Nail gun help for homeowners and DIYers

Pick a nail gun by the job, not the hype

Clear answers on brad, finish, pin and framing nailers from Metabo HPT, DeWalt, Ryobi, Craftsman, Makita and Bostitch. Start with the job you have, the nailer type you're weighing or the safety basics.

Latest guides

  • Metabo HPT NR90AES1 21 Degree Framing Nailer
    Framing Nail Guns

    Can I Use a Framing Nailer for Siding?

    Can I use a framing nailer for siding? Yes for structural sheathing and some lap boards, but not for thin planks where a framing nail overdrives.

  • DeWalt DWFP12231 18 Ga Pneumatic Brad Nailer Kit
    Trim, Finish and Pin Nailers

    Can I Use a Brad Nailer for Trim?

    Can I use a brad nailer for trim? Yes, for light molding and small profiles. Learn where an 18-gauge brad nailer works and where it falls short.

  • Metabo HPT NR90AES1 21 Degree Framing Nailer
    Framing Nail Guns

    Can I Use a Brad Nailer for Roofing?

    Can I use a brad nailer for roofing? No. Roof decking and shingles need framing or roofing nails driven by a framing nailer that a brad nailer can't handle.

  • Metabo HPT NR90AES1 21 Degree Framing Nailer
    Framing Nail Guns

    21 vs 30 Degree Framing Nailer: What Changes?

    Compare a 21 vs 30 degree framing nailer by nail collation, magazine access, power source and project fit to choose the right setup for your framing work.

  • Metabo HPT NT65MA4 15 Ga Angled Finish Nailer
    Matchups and Model Reviews

    Angled vs Straight Finish Nailer: Which to Buy?

    Compare angled vs straight finish nailers by access, nail gauge, power source and fit. See which Metabo HPT or DeWalt tool suits your trim work.

  • Metabo HPT NT65M2S 16 Ga Straight Finish Nailer
    Trim, Finish and Pin Nailers

    Best 16 Gauge Finish Nailers

    Compare the best 16 gauge finish nailer picks for trim, cabinetry and cordless work. See how nail length, power source and useful features shape each choice.

  • Metabo HPT NR90AES1 21 Degree Framing Nailer
    Framing Nail Guns

    Best 21 Degree Framing Nailers

    Compare 21 degree framing nailers for framing, decking and fencing. See which air or cordless models fit your nail range, power setup and job needs.

  • Metabo HPT NP35A 23 Ga Pin Nailer
    Trim, Finish and Pin Nailers

    Best 23 Gauge Pin Nailers

    Compare the best 23 gauge pin nailers for fine trim, cabinetry and crafts. See how cordless and pneumatic picks differ in fastener range and features.