Essential Guide to 16-Gauge Pneumatic Finish Nailer

I prefer pneumatic finish nailers over cordless due to the fact that professionals still rely on it. It’s no secret pneumatic powered nailer are more powerful and work reliably over a long time. As you can see there are plenty of options to choose as finish nailers are widely used by contractors and DIYer for its multipurpose nature. The products that are listed here can be separated into three categories based on their features and price. Interestingly, even the low priced model has enough performance rating that you don’t have to think about how much should spend on a 16-gauge pneumatic finish nailer.  A basic 16GA pneumatic finish nailer will cost you around $40 to $80, at $100 to $130 you can get the best value and if you can spend $150 or more than you can grab one of the premium pneumatic finish nailers currently available at the market. There are few other things you must know or plan before buying a 16-gauge pneumatic finish nailer as the tool will not work without an air compressor, compatible fasteners, connecting hose, plug, lubrication and few types of wrenches. Find out what are the best options available for you.

Using a Pneumatic 16-Gauge Finish Nailer

When there are so many variations in finish nailer in terms gauge and power sources, the first logical question you may ask – “how to use a pneumatic 16-gauge finish nailer or what are the applications of pneumatic finish nailer?” Answer to that question can be found in 16 ga finish nails, not in finish nailer itself. 1-inch to 2-1/2-inch 16 ga finish nails are pretty good for mounting trim, baseboards, casing and probably do light woodwork not too much less than a heavy-duty nailer can do. In other words, 16 Ga pneumatic finish nailer is highly suitable for home and DYIer. Carpenters and furniture makers definitely have one of this in addition to other power tools. The main advantage of an air-powered 16-gauge finish nailer is that it’s smaller and lighter. Many experts favor larger 15-gauge finish nailer, simply because the fatter nails provide more holding power. If you’re shopping for a finish nailer for home use, I’d recommend 16-gauge finish nailer for the fact that thinner 16-gauge finish nails create a smaller hole in your woodwork that gives a neat finish and less likely chance of splitting wood surface.

Size & Type of 16-Gauge Finish Nail

16-gauge pneumatic finish nailers are designed to fire glue-collated finishing nails from 1-inch to 2-1/4-inch in length. Most of the nailers have these specifications. However, there are a few 16-gauge finish nailers designed to accept much smaller ¾-inch finishing nails, which definitely enhances the usability of the nailer.

Typically, 16-gauge fasteners are available in 5 different sizes: 1-1/4-inch, 1-1/2-inch, 1-3/4-inch, 2-inch, and 2-1/4-inch in length. You will find nails in lengthwise boxes and mixed-lengthwise boxes that cover all or a few sizes. DIY and home users will find more value in mixed-size boxes.

Other than size, two other factors you need to keep in mind while shopping for 16-gauge finish nails:

• Material: The material used in the nail is an important factor as they are prone to rust. Electro-galvanized nails are corrosion-resistant but not as strong as steel nails.
• Compatibility: Your 16-gauge straight finishing nailer will not drive angled nails and vice versa. While a few brands exclusively design and manufacture nails for their finish nailer, other brands use generic nails. Please check whether the nail you choose will fit in your nailer. For example, Paslode 16-gauge straight finish nails are compatible with Hitachi 16-gauge finish nailers.

Air Compressor for 15 & 16-Gauge Finish Nailer

Already own an air compressor,   you just need to confirm it will provide enough power to keep your pneumatic fastening tool up and running. Most of the current 16-gauge finish nailer run at minimum 60 to 70 PSI ( pounds per square inch) air pressure to maximum 110 to 120 PSI. So whatever compressor you choose must provide minimum air pressure required to run which is 60-70 PSI. A portable hand-carry compressor which generally has 1HP to 1.5HP motor will provide more than enough power to keep your 16-GA pneumatic finish nailer fastening at about 30 nails per minute by delivering 2.0 CFM (Cubic feet per minute) of air pressure to the nailer. The same compressor can also be used for the 15-gauge finish, 18-gauge brad, and 23-gauge pinner. Here are a few air compressors for your consideration.

Essential Accessories for 15 & 16-Gauge Pneumatic Finish Nailer

Using a pneumatic nailer can be boring when you realize that only the air compressor is not enough to operate any air-powered nailer, stapler, or other pneumatic tools. You will need a few other essential air compressor accessories that bring the pneumatic tools to life. Buying an air compressor combo kit can avoid this extra cost as all essential accessories are included. In case you bought stand-alone air compressor then get these essential air compressor accessories before you start your woodworking project. 

1. Air Hose
2. Air Hose Fittings
3. Air Regulators, Filters & Lubricators
4. Oils & Lubricants
5. Air Compressor Expansion Tank

You may also check out the air compressor accessories kit that comes with storage case & 15 to 20 pieces of accessories. The best thing is you can use them with all kinds of pneumatic tools.