House Grail is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.
10 Best Cordless Framing Nailers in 2024: Reviews & Top Picks
Jeff Weishaupt
Last updated:
When it comes to nail guns, there’s no doubt that framing nailers is always the more powerful option. They’re most helpful in heavy-duty construction projects, such as assembling solid wood fencing, solid wood fencing, etc.
With their advanced battery technology and brushless motor, it seems that there is no feature that these nailers don’t have. However, corded framing nailers can restrict you due to their wired connectivity. In that case, cordless framing nailers are the most efficient option.
If you need help deciding which cordless framing nailer to pick, our reviews of the top ten picks may help you nail it down (pun intended). Aside from their pros and cons, we have also a comprehensive buyer’s guide to enable a wiser purchase.
The Metabo HPT Cordless Framing Nailer Kit is the epitome of the best overall cordless framing nailer. It’s the perfect fit for anyone in search of a well-rounded model with a versatile angle, good power source, lightweight body, and valuable features.
This cordless framing nailer runs on an 18V lithium-ion battery. Although a 3.0Ah Lithium-Ion battery is included with the kit, it may not be a sufficient power source. This nailer is also compatible with plastic-collated, fully round nails ranging from 2 to 3.5 inches.
This way, you’ll have the ideal length for all heavy-duty framing jobs. Plus, with a 21-degree framing angle accessing tight, hard-to-reach spots feels like a piece of cake. The quick depth adjustment feature will also allow you to determine how far the nail should sink.
This framing kit runs on a brushless motor, which can shoot up to 400 nails on one charge. This may be sufficient for regular tasks, but professional framers would require additional batteries to get the job done.
Pros
21-degree angle fits in nooks and crannies
Lightweight kit
Easy to switch from sequential to bump firing
Built-in rafter hook
Cons
The included battery might be insufficient.
2. DeWalt 20-Volt MAX XR 21-Degree Cordless Framing Nailer – Best Value
If you’re on a budget, the DeWalt 20-Volt MAX XR 21° Cordless Framing Nailer is undoubtedly the best nailer for the money. Additionally, this is the best pick for anyone already invested in the DeWalt 20-Volt lineup but tight on their budget.
Since it comes without a battery or charger, you’re able to save a lot more on this kit than you’d expect. However, if you don’t already have DeWalt 20-Volt lithium-ion batteries at home, you won’t exactly be saving much.
This cordless framing nailer runs on a brushless motor and works with 21-degree plastic-collated nails ranging from 2 to 3.25 inches. You can also utilize the toolless depth adjustment feature to hang the nailers safely with the help of its included rafter hook.
Finally, the firing-mode switch allows you to toggle between bump firing and sequential firing quickly.
If you’re invested in the DeWalt 20-volt lineup but want to upgrade your toolset, the DeWalt 20-Volt MAX 21° Cordless Framing Nailer is the perfect premium choice for you. It’s technically an enhanced version of the DeWalt 20-Volt MAX XR 21°.
It runs on a brushless motor that offers two speeds, which means you can pick which speed works best while using different fasteners and materials. Additionally, this cordless framing nailer is compatible with 21-degree plastic-collated nails ranging from 2 to 3.25 inches.
The kit comes with a heavy-duty contractor bag to store all your tools and a charger for the 20v lithium-ion battery. It also includes a large 5Ah battery, but it may not work properly for the requirement.
You can also utilize features such as the adjustable rafter hook, toolless depth adjustment, and toggle switch for different firing modes. This means you can change from sequential firing to bump firing with just one click.
The 21-degree framing nailers are ideal for reaching tight corners that are hard to access. The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 21-degree Cordless Framing Nailer Kit is the perfect example, running on a brushless motor and 18-volt lithium-ion battery.
This battery is included in the kit and allows you to shoot up to 700 nails on every charge. Its speed is another feature worth noting since it lets you shoot three nails per second, expediting even the most complex framing tasks.
Switching from sequential to bump firing will help you improve this tool’s productivity by shooting a nail every time the tip bumps against the surface. This way, you can hold the trigger down and fire off nails with one hand.
Belt and rafter hooks are some other notable features of this nailer, while the kit also includes a charger, battery, and contractor bag.
Tool-free depth adjustments, belt, and rafter hooks
While 21-degree nailers help you get into awkward corners, 30-degree ones focus on getting a job site’s worth of work done at home. The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 30° Cordless Framing Nailer Kit runs on an 18-volt lithium-ion battery which shoots 700 nails on one charge.
Plus, it can shoot three nails per second, offering exceptional speeds in its sequential firing mode. This cordless framing kit has everything you need for a framing task, including a charger, a rugged contractor bag, and the required battery.
Other features of this nailer kit include belt and rafter hooks and toolless depth adjustment. Besides, switching between sequential firing and bump firing has never been easier. Lastly, this nailer is compatible with paper-collated nails ranging from 2 to 3.5 inches long.
Pros
Fires 700 nails on one charge
Fires up to three nails per second with sequential firing
Cordless framing nailers are either gas-fueled or battery-powered. If you prefer the first traditional option, the Paslode Cordless XP Framing Nailer is everything you need and more. This model runs on a compact rechargeable 7V lithium-ion battery.
Plus, its replaceable compressed-gas fuel cell is perfect for shooting nails ranging from 2 to 3.25 inches. Its motor has enough power to shoot Paslode 30-degree paper-tape nails through extremely dense construction lumber.
The nailer’s speed is also impeccable, shooting three nails per second and up to 9,000 nails per charge! In addition, you can use its utility hook, toolless depth adjustment, and nail lock-out to prevent shooting nails whenever the nailer runs out of fasteners.
You won’t need to worry about the weather affecting its performance, as it works in temperatures as low as 14℉. However, it’s worth noting that this nailer’s fuel cells are quite expensive and non-rechargeable.
The kit includes a hammer drill, an impact driver, a charger, two 5Ah batteries, a flashlight, a circular saw, a reciprocating saw, and other tools. These tools are everything you need to get a complex framing job done.
Plus, the kit also comes with a rugged contractor bag, allowing you to store and carry all your tools to the job site. There’s no doubt that this kit is somewhat expensive, but it’s understandable considering its high-end materials and versatile set of tools.
Pros
Brushless motor system
Includes two 5Ah batteries and several power tools
Undoubtedly, some cordless framing nails are too big to fit inside standard contractor bags alongside your other tools. But that’s not the case with the ultra-compact Hitachi Power Tools NT1850DE, which is only 12 inches long.
Its lightweight body weighs only 7.3 pounds, while its 3.0 Ah lithium-ion battery is 0.6 pounds lighter than other options. Plus, its brushless motor system is much more powerful and durable than other brushed motor models.
The battery provides enough power to shoot up to 1,650 nails per charge, working sufficiently to make cabinets or install molding. Plus, its low battery light indicator helps you guarantee you never run out of charge at the wrong time.
You can also utilize the tool-free depth adjustment to determine how deep the nails drive into the surface. Other features of this nailer include an LED light for clearer vision, a unique air spring drive system, and an ergonomically formed soft grip handle.
If you’re having trouble getting your current nailer into tight and awkward corners, upgrading to the Bostitch Cordless Framing Nailer is the best decision you can make. In fact, it’s more than just a framing nailer. It also serves as a metal connector tool.
It’s compatible with both plastic-collated nails and metal connectors while also allowing you to switch between sequential firing and contact-actuation modes with the help of its toolless selector switch.
It runs on a modern brushless motor and engine, featuring a simple push-button that allows you to change nail depth settings. The nailer also includes a rafter hook which is designed explicitly with busy contractors in mind.
If you want to reset its driver blade, the task is as simple as using its innovative stall release lever. It’s also worth noting that this nailer is powered by a compressor, which makes it a pneumatic framing nailer.
Its only downfall is the fact that this framing nailer isn’t technically cordless since its battery runs out pretty quickly. So, if you want to use the nailer for a more extended task, you’ll need to keep it charging while you work. Plus, you’ll have to purchase the battery separately.
Pros
Toolless selector switch for sequential and contact-actuation modes
Toolless depth of drive adjustment and dual-mode triggers
Nailers can be pretty heavy and bulky, straining your arm after a long day of use. Luckily, the Paslode Framing Nailer F325R only weighs 4.7 pounds, making it the perfect tool to get all-day jobs done.
Plus, its compact build and 30-degree framing angle allow you to get into tight and awkward spaces. This pneumatic nailer is powered by an air compressor, but it still lasts long enough to finish your most complex framing tasks.
Since it works best with the brand’s own 30-degree Paslode framing nails, you can count on fewer jams and misfires while working. The nailer’s remodeler’s fit makes it especially ideal for blocking, moving, and sheathing interior walls.
However, it has a somewhat low nail capacity.
Pros
Lightweight build
Guarantees fewer jams and misfires
It fits into tight spaces
Excellent for sheathing, blocking, and moving interior walls
Cons
Low nail capacity
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Cordless Framing Nailers
The best cordless framing nailer isn’t just the one that fires the most nails. Considering factors such as power source, framing angle, size, and features can help you determine the best-suited cordless framing nailer for your intended use.
Intended Use
The first factor to consider is your intended use of the cordless framing nailer. Their most common uses are restricted to fastening or framing roofing members, walls, and structural floors in place.
These cordless framing nailers are manufactured with large, heavy nails in mind, allowing them to prioritize power over efficiency and finesse. However, we wouldn’t recommend using cordless nailers outside construction framing since they can split wood and leave marks.
Other than that, they work perfectly for roofing as they quickly shoot nails to tear through the shingles.
It’s worth noting that these nailers don’t work for siding since their nails may assemble the siding too tightly and compromise the home’s structure. They’re also too powerful for more straightforward construction tasks like brad nailing or finish.
In these cases, it’s best to use a dedicated nail gun instead, as they’ll have the required features and power level. Plus, nail guns are relatively easier to use than cordless framing nailers, depending on the task at hand.
Size/Weight
Of course, you must also consider the cordless framing nailer’s size and weight. Whether cordless or pneumatic, it’s worth noting that these tools will never be truly lightweight. Even the lightest option available is no less than 4 pounds heavy.
Those using 20–25 oz heavy framing hammers may feel that standard 10-pound framing nailers are too heavy to use. However, with enough practice and use, it’s easy to get familiar with this weight.
Still, a 10-pound tool can end up straining your hand after a long day of framing-related construction tasks. We recommend some lightweight options on our list, ranging from 4 to 6 pounds.
In terms of size, there’s no doubt that cordless framing nailers have relatively large and bulky bodies. In comparison to a finish nailer, they may even seem too large. Plus, you’ll even find some poorly designed models that are difficult to wield.
But it’s possible to find the perfect fit that settles easily between standard 16-inch studs. Also, since you don’t have to deal with adapters or hoses, most framing nailers are easier to wield and maneuver than a standard pneumatic nailer.
Power Source/Runtime
Cordless framing nailers are either battery-powered or gas-fueled. However, you’ll only find older models of cordless framing nailers using gas since that was the original power source for this tool.
Gas-fueled cordless framing nailers run on a consumable cartridge of combustible gas, requiring a spark to shoot its nails into the wood. Undoubtedly, this is the more powerful option out of the two since it features long-lasting cartridges that can shoot up to 1,300 nails per charge.
However, unlike a battery-powered framing nailer, gas-fueled models are also difficult or impossible to recharge. Battery-powered models run on electric motors to rapidly shoot the nails.
Although these models are easier to use and recharge, they don’t offer the same power level as gas-fueled cordless framing nailers. Additionally, battery-powered models aren’t too long-lasting, only shooting 300 to 700 nails per charge.
However, since you can recharge them easily, you can save money and time in the longer run. Plus, battery-powered models are also low maintenance, making them the better investment out of the two.
Brushed vs. Brushless Motor
Most modern cordless framing nailers run on electric motors, which are available in two forms: brushed and brushless. We won’t discuss the mechanics of each motor in great detail, as you don’t need such an engineering background to run a cordless framing nailer.
The main difference is that brushed motors require a direct current power source and utilize electric brushes to run efficiently. Meanwhile, brushless motors use a direct current power source to switch currents.
Both motors have notable advantages and disadvantages. For example, brushed motors are the traditional, old-school option, making them affordable and packed with enough to finish the job quickly.
However, this option is typically much larger and heavier than the other, causing your battery to drain much faster than expected. On the other hand, brushless motors are the modern pick, which is why they’re even more powerful than brushed motors.
Additionally, they guarantee overall efficiency and compactness but tend to be more expensive.
Framing Angle/Nail Type
Cordless framing nailers utilize various angles in their operation, ranging from 15 to 30 degrees. Each degree serves a specific purpose, measuring the distance between the nail’s plane and the magazine’s angle.
As a result, each angle of your cordless framing nailer requires a specific nail type to match. For example, framing nailers with a 15-degree angle are typically compact and feature drum-style cartridges.
Aside from the framing angle, you must also consider the nail type and length. Cordless framing nailers are typically compatible with lengths ranging from two to 3.25 inches. While two inches are mainly used to sheath buildings with plywood, you may find certain nailers that accept 3.5-inch nails too.
Features
Lastly, an excellent cordless framing nailer is packed with helpful features that make it easy to use, efficient, and versatile. These features also add to the tool’s safety, convenience, and practicality.
For example, you may find some cordless framing nailers that include belt hooks to slide over the toolbelt, allowing you to climb ladders with both hands. This feature can also help you manipulate specific workpieces without having to let go of your nailer.
Other than that, some models come with lockouts to improve the tool’s safety. This feature prevents nails from shooting unless you press the tip directly against a piece of wood.
You can also use this to choose between sequential nailing or bump fire. While the first option means driving one nail at a time, the latter allows you to fire nails every time the nailer’s tip bumps the surface while making sure the trigger is held back.
Other than that, you may find whole cordless tool kits that come with framing nailers. This way, you’ll have a charger, set of batteries, reciprocating saw, circular saw, and more alongside the framing nailer.
Conclusion
The right cordless framing nailer can expedite and simplify any construction task as long as you look out for the best features. Depending on your intended use, there are endless types of cordless framing nailers on the market.
Contrastingly, the DeWalt 20-Volt MAX 21° Cordless Framing Nailer is the best pick for anyone hoping to upgrade their toolset. Don’t forget to read our in-depth reviews and buyer’s guide to learn more about these picks.
Featured Image Credit:
Contents
Writer
Jeff Weishaupt
Jeff is a tech professional by day, writer by night. He's had the privilege of leading software teams for startups to the Fortune 100 over the past two decades. He currently works in the data privacy space. In his spare time, Jeff enjoys browsing the latest real estate deals on Zillow, tinkering around the house with various projects, and growing herbs in the garden. His latest hobby is learning new dinner recipes for the family and his current favorite is cooking filet mignon sous vide style.
Jeff Weishaupt
