Best Palm Nailers

Finding the perfect palm nailer can be a difficult task, especially with so many options available on the market. To make your search easier, we've compiled a list of the 10 best palm nailers for 2023, complete with detailed reviews. These tools are perfect for driving nails in tight spaces and can make a significant difference in your woodworking projects. Let's dive in!

Types of Palm Nailers

There are two primary types of palm nailers:

Pneumatic Palm Nailers

Pneumatic palm nailers are powered by compressed air, which means they need to be connected to an air compressor. They are generally more powerful and faster than electric palm nailers, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications or professional use.

Pros:

• More powerful
• Faster
• Suitable for professional use

Cons:

• Requires an air compressor
• Limited by the length of the air hose

Electric Palm Nailers

Electric palm nailers can be either corded or cordless, powered by a battery. They are generally less powerful than pneumatic models, but they offer greater portability and convenience, especially for DIY enthusiasts or light-duty tasks.

Pros:

• Portable
• No need for an air compressor
• Cordless models provide freedom of movement

Cons:

• Less powerful
• May not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks

Top 10 Best Palm Nailers of 2023:

1. Bostitch PN100K Impact Palm Nailer Kit

• Power Source: Pneumatic
• Weight: 2.9 lbs

The Bostitch PN100K is a powerful and versatile pneumatic palm nailer that is perfect for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. It features a compact design and a comfortable grip, making it easy to use for extended periods. The kit includes a leather glove, standard and finish nail noses, and a carrying case, making it a great value for your money.

2. Milwaukee M12 Cordless Palm Nailer (2458-21)

• Power Source: Battery
• Weight: 3.4 lbs

The Milwaukee M12 is a cordless palm nailer that offers freedom from air hoses and power cords. It features a powerful 12-volt motor and can drive nails up to 3-1/2 inches in length. The M12 also includes an LED light for improved visibility and a hand strap to ensure a secure grip. The battery and charger are included in the kit, making it a great investment.

3. Senco PC0781 Pneumatic Palm Nailer

• Power Source: Pneumatic
• Weight: 2.5 lbs

The Senco PC0781 is a lightweight and durable pneumatic palm nailer that is perfect for framing, decking, and other heavy-duty tasks. It features a 360-degree adjustable exhaust and a comfortable grip, making it easy to use for extended periods. The PC0781 also comes with a magnetic nose for easy nail placement and a leather grip cover for added safety.

4. DEWALT DCN650D1 20V MAX Cordless Palm Nailer

• Power Source: Battery
• Weight: 6 lbs

The DEWALT DCN650D1 is a powerful and reliable cordless palm nailer that offers excellent performance and convenience. It features a brushless motor that delivers consistent power and a depth adjustment to ensure precise nail placement. The nailer is compatible with DEWALT's 20V MAX battery lineup, making it a great addition to your existing cordless tool collection.

5. Metabo HPT NH90AB Palm Nailer

• Power Source: Pneumatic
• Weight: 1.3 lbs

The Metabo HPT NH90AB is an ultra-lightweight and compact pneumatic palm nailer that is perfect for tight spaces and overhead applications. It features a 360-degree swivel fitting for easy hose management and a magnetic nose for accurate nail placement. The NH90AB is also equipped with an over-molded rubber grip for increased comfort during extended use.

6. RIDGID R350PNF Pneumatic Palm Nailer

• Power Source: Pneumatic
• Weight: 3.2 lbs

The RIDGID R350PNF is a durable and powerful pneumatic palm nailer that is perfect for professional use. It features a self-cleaning air filter to extend tool life and a magnetic guide for accurate nail placement. The R350PNF also comes with a swivel air connector and a hex grip for improved comfort and maneuverability during use.

7. PORTER-CABLE PN650 Palm Nailer Kit

• Power Source: Pneumatic
• Weight: 4.4 lbs

The PORTER-CABLE PN650 is a versatile and powerful pneumatic palm nailer kit that is perfect for a variety of applications. It comes with four different nose tips, including a standard, finish, wide, and corner tip, making it a great choice for different tasks. The PN650 also features a depth-of-drive adjustment and a comfortable grip for easy operation.

8. Makita XTP02Z 18V LXT Cordless Pin Nailer

• Power Source: Battery
• Weight: 4.4 lbs

The Makita XTP02Z is a cordless pin nailer that offers excellent performance and convenience. It features a powerful 18V motor and is compatible with Makita's LXT battery lineup. The XTP02Z also includes an anti-dry fire mechanism to prevent damage to your work surface and a built-in LED light for improved visibility. It's a great choice for trim work and other fine woodworking tasks.

9. Hitachi NP35A Pin Nailer

• Power Source: Pneumatic
• Weight: 2 lbs

The Hitachi NP35A is a lightweight and compact pneumatic pin nailer that is perfect for detailed woodworking tasks. It features a depth adjustment for precise nail placement and a no-mar tip to protect your work surface. The NP35A also includes a rear exhaust to keep debris away from your workspace and a comfortable grip for extended use.

10. NuMax S2PN1 Pneumatic 2-in-1 Strip Nailer and Palm Nailer

• Power Source: Pneumatic
• Weight: 5.6 lbs

The NuMax S2PN1 is a unique 2-in-1 tool that functions as both a strip nailer and a palm nailer. It features a 360-degree adjustable exhaust and a depth adjustment for precise nail placement. The S2PN1 also includes a no-mar tip to protect your work surface and an anti-dry fire mechanism to prevent damage. This versatile tool is perfect for those who need the functionality of both a strip nailer and a palm nailer in one device.

Key Features to Consider

When choosing a palm nailer, there are several key features to consider:

Power Source

As mentioned earlier, palm nailers can be powered by air (pneumatic) or electricity. Your choice will depend on whether you have access to an air compressor and your specific needs in terms of power, portability, and convenience.

Nail Size Range

Different palm nailers can accommodate different nail sizes, so it's essential to choose a model that can handle the nail sizes you'll be using for your projects. Look for a palm nailer with a wide nail size range to ensure versatility.

Depth Adjustment

Some palm nailers offer adjustable depth control, allowing you to set the depth at which the nail is driven. This feature is particularly useful if you need to drive nails at different depths for various applications, ensuring a consistent and professional finish.

Ergonomics and Comfort

Since you'll be holding the palm nailer in your hand for extended periods, it's crucial to choose a model that is comfortable to hold and use. Look for ergonomic designs with rubberized grips, lightweight construction, and minimal vibration to reduce fatigue and improve accuracy.

Warranty and Support

A quality palm nailer should come with a decent warranty and support from the manufacturer. Look for at least a one-year warranty and ensure the brand has a good reputation for customer support.

Safety Tips and Maintenance

To ensure safe operation and prolong the life of your palm nailer, follow these tips:

• Always wear safety gear: Use safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris, and wear hearing protection to minimize the risk of hearing damage from prolonged exposure to noise.
• Inspect the tool before use: Check for any loose or damaged parts and ensure the nailer is clean and free of debris.
• Keep your workspace clean and well-lit: A clean and well-lit workspace can help prevent accidents and improve visibility while working with your palm nailer.
• Disconnect the power source when not in use: Always disconnect your palm nailer from the power source (air compressor or battery) when not in use, during maintenance, or when changing nails.
• Maintain your palm nailer: Regularly clean and lubricate your palm nailer according to the manufacturer's instructions. This will help ensure smooth operation and prolong the life of the tool.
• Store your palm nailer properly: When not in use, store your palm nailer in a dry, cool place away from moisture and direct sunlight.

Conclusion

A palm nailer can be an invaluable tool for driving nails in tight spaces or at awkward angles, making your woodworking, carpentry, or construction projects easier and more efficient. When choosing the best palm nailer for your needs, consider factors such as power source, nail size range, depth adjustment, ergonomics, and warranty. By taking the time to research and compare different models, you'll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and find the perfect palm nailer for your toolbox.