Nailer › Types of nail gun and what each is for
Types of nail gun and what each is for
There is no one nail gun for everything. This page runs through the main types, what they do and where each fits.
Framing nailer (first fix)
The heavy-duty tool. It drives large nails for stud walls, joists, roof timbers, decking frames and fences. One UK hire firm describes first fix nail guns as designed for clipped-head nails of 50 mm to 90 mm long. They are powerful enough to leave small dents and chips, which does not matter on hidden structural work. See first fix vs second fix.
Finish nailer (second fix)
A lighter tool for visible woodwork such as door frames, skirting, architrave and furniture. The same hire firm says second fix nailers are designed for 16 gauge nails 15 mm to 64 mm long, with minimal heads so they're less likely to mark the wood. Some finish nailers take heavier gauges than others, so check your tool.
Brad nailer
Brad nailers use thinner, smaller-headed nails than a finish nailer. They suit light trim, thin mouldings and small furniture jobs. Their holding power is lower, so they are often used with wood glue. Gauge numbers differ by tool, so always check the manual rather than assume.
Pin nailer
Pin nailers shoot very fine headless pins, leaving a hole that is barely visible. They are used to hold delicate trim or glued joints while the glue sets. They have little holding power on their own.
Roofing nailer
A coil-fed tool for roofing felt, shingles and similar materials, with a wide-headed nail. It is a specialist tool and is a good candidate for hire rather than purchase.
Flooring nailer
A tool for fixing tongue-and-groove floorboards through the tongue, usually struck with a mallet or driven by air. It is a specialist tool, so most people hire one for a one-off floor. The National Tool Hire Shops list flooring among the jobs for first fix guns.
Staplers
Staplers fire a staple instead of a nail. Used for upholstery, thin sheet material, insulation and membranes. A heavier crown stapler can fix timber too. Check the maker's guide for the stapler size your tool accepts.
Specialist and combination tools
Some tools combine functions, such as a nailer that also fires staples, or a finish nailer with an adjustable depth setting. These can be handy if you do mixed work, but check which sizes and nails they accept, since versatility often means a narrower range at each end. A depth-of-drive adjustment lets you set nails flush or slightly below the surface for filling, which matters on visible woodwork.
Cordless, gas and air
Each type can come in different power options: air-powered, battery with a gas cartridge, or battery only. See gas vs cordless vs pneumatic.
Choosing: a quick guide
| You are building | Likely tool |
|---|---|
| A shed, fence or stud wall | Framing nailer (hire or buy) |
| Skirting and architrave | Finish nailer |
| Picture frames, thin mouldings | Brad or pin nailer |
| A roof covering | Roofing nailer |
| A new wooden floor | Flooring nailer |
| Upholstery or thin panels | Stapler |
Then match nails to tool: nail sizes, collation angles, and read the safety advice.
This is general information, not a substitute for the manufacturer's manual or training. Always check the nail sizes and collation your own tool accepts.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a brad nailer and a finish nailer?
A brad nailer uses thinner, smaller-headed nails for light trim. A finish nailer drives heavier nails for skirting and door linings.
What is a pin nailer for?
Delicate trim and glue-ups, leaving a very small hole.
Can one nailer do everything?
No. Framing and finish work need different tools.
Which nailers are worth hiring?
Roofing, flooring and framing nailers are common hire choices for one-off jobs.