[djg]

I need a new 18 Ga brad nailer because the cost to repair my old one would probably cost more than a new one. I'm looking at the cheaper versions from HF, Buffalo, NuMax, Freeman or any other brand < $40.

1) Does anyone have any experience with any of these?
2) Any other cheap brands you like?
3) Or would you steer clear of the cheap ones and only buy name brand?

I wouldn't be using it every day, just on ocassion.

 

[jschaben]

I need a new 18 Ga brad nailer because the cost to repair my old one would probably cost more than a new one. I'm looking at the cheaper versions from HF, Buffalo, NuMax, Freeman or any other brand < $40.

1) Does anyone have any experience with any of these?
2) Any other cheap brands you like?
3) Or would you steer clear of the cheap ones and only buy name brand?

I wouldn't be using it every day, just on ocassion.

I don't know that there is a heck of a lot of difference in pneumatic nailers, at least on the hobbyist, DIY level. I've seen as many great reviews for Harbor Freight as I have for Porter Cable. The features I look for is an adjustable depth and automatic nail length compensation. All my nailer/staplers are Hitachi and Porter Cable and toolless jam clearance hasn't been an issue, I think I have only had maybe two jams in about 4 years. The Freeman's I've looked at needed to be reset for various nail lengths and for me, that would be a PIA. I've picked up some good deals on Hitachi products from Big Sky tools in their reconditioned section. :smile:

This is the nailer I use. I got rid of a deWalt because it only shot 1-1/4" nails. Time I went through 3/4" of molding and 3/8" of drywall, wasn't much nail left for holding. The 2" brads are a nice option.
Good Luck:smile:
http://bigskytool.com/Hitachi_NT50AE2_2_18-Gauge_Brad_Nailer_(Reconditioned)___i320.aspx

 

[TimPa]

i prefer tool less jam clear. and wide range of nails (3/4 - 2"). some leave a smaller hole than others from the hammer. senco's used to leave a very small hole. the double duty stapler/nailers leave large holes, more like a slot.

 

[djg]

Yes I'm not looking at a dual nailer/stapler just a 2" bradder. Any brands you like?

 

[BassBlaster]

I have a Bostich that I really like. I dont know what they cost new. I bought a compressor used and it came with a brad nailer, finish nailer and a stapler all new in the box for 150 bucks!! The downside with Bostitch is they only shoot Bostitch brand fasteners and they can be pricey. At least thats the case with my stapler. I havnt run out of brads or finish nails and needed to purchase any yet.

 

[WarnerConstInc.]

I ran a bostich for 10 years, it started getting a little sloppy and left too big a mark. Good gun for 100 or so bucks.

I have replaced it with a Grex green buddy, not a cheap gun, but I run 10's of thousands of nails through them per year.