The Best 16 Gauge Finish Nailers

A finish nailer is an essential tool for any carpentry project, large or small. You can attach molding, trim, and other decorative features to your home. But with so many different types and brands of finish nailers on the market, it cannot be easy to know which one is right for you. In this blog post, I'll look at the best 16 gauge finish nailers on the market and help you choose the right one for your needs. I've got you covered whether you're a professional carpenter or a DIY enthusiast. So let's get started!

Table of Contents

How to choose the best 16 Gauge Finish Nailer

When shopping for a new 16 gauge finish nailer, there are a few things you'll want to keep in mind. The most important factors are the tool's power source, angle or straight finish nailer, jam cleaning mechanism, magazine loading style, cord or cordless, size and weight, depth adjustment, and safety features.

Power Source:

The power source options for a 16 gauge finish nailer include electric and pneumatic. An electric finish nailer plugs into an outlet and is powered by a motor, while a pneumatic finish nailer uses compressed air from a compressor to drive the nails. Pneumatic finish nailers are generally more powerful than electric nailers, but electric nailers are more portable.

Angled or Straight Finish Nailer:

An angled finish nailer is designed to drive nails at an angle into the wood, while a straight finish nailer drives nails straight in. An angled finish nailer is more versatile because it can be used for both trim and framing applications, while a straight finish nailer is better for framing applications.

Jam Cleaning Mechanism:

The jam cleaning mechanism on a finish nailer is what clears any nails that become jammed in the magazine or driver. There are two types of jam cleaning mechanisms: sequential and simultaneous. A sequential jam cleaning mechanism clears the jam one nail at a time, while a simultaneous jam cleaning mechanism clears the jam all at once. Most sequential jam cleaning mechanisms are more reliable than simultaneous, but they can also be slower.

Magazine Loading-Style:

The magazine loading style is used to load nails into the finish nailer. There are two types of loading styles: top-loading and bottom-loading. Top-loading magazines are easier to load nails into, but they can be more prone to jams. Bottom-loading magazines are more difficult to load nails into, but they are less likely to jam.

Related: Narrow Crown Staplers

Cord or Cordless:

The cord or cordless option determines whether an electric motor or compressed air powers the finish nailer. Cordless finish nailers are powered by a battery, while corded finish nailers are plugged into an outlet. Cordless finish nailers are more portable than corded finish nailers, requiring battery charging.

Size and Weight:

The size and weight of a finish nailer can affect its ease of use. Larger finish nailers are heavier, but they are also more powerful. Smaller finish nailers are lighter, but they may not be as powerful.

Depth Adjustment:

The depth adjustment determines how deep the nails will be driven into the wood. A depth adjustment can be either manual or automatic. A manual depth adjustment is adjustable with a screwdriver or other tool, while an automatic depth adjustment is adjusted with a lever.

Safety Features:

Safety features on a finish nailer include a trigger lock-off, sequential firing mode, and no-mar tips. The trigger lock-off prevents the finish nailer from being fired accidentally, the sequential firing mode fires one nail at a time, and no-mar tips help protect the surface of the wood from being scratched or damaged.

When shopping for a new 16 gauge finish nailer, keep these factors in mind to find the best tool for your needs.

Best Rated 16 Gauge Finish Nailer Gun: An Overview

If you're looking for the best rated 16 gauge finish nailer gun, this overview is definitely for you. First, I'll take a look at some of the top products on the market and their key features.

So, without further ado, let's get started!

1. NuMax SFN64 Pneumatic 16-Gauge Straight Finish Nailer

The NuMax SFN64 Pneumatic 16-Gauge Straight Finish Nailer is a great tool for anyone looking for an easy-to-use and lightweight nail gun. This nailer is perfect for professionals and DIYers alike, with a simple design and durable construction.

Here are five reasons to love the NuMax SFN64 Pneumatic 16-Gauge Straight Finish Nailer:

It's easy to use. This nailer is incredibly easy to use, with a simple design that anyone can operate.
It's lightweight. At just 4.5 pounds, this nail gun is incredibly lightweight and easy to carry around.
It's durable. The NuMax SFN64 Pneumatic 16-Gauge Straight Finish Nailer is built to last, with durable housing and precision-engineered parts.
It's affordable. This nailer is one of the most affordable options, making it a great value for your money.
It fires quickly. The NuMax SFN64 Pneumatic 16-Gauge Straight Finish Nailer fires quickly and efficiently, saving you time on your projects.

Here is a reason to consider other options:

It's not always consistent. The NuMax SFN64 Pneumatic 16-Gauge Straight Finish Nailer can also be inconsistent, which can be frustrating when trying to get the job done.

Overall, the NuMax SFN64 Pneumatic 16-Gauge Straight Finish Nailer is a great tool for anyone looking for an easy-to-use and lightweight nail gun. It's durable, affordable, and fires quickly and efficiently, making it valuable to your tool collection.

2. Makita AF601 16 Gauge Straight Finish Nailer

I've been using the Makita AF601 16 Gauge Straight Finish Nailer for a few months now, and I have to say that I'm really happy with it.

Here are five reasons why:

It's very lightweight and easy to use - even for someone with limited experience like me.
The nails are easy to load, and the gun is very accurate.
It's very powerful and can drive nails through pretty much anything.
The depth adjustment knob is really handy and makes it easy to get the nails in the right spot.
The nailer comes with a handy carrying case, which is great for storage and transport.

All in all, I'm really happy with this nailer and would recommend it to anyone looking for good quality, affordable option. That said, there are two downsides:

The nails can be a bit pricey - but that's to be expected with any high-quality tool.
The nailer is a bit loud - but that's also expected with any powerful tool.

Overall, the pros outweigh the cons, and I'd highly recommend this nailer to anyone looking for good quality, affordable option.

3. Metabo HPT NT65M2S 16 Gauge Finish Nailer Kit

If you're in the market for the best 16 gauge finish nailer, the Metabo HPT NT65M2S should be at the top of your list. This powerful tool is perfect for DIY projects, from small home repairs to larger construction jobs.

Here are five reasons why I love this nailer:

It's extremely easy to use. The NT65M2S is very simple to operate, even for novice users.
It's very powerful. This nailer can drive nails into even the most stubborn materials with ease.
It's durable. The NT65M2S is built to last, and I expect to use it for many years.
It's affordable. This nailer is a great value for the price.
It's versatile. The NT65M2S can be used for various applications, making it a true multi-purpose tool.

There are two downsides to the Metabo HPT NT65M2S, but they're both fairly minor.

First, the nailer is a bit heavy, so it can be a bit tiring to use for extended periods.
Second, the included nails are a bit short, so you'll need to purchase longer nails if you're working on larger projects.

Overall, I'm extremely pleased with the Metabo HPT NT65M2S and would highly recommend it to anyone in the market for the best 16 gauge finish nailer.

4. BOSTITCH BTFP71917 16 Gauge Finish Nailer Kit

I've been using the BOSTITCH BTFP71917 16 Gauge Finish Nailer Kit for a while now, and it's a great tool. It's very accurate and easy to use.

Here are five reasons why I love it:

The nailer is easy to load and use. You don't need to be a pro to use it.
The nailer is very accurate and consistent. You can rely on it to do the job right.
It's well-built and durable. It will last for a long time.
It's lightweight and easy to carry around. You can take it with you wherever you go.
The nailer is affordable and worth the price. You get what you pay for.

Here are two reasons why I don't love it:

The nailer jams occasionally. This can be frustrating when you're in the middle of a project.
It's not the best for large projects. If you're nailing many boards, you might want to consider a different nailer.

Overall, the BOSTITCH BTFP71917 16 Gauge Finish Nailer Kit is an excellent tool. It's accurate, reliable, and easy to use. I recommend it to anyone looking for a good 16 gauge finish nailer.

5. Ryobi P325 One+ 16 Gauge Cordless Finish Nailer

The Ryobi P325 One+ 16 Gauge Cordless Finish Nailer is a best-in-class tool perfect for a wide range of nailing applications. This nailer can handle even the most challenging projects with its precision drive system and easy-to-use design.

Some of the best features of the Ryobi P325 include:

It is very lightweight and easy to use, perfect for DIYers and professionals alike.
The nailer has a precision drive system to get accurate results every time.
It comes with an easy-to-use depth adjustment mechanism so that you can customize your nailing experience.
The tool is equipped with a quick-load magazine that makes reloading a breeze.
The nailer also has a built-in LED light that makes it easy to see your work surface, even in dark or dimly-lit areas.
A three-year warranty backs it, so you can rest assured that your investment is protected.

The only downside of the Ryobi P325 is that it does not come with a battery or charger, so you must purchase those separately.

However, given all of the other great features of this nailer, this small inconvenience is easy to overlook.

Overall, the Ryobi P325 is a top-of-the-line finish nailer perfect for a wide range of nailing applications. With its precision drive system and easy-to-use design, it is sure to make your projects easier than ever. So if you are in the market for a new finish nailer, the Ryobi P325 should be at the top of your list.

6. WEN 61764 16 Gauge Pneumatic Straight Finish Nailer

When it comes to finishing nailers, there are a lot of different factors you need to consider. Price, durability, and ease of use are just a few important aspects.

The WEN 61764 16 Gauge Pneumatic Straight Finish Nailer is a great option if you're looking for an affordable, durable, and easy-to-use nailer.

Here are five of the best features of this nailer:

It's Affordable - This nailer is one of the most affordable on the market, making it a great option for budget-minded shoppers.
It's Durable - The WEN 61764 is built to last. It features a die-cast aluminum housing that is both lightweight and durable.
It's Easy to Use - This nailer is easy to use, even for beginners. It comes with adjustable depth control and a quick-release firing mechanism.
It's Versatile - The WEN 61764 can be used for various applications, including framing, cabinetry, and furniture assembly.
It's Quiet - This nailer is significantly quieter than many of its competitors, ideal for indoor use.

Here are two potential drawbacks of the WEN 61764:

It's Not as powerful as some of the other options - The WEN 61764 is not as powerful as some of the other options on the market.
It's not cordless - This nailer requires a cord to operate, which may be a downside for some users.

Overall, the WEN 61764 16 Gauge Pneumatic Straight Finish Nailer is a great option for an affordable, durable, and easy-to-use finish nailer. It's perfect for various applications, including framing, cabinetry, and furniture assembly. And best of all, it's significantly quieter than many of its competitors. So if you're looking for a great finish nailer that won't break the bank, the WEN 61764 is worth considering.

7. CRAFTSMAN CMCN616C1 16 Gauge Cordless Finish Nailer Kit

When I decided to start my renovation project, I knew that I wanted to get the best tools for the job. And after doing a lot of research, I settled on the CRAFTSMAN CMCN616C1 16 Gauge Cordless Finish Nailer Kit.

This nailer is incredibly easy to use. The best part is that there's no need for a compressor or air hose - you just plug it into the wall, and you're good to go. It's also very lightweight, which makes it easy to maneuver.

The only downside is that the battery doesn't last very long. But overall, I'm very happy with this tool.

Here are five reasons why you should consider buying the CRAFTSMAN CMCN616C1 16 Gauge Cordless Finish Nailer Kit:

It's easy to use without a compressor or air hose.
It's lightweight and easy to maneuver.
It's a great value for the price.
It comes with a two-year warranty.
CRAFTSMAN's reputation backs it for quality.

The CRAFTSMAN CMCN616C1 16 Gauge Cordless Finish Nailer Kit is a great option if you're looking for a high-quality, affordable cordless finish nailer.

8. DEWALT DCN660B 16GA Finish Nailer

I'm a big fan of DEWALT tools, so when I needed to buy a new 16 gauge finish nailer, I knew I would get a DEWALT. I wasn't disappointed - the DCN660B is an excellent tool.

Here are five reasons why I love this nailer:

It's very easy to use. The controls are simple, and the nailer is comfortable to hold.
It's durable. I've used it on various projects, and it's held up well.
It's powerful. It drives nails into hardwood with no problem.
It's fast. This nailer can drive a nail into hardwood in under two seconds.
It's affordable. Considering everything it offers, the price is very reasonable.

There are two minor downsides to this nailer:

The magazine is small, so you have to reload it more often than you would with some other nailers.
The exhaust port is on the bottom of the tool so that it can get a bit dirty.

Overall, I'm very happy with this nailer and would recommend it to anyone looking for a good 16 gauge finish nailer.

9. Milwaukee 2742-20 16 Gauge Finish Nailer

If you're looking for the best 16 gauge finish nailer on the market, the Milwaukee 2742-20 is a model worth considering. This tool is incredibly easy to use and delivers powerful performance, making it ideal for various applications.

Here are five reasons why you'll love this nailer:

It's very comfortable to use. The Milwaukee 2742-20 features a well-designed grip that makes it easy to hold and maneuver.
It's extremely powerful. This tool can drive nails into even the most challenging materials with ease.
It's very accurate. The Milwaukee 2742-20 delivers precise results every time.
It's well-made. This nailer is built to last, with a robust construction that can meet the demands of even the most challenging jobs.
The price is very reasonable. Considering all the features and performance this tool offers, the Milwaukee 2742-20 is an incredible value.

There are two potential downsides to consider with the Milwaukee 2742-20.

First, it's not the best tool for working in tight spaces.
Second, the nails can be a bit challenging to load.

But overall, I think this is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality 16 gauge finish nailer.

10. Senco 1X0201N FinishPro 32 16 Gauge Finish Nailer

The Senco 1X0201N FinishPro 32 16 Gauge Finish Nailer is a best-in-class finish nailer. It has several features that make it an attractive option, including:

A lightweight and compact design that makes it easy to use
A depth adjustment knob to ensure precise nailing
A quick-release nosepiece for easy nail loading
A jam release mechanism to clear nails quickly and easily

These features make the Senco 1X0201N FinishPro 32 16 Gauge Finish Nailer an excellent option for both professionals and DIYers.

Here are five reasons why you should consider using this finish nailer:

It's lightweight and compact - The Senco 1X0201N FinishPro 32 16 Gauge Finish Nailer is lightweight and compact, making it easy to use for all applications.
It has a depth adjustment knob - This feature allows you to adjust the depth of the nails for precision nailing.
It has a quick-release nosepiece - Which allows you to quickly and easily load nails into the nailer.
It has a jam release mechanism - This mechanism clears nails quickly and easily, so you don't have to waste time fussing with the nailer.
It's durable - The Senco 1X0201N FinishPro 32 16 Gauge Finish Nailer is built to last to rely on it for all your finish nailing needs.

Here are two reasons why you may not want to use the Senco 1X0201N FinishPro 32 16 Gauge Finish Nailer:

It's not cordless - This finish nailer requires a cord to operate, so you may not be able to use it in all applications.
It's more expensive than some other options - The Senco 1X0201N FinishPro 32 16 Gauge Finish Nailer is more expensive than some other options on the market, but it's worth the investment.

Overall, the Senco 1X0201N FinishPro 32 16 Gauge Finish Nailer is an excellent option for anyone looking for a best-in-class finish nailer. It has several features that make it easy to use and durable, making it a great option for professionals and DIYers alike.

What is a 16 gauge finish nailer?

A 16 gauge finish nailer is a pneumatic nail gun that uses compressed air to drive nails into wood. It typically has a smaller magazine than other types of nailers, making it ideal for smaller projects.

The term "finish nailer" refers to the fact that these nails are narrower and have a more delicate head than standard construction nails. This makes them less likely to split the wood, making them ideal for use in delicate trim work or cabinets.

What is a 16 gauge nail gun used for?

A 16 gauge nail gun is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, including:

Securing baseboards and moldings:

A 16 gauge nail gun is the perfect tool to ensure a tight, secure fit when nailing baseboards or moldings into place.

Hanging drywall:

The power of a 16 gauge nail gun is ideal for hanging drywall, as it can easily drive nails into the studs.

Attaching furring strips:

Furring strips are often used to level out walls before installing paneling or drywall, and a 16 gauge nail gun can be used to quickly and easily attach them to the wall.

Installing insulation:

A 16 gauge nail gun can be used to install both fiberglass and cellulose insulation, ensuring a tight fit that will help improve your home's energy efficiency.

Building decks:

When building a deck, a 16 gauge nail gun can be used to attach the decking boards to the joists and install the railing posts.

Framing walls:

A 16 gauge nail gun is the perfect tool for framing walls, as it can easily drive nails into both the studs and the plates.

Hanging siding:

Siding can be a bit tricky to hang, but a 16 gauge nail gun can make the job much easier. Simply position the siding and use the nail gun to secure it to the wall.

Building a shed:

A 16 gauge nail gun can be used for all sorts of tasks when building a shed, including framing the walls, attaching the roofing, and installing the door and windows.

Making minor repairs:

A 16 gauge nail gun can be used to make quick and easy repairs around the house, such as fixing loose trim or nailing down a loose floorboard.

Taking on DIY projects:

A 16 gauge nail gun can be a handy tool to have on hand for any number of DIY projects, from building a birdhouse to creating a custom piece of furniture.

How to increase depth on 16 gauge finish nailer?

If you're using a 16 gauge finish nailer, you can do a few things to increase the depth of your nails.

First, make sure that the pressure in your air compressor is set to the correct level. If it's too low, the nails won't be driven into the wood as deeply as they should be.

Second, try using a different type of nail. Some nails are designed to be driven deeper into the wood than others.

Third, adjust the depth adjustment knob on your finish nailer. This will allow you to control how deeply the nails are driven into the wood. Experiment with different settings until you find one that works best for your particular project.

See how to increase the depth of a 16 gauge finish nailer in the video below:

What is the difference between a 16 gauge and 18 gauge nail gun?

There are several key differences between a 16 gauge and 18 gauge nail gun. The most obvious difference is the size of the nails that each gun uses. A 16 gauge nail gun uses nails that are slightly larger in diameter than 18 gauge nails. This means that 16 gauge nails will penetrate the surface of your project material more easily, making them ideal for tougher projects. Additionally, 16 gauge nails have a slightly higher holding power than 18 gauge nails, making them less likely to come loose over time.

Another difference between these two types of nail guns is the amount of air pressure required. 16 gauge nail guns require more air pressure than 18 gauge nail guns. This means that they will likely be louder when used and may require a more powerful air compressor to run correctly. Finally, 16 gauge nail guns are typically more expensive than 18 gauge nail guns. This is because they are generally more durable and can handle tougher projects.

If you're unsure which type of nail gun is right for your project, it's always best to consult with a professional. They will be able to recommend the best type of gun for your particular needs.

Which is better 15 or 16 gauge finish nailer?

16 gauge finish nailers are better than 15 gauge finish nailers because they have a smaller head, making it easier to insert the nails into hard-to-reach places. They're also more durable because they can withstand more pressure.

16 gauge finish nailers are available in both pneumatic and electric versions. Pneumatic versions are powered by compressed air, while a battery powers electric versions. If you're looking for a finish nailer that's lightweight and easy to use, we recommend choosing an electric version.

When to use 16 gauge finish nailer?

Finish nailers can be used for various purposes, and the specific application will dictate what gauge is best to use.

However, as a general rule of thumb, 16 gauge finish nailers are best suited for molding, baseboards, door and window casings, cabinets, and other Fine Woodworking applications.

If you're working with softer woods or doing lighter duty work, 18 gauge finish nailers may be better.

Remember that the smaller the gauge number, the thicker and stronger the nails will be.

Which is better straight or angled finish nailer?

Straight finish nailers are better for smaller projects, while angled finish nailers are better for larger projects.

Straight finish nailers have a narrower firing range and can only shoot nails straight, while angled finish nailers can shoot nails at an angle.

Angled finish nails also have a wider head that helps hold the wood together better than a straight finish nail.

Can you use 18 gauge nails in a 16 gauge nailer?

Using 18 gauge nails in a 16 gauge nailer is not recommended as this can damage the tool. Additionally, 18 gauge nails are thinner and may not provide the same holding power as 16 gauge nails. If you must use 18 gauge nails, be sure to carefully review the manufacturer's instructions for your particular nailer model.

Will a 16 gauge nailer shoot 15 gauge nails?

No, a 16 gauge nailer will not shoot 15 gauge nails. 16 and 15 gauge nails have different diameters, requiring different forces to be driven into the material they are shooting into. As such, a 16 gauge nailer is designed only to fire nails of a specific size and shape (16-gauge).

Trying to fire a 15-gauge nail in a 16-gauge nailer could damage both the gun and the material being nailed and potentially cause personal injury due to flying debris.

Is 16 or 18 gauge better for trim?

It depends on the look you're going for. 18 gauge will give a more subtle look, while 16 gauge will be more visible and create a more pronounced effect.

Both gauges have their benefits, so it really comes down to personal preference. Some people prefer the subtler look of 18 gauge trim, while others prefer the more visible effect of 16 gauge trim. Ultimately, it's up to you which one you choose!

How big is a 16ga nail?

A 16ga nail is about 1/4" in diameter. It's a common size for home improvement projects.

What size compressor do you need for a 16-gauge 2-1/2 in. finish nailer?

For a 16 gauge 2-1/2 inch finish nail gun, you'll need a compressor that can deliver at least 1.2 CFM at 90 PSI. If you're looking for something with a little more power, consider one that delivers 1.5-2 CFM at 90 PSI. This will ensure that your finish nailer has enough power to drive nails into even the hardest of woods.

What size air hose for 16 gauge finish nailer?

There is no definitive answer to this question since it will depend on various factors, such as the type of finish nailer being used, the pressure of the air compressor, and the specific nails being used. For example, some types of 16 gauge finish nailers may require a different size air hose than others.

Generally speaking, most 16 gauge finish nailers will require an air hose at least 3/8 inches in diameter. Some may even require a 1/2 inch diameter hose. If you are unsure what size air hose your finish nailer requires, consult the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer directly.

Final Words

The best 16 gauge finish nailer can be a great addition to your toolbox. I've looked at ten of the best models on the market and highlighted some of their key features. Whether you are a professional contractor or just starting in DIY, one of these nailers should fit your needs. If you are still undecided, the buying guide will help you make the right decision for your next project.