If you want a smooth-looking finished product, then a pin nailer is for you. That is because visible holes are left by brads, which is a problem for painting and smoothing.
The Pin Nailer has been designed to solve this problem by creating an invisible hole that will not be seen after the project is complete.
Then what is a pin nailer used for? Why is it different from others? Let’s go through this article for better knowledge about pin nailers.
What is a Pin Nailer?
A pin nailer is a small, air-driven gun that shoots thin nails. It’s often used to install molding and trim. It fires a 23 gauge nail.
A pin nailer is a high-quality tool that can be used for some of the most sophisticated projects. It is ideal for intricate woodwork and other detailed tasks.
23-gauge is the most appropriate choice if you want to design with delicate pieces.
For example, little furniture trim cannot handle lower gauge nailers.
Why They Call it Pin Nailer?
Pin nailer is probably the smallest nailer you’re going to find on the market today. It’s a headless nail why they call it a pin.
The nails are like pins. It uses headless pin nails to shoot.
Even brads are with higher diameters compared to them. The popular one is a 1-inch 23-gauge nailer.
We know a higher gauge number means a lower diameter. Sometimes 2-inch pins are also used if the trims are heavyweight.
You will not have a versatile option for working with lightweight trims.
What is a Pin Nailer Used For?
The pin nailer is a tool that comes in handy for many woodworking jobs.
It drives thin metal pins into the wood, which can hold pieces of lumber together while you’re nailing them to another surface or preparing them for finish.
A pin nailer is often used to make detailed carvings on wood, but if it’s a hard surface like stone, you may need a hammer drill.
A pin nailer is a tool that can be used to finish craft projects, mount paintings on frames and much more.
It’s great if you’re just starting out with woodworking or need an inexpensive way to get the job done.
Types of Pin Nailer
Mainly there are two types out there. They are- pneumatic and electric. Let us have a look at their functions and usage.
1. Pneumatic Pin Nailers
Pneumatic Pin Nailer is a hand tool that uses compressed air to nail through materials such as wood, laminate, drywall and so on.
It has an internal firing mechanism and can fire constantly for a short time.
A pneumatic nailer is a work tool used to fasten materials using nails.
It comprises an air-powered pistol that can shoot long thin pins or staples into wood or metal surfaces. There are different types and sizes in the market today.
Uses
Pneumatic pin nailers are used in several applications to make sure that the wood is nailed properly. This helps build a stronger structure for your building.
The pneumatic nailer is used to strike nails into different surfaces. The best thing about this tool is that it helps you drive the nails in a precise manner.
2. Electric Pin Nailers
Electric pin nailers are light tools powered by electric sources that deliver a good amount of power.
This makes them ideal for doing some precise work such as building furniture or trimming trees and shrubs around the house.
These are mostly battery-powered, which have distinctive features.
These are costly and demand able to users. Many professionals refer to this as a standard tool.
The first electric pin nailer was invented in the early 20th century, but wasn’t widely used for a while since there weren’t many places to use it.
Now, with advancements in technology and more construction jobs being available than ever before, there are ample scope of use it.
Uses
If you’re looking for a nailer that is convenient, lightweight and portable, then an electric pin nailers might be the one for you.
This type of nail gun has no cords or gas cartridges so it can be used in areas with limited access.
Electric pin nailer is a great tool for building cabinets. While it takes some practice to use, the end result can save you time and energy.
What are the Advantages of Pin Nailer
Small Sized
As pin nails are small in diameter, it is effortless to work with fragile carpenters and trims.
In reality, it is so small that leads to the smallest in the entire finish nailer family.
Smooth Finishing
Using these headless pinners has rare issues about crack or split of woods. We know pin nails do not leave the holes visible.
Then painting the product will become more accessible and smooth.
Delicate & Smooth Work
Pin nailer is the most comfortable nail gun for carpentry and DIY projects. It creates a smooth flow to your jobs.
If you are an experienced carpenter, you would know the importance of nailers.
Most of the renovations need a well-finished touch to appeal in front. There are some finishing nailers to carry out these tasks.
Multipurpose Task
A pin nailer is used to install baseboards, molding and crowns.
The pin nailer is a hand-held tool that drives nails with small heads for use in nailing.
The smaller the nails, the more they are used in furniture.
As pin nails are small in diameter and easy to drive, they are often used when installing very thick planks.
What are the Disadvantages of Pin Nailer
Pin Nailer works by using pneumatic pressure to shoot nails into the pin. However, there are certain limitations with this tool.
Minimum Holding Strength
These types cannot give you a long period of service.
Often glue or adhesive is required when you shoot pins into the wood since it does not have enough holding strength.
These have covered a small gauge range compared to others.
But if you want more strength to joints and holdings, then a brad nailer is suitable. The 18-gauge nails have enough power to hold moldings and base boarding.
A pin nailer has less versatility than an 18-gauge brad nailer because of covering a smaller range of usage.
Works only 2″ Thick Surface
Pin nailers are a great way to build things quickly, but they also have several limitations.
For example, if you want to make something out of metal or wood that is more than 2 inches thick, then this tool will not work effectively.
Unable to Work in Hard Surface
The pin nailer works best on soft wood and thin pieces. It’s not a good idea to use it when working with hardwoods or thick pieces because the pins may break off.
One of the major limitations of a pin nailer is that it doesn’t work well on hard surfaces. This can be remedied by using a hammer with a smaller head instead.
As Pneumatic pin nailer is air-powered, it produces noise during the working period.
Some technical problems may appear after using a long time and repairing may cost a bit.
Pin Nailer vs. Finish Nailer
The query why not use a finishing nailer instead of a pin nailer? Arise in different users and beginners.
You learn that a job by 23-gauge nailers cannot be done by a 16-gauge finish nailer. Here are the reasons:
Nail Size
A Pin nailer uses one or two-inch nails, and they are small in diameter. But most finish nailers use larger nails with higher diameters.
Functions
Useful for lightweight woodworking projects because of low power requirements. But a finishing nailer can provide higher strength to any wooden models.
Uses
A finish nailer can be used in exterior trims, house framing, and crown moldings, etcetera. But a pin, nailer is for the preciseness of light pieces of wood.
Pin Nailer vs. Brad Nailer
Both are versatile woodworking tools in carpentry. Though they are almost in the same category, there are some differences. Let us show you:
Visible Nail Holes
Any pin nailer uses one or two-inch headless nails, which do not leave any holes visible. Brads are big enough to appear on the surface.
Wood Splitting
Smaller pins cannot split any thin trim. People loved it for this property. If you choose 18-gauge brad nailers, it might end up splitting the delicate pieces of wood.
Strength
18-gauge nails have more holding strength than compared to 23-gauge. If you use pins, you might need to apply wood glue to increase holding power.
Best Pin Nailer
Arrow PT23G 23 Gauge Pin Nailer
Manufacturer: Arrow Fastener
Item Weight: 2.09 pounds
Product Dimensions: 8.25 x 2 x 10 inches
Country of Origin: China
Size: 8.25 x 2 x 10 inches
Color: Black/Red
Style Gauge: Pin Nailer
Power Source: Pneumatic
Warranty:1-Year Limited
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is a micro pin nailer used for?
The micro pin Nailer is used to efficiently and quickly pin down things like fabrics, carpets, and upholstery. A micro pin nailer is used to drive small nails into hard-to-reach places.
What is a headless pin nailer used for?
A headless pin nailer is used for a variety of applications, including framing. A headless pin nailer is a very useful tool if you are into construction or woodworking.
This tool can fit into tight spaces and features an ergonomic handle that’s comfortable to use.
It can be used for many projects, including roofing, decking and other furniture making.
Can a brad nailer use pin nails?
The pneumatic nailer will drive any type of small pin into a wood surface.
It is ideal for installing baseboards, crown molding and other trim without the need for pre-drilling. Brad Nailers are available in both pin nails and finishing nails.
Are pin nailers worth it?
Sometimes pin nailers help you get rid of hard tools which give working stress. Since the power source is a gas and battery, it is costlier than other conventional in the market.
But if you think of its performance and current rating, the price tag will not give you a headache.
As it is a powerful and have higher precision about it will stand proud.
What is a 23 gauge pin nailer used for?
A 23 gauge pin nailer is a hand-held tool that shoots nails. It can be used for building furniture and wooden structures or finishing wood floors.
It is used to fix thin materials. It can also be useful for upholstery, architectural models, framing, cabinetry and furniture making.
Can you use a pin nailer for baseboards?
For years, do-it-yourselfers have been using pin nailers to attach baseboards. But is this really the best way to install these important trim pieces?
No, baseboards cannot be attached with a pin nailer. Headless nails aren’t powerful enough to hold baseboards in place. For installing baseboards, a 15-gauge and 15-gauge finish nailer is the best tool for the job.
Finish nailers are more powerful than pin nailers and can shoot nails through thicker pieces of wood. This makes them ideal for attaching baseboards, which are usually made from thicker lumber.
So if you’re looking to install baseboards yourself, make sure you have the right tools for the job. Otherwise, you might just end up with a bunch of headless nails in your wall.