Best Framing Nailers | Reviews of Top Guns

Gone are the days when you can only rely on a hammer and a nail to finish any woodworking project.

Today, you can significantly cut down your woodworking time and reduce the effort it takes to make your projects with the help of power tools such as nail guns, also known as nailers.

A nailer drives a nail into wood with one pull of the trigger, which makes framing, sheathing and decking much faster than hammering.

The market has many options when it comes to nailers. They come in different forms such as finishing nailers, roofing nailers, brad nailers, and flooring nailers.

This guide covers framing nailers. We compared six models on nail range, operating pressure, weight and features.

OUR TOP PICK

Our top pick is the Hitachi NR90AES1 Framing Nailer. This framing nailer weighs 7.5 pounds, light for its class. Hitachi power tools are now sold under the Metabo HPT name, and the same model number is still current. Depth adjustment is tool-free.

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The Best Framing Nailers Are:

Product	Details
1. Hitachi NR90AES1 Framing Nailer	1. Hitachi NR90AES1 Framing Nailer Top Pick	- Nail Size: 2 – 3.5 Inches - Pressure: 70 to 120 PSI - Capacity: 64 Nails - Power Source: Air-Powered - Weight: 7.5 pounds	Check Current Price
2. NuMax SFR2190 21 Degree Framing Nailer Pneumatic Nail Gun	2. NuMax SFR2190 21 Degree Framing Nailer Pneumatic Nail Gun	- Nail Size: 2 – 3.5 Inches - Pressure: 70 to 115 PSI - Capacity: N/A - Power Source: Air-Powered - Weight: 8.6 pounds	Check Current Price
3. Valu-Air 9021C 21 Degree Full Round Head Framing Nailer	3. Valu-Air 9021C 21 Degree Full Round Head Framing Nailer	- Nail Size: 2 – 3.5 Inches - Pressure: 90 to 110 PSI - Capacity: 100 Nails - Power Source: Air-Powered - Weight: 8.8 pounds	Check Current Price
4. Bostitch F21PL Round Head Framing Nailer	4. Bostitch F21PL Round Head Framing Nailer	- Nail Size: 1.5 – 3.5 Inches - Pressure: 80 to 120 PSI - Capacity: 60 Nails - Power Source: Pneumatic - Weight: 8.1 pounds	Check Current Price
5. Freeman PFR2190 Pneumatic 21-Degree Full Round Head Framing Nailer	5. Freeman PFR2190 Pneumatic 21-Degree Full Round Head Framing Nailer	- Nail Size: 2 – 3.5 Inches - Pressure: 70 to 115 PSI - Capacity: 55 Nails - Power Source: Air-Powered - Weight: 8.5 pounds	Check Current Price
6. Makita AN923 3-1/2 Inch Framing Nailer	6. Makita AN923 3-1/2 Inch Framing Nailer	- Nail Size: 2 – 3.5 Inches - Pressure: 65 to 120 PSI - Capacity: 64-74 Nails - Power Source: Air-Powered - Weight: 8.7 pounds	Check Current Price

1. Hitachi NR90AES1 Framing Nailer: Best Framing Nail Gun

Hitachi's tools are now branded Metabo HPT, and the NR90AES1 is still sold under that name. At 7.5 pounds, it is light for a full-size framing nailer.

Quickly change from sequential into contact nailing with just the flick of your fingers, thanks to its selective actuation feature. It even has a depth adjustment system that does not require extra tools to change.

The magazine loads from the rear, and the rubber-grip handle is comfortable to hold.

It drives 21-degree plastic collated nails from 2 to 3-1/2 inches long and .113 to .148 inches in diameter. The magazine holds 64 nails (.131-inch) and the tool runs at 70 to 120 PSI, per Metabo HPT's NR90AES1 spec page.

It carries Metabo HPT's 5-year tool warranty and ships with safety glasses.

Specs

• Nail Size: 2 – 3.5 Inches
• Pressure: 70 to 120 PSI
• Capacity: 64 Nails
• Power Source: Air-Powered
• Weight: 7.5 pounds

Pros

• 5-year warranty
• Light at 7.5 pounds
• Easy rear loading
• Tool-free depth adjustment
• It comes with safety glasses

Cons

• Some users said the tool jams occasionally

Verdict

Great for Everyday Use: If you frame often, its light weight and selectable trigger make it the easiest gun on this list to use all day.

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2. NuMax SFR2190 21 Degree Framing Nailer Pneumatic Nail Gun

If you want a budget framing nailer, consider this one from NuMax. It is a pneumatic 21-degree nailer with a magnesium body, aimed at DIY and occasional use.

It has depth adjustment, and it suits framing, decks, fences and subfloors.

A 360-degree adjustable exhaust points air away from you, and an anti-dust cap keeps debris out of the air inlet.

A dry-fire lockout stops the tool from firing when the magazine is nearly empty, which reduces wear.

This framing nailer delivers air pressure between 70 and 115 PSI. The magazine of this tool fits nails from 2 inches to 3.5 inches long. It takes standard 21-degree plastic collated nails from many brands. Adjustment tools and air tool oil are included.

Specs

• Nail Size: 2 – 3.5 Inches
• Pressure: 70 to 115 PSI
• Capacity: N/A
• Power Source: Air-Powered
• Weight: 8.6 pounds

Pros

• It is inexpensive
• It comes with a 360-degree adjustable air exhaust
• Magnesium body

Cons

• Some user said they wished it was a bit faster

Verdict

Budget Pick: A good choice for homeowners who frame a shed or deck now and then. Pros who nail all day may prefer a premium brand.

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3. Valu-Air 9021C 21 Degree Full Round Head Framing Nailer

The Valu-Air 9021C handles framing, wall sheathing and subfloors. It shoots 21-degree full round head nails.

The rear-loading magazine is made from aluminum materials that can withstand wear and tear. The depth adjustment feature is precise and does not require extra tools for adjustments.

This tool accepts nails that are 2 inches to 3.5 inches long with .113 to .148 inches shank diameter. It comes with a trigger that allows you to switch between single or bump fire. This tool comes with a single-piece heat-treated drive guide that helps to prolong the lifespan of internal wearable parts.

This tool is air-powered and the air pressure is from 90 to 110 PSI. It works with the standard 1/4 inches NPT air hose connector.

Specs

• Nail Size: 2 – 3.5 Inches
• Pressure: 90 to 110 PSI
• Capacity: 100 Nails
• Power Source: Air-Powered
• Weight: 8.8 pounds

Pros

• It comes with an ergonomic and non-slip handle for easier usage
• It is more affordable than many other framing nailers out there
• Tool-free depth adjustment

Cons

• It cannot accommodate the second sleeve of nails

Verdict

Easy to Use: A straightforward, affordable nailer with the core features most DIYers need.

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4. Bostitch F21PL Round Head Framing Nailer

The Bostitch F21PL is a professional pneumatic framing nailer. Bostitch rates it at 1,050 inch-pounds of driving power, and it comes with both a sequential and a contact (bump) trigger.

The housing is made from lightweight aluminum to ease the pressure on your hands. It is a dual-function tool: two quick-change nose pieces convert it between framing and metal connector work.

It drives framing nails up to 3.5 inches long, and the shorter end of its 1.5 to 3.5-inch range covers metal connector nails.

The power source of this tool is pneumatic and it operates at air pressure between 80 and 120 PSI. This tool weighs only 8.1 pounds and it is ergonomically designed to allow for comfortable and easy handling.

It has a 7-year limited warranty and push-button depth adjustment.

An adjustable rafter hook lets you hang it on joists or rafters. The magazine holds about 60 nails.

Specs

• Nail Size: 1.5 – 3.5 Inches
• Pressure: 80 to 120 PSI
• Capacity: 60 Nails
• Power Source: Pneumatic
• Weight: 8.1 pounds

Pros

• You can convert it to a nailer that does metal connector applications
• An adjustable rafter hook that allows you to hang the tool after use
• It comes with a 7-year limited warranty
• A push-button adjustable depth function

Cons

• It is on the higher end of the price spectrum.

Verdict

2-in-1 Nailer: The metal connector nose saves you from buying a separate positive-placement nailer for joist hangers and straps.

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5. Freeman PFR2190 Pneumatic 21-Degree Full Round Head Framing Nailer

The Freeman PFR2190 is a budget 21-degree framing nailer with a magnesium body and a hardened steel driver.

It takes 20 to 22-degree plastic collated nails from 2 to 3.5 inches long, and it works with many nail brands.

The magazine holds 55 nails, and a dry-fire lockout stops the tool from firing when it is low.

It has a no-mar tip and tool-free depth adjustment.

It comes with a plastic carrying case that makes it very easy to store and transport. This tool operates at 70 to 115 PSI and it works with a pre-installed 1/4-inch NPT Fitting.

It also features a 360-degree adjustable air exhaust that keeps air away from your face while working. The ergonomic handle of this tool ensures a secure grip and provides anti-vibration comfort.

Specs

• Nail Size: 2 – 3.5 Inches
• Pressure: 70 to 115 PSI
• Capacity: 55 Nails
• Power Source: Air-Powered
• Weight: 8.5 pounds

Pros

• Magnesium body
• No-mar tip
• It is compatible with generic brands
• It comes with a case for easy storage and transportation

Cons

• The capacity of the magazine is a bit low
• The loading process can sometimes be difficult

Verdict

Value for Money: It includes a case, a dry-fire lockout and a no-mar tip at a budget price.

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6. Makita AN923 3-1/2 Inch Framing Nailer

The last framing nailer on our list is the Makita AN923. Note that Makita now lists the AN923 as discontinued, with the AN924 as its replacement model, so you may find it only as remaining stock or used.

The engine of this tool is protected against debris and dust, thanks to its internal air filter. This helps to extend the lifespan of your tool. It comes with a backpressure function that gets rid of any dust from the tool when released.

It has a three-mode selector: lock, sequential and contact. The lock position helps prevent accidental firing when you carry it.

You can also hang this tool when you are done with it, thanks to its retractable hook. The rubber-grip handle also makes it easy and comfortable to use.

You can adjust the nail depth without any tools, and the process is quick and easy. This tool also has 9 different depth adjustments to choose from, making it a highly versatile option.

The magazine accepts nails that are 2 to 3.5 inches long. It comes with an anti-dry mechanism feature and a limited 3-year warranty. The tool operates at an air pressure of 65 to 120 PSI.

Specs

• Nail Size: 2 – 3.5 Inches
• Pressure: 65 to 120 PSI
• Capacity: 64-74 Nails
• Power Source: Air-Powered
• Weight: 8.7 pounds

Pros

• It has 9 different depth adjustment settings
• Internal air filter to protect the motor from dust and debris
• It has sequential, contact, and lock options
• Lock position for safer carrying

Cons

• It is a bit weighty
• Spurred tip slips frequently
• Discontinued; replaced by the AN924

Verdict

Versatile: Lock, contact and sequential modes plus nine depth settings. Since it is discontinued, check the AN924 if you want a current Makita.

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Tips In Buying The Best Framing Nailer

There are many types of framing nailers. Here are the main things to check.

Decide Which Type Of Nailer Works For Your Kind Of Carpentry Or Woodworking Project

You have two basic choices when it comes to framing nailers – the pneumatic ones and the cordless ones. The pneumatic nailers are these types of nailers that make use of a compressor.

Pneumatic nailers are lighter for their power and suit everyday or professional use.

Cordless nailers skip the compressor and hose. Battery models need no fuel, while gas-cartridge models produce exhaust, so use those only with good ventilation.

Determine Which Nail Storage Solution Is The Best Option For You

You can find coil-style and stick-style framing nailers. The two styles take different approaches to storing nails.

Coil nailers hold more nails per load, so you reload less often. Stick nailers are slimmer and easier to fit between studs. All six nailers in this guide are stick-style.

Check What Kind Of Nails It Can Accommodate

Some nailers only take clipped-head nails. Some local codes, especially in high-wind areas, require full round head nails, so check with your building department.

Clipped-head nails pack tighter in the magazine, but full round head nailers like the 21-degree models here meet more code requirements.

Compare Features And Look For Those That Can Simplify Your Woodworking Project

From nifty features such as jam clearing to being able to adjust the size of nails you can use, there are plenty of features that can make life a bit easier for the woodworker or contractor.

Also, make sure you look for features such as a nail depth adjustment system to control how deep your nails are going to be driven. Having air connectors that swivel is also a nice feature to prevent the cord from getting all tangled up.

Safety matters most. OSHA notes that the risk of a nail gun injury is twice as high with a contact (bump) trigger as with a sequential trigger, per OSHA's nail gun safety page. Use sequential mode unless you have a specific reason not to.

Wear safety glasses, keep your free hand well away from the nail path, and disconnect the air hose before clearing a jam.

Framing Versus Finishing Nailer: Which One Is The Best Option?

When it comes to nailers, there are two most basic choices: the framing and the finishing nailer. While they are both nailers, they actually have different uses and benefits.

Here are some of the things you should know:

Framing Nailer

The framing nailer is most suitable for bigger kinds of wood projects. If you are building a deck, constructing framing for a house, or just basically doing big construction works in a property, this is the nailer to get.

It is not just capable of framing, it can be used for wood sheathing as well and building fences. It can be used to create sidings and is an all-around nailer that can be used for major carpentry jobs.

Most framing nailers take nails up to 3-1/2 inches long.

You can use round-headed or clipped-head nails for these nailers. If you are working on a high-volume woodworking project, go ahead and choose the framing nailer.

Finish Nailer

You also need a finish nailer because it can help you accomplish smaller woodworking tasks. Just like what its name suggests, this type of nailer is used to “finish” jobs.

Its job is to make end results look prettier. It is also highly useful for doing trimming and paneling. If you are putting up moldings, this is also the nailer to get. People who like to build cabinets and furniture from scratch must always have a finishing nailer in their arsenal.

Visit our homepage to discover more tools that you might want to add to your collection.

Conclusion

Our top pick is the Hitachi NR90AES1 Framing Nailer because it is light at 7.5 pounds, switches between sequential and contact firing, and carries a 5-year warranty. Keep it in sequential mode for the safest operation.

Sources

• NR90AES1 21 Degree Plastic Collated Framing Nailer, Metabo HPT
• AN923 3-1/2" Framing Nailer (discontinued), Makita
• Nail Gun Safety, OSHA