Rankings
The DeWalt DWFP2350K is a high-capacity pneumatic pin nailer designed for professional finish work, featuring a tool-free jam release and oil-free operation. Its main trade-off is the requirement for an air compressor, limiting portability. It is best suited for contractors who prioritize speed, capacity, and a long warranty.
The Metabo HPT NP35A is a professional-grade pneumatic pin nailer designed for precision fastening in delicate trim and paneling work. It features a high-grade aluminum magazine, tool-free depth adjustment, and a dry-fire lockout to protect workpieces. It is ideal for professional carpenters and cabinetmakers who require reliability and durability in their finish work.
The Senco TN11L1 is a high-performance pneumatic 23-gauge pin nailer designed for precision work in finish carpentry and cabinetry. Its key strength lies in the NeverLube technology and durable aluminum build, which ensure clean operation and longevity. However, the lack of depth adjustment and dependency on an air compressor are notable trade-offs for users seeking versatility or cordless convenience.
The Porter-Cable PIN138 is a lightweight pneumatic 23-gauge pin nailer designed for driving headless or slight-head pins from 5/8" to 1-3/8" into hardwoods without marring surfaces. It features an oil-free motor, dry-fire lockout, and a side-loading magazine with a capacity of up to 132 nails. The tool is optimized for finish carpentry applications requiring sub-flush pinning in materials like oak.
The Arrow PT23G is a lightweight pneumatic pin nailer designed for trim work, interior molding, crafts, and hobby projects. It fires 23-gauge headless pin nails that are less noticeable after painting compared to brad nails. Best suited for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts working on small projects.
The Keentech Pneumatic Pin Nailer is a lightweight, budget-friendly tool designed for precision fastening in woodworking and crafts. It features a high-capacity magazine and operates efficiently at lower air pressures, making it suitable for delicate materials. However, the absence of dry-fire protection and tool-free adjustments are notable trade-offs for professionals.
| Attribute | Porter-Cable PIN138 | | | | | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
35 mm | 50.8 mm | 35 mm | 25 mm | 25 mm | 51 mmbest | |
132 nails | 135 nails | 100 nails | 150 nails | 160 nailsbest | 110 nails | |
60 PSI | 120 PSIbest | 64 PSI | 60 PSI | 60 PSI | 70 PSI | |
0.016 CFM | 1.9 CFMbest | 0.021 CFM | — | — | 1.1 CFM | |
| ↓ lower better | 2.1 lbs | 2.5 lbs | 2 lbs | 2.82 lbs | 1.87 lbsbest | 2.8 lbs |
3 years | 7 yearsbest | 5 years | 1 years | 3 years | 5 years |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | Porter-Cable PIN138 | | | | | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Capacity & Compatibility(3) | ||||||
Max Nail Length (mm) | 35 mm | 50.8 mm | 35 mm | 25 mm | 25 mm | 51 mm |
Magazine Capacity (nails) | 132 nails | 135 nails | 100 nails | 150 nails | 160 nails | 110 nails |
Collation Type | Straight | Strip | Straight | Straight | Straight | Glue |
Ergonomics & Design(5) | ||||||
Tool Weight (lbs) | 2.1 lbs | 2.5 lbs | 2.0 lbs | 2.82 lbs | 1.87 lbs | 2.8 lbs |
Trigger Type | Sequential | Sequential | Sequential | Sequential | Sequential | Dual |
Depth Adjustment | true | true | true | true | false | false |
Housing Material | Aluminum | Unknown | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum |
Tip Type | No-mar | No-mar | No-mar | Standard | Standard | No-mar |
Warranty & Support(1) | ||||||
Warranty Length (years) | 3 years | 7 years | 5 years | 1 years | 3 years | 5 years |
Power & Performance(2) | ||||||
Operating Pressure (PSI) | 60-100 PSI | 120 PSI | 64-100 PSI | 60-120 PSI | 60-120 PSI | 70-110 PSI |
Air Consumption (CFM) | 0.0161 CFM | 1.9 CFM | 0.021 CFM | CFM | — | 1.1 CFM |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers and editors, including WoodWorkers Guild of America, praise the PIN138 for its handling of 23-gauge pins and oil-free operation. They highlight its ability to create nearly invisible holes with optional holding power, making it ideal for finish work. YouTube reviews note reliable performance at higher pressures (95-100 psi) and consistent depth setting compared to competitors like Metabo.
Everyday users consistently praise the tool's reliability in driving nails flush, particularly in hardwoods where other tools may fail. The oil-free convenience and minimal hole size requiring little putty are frequently highlighted. Users also note good value for money, though some mention the need for specific fasteners and an air setup.
Professional reviewers praise the lightweight design, maneuverability, and tool-free features, noting the oil-free motor and durable construction make it suitable for professional use.
Search results lack direct consumer reviews, but professional sources note no significant downsides with emphasis on reliability for trim jobs.
Professional reviewers praise Metabo HPT's pneumatic nailers for their rapid response and increased durability attributed to a cylinder valve drive system. The NP50AM aligns with their 'Pro Preferred' awards due to its reliability in trim and cabinetry applications. Experts highlight the tool-less depth adjustment and jam-proof design as key features for flush driving into varying materials, noting that the 5-year warranty is a standout feature compared to consumer tools.
Everyday users report high satisfaction with the NP50AM, citing flawless pin driving without jams and excellent balance for all-day use. The dry-fire lockout is frequently praised for preventing material damage. Recurring complaints focus on the need for constant oiling, potential dust blowing from the exhaust if not adjusted, and a slower side-loading magazine reload process. Overall sentiment is positive with pros praising precision over hobbyist alternatives.
The search results do not include detailed professional reviews or expert commentary beyond the manufacturer's claims and product specifications. However, the tool is consistently described across retailers as suitable for 'light trim, crafts, hobbies, and light work', suggesting professional recognition of its intended use case rather than heavy-duty applications.
The search results provided do not contain user reviews, ratings, or consumer feedback. Therefore, I cannot provide information about common praise or recurring complaints from everyday users.
Professional reviewers highlight the tool's reliability at optimal pressures of 80-90 PSI, noting its suitability for precision woodworking and DIY projects. While praised for efficiency and low jam rates, critics point out the absence of dry-fire protection compared to premium models.
Everyday users praise the ease of use for beginners in crafts and remodeling, with common appreciation for the high nail capacity and flexible pressure range. Recurring implied complaints involve the risk of dry-firing due to the lack of prevention mechanisms.
Professional reviewers highlight the TN11L1 as a reliable upgrade replacing the FinishPro 23LXP, specifically praising its NeverLube technology for resolving oil-spitting issues. The tool is positioned as a favorite among finish carpenters and cabinet makers due to its comfort, safety features, and narrow nose design suitable for intricate millwork.
Search results lack direct user reviews or ratings; however, potential inferences suggest appreciation for the clean operation but note compressor dependency. No common praise or complaints are documented from everyday users.
“Drives pins flawlessly without jams”
“Lightweight and balanced for all-day use”
“Dry-fire lockout saved my material multiple times”
