Quick Summary: We selected the Hitachi NT50AE2 18 Gauge 5/8″ to 2″ Brad Nailer as the best brad nailer because of its ergonomic design, high-capacity magazine, and tool-free drive-depth adjustment. Also, we were impressed by its sturdy construction and high performance, as evidenced by the large number of 5-star reviews it earned.
There are many things to consider when wanting to buy the best 18 gauge brad nailer. The best overall brad nailers will have many useful features, such as a small nose size to land nails precisely, tool-free adjustment so you can control how far the brad goes into the wood, smart point technology, sequential firing, and tool-less jam clearing.
Some nailers offer bump firing as well, with a switch to allow you to change modes easily. Some brad nailers also come with interchangeable noses depending on the type of project you’re working on, and a lockout feature that disables the trigger to act as an anti-dry fire.
Ideally you will also be able to direct the exhaust where you want rather than have it blowing on you or on work surfaces. You may also want a nailer that is ergonomically designed so that it’s comfortable to use for hours on end without hurting your hands or your back.
But how can you decide which is the best when there are so many brad nailers to choose from?
Take advantage of our extensive research which has led to this list of the ten best brad nailers that drive 18 gauge nails.
Quick Navigation:
- 10 Best 18 Gauge Brad Nailers Comparison
- Reviews of 10 Top 18 Gauge Brad Nailers
- How to Choose the Right 18 Gauge Brad Nailers
- FAQs
- Final Verdict
Reviews of 10 Top 18 Gauge Brad Nailers
Best Overall
1. Metabo HPT Hitachi NT50AE2 18-Gauge Brad Nailer
What You Will Love:
- Lightweight and ergonomic
- Easy to set drive-depth
- High-capacity magazine
If you’re looking for the best, look no further than the Hitachi NT50AE2 18-Gauge 5/8″ to 2″ Brad Nailer. Great for small carpentry projects, it features a high-capacity magazine that holds up to 100 nails between 5/8″ and 2″ (with heads between 0.075 and 1.9 mm).
With the visual indicator, you can see at a glance when nails are running low. For accurate nail-setting, this device comes with a depth-adjustment knob.
Slide the selection control up and down to switch effortlessly between intermittent and continuous firing modes. The 360-degree adjustable exhaust vent allows you to direct spent air away from you and your workpieces.
Another feature that customers especially like about this Metabo Brad Nailer is its ergonomic design. Weighing just over 2 pounds and equipped with an Elastomer grip handle, this powerful tool is easy to maneuver, even for day-long jobs.
A nose cap mounted on the tool protects it, and your work surface, from damage during nailing. In case you’re wondering what else is included in the box, the tool comes with safety glasses and a carrying case to protect it when it’s not in use.
Pros:
- Lightweight ergonomic design
- Adjustable nail drive-depth and exhaust settings
- High capacity magazine
Cons:
- Not perfect, but no serious flaws found.
[button url=”https://amzn.to/2Zkr6dz”]
Best Budget
2. WEN 61720 3/4-Inch To 2-Inch 18-Gauge Brad Nailer
What You Will Love:
- High-capacity magazine accepts different nail lengths and has a quick-release feature
- Customize drive-depth
- Lightweight ergonomic design
- Comes with accessories
When it comes to the top brad nailer on a budget, we selected the WEN 61720. Its lightweight design and rubber grip handle allow for maximum comfort while working on projects big and small.
The magazine holds up to 100 nails (3/4″ to 2″ in length), so you can go a long time without reloading. To see how many nails are left, just check the magazine window.
With the quick-release feature, you can quickly access the magazine to remove jammed nails. The unit features a quarter-inch NPT air inlet fitting and operates at 60-100 psi. To keep air output out of your face, you can rotate the exhaust port full-circle.
Adjusting drive-depth is a snap too– just turn the drive-depth wheel. This WEN Brad Nailer is tough enough to nail a variety of materials, including hardwood.
Another plus, the kit comes with oil, 2 adjustment wrenches, and a carrying case. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder so many satisfied customers are saying this easy-to-use nail gun gives them a great bang for their buck.
Pros:
- Ergonomic
- Seamless drive-depth setting
- Tools-free exhaust port control
- High-capacity magazine accommodates different nail lengths
Cons:
- While not all customers gave this tool top marks, their complaints didn’t point to any significant problems with the nail gun.
[button url=”https://amzn.to/3pFk6TA”]
Best Corded-Electric Brad Nailer
3. BOSTITCH Nail Gun 18 Gauge Stapler Brad Nailer
What You Will Love:
- Drive-depth dial
- Selectable trigger system
- High-capacity magazine
- Accessories included
One of the best corded-electric brad nailers we could find is the Bostitch 18GA Brad Nailer (BTFP1233). What we really like about this unit is how easy it is to use.
Satisfied customers highly recommend this tool for upholstery, cabinetry, and paneling. What sets this one apart from other Bostitch nailers is how easy it is to actuate.
The Bostitch BTFP 1233 uses Smart Point technology and a smaller nose to make this task easier. You can choose the trigger system and countersinking option that’s right for your particular projects.
The selectable trigger system allows for seamless switching between sequential and contact mode, and the tool-free drive-depth feature allows you to drive nails precisely as far as you want them to go.
This handy tool accepts nails ranging from 5/8″ to 2-5/8″ in length, which you can feed into the side-loading straight magazine. It releases spent air through the back of the unit so it’s not blowing on you or your work surface.
The no-mar nose protects the device and your workpieces from damage when nailing. The nail gun operates between 70 and 120 psi. Another little bonus: the unit comes with an integrated belt hook and pencil sharpener.
This BOSTITCH Brad Nailer also includes a quarter-inch air fitting, sample nails, extra no-mar tips, and a carrying case to keep all those items (along with your sharpened pencils) organized.
It’s no wonder so many customers rate this best corded-electric brad nailer as a top-of-the-line tool.
Pros:
- Versatile (with a range of pressure settings)
- High-capacity magazine
- Dual speed setting
- And tool-free drive-depth
Cons:
- Only a few customers were not satisfied with their purchase, and their complaints didn’t reveal any significant product flaws.
[button url=”https://amzn.to/31aAb9X”]
Runner-Up (Corded-Electric)
4. PORTER-CABLE BN200C 2″ 18GA Brad Nailer Kit
What You Will Love (the list is long):
- Lightweight yet heavy-duty
- No mar nose tip
- Low-nail indicator
- Sequential-style trigger
- Hardened driver blade
- Maintenance-free motor
And now for our second choice for best corded-electric brad nailer: the PORTER-CABLE BN200C 2″ 18GA Brad Nailer Kit. With its magnesium body, it’s sturdy, yet weighs just a little over a pound.
With its rubber grip, it’s comfortable in the hands, even for long-lasting projects. One thing we really like about this device is the on-tool storage feature. The non-mar nose tip that prevents tool and work surface damage is removable, should you want to use another type of nose.
The low nail indicator lets you know when it’s time for a refill, so you can be prepared to reload the magazine. And while we’re on the topic of nails, the device takes the 18-gauge variety, from 5/8″ to 2″ long.
To enhance the nail gun’s longevity, PORTER-CABLE 18GA Brad Nailer comes with a hardened driver blade. Another thing you might like to know: The motor doesn’t require oil, making it maintenance-free.
Even better, you don’t have to worry about possibly staining your clothes and work area with grease. To set nails accurately, just use the tool-free drive depth adjustment feature.
The unit is equipped with a sequential-style trigger for maximum nail-placement accuracy. Rear exhaust directs contaminants away from you, and the contact safety is behind the driver guide to make it easier to see what you’re doing.
Pros:
- Maintenance-free motor
- Low-nail indicator
- Removable no-mar tip
- Tool-free depth-of-drive adjustment
Cons:
- No consistent issues were reported, as the vast majority of customers were highly-satisfied.
[button url=”https://amzn.to/3BkR4Lp”]
Best Cordless 18 Gauge Brad Nailer
5. DeWalt DC608K 18-Volt 18-Gauge 2″ Brad Nailer Kit
What You Will Love:
- High-capacity magazine with removable nose piece
- Easily switch between sequential and bump mode
- Convenient depth-of-drive
- Trigger-lock mechanism
Designed for high-end performance, the DeWalt DC608K 18-Gauge 2″ Brad Nailer allows you to easily switch between sequential mode (for precision) and bump mode (for speed).
One thing we really like about this lightweight tool is that you can drive up to 5 nails per second. The straight magazine takes up to 110 18-gauge nails from 5/8″ to 2″, and the removable nose piece makes it possible to remove jammed nails without tools.
To prevent random dry-firing, you can disable the trigger when the unit is not in use. DeWalt 18-Volt Brad Nailer is designed to keep dust and debris out, maximizing its longevity.
If you’re looking for a versatile tool, you’ll be happy to know that you can put this one to work for a variety of uses: trimwork, window and door casings, cabinets, chair rails, paneling, moldings, and more. Precise depth-control makes setting nails a snap.
In case you’re wondering what else is included in the box when you buy this nail gun, you’ll be happy to know that it comes with safety glasses, reversible belt hook, a plastic storage case, and a one-hour charger.
(The 18-volt KRP NiCad battery you need is included too. Some manufacturers actually require you to purchase the battery separately, but that’s not the case here).
Pros:
- High-capacity magazine
- Can drive up to 5 nails per second
- Trigger lock setting
Cons:
- A few customers said the unit didn’t perform consistently, but the vast majority did not report problems.
[button url=”https://amzn.to/3Gqxhhq”]
Related: DeWalt DWFP12231 Pneumatic 18-Gauge 2-Inch Brad Nailer Review
Best Air-Powered 18-gauge Brad Nailer
6. BOSTITCH Brad Nailer 18 Gauge Narrow Crown Stapler
What You Will Love:
- Dual capacity- stapler and nailer
- Accepts different nail and staple sizes
- Convenient depth-of-drive control
- Lightweight
Looking for the best air-powered brad nailer that does double-duty? The Bostitch SB 2-in-1 Narrow Crown Stapler Brad Nailer does just what its name suggests.
It accepts brad nails between 5/8 and 1-5/8 inches long, and 1/2″ to 1-1/2″ 18 crown staples. BOSTITCH 18 Gauge Stapler solidly-built device gives you 135 in/lbs driving power. If you’re concerned about safety, you’ll be pleased to know that the gun has a lockout feature to disable the trigger, eliminating the possibility of randomly misfiring.
Depth-of-drive adjustment is a snap too, so you can place nails and staples accurately without resorting to extra tools.
If you’re looking for a jack-of-all-trades tool, this little device does it all– furniture and cabinetry, interior and exterior finish and trim, staircases, crafts, and paneling. It operates between 70 and 100 psi and weighs just 2.6 pounds.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Allows you to staple and nail without needing 2 separate tools
- Easy depth-of-drive adjustment
Cons:
- Not recommended as a finishing tool, leaves impressions in the wood, prone to jams, and those jams are difficult to clear
[button url=”https://amzn.to/3Ek5hKj”]
Best for Easy to Use
7. SENCO FinishPro® 18MG, 2-1/8″ 18-Gauge Brad Nailer
What You Will Love:
- Durable, relatively lightweight
- Easy to clear jammed nails
- Tool-free depth-of-drive adjustment
Our second choice for the best air-powered brad nailer is the Senco FinishPro® 18MG 2-1/2 Brad Nailer (ProSeries). Its magnesium body gives it extra durability.
One thing customers especially like about this nail gun is its EZ-Clear™ latch. With it, you can clear jams quickly and get back to work with minimal disruptions.
And with a narrow nose, this little gadget fits in tight corners. SENCO FinishPro accepts 18-gauge straight strip nails between 5/8″ and 2-1/8″ long. With the selective trigger and depth-of-drive set features, you can conveniently place nails just where you want them.
Pros:
- Easy to use, durable and lightweight, accepts a variety of nail sizes
Cons:
- No consistent issues found; a few customers suggested this is best for smaller jobs and softer woods.
[button url=”https://amzn.to/3Cjxgt5″]
Best for Depth Drive Adjustment
8. 18-Volt ONE+ AirStrike 18-Gauge Cordless Brad Nailer
What You Will Love: You’ll love that this brad nailer is quick to set up and start using, as it is cord-free for convenience and superior performance. The battery life is excellent and you’ll enjoy how easy it is to maneuver and work with this tool.
This airstrike brad nailer drives 18-gauge nails from 5/8 inch to 2 inches in length. Just turn the knob that’s on the right side of the tool for quick and easy adjustment.
Simple to Use
No noisy compressors, bulky hoses or pricey gas cartridges required.
Powerful
With its airstrike technology, just pull the trigger to drive up to 60 nails per minute.
Practical
You can use this tool to fix boards on drywall and for other smaller woodworking projects.
Pros:
- Cheaper and simpler to implement than a whole pneumatic system
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Users say this tool is excellent value for money
- Easy to reload
Cons:
- Not suitable for framing as this is not a great finish nailer
- Not the best size to fit in tight spaces
- Some users say the delay from when you squeeze the trigger until the tool shoots the brad takes a little getting used to
[button url=”https://amzn.to/3CnEaNO”]
Best for Long Lasting Battery
9. PORTER-CABLE PCC790LA 20V MAX Cordless Brad Nailer Kit
What You Will Love: You’ll love that there is no need for a compressor with this cordless brad nailer, as it is battery powered, eliminating the need for an air compressor, air compressor hose, or expensive gas cartridges.
This tool is one of the best nailers in terms of weight, as it only weighs 5.9 pounds so you can use it for long periods without unnecessary fatigue.
Consistent Drive Depth
The wheel for depth adjustment will allow you to make sure that you can countersink nails consistently.
Long Runtime
The battery that is included (max lithium ion) lasts longer than NiCad and has the charger included.
Jam Release
The tool-free release lever and jam release make your life easier without having to be concerned about extracting nails from nail jams.
Pros:
- This model comes with an integrated belt hook for ease of use
- 3-year limited warranty. Porter Cable will repair, without charge, any defects due to faulty materials or workmanship for 3 years from the date of purchase
- Wheel for depth adjustment as well as a window so you can sink nails with precision
- Multifunctional LED lights
Cons:
- Some users say there is a slight recoil with this gun
[button url=”https://amzn.to/2ZyQ4X5″]
Best for Using in Narrow Space
10. Makita AF506 2″ Brad Nailer, 18 Gauge
What You Will Love: You’ll love how light this nailer is – the best brad nailer for long jobs, as it weighs only 2.9 pounds.
This is easy to use for long periods without having to dry fire, as it has a remaining nail view window for added convenience. The magazine capacity is up to 100 nails.
Powerful Motor
Perfect for driving a range of brad nails from 5/8″ to 2″ into hard or softwood applications.
Durable
The aluminum body, magazine and cylinder provide strength and durability while not being heavy.
Narrow Nose
The narrow nose design allows you easy nailing access in confined areas. Non-marring as well.
Pros:
- Built-in air duster to provide convenient air flow to clear your work surface while you work
- Easy to use dial to adjust the depth without the need for tools in order to use for a wide variety of finish applications
- Reversible belt hook
- Multidirectional exhaust port, allowing you to direct the exhaust away from your face or from your work surface
Cons:
- Users say this tool is not best for fencing or flooring
[button url=”https://amzn.to/317MiEz”]
How to Choose the Right 18 Gauge Brad Nailer
Knowing what features to look for will help you find the Top brad nailer for you.
Nose Size
The nose helps you place nails exactly where you want them. Seasoned carpentry and woodworking enthusiasts advise buying a tool with a smaller nose. A larger one will make it harder to land nails precisely.
Trigger Type
There are two trigger types: sequential and bump. Sequential has to do with precision, and bump is for driving speed.
Nose Design
Some nailers come with different noses that are interchangeable, depending on the type of project you’re working on.
Tool-free Jam Release
It can take a lot of time to break out your tools to take apart a nailer that’s gotten jammed. The top brad nailers have a quick-release feature on the magazine that allows you to get to the problem quickly without tools.
Depth Adjustment
Depth-of-drive settings allow you to control how far the brad goes into the wood. You should be able to adjust this– using buttons, a dial, or some other mechanism that doesn’t require extra tools.
Anti-Dry Fire
Some nailers have a lockout feature that disables the trigger so it doesn’t fire when it’s not supposed to.
Exhaust Control
Brad nailer either directs exhaust out of the back of the unit or allows you to direct it where you want so it’s blowing on you or your work surfaces.
Nailing Modes Control
You should be able to switch between modes at the touch of a button or the flip of a switch.
Ergonomics
You want a nailer that is ergonomically designed so it’s comfortable to use for hours on end and won’t give your hands or your back workout.
FAQs
What is an 18 gauge brad nailer used for?
Because they’re made of such thin wire, 18-gauge brad nailers are used for smaller applications on thinner pieces of wood. You can use a brad nailer for cabinets, trim, moldings, and similar projects that you might do around the house.
How much do we spend to get an 18 gauge brad nailer?
How much you spend depends on the type of nail gun you want. Expect to pay more for a tool made of high-end materials or extra features. Expect to pay a lot less for something that comes with just the basics.
What is the difference between a brad nailer and a pin nailer?
A pin nailer uses headless pins, so they’re essentially concealed by the surface they’re fastened to. Brad nailers accept brads, which do have heads and are not hidden when set into a surface. To know about other types of nailers and their use read this article.
Final Verdict: Best 18 Gauge Brad Nailers
Finding the right 18-gauge brad nailer is easier than you might think when you know which ones are the best and what they have to offer. The perfect 18 gauge brad nailer is versatile, easy to use, and comfortable to carry and can transform how you approach your carpentry tasks.
More Related Articles:
