is a pneumatic framing nailer with a 30° magazine that accepts both offset and clipped framing nails.
Its body is made of durable metal, while the magazine is made of lightweight anodized aluminum.
The package includes a hose fitting, so you don’t have to purchase a compatible connector separately. The handle is rubber-molded which ensures a non-slip grip. This handle, however, is not my favorite as it is too slim.
If you’re looking for a good mid-priced tool, then this is it.
Pros:
- This is a budget-friendly framing nailer.
- You don’t need an Allen wrench to adjust the nailing depth as it offers a tool-less depth adjustment.
- Loading round head framing nails is so easy.
- It has a round tip that ensures the tool will not mar your work surface.
Cons:
- The quality of the motor can be hit-and-miss.
Sebring Tip:
The 3PLUS H2190SP Framing Nailer is one of the best-selling framing nailers that are available for just below $100. If you’re a hobbyist who needs a budget-friendly tool for your occasional remodeling projects at home, then this pneumatic framing nailer is the ideal tool for you.
The performance of this framing nailer is impressive and it has been reliable even in large projects. It allows for tool-less depth adjustment so you can switch from flush nailing to countersink in a sec.
My only complaint is that it is heavy (weighs almost 11 lbs). Your arms can easily turn to jelly if you’re going to use it all day long.
A framing nailer is a handheld power tool used to nail together wood and other kinds of materials. It is also known as a framing nail gun or simply, a nailer.
The pneumatic models of this tool are hooked to and powered by an air compressor. Some cordless versions, on the other hand, are powered by a fuel cell that contains gas (such as propane or butane), a lithium-ion battery, or a combination of both.
While the popularity of framing nailers has surged among DIYers and hobbyists over the years, it is still, by and large, a professional’s tool because of its sheer size, power, and to some extent, its prohibitive cost.
Connecting a house’s frames is the main task of framing nailers. But aside from framing, it can also be used to build decks, fences, wood siding, and wood sheathing. It can also be used to assemble furniture, install cabinets, and install hardwood flooring.
Framing nailers use nails with sizes that range from 1 1/4″ to 3 1/2″.
Nailed It! Choosing The Best Framing Nailer
Power Source
Framing nailers have different power sources, and the type of power source it uses will determine whether it’s going to be a cordless or corded tool.
Pneumatic framing nailers are powered by compressed air. These tools are ideal for extensive framing tasks and other high-volume projects. If you already own an air compressor or if you have access to one in your job site, then this is the ideal tool for you.
But being connected to a hose can seriously hamper your mobility. If you want a framing nailer with the same powerful performance but you also want it to be portable, then cordless nail guns are your best option.
Cordless framing nailers are powered by gas (butane or propane) stored in a fuel cell or a compatible lithium-ion battery. But there are models available right now that use a combination of both.
The downside? Unlike pneumatic framing nailers, fuel and battery-powered ones tend to run out of juice in the middle high-volume tasks.
Framing Nailer Magazine
Framing nailers have two types of magazines: stick magazines and coil magazines.
You’ll notice that most of the nail guns sold online or in your local hardware stores have a stick magazine. These are made of aluminum and positioned at a certain angle. Check out this article for a more detailed explanation of why framing nailers have different angles.
Loading a strip of nails into a stick magazine is very easy. It is also less bulky than a coil magazine, so it’s better for toe-nailing or nailing at a certain angle. The only downside is that it can only accommodate a limited number of framing nails.
Coil magazines, on the other hand, can accommodate more nails compared to stick magazines. The nails are coiled into a circle and loaded into a round magazine. The downside? Loading coiled framing nails takes a lot of practice before you can perfect it.
Type of Nail Gun Trigger
Framing nailers have two types of triggers: the contact firing and the sequential trigger.
With contact firing (also known as bump firing), the user has to pull the trigger and press the safety tip against the work surface at the same time to discharge the nail.
Many DIYers and workers like this type of trigger because it’s faster and more efficient. All you have to do is “bump” the safety tip against the work surface while pressing the trigger and you can drive multiple nails in mere seconds.
The problem with contact firing is the tool is prone to double firing. It can sometimes fire a second nail on top of the first one. The second nail can recoil off the first nail and can easily hit you or someone else working or standing nearby. It is also very easy to injure yourself or others if you have your finger on the trigger and accidentally bumped the safety tip on some part of your body or someone else’s.
The second type of trigger is sequential firing. In this type of trigger, you have to press the safety tip to the work surface first then pull the trigger to discharge the nail.
You have to press the safety tip to the material then pull the trigger again to drive another nail. This type of trigger reduces the chances of accidental double firing and is safer compared to bump firing.
Framing Nailer Safety Tips
- Carefully read and understand the owner’s manual before operating the framing nailer for the first time.
- Wear a hard hat and a pair of safety glasses every time you use a framing nailer.
- Refrain from touching the trigger when the framing nailer is not in use.
- The key to framing nailer safety is to consider it as a firearm. Never point the framing nailer at any part of your body or anyone.
- Be extra careful when using pneumatic framing nailers.
- Remove the fuel cell or battery when making adjustments to the tool. The tool should also be disconnected from the air compressor (if you have a pneumatic model) when making adjustments.
- Always take precautions and secure the hose when using an air-powered tool while framing.
Conclusion:
My choice for the best framing nailer is Paslode 905600 Cordless XP Framing Nailer. While I like the sheer power and speed of pneumatic nail guns, this particular Paslode framing nailer performed just as well and often even better than its air-powered counterparts.
Connecting hardwood all day long is a piece of cake for this beast. Using it in the middle of summer? No problem. Using it in a frigid environment? You can be assured that it can do what needs to be done.
It is powered by a lithium-ion battery and a gas fuel cell. This dual power source ensures a longer run-time. In case you run out of power, you can always have a back-up battery and fuel cell to keep you going.
This cordless framing nailer is limited by its power source. But if you’re mounting a ladder and you don’t want anything to get in the way while you work or you just want to be safe, then this is definitely the way to go.
There you have it. Our list of some of the best framing nailers for a wide-range of applications and budgets. Happy shopping!
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