Best nail guns for DIY projects around the home and garden
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Once the preserve of dads and older men tinkering around in the back of the shed, the world of DIY has changed over the last few years.
Some 82 per cent of women surveyed said they felt more empowered to take on home improvement challenges as a result of watching how-tos and home transformations on social media. The research also found about the same percentage of Gen Z men and women were confident in performing DIY tasks, 69 per cent to 73 per cent.
As for men in general? They're getting into home furnishings. A change to traditional gender-based stereotypes, and a very welcome one at that.
Whether it's tackling flatpack or giving old furniture some love by re-upholstering, having the right tools in place is the first step to DIY success. A good toolbox should supply you with the basics, but decent power tools can also help to give your project a professional finish.
Nail and staple guns are extremely useful things to have as part of your DIY collection. While staple guns are used mainly for upholstery and hemming projects (think cushions and curtains), a nail gun is designed to fix wood together securely. Depending on the type and power, they can be used for hardwood flooring, fixing garden fences, securing skirting boards or putting up trims and crown moulding.
If you're ready to graduate into the world of power tools, we've spotlighted the best nail guns on the market to consider.
Many feature multi-appliance batteries, so you're not cluttering your cupboards with chargers and batteries for all your new purchases.
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Einhell Power X-Change Cordless Nail Gun
This powerful red and black nail gun is perfect for all kinds of DIY jobs, from making garden furniture to securing cabinets to walls. Powered by an 18V battery (sold separately with the charger but which can be swapped into 300 other tools), it uses PressAir technology to propel nails into surfaces. LED lights make it easy to see what you're doing in dark corners and low-light conditions. Other helpful features include a fill level indicator and a belt clip to keep the gun by your side.
DeWalt DPN1850-XJ DPN1850 compressed air nailer
One of the most trusted names in the trade, DeWalt is the choice of tool for many professionals. This nailer can handle jobs like hardwood securing with ease, once you've mastered attaching it to the air supply. When you have it up and running, it works quietly and effectively with an adjustable release system offering both single and contact release.
Stanley Fatmax V20 18V Cordless Nail Gun with 2 Batteries and Kit Box
Before its newfound fame for making gigantic water cups, Stanley is first and foremost a DIY and outdoors brand. It counts this corded nail gun amongst its equipment, currently a bestseller on Amazon.
The well-designed nailer is ideal for finishing woodwork projects, general home repairs and working with plywood and MDF. It's part of the brand's V20 Cordless System collection, which means the 18V lithium-ion battery will work with all sister tools without trouble.
Comes with a two-year guarantee.
RYOBI 18-G Cordless Brad Nailer (Tool Only)
Nail, fasten and fix to your heart's content with Ryobi's nailer, which uses a trademarked Airstrike Technology to get the job done without a noisy compressor, air hose or gas cartridges.
The powerful motor can drive 18G nails into surfaces via two modes: precision and rapid fastening. The battery is part of the Ryobi 18V ONE+ system of over 200 cordless tools, so if you've already got a compatible device with a battery you won’t need to make another purchase. Use it for securing wall panelling, skirting boards and mending fences.
Worx 20V Power Share 18 Gauge Nail and Staple Gun
Before you baulk at the price, it's important to remember you're getting a two-in-one deal with Worx. This power tool works as both a nailer and stapler, so not only can you fix an upcycling project but you can upholster it too.
It shoots up to 18G nails and 40mm staples, perfect for a wide range of jobs.
The 2.87kg machine uses a 2Ah battery and comes with handy tools and accessories to use for your next project. Everything fits into a carry case to keep your work area nice and neat. Sold with a three-year guarantee.
Makita AF506 18g Gauge Brad Air Pin Nailer with 30mm 18g Nails and Accessories
This 2-inch nailer is made for both hard and softwood, meaning it can be used for a wide range of applications, from securing trim work and baseboards to fitting crown mouldings. The narrow nose means you can get into tight angles and there's a depth adjustment dial that comes in handy for different sized projects.
NEU MASTER Cordless Staple Gun
Forget tripping over wayward wires and extension cords; this cordless staple gun can get into awkward spots without tangling you up in the process. Perfect for upholstering and giving extra reinforcement to furniture, it's easy to reload your staple supply and see how many you've got left to finish the job.
From a safety perspective, there's a triple lock mechanism and it can only fire when contact is made on a staple surface, avoiding accidental mishaps.
Guild Nail and Staple Gun
Looking for a low-budget investment to add to your tool kit? Try this compact but powerful nail and staple gun from Guild, made for small projects around the house. The lime green corded tool comes with U-shaped stables and 15mm length nails so you can get started on your task straight away. Sold with a two-year manufacturer's guarantee.