In this video, This Old House carpenter Nathan Gilbert explains everything you need to know about choosing a finish nailer for your trim and molding projects.

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In the latest installment of Tool Lab, Nathan Gilbert talks about nail guns. Nathan takes us through all of the most common finish nailers, from heavy-duty 15-gauge nailers to small headless 23-gauge pin nailers.

Finish Nailers Have Specific Purposes
Finish nailers are ideal for trimming windows and doors, hanging crown molding, or fastening delicate woodworking pieces. But the reality is that one nailer can't handle it all. Large nailers will split small pieces of trim, while small pin nailers won't have the holding power to keep a molding in place. For this reason, many DIYers and pros keep several types (and sizes) of finish nailers on hand.

The Difference is the Size of the Nails
There are several different types of finish nailers, each categorized by the size of the fastener they fire. The fastener sizes come in gauges, and the lower the gauge number, the larger or thicker the fastener.

* 15-Gauge nails are large and offer a lot of holding power. They're extremely effective for running base molding or hanging crown molding, but they do leave larger holes in the moldings.
* 16-Gauge nails are still large and offer a lot of holding power, but they're a bit more versatile than 15-gauge. These nails are great for trimming doors and other general carpentry tasks.
* 18-Gauge nails are smaller and thinner, and they have smaller heads than 15- or 16-gauge nails. This makes them useful for fastening small moldings or nailing the side of a molding to a window or door jamb.
* 23-Gauge nailers, or pin nailers, fire small headless pins. While they don't offer much holding power, they're helpful for delicate moldings, woodworking pieces, or mitered returns on window aprons and moldings. They're often used with glue.

Power Source
There are two nailer types: pneumatic and battery-powered. While both types will handle the same tasks, some distinct advantages and disadvantages exist.

Pneumatic nailers are typically lighter and less expensive to purchase. However, they require an additional compressor and an air hose to fire nails. They also require a bit more maintenance than a battery-powered model.

Battery-powered finish nailers are more expensive and heavier than pneumatic nailers. However, they don't require the user to lug an air compressor around, and there isn't a hose to trip over or keep the user tethered in place.

Where to find it?
When it comes to installing trim around windows, doors, baseboards, crown molding, assembling cabinet parts, or installing stair treads and risers, as you can see, one nail gun does not fit all. The most common and readily available types are 15 gauge, 16 gauge, 18 gauge, and 23 gauge. The difference between them is the gauge nail that they shoot. Nathan explains how to select a finish nailer and its standard features.

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Tool Lab is a series that features unbiased reviews and objective tests of new and noteworthy tools. In addition to reviews and testing, we’ll also be producing user guides, buying guides, and tips and tricks for getting the most out of tools. Tool Lab is geared towards those with pro-level experience or interest—those who are new to the trades, have been working in the trades, as well as advanced DIYers who want to know what pros know and want to perform at their level. Be sure to catch new reviews and content each week on ThisOldHouse.com/Tool-Lab or on YouTube.

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How to Choose a Finish Nailer | Tool Lab | Ask This Old House
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