The Ultimate Nail Gun Buying Guide
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Choosing the right nail gun can save a huge amount of time on site or during a home project, but it is also one of the tools that causes the most confusion. Many buyers are unsure which type they need, what the difference is between first fix and second fix nail guns, or whether a pneumatic, cordless or gas model will suit the job. This nail gun buying guide explains everything clearly so you can make the right decision first time and avoid buying the wrong tool.
Whether you are a tradesperson working on timber framing, a joiner fitting skirting boards, or a DIY user building decking or fencing, the type of nail gun you need depends on the size of the fixings, the strength required and the material you are working with. The guide below breaks down the different types of nail guns, explains nail sizes and power options, and helps you understand what setup you actually need.
You can browse the full range of nail guns at ToolStore UK to see the different types available before deciding which is right for your work.
What Is A Nail Gun?
A nail gun is a power tool designed to drive nails quickly and consistently into timber, board or other building materials. Instead of hammering nails by hand, the tool uses air pressure, gas or battery power to fire nails from a magazine into the surface with controlled force.
Nail guns are widely used in construction, carpentry and renovation work because they speed up fixing, improve accuracy and reduce fatigue compared with manual hammering. Different nail guns are designed for different stages of a job, which is why understanding the type of work you are doing is more important than choosing a brand first.
Accessories and safety equipment are also part of the setup, so it helps to think of the nail gun as part of a system rather than a single tool.
Types Of Nail Guns Explained
There are several types of nail guns, each designed for a specific kind of fixing. The most common mistake is buying a nail gun that is too powerful or not powerful enough for the job.
The main types you will come across are framing nailers, finish nailers, brad nailers, pin nailers and roofing nailers. Each one uses a different nail size and is intended for a different stage of construction or finishing work.
Understanding the difference between these tools makes it much easier to decide what you need.
You can explore leading brands like Makita nail guns and DeWalt nail guns at ToolStore UK to compare features, power options and price points.
Framing Nailers (First Fix Nail Guns)
Framing nailers, often called first fix nail guns, are used for structural work where strength matters more than appearance. These are the tools used when building stud walls, decking frames, fencing, sheds and other timber structures.
A framing nailer fires long, thick nails that hold timber securely. Because of the size of the nail head, the fixings are usually hidden behind plasterboard or cladding rather than left visible.
Typical uses include timber framing, joists, roofing work and heavy outdoor construction. These nail guns are also common for decking and fencing where strong fixings are needed.
Feature
Framing Nailer (First Fix)
Primary use
Structural timber construction
Typical jobs
Stud work, joisting, decking frames, fencing, sheds
Nail length
50mm – 90mm
Nail gauge
Varies (not typically specified)
Fix stage
First fix
Holding strength
High
Hole visibility
Not visible (structural stage)
You can browse the full range of framing nailers at ToolStore UK along with compatible nails for structural fixing.
Finish Nailers (Second Fix Nail Guns)
Finish nailers are used for second fix work where appearance matters more than raw strength. These are commonly used for door frames, architraves, skirting boards and trim.
The nails are thinner than framing nails but still provide a strong hold. The head is smaller, which makes the hole less noticeable and easier to fill before painting.
Second fix nailers are often chosen by joiners, kitchen fitters and anyone working on interior finishing.
Finish nailers work well when the fixing needs to be secure but still tidy enough to be seen after decoration.
Brad Nailers (18 Gauge)
Brad nailers use thinner nails than finish nailers and are popular with DIY users as well as tradespeople working on lighter trim. An 18 gauge brad nailer is often the first nail gun people buy because it is versatile and easy to control.
These are suitable for skirting, beading, panel work, small trim and furniture building. The smaller nail leaves a neat hole that usually needs very little filling.
Brad nailers are also a good option for people who want a nail gun for general home projects rather than heavy construction.
You can view the current range of brad nailers along with matching brad nails at ToolStore UK.
Pin Nailers (23 Gauge)
Pin nailers fire very fine pins that leave almost no visible hole. They are used for delicate work where even a small nail head would be noticeable.
These tools are often used for mouldings, small trims, furniture work and decorative joinery. Because the pins are so thin, they do not provide the same holding strength as larger nails, so they are usually used alongside glue.
Pin nailers are not suitable for structural work, but they are ideal when the finish needs to be clean.
Roofing & Flooring Nailers
Roofing nailers and flooring nailers are specialist tools designed for specific jobs. Roofing nailers usually fire coil nails and are built for repetitive fixing on large areas such as felt, shingles or sheet materials.
Flooring nailers are used for timber flooring installation and are designed to drive nails at the correct angle into the tongue of the board.
These tools are less common for general DIY, but they are widely used by tradespeople working in roofing, flooring and site construction.
Compatible nails and consumables should always match the nail gun type to avoid jamming or poor fixing.
First Fix Vs Second Fix Nail Gun - What’s The Difference?
One of the most common questions people ask when reading a nail gun buying guide is the difference between a first fix and second fix nail gun. The answer comes down to the stage of the job and the type of fixing required.
First fix nail guns are used for structural work where the fixings will not be visible once the job is finished. This includes framing, decking, roofing, fencing and stud walls. The nails are longer and thicker so they can hold timber securely, but the holes they leave are large and not suitable for visible surfaces.
Second fix nail guns are used once the structure is complete and the finishing work begins. These tools fire smaller nails that are easier to hide, making them suitable for skirting boards, architraves, door linings and trim. The holding strength is lower than a framing nailer, but the finish is much cleaner.
You will sometimes see the same tools described as 1st fix and 2nd fix nail guns, which means exactly the same thing. The difference between first fix and second fix nail gun types is about nail size and the job the tool is designed for.
Feature
First Fix Nail Gun
Second Fix Nail Gun
Main purpose
Structural framework
Finishing & trim
Typical jobs
Stud work, joisting, decking frames, fencing
Skirting, architraves, door frames
Nail length
50mm – 90mm
15mm – 64mm
Nail gauge
Varies (not typically specified)
16 – 18 gauge
Holding strength
High
Moderate
Nail size
Larger nails
Smaller, more discreet nails
Visibility
Not visible (structural stage)
Visible finish work
Power / usage
Designed for heavy structural work
Designed for lighter finishing work
For structural work you should always use a framing nailer. For finishing work, a finish nailer or brad nailer is usually the better choice.
You can browse first fix nail guns and second fix nailers at ToolStore UK to compare sizes and nail types before choosing.
Framing Nailer Vs Brad Nailer - Which Should You Choose?
Another common point of confusion is the difference between a framing nailer and a brad nailer. These tools look similar but they are designed for very different tasks.
A framing nailer is built for strength. It fires large nails that can hold timber under load. This makes it the right tool for decking, fencing, stud walls and outdoor construction. Because the nails are thick, the holes are noticeable and usually covered later.
A brad nailer is built for lighter work where the finish matters. The nails are thinner, the holes are smaller and the tool is easier to control. This makes it suitable for trim, panelling and smaller joinery work.
Feature
Framing Nailer
Brad Nailer
Intended work
Structural timber
Finishing & trim
Nail size
50mm – 90mm
15mm – 40mm
Nail gauge
Varies (not typically specified)
18 gauge
Holding strength
High
Moderate
Nail size (description)
Larger nails
Smaller, more discreet nails
Visibility
Not visible (structural stage)
Visible finish work
Suitable for skirting?
No
Yes
Suitable for decking?
For decking frames
No
If the job involves load-bearing timber, a framing nailer is the correct choice. If the work will be seen after painting or finishing, a brad nailer usually makes more sense.
Pneumatic Vs Cordless Vs Gas Nail Guns
The next decision is how the nail gun is powered. Most models fall into three groups, pneumatic, cordless battery, or gas powered.
Pneumatic nail guns use compressed air from a compressor. These are common on site and in workshops because they are reliable and lightweight, but they require hoses and a compressor to run.
Cordless nail guns run from rechargeable batteries. They are easier to carry around and do not need a hose, which makes them popular for installers and smaller jobs.
Gas nail guns use a fuel cell and battery together. They are powerful and mobile, but the running cost is higher because the gas cartridges need replacing.
Feature
Pneumatic (Air)
Cordless (Battery)
GasPowered
Power source
Air compressor
Rechargeable battery
Gas cartridge + battery
Mobility
Limited (hose)
High
High
Setup cost
Higher (needs compressor)
Medium
Medium
Running cost
Low
Low
Higher (fuel cells)
Weight
Lightest
Medium
Heavier
Maintenance
Regular oiling
Low
Moderate
Best for
Workshops & regular use
On-site flexibility
Heavy framing work
If you already own a compressor, pneumatic nail guns are usually the most cost effective. If you want freedom to move around, cordless or gas models are easier to work with.
You can explore air compressors and nail guns at ToolStore UK to see which setups work together.
Nail Gauge Explained (15, 16, 18 & 23 Gauge)
Nail gauge refers to the thickness of the nail. The smaller the number, the thicker the nail. This is one of the most important things to understand when choosing a nail gun.
Thicker nails provide more holding strength but leave a larger hole. Thinner nails leave a cleaner finish but do not hold as much weight.
Gauge
Thickness
Best Used For
Holding Strength
Hole Visibility
15 Gauge
Thick
Heavy finish work
High
Large
16 Gauge
Medium
Finish carpentry
Strong
Moderate
18 Gauge
Thin
Skirting & trim
Moderate
Small
23 Gauge
Very thin
Delicate mouldings
Light
Minimal
- Framing nailers use larger collated nails, typically between 50mm and 90mm in length.
- Finish nailers often use 16 gauge. Brad nailers use 18 gauge,
- Pin nailers use 23 gauge.
Choosing the wrong gauge is one of the main reasons people end up buying the wrong nail gun, so it is worth checking the nail size before deciding on the tool.
How Much Does A Nail Gun Cost?
Cost is often the deciding factor when buying a nail gun, but the price of the tool itself is only part of the setup. The total cost depends on the type of nail gun, the power source and the accessories needed to run it properly.
Framing nailers are usually the most expensive because they are built for heavy work and use larger nails. Finish and brad nailers are generally cheaper, while pneumatic setups can require extra spending on compressors and hoses.
It is also worth remembering that nails, fuel cells and maintenance products add to the long term cost.
Item
Estimated Cost Range
Framing nailer
£300 – £700+
Finish / brad nailer
£250 – £400+
Air compressor
£100 – £300
Collated nails
£10 – £40 per pack
Gas cartridge (if applicable)
£10 – £15
Total starter setup (air)
Approx. £400 – £900
Buying a cheaper tool can seem like a saving at first, but poor build quality often leads to jamming, misfires and extra wear on nails and fixings. Spending slightly more on a reliable nail gun usually saves money over time.
What Size Compressor Do I Need For A Nail Gun?
If you are using a pneumatic nail gun, the compressor needs to be matched to the tool. A compressor that is too small will struggle to keep up, which leads to slow firing and inconsistent power.
Most nail guns do not need a huge compressor, but they do need the correct pressure and airflow to work properly.
Nail Gun Type
Recommended PSI
Recommended Tank Size
CFM Requirement
Brad nailer
70 - 90 PSI
Small (6-24L)
Low
Finish nailer
80 - 100 PSI
Small-medium
Low-moderate
Framing nailer
90 - 120 PSI
Medium (24L+)
Moderate
For occasional DIY use, a small compressor is usually enough for brad or finish nailers. For regular site work or framing, a larger tank makes the job much easier because the compressor does not have to run constantly.
You can explore air compressors and fittings at ToolStore UK to make sure the nail gun and compressor will work together.
Nail Gun Safety Tips
Nail guns are safe when used correctly, but they are powerful tools and should always be treated with care. Most accidents happen when people rush the job or use the wrong settings.
- Eye protection should always be worn, especially when working with framing nailers or firing nails into hardwood. Small pieces of timber or metal can fly back without warning.
- Gloves can help with grip, but they should not be loose enough to catch on the trigger. Hearing protection is also worth using when working indoors or with compressors running for long periods.
- Never point a nail gun at yourself or anyone else, even when the magazine is empty. Always disconnect the air hose or remove the battery before clearing jams or changing nails.
- Keeping the work area clear also makes a difference. Loose timber, offcuts and hoses on the floor can easily cause slips when moving around with a nail gun in hand.
You can find safety equipment and protective gear at ToolStore UK if you need eye protection, gloves or hearing protection for site work.
Nail Gun Maintenance & Troubleshooting
Most nail gun problems come from poor maintenance rather than faults with the tool itself. Keeping the gun clean and using the correct nails will prevent most issues.
- If a nail gun keeps jamming, the first thing to check is the nails. Using the wrong size or low quality fixings often causes feeding problems. Make sure the nails match the tool and are loaded correctly.
- Pneumatic nail guns should be oiled regularly to keep the internal parts moving freely. A few drops of air tool oil in the inlet before use is usually enough.
- If the gun is firing weakly, check the compressor pressure or battery charge. Low power is often caused by the air supply rather than the nailer itself.
- Dust and debris can also build up inside the magazine. Cleaning the tool after heavy use helps prevent this.
Lubricants and accessories for nail guns are available at ToolStore UK if you need replacement parts or maintenance products.
Nail Gun FAQs
What is the difference between a first fix and second fix nail gun?
A first fix nail gun is used for structural work such as framing, decking and fencing. A second fix nail gun is used for finishing work like skirting boards, architraves and trim where the nails need to be less visible.
Can I use a 1st fix nail gun for second fix work?
It is possible, but not recommended. First fix nailers fire large nails that leave visible holes and can damage finished surfaces. A finish or brad nailer is better for second fix work.
What nail gun do I need for decking?
A framing nailer is usually the best choice for decking because it fires long nails with strong holding power. Brad and finish nailers are not designed for structural outdoor work.
What size compressor do I need for a nail gun?
Most brad and finish nailers work with small compressors, but framing nailers usually need a larger tank and higher pressure to run properly.
Is a gas nail gun better than battery?
Gas nail guns are powerful and good for heavy work, but they cost more to run because fuel cells need replacing. Battery nail guns are easier to use and cheaper to maintain.
What is the difference between 16 and 18 gauge nails?
Sixteen gauge nails are thicker and stronger, often used for finish work. Eighteen gauge nails are thinner and used in brad nailers for lighter trim and decorative fixing.
Can nail guns go through brick or concrete?
Standard nail guns are not designed for masonry. Concrete and brick usually require specialist tools such as hammer drills, SDS drills or fixing systems made for masonry.
Do I need a licence for a nail gun in the UK?
No licence is required to buy or use a nail gun in the UK, but it should always be used safely and according to the manufacturer instructions.
Can one nail gun do everything?
No single nail gun suits every job. Framing, finishing and trim work all need different nail sizes, so most users end up with more than one nailer.
Are nail guns safe for beginners?
They can be used safely with the right training and care. Starting with a brad nailer is often easier for beginners because the tool is lighter and the nails are smaller.
Choosing The Right Nail Gun For Your Project
Choosing the right nail gun depends on the type of work you are doing. Framing nailers are designed for structural timber and outdoor builds, while finish nailers and brad nailers are better for interior work where the fixings will be seen. Pin nailers are useful for delicate trim, and specialist nailers are available for roofing and flooring.
The power source also matters. Pneumatic nail guns are common in workshops, cordless models offer flexibility on site, and gas nailers are often used for heavier framing work. The total setup cost should include nails, compressors or fuel, not just the tool itself.
If you are unsure which nail gun suits your work, it helps to compare the different types before buying. You can view the full nail gun range, compatible nails, compressors and safety equipment at ToolStore UK to find the setup that fits your job.
To speak to our friendly team, you can call us on 03330 043777 or fill in our online contact form.
- 24th March 2026
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