Best Framing Nailers for Woodworkers and Handymen in the UK

Review & Comparison, Last Update September 9, 2024
No matter whether you are an experienced contractor or DIYer, a framing nailer can make your job easier and safer. No more fatigue or risk to hit your finger! Unlike other nailers, these are designed for quick and high-powered firing. Just choose the one and go! ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Operation
Magazine angle
Nail length
Nail diameter
Magazine capacity
Firing mode
Conveniences
Safety Features
Weight
Guarantee
 
PROS

Despite being battery-powered, the Hitachi NR90GC2 is able to shoot up to 4,000 nails on a single charge. This makes it suitable for long-time jobs on remote construction sites. 

CONS

Quite a low magazine capacity, which is quite surprising considering the price of the tool. 

OUR VERDICT

This framing nailer will be a great value for all those who look for a cordless tool. Despite it somewhat lacks in magazine capacity, it has many other great functions and options that make it the most favoured tool among many DIYers and professional constructors.

detailed parameters
Operation

Gas-powered, 7.2V

Magazine angle

35°

Nail length

50 - 90 mm

Nail diameter

2.9 - 3.3 mm

Magazine capacity

Up to 37 nails

Firing mode

Contact / Sequential

Conveniences

Battery indicator light, Nailing depth adjustment lever, Retractable hook

Safety Features

Contact tip for firing

Weight

3.5 kg

Guarantee

1-year limited warranty

PROS

The nailer features two firing speeds allowing consumers to handle different nail lengths and woods while also making it easy for them to adjust the tool for different jobs. Gives a convenient way of monitoring the battery charge, showing it on the housing of the tool. 

CONS

Not as powerful as the other gas nailers in this review.

OUR VERDICT

Portable and reliable, the DeWALT is a must-have for all those who often work on sites that provide neither air compressors nor power supply. Due to the fact that the tool produces no gas exhaust and can operate at low temperatures, it is well suited for outdoor tasks.

detailed parameters
Operation

Battery-powered, 18V

Magazine angle

30 - 34°

Nail length

50 - 90 mm

Nail diameter

2.8 - 3.3 mm

Magazine capacity

Up to 55 nails

Firing mode

Contact / Sequential

Conveniences

Thumb wheel depth adjuster, Reversible belt/rafter hook, Rubber-coated handle

Safety Features

Contact tip for firing, Dry fire lockout protects the tool from firing without nails in the magazine

Weight

4.1 kg

Guarantee

1 year, 3 years upon registering

PROS

The tool comes in a sturdy aluminum body, which makes it suitable for use in harsh work environments, and delivers high firing speed enabling you to shoot nails into both soft and hard materials with minimum effort.

CONS

The necessity to use this nailer with a compressor makes it less convenient for transportation. 

OUR VERDICT

The ability to deliver high pressure continuously makes this framing nailer perfect for firing nails into the hardest wood. Like all pneumatic tools, the Silverline 282400 is known to be durable and extremely solid. 

detailed parameters
Operation

Pneumatic, 75 - 115 psi

Magazine angle

34°

Nail length

50 - 90 mm

Nail diameter

2.87 - 3.33 mm

Magazine capacity

Up to 90 nails

Firing mode

Contact / Sequential

Conveniences

Adjustable penetration depth, Rubber-coated handle

Safety Features

Contract tip for firing

Weight

4.2 kg

Guarantee

3 years

PROS

The immense hammering force makes it easier to nail through hardwoods and concrete. The tool comes with two batteries so it can be used longer than most of the competitors. 

CONS

The fuel cells aren't included.

OUR VERDICT

The BOSTITCH GF33PTU stands in the same line with many other powerful nailers deployed by more famous brands. Well-balanced and lightweight, it's ideal for people working in remote locations without electricity.

detailed parameters
Operation

Gas-powered, 7.2V

Magazine angle

33°

Nail length

50 - 90 mm

Nail diameter

2.5 - 3.3 mm

Magazine capacity

Up to 55 nails

Firing mode

Contact / Sequential

Conveniences

Adjustable depth control, Belt hook, Serrated tip

Safety Features

Contact tip for firing

Weight

3.6 kg

Guarantee

2 years

PROS

Due to the tool's weight of a bit more than a kilo, it is perfect for prolonged use.

CONS

The work area of the tool is limited by the length of the cord. Cannot be used in places with increased humidity. 

OUR VERDICT

The Tacwise 400ELS is lightweight, easy to operate and maintain. It is best suited for beginner carpenters and all those who run small woodwork shops. With this finish nailer, you will be able to accomplish a variety of light-duty tasks quickly and effortlessly. 

detailed parameters
Operation

Corded

Magazine angle

34°

Nail length

15 - 40 mm

Nail diameter

1.25 mm

Magazine capacity

Up to 100 nails

Firing mode

Contact / Sequential

Conveniences

Adjustable depth of drive, Easy jam clearance

Safety Features

Contact tip for firing, Safety switch

Weight

1.5 kg

Guarantee

1 year

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Hitachi NR90GC2 Clipped Head Cordless

SIMPLICITY, COMFORT, AND QUALITY

Any work is easier and quicker to do if you use the right tool. The Hitachi NR90GC2 cordless nail gun is just the one you need. Designed by a profound American company, this tool combines the ease of use, power, and accuracy of professional-class framing nailers. The biggest advantage of this gun is that it can be operated literally everywhere. Once you load in nails, install a gad cartridge, and place the feeder, the gun is ready to use. The Hitachi NR90GC2 cordless nail gun boasts powerful performance which allows it to fire up to 4000 nails per battery charge and another 1200 nails per fuel cell. This is another advantage of this tool. Not all cordless nail guns can work as long as the Hitachi NR90GC2. For greater convenience, the manufacturer fitted the tool with an indicator light making it easier to monitor the battery life and a rafter hook which can be reversed for left-handed and right-handed operation.

Review of Hitachi NR90GC2 Clipped Head Cordless Framing Nailer

WITH CARE FOR CUSTOMERS AND NATURE

Hitachi is one of few companies that stick to its strategy and principles from the very first day of establishment. The company's desire to make our lives easier has always driven them to develop new technologies and improve solutions that already exist. Team specialists spend hours on research and implementation of products that can meet customers' needs and enhance their experience. If that was not for such deliberate approach, Hitachi wouldn't be now where it is. Importantly, Hitachi strives to manufacture products that not only would be affordable but also environment-friendly. This all makes the company one of the catalysts of the global technological changes.

Hitachi NR90GC2 Clipped Head Cordless Framing Nailer in the use

MAINTENANCE TIPS

The advantage to using gas nailers is that they are mobile and independent from cords and hoses. When the battery's charged, the magazine's loaded and a fuel cell attached, the gun is ready to use. Nevertheless, you should be wary of the exhaust gas that emits during operation and frequently air the place when working indoors. It is also not recommended to operate the gas-powered framing nailer in the cold, as too low temperatures may cause the tool malfunctioning. Regularly clean the gun from the soot, which may build up inside the fuel rod. And if you notice that the nails start jamming, make sure to thoroughly clean the tool from inside out. So doing, you will be able to extend the life of the tool significantly.

Detailed review of Hitachi NR90GC2 Clipped Head Cordless Framing Nailer

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B001ACNK90

VIDEO
Hitachi 3-1/2-in Cordless Clipped Head Framing Nailer - NR90GC2
 

DEWALT DEW-DCN692N

COMFORTABLE OPERATION ALL YEAR AROUND

DeWALT doesn't fall behind the competition manufacturing tools which can cater to different budgets and needs. Coming with a brushless motor, the DeWALT DEW-DCN692N doesn't impose as much hassle as those using fuel cells and cords. Besides, because it doesn't require gas, the tool can be comfortably operated both indoors and outdoors in any weather conditions. What makes the DeWALT DEW-DCN692N even more so popular with customers is that it offers mechanical operation, which is by many considered greater and better than that of pneumatic and gas-powered models, and that the tool can be optimized for firing nails of different lengths. According to what's said in specifications, the DeWALT DEW-DCN692N can offer robust and consistent performance at temperatures varying from -20°С to 50°С, which makes it well suitable for use on any job-sites.

Review of DEWALT DEW-DCN692N Cordless Brushless Framing Nailer

TWO SPEEDS FOR A VARIETY OF APPLICATIONS

Based on the power of the brushless motor, the DeWALT DEW-DCN692N can be used for a variety of applications. It benefits from two speeds which allow it to fire 90mm nails in softwood and 63mm nails in hardwood with ease. The DeWALT DEW-DCN692N offers the sequential operating mode that provides operators with higher precision during work and the bump mode that increases the productive speed. This all makes the DeWALT DEW-DCN692N versatile and suitable for a wide variety of tasks both light-duty and high-volume. 

For carpenters assembling and upholstering furniture, we could recommend using a finish nailer. In spite of its quite high performance specifications, it is well suitable for indoor repairing works. It doesn't vibrate nor produces much noise, unlike many other similar tools.   

DEWALT DEW-DCN692N Cordless Brushless Framing Nailer in the use

PACKS IN SAFETY AND CONVENIENCE FEATURES

When it comes to convenience features, the DeWALT DEW-DCN692N offers quite a lot of them and then some. It is fitted with a non-slip ergonomic handle, with the battery compartment being placed right underneath it, and features a thumb wheel depth adjuster for regulating the depth that should be achieved. Despite the fact that the tool is quite heavy, it's not too big on the whole. Most users find it easy to hold it in hands and operate even in tight places. The option to adjust the magazine enables you to fire both clipped head and round head nails at angles between 30° to 34°, which all makes this tool incredibly practical. The DeWALT DEW-DCN692N doesn't have a carry case but it comes with a reversible hook making it easy to hang the tool on your belt when not in use. Like most of the nailers presented on the market, the DEW-DCN692N features a lock-off mechanism which gives users an opportunity to prevent accidental nail discharge. All these features make the DeWALT DCN692 worth your close attention.

Detailed review of DEWALT DEW-DCN692N Cordless Brushless Framing Nailer

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £299.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B00KAFRDKK

 

Silverline 282400

NOT AS DIFFICULT AS YOU MIGHT HAVE IMAGINED

The Silverline 282400 pneumatic framing nailer can be powered by any air compressor which provides the supply of 5 - 8 bar and more. To ensure proper functioning of the gun, it is important to connect it tightly with a hose so that it won't let the air in. For that, the kit includes a special ¼” adaptor. The operating principle of the Silverline 282400 is plain simple. The compressor feeds the nailer with the air which forces the piston to push the firing pin and then fire nails into the wood. All is much simpler than you could think. Add to that an ergonomic handle with a rubber-coated grip and you get a powerful and convenient-to-use framing nailer suitable for a variety of applications.

Review of Silverline 282400 Air Framing Nailer

YOUR VALUE FOR THE MONEY

Made of heavy-duty aluminium, the Silverline 282400 is able to withstand the harshest workplace environments, which makes it perfectly suitable for use both indoors and outdoors on job-sites. It'd be fair to say that durable construction cost the tool some extra weight. However, we do not consider these few additional ounces in weight as a deal-breaker given the price of the nailer. At half the price of similar nailers produced by leading brands, it offers just as good performance. The tool accepts most nails with the width of 3.33mm and the length of 50mm - 90mm and can hold up to 90 nails to allow for it longer runtime. It features a depth adjuster which makes it easy to adjust the firing depth without any other tools. So basically, this framing nailer has all the features and functions of costly models but it isn't that expensive. This way, if the brand name is the least of the things you want to pay for, there's nothing to lose buying the Silverline 282400. The tool is designed with all the same capabilities and complies with all quality and safety standards.

Silverline 282400 Air Framing Nailer in the use

SAFETY FIRST SAFETY ALWAYS

Like many other nailers, the Silverline 282400 has a catch that prevents nail shooting until you pull the trigger. Having said that, there are still some safety measures that should be taken to ensure comfortable and safe work with the tool. To exclude the risks of injuries, there shouldn't be any gap between the gun and the air compressor. If the hose goes loose, you should consider using a special adapter. When disconnecting the tool, always switch the compressor off first. Wearing safety goggles is also important in order to protect your sight from damage.

Detailed review of Silverline 282400 Air Framing Nailer

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price £123.95
Stock In stock
ASIN B000LG0VT8

 

BOSTITCH GF33PTU

CORDLESS CONVENIENCE

This gas-operated framing nailer from Bostitch can provide you with great mobility and convenience of use while also allowing you to access the job sites without a power source. It is powered by battery and fuel cell, which allows for its use in all locations without an air compressor. The tool comes preassembled and won't take you longer than a couple of minutes to put it to work. You will only need to drop in some nails, feed it, and off you go. Similarly to most framing guns, the Bostitch GF33PTU accepts almost all nails with a diameter of 2.5-3.3 mm, which allows you to use it both for minor repair works and for large-scale projects such as decking, roofing, arbour building, etc. What we like about this nailer a lot is the fact that it comes with two batteries so there's no need to interrupt your work to recharge it. Once one of the batteries goes low, there's always another one at your disposal. Working with this nail gun is nothing but mere pleasure. The tool is well-balanced, feels lightweight in hands, and doesn't slip. It won't inconvenience you no matter what job you need to do.

Review of BOSTITCH GF33PTU Cordless Framing Nailer

TWO BATTERIES - DOUBLE WORKING TIME

Among such a diverse range of framing nailers, the BOSTITCH GF33PTU is one of the few that is so popular both with regular users and with professional engineers. In addition to excellent performance characteristics that bring it on a par with more professional-grade tools, the BOSTITCH GF33PTU stands out for its convenient features making the tool's utility an easy task. Like we've mentioned earlier, the BOSTITCH GF33PTU comes supplied with two batteries so it can be used for a considerably longer time without recharging. The recharging time, though, isn't long. In fact, it's pretty fast compared to many other similar tools. In less than one hour, the battery charge will be fully complete. Along with the nailer, the box includes a carry case for tool's storage and transportation. It also has a rafter hook for attaching the tool to your belt or on a wall when not in use. Not like that's something unusual but we still would like to highlight that the BOSTITCH GF33PTU, similar to the other nailers reviewed in here, has a serrated tip that prevents the nose from sliding over the work surface and allows for high precision while shooting nails.

BOSTITCH GF33PTU Cordless Framing Nailer in the use

WHAT"S THE DIFFERENCE

All gas-powered nail guns stand out for their efficiency, performance, and power. Using the fuel/air mixture, they force the piston into the wood at the increased speed, which makes them suited for a wide range of projects. The only obvious disadvantages to using gas-powered nailers are that they emit exhaust gases and that they require often cleanups.

Battery-powered nailers don't deliver as much power as their gas-powered peers, but they offer some other advantages that should be considered. Unlike gas-powered models, battery-powered framing nailers produce very little vibration making it easy to use the tool for an extended time. As they've got no gas to freeze, they can also be used safely all year round even when it's freezing cold.

Both gas-powered nail guns and battery-powered guns offer flexibility, mobility, and ease of use. However, if power is crucial to you, we'd recommend you to opt for the gas-operated nail gun. For all other jobs, it will be enough to use a battery-powered tool.

Detailed review of BOSTITCH GF33PTU Cordless Framing Nailer

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B003UGMX06

 

Tacwise 400ELS

NAILER FOR DAILY OPERATION

Having spent hours on research of the market of nail guns, we've stumbled upon the Tacwise 400ELS. This is a corded nailer which offers the ease and convenience of use without any costly equipment and troublesome maintenance. Despite the fact that this tool isn't as powerful as the other four nailers we've reviewed, it has some great advantages that most of them cannot beat. One of them is the compactness and maneuverability that this gun offers. It is so lightweight and small in size you will be able to comfortably operate in confined and awkward places. Another advantage of this tool is its quiet operation. Compared to most gas-powered tools, the operation noise of the Tacwise 400ELS is close to nonexistent, so you can safely run it from early in the morning into the evening hours without worrying that you might wake up your neighbourhood.

Review of Tacwise 400ELS Electric Nail Gun

HAMMER ALTERNATIVE

The mechanical operation of the tool makes it a great alternative to a regular hammer. Whether you need to assemble furniture or you simply need to affix some decorative items on walls, the Tacwise 400ELS will fit for the purpose. Of all the tools we've seen so far, this one is the easiest in operation you can find out there. That being said, it's widely popular with professional carpenters who often need to work at awkward locations.

Tacwise 400ELS Electric Nail Gun in the use

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

Tacwise has got a wide range of high-quality and affordable nailers on offer. If you are involved in construction jobs, you may want to consider some other great models we've presented in our review on brad nailers. The 191ELS is a fine example of versatility the Tacwise company incorporates in all of its tools. Unlike the biggest majority of framing nailers, the Tacwise 191ELS is designed to accept both nails and brads up to 15-30 mm long. For occasional DIYers needing a tool for household use, we'd recommend turning attention to the Tacwise DGN50V. The distinguishing feature of this tool is its feather-like weight making only 1.2 kg. 

Detailed review of Tacwise 400ELS Electric Nail Gun

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £111.93
Stock In stock
ASIN B000Y8GV56

 

What Is a Framing Nailer?

The construction works have become much easier today due to the vast variety of advanced tools on the market. Now, you can drive a hundred of nails and spend considerably less time and effort than you’d have done using a conventional hammer. A finishing nailer can do this job effortlessly, requiring from operator only a pull of a trigger. All the rest will be done for you while your chores would be just to hold the tool in hands and direct it right on a wall. The framing nailers are used to help with large-scale projects such as building houses, outhouses, repairing furniture, etc. If you need one, then this review has been written specially for you, for we’ve got here only the most up-to-date models with best tech specifications for your consideration and choice.

If you're involved in construction jobs, you may just as well want to consider purchasing cordless drills or screwdrivers.

What Features to Compare

Operation Mode

Before deciding on any particular framing nailer, you should learn some basic principles on how it operates. All nailers differ from one another by the following operating modes:

  • Pneumatic or air-powered nailers are powered by the compressed air. The technical specification of a compressor is usually provided by a manufacturer. Such type of nailer is the most widespread and you are likely to see pneumatic nail guns on most construction sites.
  • Combustion-powered or gas-powered nailguns are fueled by gas cartridges. The firing is performed by burning of air and gas mixture.
  • Electric or battery-powered nail guns are powered either from the power socket or by a rechargeable battery. As a rule, electric nailers have light weight and small size.

Technical Specifications

When selecting a nailer, you should carefully look at its technical specifications describing its performance and operation features. The main feature is its power output. It is particularly important for electrical nailers. If you want to get a pneumatic nailgun, then you should consider the air pressure the device produces. Another important feature is a loading capacity and magazine angle. The more nails can be loaded into the magazine, the less time you will spend on reloading them. If the magazine angle is wide enough, you will have more flexibility during work and will be able to reach the corners and other hard-to-reach places with ease.

Comfort and Safety

Your job is much easier if your tools are convenient to use. The nailer with an option of the drive depth adjustment provides more comfort. And it is even better to have a depth control dial marked with precise measurements. At the same time, you don't have to forget about the safety features. For example, nail guns may have lock-off switches, battery charge indicators, dry-fire locks, rafter hooks and so on.

FAQ:

Q: How to shoot with a framing nail gun right?
A: A framing nailer has a large cylinder located right over the contact tip (from where the nails are fired). This tip is a safety feature that must be born down against the wood before the trigger is engaged. So, to fire a nail, guide the cylinder and tip it in the direction you want the nail to be driven. Press the nailer into the wood to depress the tip before you pull the trigger. The nailer should fire a nail with the head slightly sank (approximately 1/8"). When the nail needs to be depressed into the wood a bit more or less, you can adjust the firing (consult the manual for the location of the depth adjustment control).

Q: How to remove a nail stuck in the gun?
A: If you use a pneumatic air gun, detach it from the compressor, or remove the battery if you use a cordless one and follow the procedure below. Open the magazine and remove all unused nails. Open the nose compartment of the nailer. Most nailers have a flip-style lock mechanism on the nose and if you can't open the mechanism by hands, try to do that with a claw hammer or pliers. Draw the bent or jammed nail out and inspect the nose for damage. Close and lock the nose and reload the nails into the magazine. Attach the air hose or battery and test the gun. If it works properly, return to the job you've got to do. If your nailer doesn't fire, repeat the above procedure, check the gun for another nail jam and make sure the nose mechanism is properly closed and not damaged.

Q: How to maintain a framing nailer?
A: Always pour a few drops of oil onto the moving part of the gun before using it. If you’re going to be working all day, add oil periodically throughout your work to ensure that the gun works smoothly. Tighten all screws or bolts on your tool as vibration and heavy-duty use tends to loosen screws over time. Also, check your nail gun instantly after unboxing to see if the screws are tightened.

Using a pneumatic nailer, you need to clean the feed system. Use a canned air to blow out any dust or debris that might get stuck in the feed system. Also, wipe off the system with a rag prior to connecting the air supply. It's highly recommended to use a rag which doesn't leave any pieces of fabric that could jam the feed system.

If you’re using a cordless nailer, inspect its battery every few months and check the expiration date. Depending on a particular model, fuel cells or batteries have an expiration date or start losing their capacity over time.

Q: Do I need to use safety equipment with a nailer?
A: Yes, just like with any power tool, you need to wear appropriate safety equipment such as safety goggles and hearing protectors (as a nailer can be rather noisy), and a proper work apparel.

Q: Do I need to have any permissions to use a framing nail gun?
A: For the tool itself, you don't. But, some nailers drive clipped head nails which are prohibited by specific building codes. So, before you begin a project requiring firing clipped head nails, learn the local regulations and requirements.

Sources:

1. Nailer / Nail Gun Buying Guide, Lowe's.

2. How to Use a Framing Nailer Safely and Effectively, The Spruce. April 4, 2017.

3. Tom Harris How Nail Guns Work, HowStuffWorks.

4. Nail gun, Wikipedia. September 5, 2017.

5. Which Type of Nail Gun or Nailer Do You Need for the Job? Dengarden. August 16, 2017.

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Publish Date: 2017-10-13 12:32:26