If you are using a 16-gauge nailer, you should use 16-gauge nails. However, if you are using a 15-gauge nailer, you should use 15-gauge nails. This is because 15-gauge nails will fit into the gun easier.
Full Answer
What is a 16 Guage finish Nailer used for?
The most common type of nail gun that utilizes 16-gauge nails is the finish nailer. This gun is mostly used to install boards and crown molding where the workpiece is directly attached to drywall. You will need extra holding power of thick 16-gauge nails to keep your pieces in place.
How to choose a Brad Nailer vs finish Nailer?
- Smart Point Technology: The electric brad nailer features easy nail placement as a result of a smaller nose compared to current BOSTITCH nailers and no need to compress the contact ...
- 18 gauge brad nailer drives 18 GA brad nails from 5/8-inch to 2-1/8-inch length
- Oil-free operation reduces the risk of oil stains
How big is a 15 gauge nail?
15-gauge nailers shoot a thick nail between 1-1/4” to 2-1/2” long. They have substantial holding power thanks to the heavier head. These nailers are a great option for large interior and exterior casing when nailing into studs (not the jamb), installing pre-hung doors, stair treads or risers, baseboard, and crown—things that require good holding power in the material that can be filled and painted or stained.
What size Nailer for baseboards?
- Tool Type: Straight Finish Nailer
- Nail Size:16GA 1 ¼” to 2 ½” long
- Capacity: 100 Nails
- Tool-free depth adjustment
- Power: Compressed Air
- Weight: 4.2 LBS
- Model: Dewalt DWFP71917
- Price: Click Here to See Price
Can you use 18 gauge nails in a 16 gauge nail gun?
0:001:29what HAPPENS when you put the WRONG nails in your air nailerYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBut there's also different lengths of each type on accident we put the 18 gauge nails into the 16MoreBut there's also different lengths of each type on accident we put the 18 gauge nails into the 16 gauge nailer. And about every 5 times we'd. Actually drive a nail.
Can you use different size nails in a nail gun?
Different types of nail guns can be used with different nail lengths. A typical brad nailer, for example, shoots nails that are 3/8 inch to 1 1/4 inches in length, while a larger framing nailer typically shoots nails from 2 to 3 1/2 inches in length.
What is the difference between 15 and 16 gauge nails?
16-gauge nailers shoot nails that are a little thinner than the 15 gauge and have a smaller head. Depending on the brand, these shoot nails from 3/4” to 2-1/2” inches long. They have good holding power and are a good general use gun.
What is a 15 gauge nail gun used for?
Let's start with 15 gauge finish nailers. These tools are ideal for projects such as cabinet and furniture building, picture frame assembly, trim and molding installation, and upholstery trim applications. Look for an angled nail magazine on most 15 gauge finish nailers.
Can you use 15 gauge nails for framing?
15-degree nail guns can hold a large number of full-round-head nails, which are ideal for floor joists, wall studs and other framing jobs. Full-round-head nails are often required for framing by building codes. 15-degree nail guns can be heavy, making overhead work difficult.
Which is better 15 or 16 gauge finish nailer?
The 15 gauge finish nailer is ideal for heavier jobs. If you're working with thin wood, delicate molding or want a smaller nail head to fill, then the 16 gauge nailer is the better option.
When would you use a 16 gauge nailer?
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What gauge are framing nails?
Now, the best and most commonly used nail gauge for framing with 2 by 4 boards is 16d, specifically vinyl coated 16d sinkers. Use the other gauges for the relevant applications as explained to come up with the strongest wood-to-wood connection.
Can You Use finishing nails in a brad nailer?
In general, go with finish nails for thick wood and brads for thin wood. Finish nails are stronger than brads, so choose them if your project needs to be durable. Brads are thin, 18-gauge nails made for more delicate woodworking jobs.
What does a 15 gauge nail look like?
0:170:3916 Gauge Nails versus 15 Gauge Nails - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf we take a closer look at the individual nails. Here we can see that the 15 gauge has got aMoreIf we take a closer look at the individual nails. Here we can see that the 15 gauge has got a rounded D shape. Head while the 16 gauge has a T shape.
What gauge finish nails for trim?
Common nails are made with a heavier-gauge wire, typically about 5/32” thick. They're generally used in house framing, where strength is important. Box nails have thinner-gauge shanks—about 1/16” which are best for fastening nonstructural things like trim, shingles, and siding....Choosing the Right Nail for the Job.GaugeCommon30.2640.2460.2080.1711 more rows
Can I use a brad nailer for baseboards?
Q. Can you use a brad nailer for baseboards? Brad nailers are suitable for baseboards. Most fire brads as long as 2 inches, which is enough to penetrate a 3/4-inch thick molding, 1/2-inch thick drywall, and bite into the framing lumber in the baseplate or wall studs.
Difference between 15 Gauge and 16 Gauge Nailer
There are four basic sizes for nailers. They are as follows: 15 gauge, 16 gauge, 18 gauge, and 20 gauge. But the two most common are those that use the 15-gauge and 16-gauge nails. You should only use these two sizes.
15-Gauge and 16-Gauge Finish Nailer
A 16-gauge finish nailer will drive a much longer and deeper hole (in the case of a deck) and, thus, allow you to drive more nails per unit of time.
15-Gauge and 16-Gauge Brad Nailer
Brads are usually sold in two gauges, which is actually the thickness of the wire inside of the brad. Brad’s 15-gauge and 16-gauge nailers are the perfect way to give any DIY project a professional finish. No need to wait for a real woodworker or carpenter to finish your project. Brad’s nailers are perfect for the do-it-yourselfer!
15-Gauge and 16-Gauge Pin Nailer
Which is better? What’s the difference between a 15-Gauge pin nailer and a 16-Gauge pin nailer? It seems like a simple question, right? Well, for one thing, a 15-gauge pin nailer will drive a slightly larger (and thus, stronger) pin into the board than a 16-gauge model.
FAQs
What’s the difference between 15-gauge and 16-gauge nailers? Are there any downsides to using a 15-gauge nailer? Which one is better for DIY projects? How do I select the right nailer for my job? Here’s a quick faq of all that you need to know about 15-gauge vs 16-gauge nailers:
Final Words
In conclusion, there are several reasons why you should use a 15-gauge nailer. To begin, it is much faster than a 16-gauge. It’s also easier to load in that it has a larger hole than a 16-gauge nailer. This means that you’ll have a higher rate of success because you won’t have to use as much pressure to drive the nail.
Which is better, 15g or 16g nailer?
First of all, recognize your project type and decide which type of nailing would fit your work the most. Then go for that specific nail gun. For instance, if your work deals in the hanging type works including trimming, door hanging or any other relevant works, then it is better to buy the 15g nailer for better holding capacity. The 15g based nails can render more load support than the 16g nails.
What is the difference between a 16g nail gun and a 15g nailer?
Concerning the nail placement, while a 16g nail gun comes with a straight stapler base, a 15g nailer features an angled feed that makes it easy to drive nails into hard-to-reach corners and tight spaces.
How much does a 15g nailer cost?
The starting price is less than $200. However, if you want to purchase a cordless 15g nailer kit, then the price may vary within a range of $270-$450, based on the brand you choose. Metabo 15gnailer is a moderate recommendation within $319 on Amazon.com. On the other hand, if you want to grab the Pneumatic 15g nailer, go for the model by Senco. The pneumatic cost moderately within $170 to $200, based on your brand selection.
What is the best nail gun for wood trim?
If you handle thick and dense wooden projects, then go for the heavier nailer; that is the 15g nail gun. Plus, it is available within an affordable budget. The 15g finish nailer is a great fit for bulkier installation tasks. If you handle thinner pieces of wood; mostly in delicate trim installation, then a 16g nail gun is the better fit. It gives you a good finish without leaving a visible nail hole on the wood, thereby splitting the surface.
What is a 15g nailer?
The 15g nailer can manage nail lengths sizing up to 2-½ inches. It features an angled feed type and shoots round head nails. The nails used by this nailer are exactly like the finish nails which are generally driven by hammers. Most users find both the 15g nailer and a framing nailer alike, in terms of their build and power delivery. A 15g nail gun is a good fit for a number of tasks like installing stair treads, nailing door jambs, etc. These nailers feature a large piston, and due to its bulky appearance, they often come with angled magazines. This angled feed helps you to easily get into the tighter spots. The good thing about a 15g nailer which could be of great help to the buyers is its cost effectiveness. Its starting cost is less than $200.
What gauge nailer shoots the largest nail?
Conversely, the lower the gauge value, the higher is the nail width. The nail gauge denotes the nail diameter. 15 gauge and 16 gauge are the two such nailer types that shoot the largest trim nails. These nail guns are also called “finish nailers”. The 23 gauge nailer is the smallest one as it shoots the smallest nails referred to as “micro pinner” or “pinner”. The 18-gauge nailer is the medium-sized nail gun, also called “brad nailers”.
Can you putty 15g nails?
Still, you can easily fill it with wood putty, in case you drive the nail too deep within.
What is the difference between 16 gauge and 15 gauge nails?
Sixteen gauge nails have a shank of 0.0625 inches, whereas 15 gauge have .0720 inches.
Which is better, 18 gauge or 16 gauge nailer?
A 16 gauge nailer shoots thicker nails than an 18-gauge nailer. 16 gauge is better suited for jobs that require higher stability and better holding strength.
What is a narrow crown stapler?
18 gauge narrow crown stapler fastens the wood using 18 gauge stapler nails. As the stapler nails have double legs, it lasts longer than a single leg pin. Stapler nail guns are mainly for functioning trumps forming projects.
How many inches can a 15 gauge nail gun fire?
15 gauge and 16 gauge nail guns can fire nails up to 2 1/2 inches (6D to 8D long nails). One of the main differences is the diameter of the pin, where the 15 gauge is more prominent, and the angled base of the 15 gauge nailer that helps you reach corners easily.
How many gauge nails does a Brad nailer use?
Brad nailer uses only 18 gauge nails which are small and thin. It fastens the nails about 5/8” to 2” and leaves the shanks about 3/64”. As it is a thin nail, you can use it to nail slim baseboards.
What is a 14 gauge nail?
14 gauge are thick nails that find their use more in heavy projects. You will need a thick and robust pin like a 14 gauge nail to hold the heavy products firmly. It leaves a shank about .0800 inches in diameter.
How big is a 21 gauge nail gun?
In a 21 gauge nail gun, the shank diameter is 0.0285 inches. As you can see, it uses small nails.
What is the best nailer for woodworking?
On the other hand, a 16-gauge finish nailer is the best tool for woodworking projects where you need more holding power such as the installation of larger trim like baseboards, crown molding, and more. Now, you may not want to spend on two tools and you may feel that the finish nailer is the way to go since it tends to be more versatile.
What exactly happens if you swap nail sizes for nailer?
Truth be told, for the most part, firing incorrect nail sizes can bring tons of problems.
Why use a brad nailer?
Why? Because a brad nailer is meant to shoot 18-ga nails, which are significantly fatter than the 23 gauge nails (common ly called pins) a pin nailer usually shoots. In short, nail guns work the same way and it important to stick to the manufacturer specified nail sizes. Can you use 18 gauge nails in a 16 gauge nailer?
What does double kiss mean on a nailer?
Feeding the wrong size fasteners in your pneumatic nailer might also result in a “Double Kiss”. For starters, this simply means that the tool fires two (2) nails at once!. In extreme cases, the second fastener can bounce off and ricochet, hitting you.
Can a brad nailer shoot 16 gauge nails?
For the most part, a brad nailer won’t just shoot 16 gauge nails! A colleague once couldn’t bring his 18 gauge brad nailer to shoot nails until he figured out that he had accidentally loaded 16 gauge finish nails into the 18 gauge nailer! Needless to say, you may get away with both nail sizes if you’re using a 16/18 gauge 3-in-1 air nailer/stapler ...
Can you use 16 gauge nails in an 18 gauge nailer?
Can you use 16 gauge nails in a 18 gauge nailer? The answer is still a big NO because the nail gauge doesn’t match ! You’ll just be asking for trouble if you somehow feed the fatter 16 gauge fasteners into your 18 gauge brad nailer. You see, the nailer will probably frustrate you a lot, for example, by keeping on jamming on you, if at all it fires.
Can you use a brad nailer with a 16 gauge nail gun?
So, before you order a brad nailer to add to your 16 gauge nail gun, you may need to consider the option of a dual purpose 16 and 18 gauge nailer (look at considerations such as pricing, how well it will do the job, and more).

Difference Between 15 Gauge and 16 Gauge Nailer
- There are four basic sizes for nailers. They are as follows: 15 gauge, 16 gauge, 18 gauge, and 20 gauge. But the two most common are those that use the 15-gauge and 16-gauge nails. You should only use these two sizes. The main reason is that the 16-gauge nails have a larger head than the 15-gauge nails, and therefore they have more “give” when they...
15-Gauge and 16-Gauge Finish Nailer
- A 16-gauge finish nailerwill drive a much longer and deeper hole (in the case of a deck) and, thus, allow you to drive more nails per unit of time. The only real advantage a 15-gauge driver has over a 16-gauge driver is its ability to hold an edge for a longer period of time. If you’re going to be a serious home-improvement enthusiast, then this advantage may mean something to you. On th…
15-Gauge and 16-Gauge Brad Nailer
- Brads are usually sold in two gauges, which is actually the thickness of the wire inside of the brad. Brad’s 15-gauge and 16-gauge nailers are the perfect way to give any DIY project a professional finish. No need to wait for a real woodworker or carpenter to finish your project. Brad’s nailers are perfect for the do-it-yourselfer! What are the differences? I thought we were going to talk about 1…
15-Gauge and 16-Gauge Pin Nailer
- Which is better? What’s the difference between a 15-Gauge pin nailer and a 16-Gauge pin nailer? It seems like a simple question, right? Well, for one thing, a 15-gauge pin nailer will drive a slightly larger (and thus, stronger) pin into the board than a 16-gauge model. This means the 15-gauge nailer will hold longer under tension… and thus, provide a stronger connection between your nail …
FAQs
- What’s the difference between 15-gauge and 16-gauge nailers? Are there any downsides to using a 15-gauge nailer? Which one is better for DIY projects? How do I select the right nailer for my job? Here’s a quick faq of all that you need to know about 15-gauge vs 16-gauge nailers:
Final Words
- In conclusion, there are several reasons why you should use a 15-gauge nailer. To begin, it is much faster than a 16-gauge. It’s also easier to load in that it has a larger hole than a 16-gauge nailer. This means that you’ll have a higher rate of success because you won’t have to use as much pressure to drive the nail. You’ll also be able to get a better look at what you’re doing whe…