We are all aware of how much of a pain securing a deck can be, especially when you do it using inappropriate tools. However, using a nail gun can make the entire process much easier and simpler. But not all have the ability to carry it out. That’s why you’re here today! We’ll be talking about the best nail gun for decking and why you should get one today.
We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: nail guns are one of the most versatile tools in the world. And, because this tool is available in a variety of types and sizes, it’s critical to pick the right one. Don’t worry; we’ve got your back. Here are our top five picks, along with an extensive analysis for each.
Quick Overview
Our Top 5 Best Nail Gun for Decking Review
- CRAFTSMAN CMCN618C1 V20 Cordless Brad Nailer (best cordless nail gun for woodworking)
- Bostitch BTFP12233 Brad Nail Gun ( best nail gun for DIY)
- BOSTITCH N62FNK2 Finish Nailer (best cordless nail gun for framing)
- DeWalt DWFP12231 Brad Nailer (best nail gun under 100 dollars)
- Senco Fastening Systems 6E0001N 18Ga Fusion Brad Nailer (best nail gun for trim)
CRAFTSMAN CMCN618C1 V20 Cordless Brad Nailer
Top Specs
- Weight: 7.64lbs
- Dimensions: 13.37 x 4.49 x 11.49 inches
- Power-Source: Battery-Powered
- Voltage: 20V
Our analysis
To be honest, we were ecstatic when we were given the opportunity to test CRAFTSMAN’s CMCN618C1 brad nailer. That’s because we’re fully aware of CRAFTSMAN’s achievements and how they’ve influenced the industry throughout time. As a result, you’d anticipate the CMCN18C1 to have all a brad nailer has to offer, but on a higher level. In fact, we liked the concept of it being completely powered by batteries very much.
Moreover, this exceptional piece of gear can launch up to 420 2″ nails on a single charge! And, to top it off, you won’t have to worry about your nails jamming or your gadget slowing. That’s because the ingenious tool-less jam release and the anti-stall system have you covered. Aside from that, the CMCN618C1 easily drives in 18 gauge finish nails.
Perhaps, you’d be happy to know the device’s contoured-over molded grip offers the highest levels of comfort. And its incorporated belt hook makes it simple to store and access. In addition, its lightweight and low center of gravity make it easier to hold in your hands. Nonetheless, when you consider the characteristics CMCN618C1 provides in comparison to its price, it’s just a matter of time before it’s known as the best nail gun for quarter rounds.
- Lightweight
- Low center of gravity
- Belt hook
- Anti-stall mechanism
- Toolless jam release
- May misbehave
- Incorrect battery indication
Bostitch BTFP12233 Brad Nail Gun
Top Specs
- Weight: 5.16lbs
- Dimensions: 12.2 x 11.7 x 4.5 inches
- Power Source: Air Powered
- Voltage: 110V
Our analysis
When it comes to hardware like nailers and compressors, Bostitch is a well-known and famous name. As a result, none of its products will ever fail to satisfy its clients. Therefore, you can already imagine that the BTFP122333 is going to blow past your expectations. There are many reasons behind this; its ability to drive in 18 gauge nails to a depth of ⅝”-2-⅛” is certainly one.
The BTFP12233’s smaller snout and smart-point technology make it considerably easier to place nails when you compare it with other brad nailers. The cherry on top is that you don’t even have to press down on the contact point for the device to work! That’s just a polite way of saying we offer nail guns that are best suited for crafting. Furthermore, the device’s oil-free feature considerably decreases the likelihood of a malfunction due to oil stains.
As if these features weren’t enough to make it a fan favorite, Bostitch went above and beyond to add even more! It has a rear exhaust fan, which prevents any sort of debris from entering your eyes. On the other hand, the device’s excellent Dial-A depth control also allows you to make precise countersinks for the 18 gauge brad nails. Moreover, the adjustable trigger system lets you alter between sequential and rapid-fire modes.
- Relatively Cheap
- Lightweight
- Smart-point technology
- Tool-free jam release
- Dial-A depth control
- You’ll need a compressor
- Depth control might malfunction
BOSTITCH N62FNK2 Finish Nailer
Top Specs
- Weight: 8.73lb
- Dimensions: 16.5 x 14.6 x 4.3 inches
- Power Source: Air-Powered
- Voltage: N/A
Our analysis
To begin with, the BOSTITCH N62FNK2 is the first of its kind to have an ultra-quiet rear exhaust that drives away the air from you. There’s even an incorporated fan blower to clear out all the debris on the other end(no pun intended). This is what really piqued our attention; the fact that it’s still being approved for a patent portrays how much effort has been put into its creation.
Sometimes, you may have to work in a dark room or somewhere where there’s not enough light. How will you tackle this problem? Well, all you have to do is turn on the LED lights on the N62FNK2, and you’re good to go. At the same time, the device’s alterable trigger with safety locks lets you change the firing/fastener-drive mode.
Additionally, the gadget’s 16″ on-center gauge immediately flips out for quickly installing baseboards. This is waiting for patent approval as well. Other than that, it has an oil-less operation that decreases the chances of oil stains. And it even has a Dial-A depth control for letting you place fasteners accurately. Lastly, the tool’s magnesium-based body is the mastermind behind its sturdiness. All in all, the N62FNK2 is definitely one of the best nailers for fencing.
- Durable
- Reflex-shot mechanism
- Dial-A depth control
- On-board LED lights
- Built-in fan blower
- Quiet rear exhaust
- Requires a compressor
- Compatible nails are impossible to find
DeWalt DWFP12231 Brad Nailer
Top Specs
- Weight: 5.06 pounds
- Dimensions: 13.03 x 3.74 x 13.09 inches
- Power Source: Air Powered
- Voltage: N/A
Our analysis
The DeWalt DWFP12231 Pneumatic Brad Nailer is undoubtedly a device that deserves a spot in your construction kit, thanks to its long-lasting maintenance-free motor. In addition, it’s an electric one! As a result, no wire management is required. On the other hand, the DWFP12231’s excellent rear exhaust directs all of the debris away from the working zone. Thus, there’s no chance of contamination. What an amazing feature to possess.
But that’s not all this bad boy can do; it can also quickly drive in 18 gauge nails up to a depth of ⅝”-2″. And while we are on the topic of nails, the engineers ensured that the device consists a tool-free jam release mechanism to prevent the nails from jamming and causing it to misbehave. Despite the fact that the DWFP12231 is a brad nailer by nature, we don’t see any reason why you can’t use it for fencing.
Losing such a small and portable device is nothing common. However, that’s not what’s going to happen to the DWFP 12231. Because of its changeable belt hook, you can always keep it close to you while you’re in the construction zone. A detachable non-marring nose tip with on-bard storage also comes with this fantastic nailer.
- Lightweight
- Detachable non-marring nose tip
- Easy to use
- Portable
- Tool-free jam release
- Piston rings might crack
- The nailhead might stall/jam
Senco Fastening 6E0001N 18Ga Fusion Brad Nailer
Top Specs
- Weight: 6 lbs
- Power Source: Battery-powered
- Product Dimensions: 20 x 7 x 14 inches
- Voltage: 18 Volts
Our analysis
Powered by a lithium-ion battery, the Senco 6E001N is undoubtedly one of the most compatible nailers for decking, cabinets, and even roofing. And the icing on the cake is that the device has a fastening rate of 5 seconds only! It seems like if the superhero Flash were a carpenter, the 6E001N would be his best friend. Oh, and it’s driven by a sealed piston driver.
Senco has left no stones unturned while crafting the 6E001N. That’s exactly why we were mesmerized by how effective it was during our field test. The tool’s reflex-shot ejects nails instantly as soon as you pull the trigger. And it can discharge about 600 nails per charge! Talk about efficiency. However, that’s not all; the 6E001N’s durable body lets you use it in heavy-duty tasks too.
If you think that was impressive, wait till you hear about its depth control. Driving in 18 gauge nails up to ⅝”-2-⅛” deep is nothing but a child’s play for this excellent nail gun. It isn’t the best battery-powered nail gun for trim for no reason. And as a bonus, the tool’s weight makes it highly portable.
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Reflex-shot mechanism
- Depth control
- Battery-powered
- Very expensive
- The striking plate may not reset
Buying Guide
We’re confident you’ve grasped the significance of a nailer by now. Hence, if you intend to buy one, there are a few things to keep in mind when selecting a nail gun for decking. Furthermore, you should only accept the best when it comes to your hard-earned money. Thus, let’s get this party started without further ado!
Nature of the Job
Being aware of the fact that specific tasks require a specific type of nailer is common sense. You wouldn’t see someone using a fencing nailer for a finishing task, now would you? Therefore, you must recognize the nature of your job before purchasing a model.
For example, a roofing nailer is a tool that fires nails with incredible force and isn’t very versatile. Thus, you would only use it for certain tasks such as roofing. On the other hand, a framing nailer falls into the category of heavy-duty tools and is always present on construction sites.
Firing Modes
The number of modes is one of the most important considerations to make when selecting a nail gun. Furthermore, knowing the consequences of different firing modes will aid you in selecting the best nailer for your next project. In addition, most nail guns have the same interchanging mechanism, which is a switchable or sequential trigger.
You must first engage the safety tip before pulling the trigger to launch a nail while using the nailer in sequential fire mode. However, in contact firing mode, you’ll be able to eject nails by pushing the trigger while the safety tip is pressing on the working surface. Therefore, we suggest checking the nailer’s firing modes before buying one.
Nail Gauge
The nail gauge measure chart incorporates sizes extending from 2d to 60d, with 2d being the littlest and 60d the biggest. The ‘D’ stands for the penny measure, which may be a categorization of nails. Moreover, a 2d nail is 1″ long, though a 16d nail is around 3.5 inches. On the other hand, nails of varying lengths may not fit the design of certain models.
As a result, we strongly advise you to determine which size nails best suit your desired model. Otherwise, there’s no point in getting a nail gun that is compatible with nails that are almost impossible to find.
A Word From Us
Ah, it seems like we have come to an end. Nonetheless, we would like to thank you for investing your time in our article solemnly. By now, we are hopeful that you’ll be able to get yourself an ideal nail gun. However, if you’re still indecisive, we would suggest going for the Senco 6E0001N. Its unique ability to launch 600 nails with each charge is truly impeccable.
Well, now that everything is out of the way, we firmly believe that you have taken in enough wisdom about nail guns. Therefore the next time someone asks, “which is the best nail gun for decking?” You’ll know exactly how to help them. Happy decking!
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