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Recommendation for brad nailer needed

ImportTuner

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I'm looking at getting a brad nailer to replace some baseboards and was wondering if anybody had any recommendations. There are so many brands out there .. Thanks
 
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archirelic

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I've got a Porter Cable brad nailer that I've been using for the past 7 years or so...in a finish carpentry/construction environment and it's held up exceedingly well.
 

rlitman

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I've got just about every size in the PC line of nailers.
I use the brad nailer on shoe and cap molding, but prefer the pin nailer when I want to fasten a miter.

The HF nailer/stapler combo is pretty darned good too (I love it for stapling), BUT the wider hammer leaves a larger impression in the wood that needs to be puttied before painting.
If I'm worried about the surface finish, then I reach for the PC.
 

BQuicksilver

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Do you have Dewalt 18v tools? Their new 18ga brad nailer is great if you're willing to trade some weight for not lugging a hose.
 
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I

ImportTuner

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I'm looking for a pneumatic model .. the PC sounds pretty good so far; does it come with a case for storage since I won't be using it that much?
 

Toolfool

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For occasional use, you're OK with the Porter Cable, or Senco. Using it professionally, I've worn out two of them in two years, so they're **** to me. Switched to Fasco. Three years of heavy use and still going strong.
 

back2class

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I've owned two brad nailers. The Campell Husfield was a jamomatic and my stanley/bostcih has never jammed once.
 
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djjsr

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I currently have 6 of them of various brands but always end up using either the Bostich or Paslode. They have never jammed or misfired. The cheap oddball brands are a crapshoot. Sometimes they work, usually they don't.

btw, that one that toolfool posted is a really good deal.
 
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KenC

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oklahoma
Brad nailer, or finish nailer?? Base is normally done with a 15ga finish nailer. Brads are too short ( 1 1/2" max) to reach through the bottom of the base (usually 5/8-3/4"), drywall (1/2) and still provide enough framing engagement to hold well. The length + being really skinny doesn't equate to a good solid attachment. 2 - 2 1/2" finish nails are my preferred method. Senco is my choice. Have a full head framer, clipped head framer, shingle nailer, shingle stapler and sheathing stapler. All have been very good.

I also have a few lighter brad nailers and staplers, all Porter Cable. The seem significantly more homeowner rather than pro tools. I'm not a pro, just like good heavy duty tools.
 

DHCrocks

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I've got a Senco, it's rarely seen use but when I do use it, it hasn't given me any problems. I think brads are all the same but just check to be sure that whatever model you choose that the brad nails are easily available in your area. I know some of the larger guns use specific nails so you might have difficulties in restocking.
 

Toolfool

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The Bostich I linked shoots up to a 2-1/8" 18 gauge brad. One in the plate and one in a stud every 16" or 24" is enough for base trim. Easier on the painter too.
 

mossyboy6

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St. Pete, FL
The Bostich I linked shoots up to a 2-1/8" 18 gauge brad. One in the plate and one in a stud every 16" or 24" is enough for base trim. Easier on the painter too.

I have this gun, works great.

I shoot once about every 12" at an angle for base.
 
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