10 best palm nailer for framing

A palm nailer for framing is a specialized power tool designed for driving nails into framing materials like wood.It is a compact and handheld device that allows for precise and controlled nailing in tight spaces or awkward angles. Here is some information about palm nailers for framing and their related features:

  1. Design and Ergonomics:

    • Palm nailers are designed to fit comfortably in the palm of your hand, providing excellent control and maneuverability. They are compact and lightweight, making them suitable for use in confined spaces where larger nail guns may not be practical.
  2. Power Source:

    • Palm nailers are available in both pneumatic (air-powered) and electric models.
    • Pneumatic palm nailers require an air compressor to operate and are often favored for their power and speed.
    • Electric palm nailers are corded and use electricity to drive nails. They are more portable but may have slightly less power compared to pneumatic models.
  3. Nail Compatibility:

    • Palm nailers can typically accommodate various nail sizes and types, including common framing nails. They use specialized nail magazines or magnetic tips to hold and guide the nails during driving.
  4. Applications:

    • Palm nailers are primarily used in framing and carpentry projects. They excel at tasks like framing walls, securing joists, and attaching wooden components in tight spaces where a traditional nail gun or hammer may be challenging to use.
  5. Control and Precision:

    • One of the key advantages of palm nailers is their precise control. Users can accurately place nails in specific locations, even in areas where it's difficult to swing a hammer or use a larger nail gun.
  6. Safety Features:

    • Most palm nailers come with safety features such as anti-dry fire mechanisms to prevent accidental firing when no nail is loaded.
    • Users should always wear appropriate safety gear, including safety glasses and hearing protection, when operating palm nailers.
  7. Maintenance:

    • Regular maintenance is necessary to keep palm nailers in good working condition. This includes cleaning, lubricating, and inspecting the tool for wear and tear.
  8. Price Range:

    • Palm nailers are available in a range of price points, with pneumatic models typically costing more than electric ones. The price may also vary based on the brand and additional features.
  9. Accessories and Attachments:

    • Some palm nailers come with additional attachments and accessories, such as different nosepieces for handling various nail sizes or types.
  10. Safety Precautions:

    • Users should always follow safety guidelines and manufacturer instructions when using palm nailers to prevent accidents and injuries.

Palm nailers for framing are valuable tools for professionals and DIY enthusiasts working on construction and carpentry projects. Their compact size, ease of use, and ability to work in confined spaces make them a versatile addition to any toolkit, particularly for tasks that require precision and control.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best palm nailer for framing on the market
  

Hitachi NH90AB Mini Impact Palm Nailer, 360 Degree Swivel Fitting, Accepts 2-1/2" to 3-1/2" Bulk Framing Nail, 5 Year Warranty (Discontinued by the Manufacturer)

Hitachi

Based on 146 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The NH90AB 3-1/2" Palm Nailer accepts a 2-1/2" - 3-1/2" bulk fastener, while offering superior maneuverability when working in confined areas. It is ideal for installing joist hangers and metal connectors. Its 360 degree swivel plug allows the hose to hang at any angle instead of straight out adding convenience when working in tight spaces. The over-molded rubber grip provides comfort, absorbs vibration and improves control.

  • Hitachi Power Tools has renamed to Metabo HPT. Same great tools, with only a new name.
  • Over-molded rubber grip for added comfort, better hold and reduced vibration
  • 360 degree swivel fitting for maximum maneuverability and ease of use
  • Magnetic nose holds a fastener in place for safe and accurate fastener placement
  • Front exhaust directs the air away from the user
  • Accepts a 2-1/2" - 3-1/2" bulk nail
  • Lightweight at only 1.3lbs

User questions & answers

Question: Does this nailer have to be oiled
Answer: I oil mine after use it can't hurt it i think
Question: What is the largest size(penny) nail thiis can handle
Answer: I found the nailer will handle most of the Grip-Rite nails available at Home Deport. I've used joist hanger galvanized (1 and 1/2") with no problem and gone up to 10d with no problems at all. It's more about the size of the nail head is where you could run into problems.
Question: Does this nailer come with a storage box and/or spare heads, etc
Answer: Just the nailer
Question: Can I use for 1-1/2 nails
Answer: Yes you can. Just need to watch the head size of the nail.I used it to drive 3 1/2" frame nails into joist hangars in a tight spot and some of the heads were to big to fit into the nail port but was still able to drive them.short nails you probably can't hang onto if they don't fit down into the port. Roofing nails the head will be to big to fit, but regular frame nails should gocommons work better as they are heaver guage.

Pneumatic Air Palm Framing Nailer Gun Nail Frame Roof Floor Wall 4-3/4" Nails

Product description

Brand By IM AMELIA

  • BRAND NEW Handy air palm nailer drives nails (up to 4-3/4 in. long) easily in tight spaces, without the strain and restrictions of swinging a hammer. The triggerless palm nailer has a magnetic tip to keep nails in place. Adjustable depth control keeps nail head flush with surface.
  • Drives most common nails up to 4-3/4 in. (120mm) long Overall length from the palm surface to the hammerhead is approximately 4-1/2" Magnetic tip keeps nails in place Adjustable depth control for quick countersink adjustment Push the tool against the head of the nail and it will drive it in
  • within seconds Great in tight spots where you can’t swing a hammer Air inlet size: 1/4 in-18 NPT Fastener length: 4-3/4 in. Working Pressure: 90 PSI Blow per Minutes: 2000 BPM Average air consumption: 0.2 CFM @ 90 PSI

BOSTITCH Palm Nailer, Mini Impact (PN50)

Bostitch

Based on 781 reviews Check latest price

Product description

BOSTITCH PN50 Mini Impact Nailer

From the Manufacturer

The Bostitch PN50 Mini Impact Nailer has a rubber grip designed to insulate and reduce vibration. Lightweight at only 1 lb. It has a 360° swivel air fitting for maximum accessibility in tight spots. The front exhaust directs air away from users palm. Drives Most Common Bulk Finish, Framing & Timber Nails. Ideal in applications such as; Joist Hangers, Metal Connectors, and Driving Nails Into Confined Areas.

  • Rubber grip designed to insulate and reduce vibration
  • Weighs only 1 lb.
  • 360° swivel air fitting for maximum accessibility
  • Front exhaust directs air away from users palm
  • Drives most common bulk finish, framing & timber nails

User questions & answers

Question: What CFM and pressure are required
Answer: You don't use an air pump--you use an air compressor. Set the pressure for 110 pounds.
Question: What is the operating pressure requirement for this palm nailer
Answer: It's like a hammer, not a nail gun. It drives nails that are already partly nailed in.
Question: how do you set this up with an air pump
Answer: It’s advertised as compatible with Ridgid heads. I got a Ridgid brand spade head and works fine. So it will probably work if you get a Ridgid brand spiral cutter or any other Ridgid head
Question: where do i get the nails
Answer: This machine can cut through tree roots.

Product features

BOSTITCH PN50 Mini Impact Nailer

Description:

This Mini Impact Nailer Is Lightweight And Offers A Comfortable Grip. Depend On This Mini Impact Nailer For Convenience And Maximum Accessibility.

  • Rubber grip designed to insulate and reduce vibration
  • Weighs only 1 lb.
  • 360 ° swivel air fitting for maximum accessibility
  • Front exhaust directs air away from users palm
  • Drives Most Common Bulk Finish, Framing & Timber Nails

BOSTITCH PN100K Impact Nailer Kit

Bostitch

Based on 252 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Ideal for driving common bulk nails in confined areas and for nailing of metal connectors and joist hangers. Magnetic nose with recessed nail slot holds nails stable for accurate fastener placement. Hardened steel Nose for extreme durability. Kit includes: impact nailer with standard nose, finish Nail nose, large bore nose, leather comfort glove, nose wrench, hex wrench, tool lubricant, and spare O-rings. Ideal for driving common bulk nails in confined areas and for nailing of metal connectors and joist hangers. This product is manufactured in Taiwan. This product meets customer requirement.

This highly portable Bostitch PN100K Palm Nailer kit comes with everything you need to perform a wide range of nailing tasks, from putting up metal connectors to constructing decks. The centerpiece of the kit, the PN100 nailer, is powerful enough to drive nails up to 5-inches in length, and is ideal for anyone working in tight spaces. Weighing in at just 2.9 lbs., the PN100 is crafted to help you complete demanding jobs with ease. Its magnetic nose has a recessed nail slot to hold nails tightly in place, and its ergonomic design maximizes comfort, a crucial feature for anyone driving nails for large chunks of time. To boot, this baby will stand up to just about any challenge, thanks to its hardened steel nose construction. Throw in the extras – three different noses for standard, finish, and large bore nailing, a leather glove, a nose wrench, a hex wrench, lubricant, and spare O-rings – and you have a fantastic all-purpose nailer at an unbeatable price.

What’s in the Box

Impact nailer with standard nose, finish nail nose, large bore Nose, leather comfort glove, nose wrench, hex Wrench, tool lubricant, spare O-rings

The Bostitch story

Originally known as the Boston Wire Stitcher® Company, the first syllables of the words "Boston" and "Stitcher" were joined to make "Bostitch®", and the name was adopted for product use after the manufacture of machines began. Thomas Briggs, the founder, invented in 1896 a new kind of user friendly Wire Stitcher designed for fastening books, calendars, checks, hat boxes, etc. This machine made a staple or stitch as it was called from a coil of wire. It was called the Boston Wire Stitcher and the company was named the Boston Wire Stitcher Company. In 1903 the company invented a foot operated stapling machine that used pre-formed staples. These staples were not collated but had to be slid off of a track into the magazine of the machine. Later they were collated with paper and then glue. Soon the Boston Wire Stitcher Company was developing various kinds of staplers for industrial markets. In 1930 the Bostitch® Sales Company was formed to sell Bostitch® products, and in 1948 the Boston Wire Stitcher Company officially became Bostitch®, Inc. The first Coil Nailer from Bostitch, the N2, came on the scene in 1965, and the rest is history. Today, Bostitch sells a huge range of nailers, compressors, and other products, and is a leader in the industry.

From the Manufacturer

The ultimate tool to add to the contractor's inventory. A Bostitch tool ideal for driving common bulk nails in confined areas or for nailing off metal connectors and joist hangars. This rugged portable ultra efficient engine is designed for performance. Some of its features include: ergonomic design for all day comfort, magnetic nose with recessed nail slot that holds nails stable for accurate fastener placement, hardened steel nose for extreme durability. kit includes: PN100 Impact Nailer with standard nose, finish nail nose, large bore nose, leather comfort glove, nose wrench, hex wrench, tool lubricant, spare O-rings.

  • Country of Origin:China
  • Package length:12.0"
  • Package width:4.0"
  • Package height:13.0"

User questions & answers

Question: Has Bostitch improved their instruction manual
Answer: Their manual is still the WORST! It's worth knocking 1-2 stars off just because of this. On top of that, the Bostitch website was just as bad! I'm left with going to YouTube to try and figure this out.
Question: Seller: "Power Source corded-electric
Answer: There is an error in the "Technical Details" portion of the Product Information for this item in the Amazon web page. It lists the Power Source as "corded-electric". That is wrong. It is pneumatically powered; i.e. it needs to be connected to a compressed air source. This is a great product. I've used mine in construction framing into tight spaces and have driven 3-4 inch nails into Douglas Fir with no problem.
Question: What is the smallest size nail that can be driven with this tool
Answer: With care and patients you can use very small nails provided you use the smaller diameter tip and don't mind clearing a jam or two.
Question: aside from the accessories, how is the actual nailer different than the PN50 ? Heard the PN50 is half the size of this one
Answer: The PN50 is very compact, but it's power corresponds to it's size. If you have to drive a few 10d tico nails, the PN50 is useful for tight spaces. However, if you're trying to nail 16d nails for seismic straps, the PN50 will take alllll day to drive those nails. Each tool has a specific use and is best in certain circumstances.

Estwing EMPN – Pneumatic Mini Palm Nailer, blue/yellow

Estwing

Based on 51 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Estwing Mini Palm Nailer is the ideal solution for working in confined spaces where a regular hammer falls short. Using a rapid hammering action to drive nails, the palm nailer saves your arm from hand nailing all day. To activate the firing mechanism, simply load a nail into the magnetic holder and press the palm nailer into your work surface. This nailer is compatible with any 6D-16D (.113” - .192”) hand driven nail ranging from 2” – 4”. Unlike conventional nail guns, the palm nailer is small, lightweight, and gives you precise placement and depth control. The small size makes it perfect for joist hangers, decking, fencing, and other spaces too small for your standard framing nailer. The tool-free depth adjust provides a wide variety of options for driving depth, while the air filter and anti-dust cap help keep the interior of your tool clean and functioning smoothly. The rubber backing gives a good grip while you squeeze into tight spaces, and the magnetic nail holder secures nails so you can place each one accurately. The ¼” Industrial NPT swivel fitting rotates 360 for additional flexibility in confined spaces.The mini palm nailer (Model: EMPN) is suitable for any professional or do-it-yourselfer, and is high-performing in both indoor and outdoor applications. This mini palm nailer is part of Estwing’s professional line of pneumatic tools, and is covered by a 5 Year Professional Tool Warranty and a 90 Day Wearable Parts Warranty.

  • Compact, lightweight design is perfect for hard to reach spaces
  • Tool-free depth adjust allows you to drive nails to a consistent depth every time
  • Rubber grip and magnetic nail holder ensures secure and controlled fastener placements
  • ¼” industrial NPT swivel fitting rotates 360° for maximum accessibility in tight spots
  • Impact driving mechanism Drives a wide variety of bulk nail sizes with ease

User questions & answers

Question: Will this nailer drive 2d nails
Answer: Thank you for your questions! The size of the flap opening will not match the exact size of the flap, as part of the flap is held above the opening area. Two flaps can be installed on this door to increase insulation if you would like. The door will come with a single flap; a second large size flap can be purchased separately here- https://www.amazon.com/PetSafe-Replacement-PAC11-11039-Tinted-Magnetic/dp/B000WJ2GJ2/
Question: Can you sink old nail heads deeper for sanding a floor
Answer: cut out: 6.25 by 7.125 overall: about 9 by 7.5
Question: Where is it made
Answer: Yes, cat or dog can push it open from the inside or outside. Easy for them to use. My cat likes that the door has a transparent area around the door's PetSafe wording so she can peek outside to see if it's safe (no dogs or people around) before venturing out. Works great!
Question: can I get a leather glove for the tool
Answer: Yes, there is. You will need to call the company for the correct numbers. I have got before but cannot remember the number to order.

PneuTools RN150 1-1/2" Palm Joist Hanger Tool

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The RN150 is ideal for users that prefer a small, low-maintenance tool, which is safer and easier to handle than other full-sized metal connector tools. This tool uses 1 ½” nails.

  • A compact metal connector nail gun that will easily reach tight spaces
  • Accurate nail placement with easy view nail tip
  • Simple, rugged design is economic and easy to maintain
  • Multi-blow, triggerless operation is safer to use than the single-blow comparison
  • Metal front exhaust and solid steel sleeve for better durability and driving power

User questions & answers

Question: What nails does this take? 34-deg 1.5-inch paper tape
Answer: Thank you for your great question! For installation in a standard door, our Freedom Aluminum Door uses a slide-down closing panel. You can see them here: https://www.amazon.com/PetSafe-Freedom-Aluminum-Extra-Large-Tinted/dp/B000OXAEJA/ Please note that The closing panel or lock, if applicable, is provided for aesthetic and energy efficiency purposes and is not intended as a security device.

Carpenter CMPN90 Mini Impact Palm Nailer

Based on 172 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The CMPN90 is a powerful, lightweight, convenient tool for driving nails in tight spaces. The CMPN90 is a fantastic addition to any tool Collection.

  • Comfortable ergonomic rubber grip makes it easy to use for prolonged periods.
  • Great for use in confined areas where swinging a hammer may be difficult.
  • Suitable for round head nails of all different lengths and sizes drives nails in seconds.
  • Lightweight design weighing less than 1 pound but very powerful design.

User questions & answers

Question: Hello. Just curious if everything I need is included or do I need to purchase any additional items
Answer: All you need is the tool itself and an air compressor with 1/4” NPT fittings. The tool comes completely Pre-Lubed and Ready to Use out of the Package. This tool should last for years of use. After every 500 or so nails you should add a drop of Pneumatic tool oil. It is a really high quality tool that is great for confined spaces.
Question: whats the maximum inch size it can use
Answer: 0.118″ to 0.354″ x 1.969″ to 3.543″ Nails
Question: Can i use it to punch already installed nails in a deck to reset them
Answer: Yes you can final set nails. But on a deck I would think they would be screws. The guide sleeve on these are not well machined and may not fit over large headed nails. But if it slips over it easily then yes.
Question: Can i use 1 and a half inch nails
Answer: It does not hold the nail so you can use any length

Metabo HPT Framing Nailer, Accepts 28 Degree Wire Weld Collated Framing Nails, 2-Inch to 3-1/2-Inch | NR90AFS1

Based on 10 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The NR90AF(S1) framing nailer drives wire weld collated nails from 2" up to 3-1/2" in length and features Metabo HPT's next generation "industrial design." The redesigned head guard allows for faster and easier disassembly process, saving valuable time during tool maintenance. Weighing only 7.3 lbs, it is easy to use all day, while still providing the power of a bulkier, heavier nailer. It can be used for floor and framing, truss build-up, window build-up, sub flooring, roof decking, wall sheathing and housing construction.

  • AWARD: Rated the Pro Preferred Nailer for 7 years running (2014 - 2020) by Builder and Developer Magazine
  • LIGHTWEIGHT: 7.3 lbs and well-balanced for ease of maneuverability and less user fatigue
  • FASTENERS: Accepts 2" up to 3-1/2" wire weld collated framing nails
  • SELECTIVE ACTUATION: Selective actuation switch allows for quick transitions between sequential and contact nailing with the simple flip of a switch
  • DEPTH ADJUSTMENT: Tool-less depth adjustment dial allows the user to countersink or flush drive nails into a variety of materials without having to adjust the pressure at the compressor
  • EXHAUST PORT: 360-Degree fully adjustable exhaust port directs air exhaust away from the user or work piece
  • AIR DUSTER: Ideal for clearing away dust and debris from the work surface

User questions & answers

Question: dos it shot clip head nails
Answer: no I haven't , but may not do the tight turn. may be better off with hand crimpers.

Metabo HPT Palm Nailer, Pneumatic, Accepts Nails From 2-1/2" to 3-1/2", 360° Swivel Fitting, Over-Molded Rubber Grip, Ideal For Joist Hangers & Metal Connectors (NH90AB)

Metabo HPT

Based on 690 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The NH90AB 3-1/2" Palm Nailer accepts a 2-1/2" - 3-1/2" bulk fastener, while offering superior maneuverability when working in confined areas. It is ideal for installing joist hangers and metal connectors.



Its 360 degree swivel plug allows the hose to hang at any angle instead of straight out adding convenience when working in tight spaces.



The over-molded rubber grip provides comfort, absorbs vibration and improves control.

  • NAILER: Palm nailer
  • APPLICATIONS: Ideal for installing Joist hangers and metal connectors
  • MAGNETIC NOSE: Holds a fastener in place for safe and accurate fastener placement
  • FASTENERS: Accepts a 2-1/2" - 3-1/2" bulk nail
  • GRIP: Over-molded rubber grip for added comfort, better hold and reduced vibration
  • LIGHTWEIGHT: Only 1.3 lbs for easy maneuverability
  • FITTING: 360 Degree swivel fitting for maximum maneuverability and ease of use
  • METABO HPT: Same tools. New name. Hitachi power tools has renamed to Metabo HPT

User questions & answers

Question: Is this the correct palm nailer to use to drive out pallet nails when disassembling pallets
Answer: Pry up the top deck from the stringers and the same for the bottom boards. Then try the following air tool: https://www.amazon.com/AeroPro-Professional-Pneumatic-Nailer-Remover/dp/B07FT98C86/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=AeroPro+700V&qid=1599096807&sr=8-3
Question: can this nailer drive 10d gauge 2 1/2 nail for joist
Answer: This nailer, in concert with an adequately powered air compressor, will easily drive a 10d gauge 2 1/2" nail to significantly improve productivity as well as reduce fatigue.
Question: will it nail in electrical boxes
Answer: If it can a three and a half in 16 penny nails it should have no problem with your nail electrical boxes
Question: Will it handle smaller nails, like hoist hanger nails
Answer: Yes it kicks ass! It also uses a lot of air!!

Estwing EFR2190 Pneumatic 21 Degree 3-1/2" Full Round Head Framing Nailer Ergonomic and Lightweight Nail Gun with Depth Adjust, Select Fire Trigger, and Removeable No Mar Tip

Estwing

Based on 96 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Estwing EFR2190 Pneumatic 21 Degree 3-1/2" Full Round Head Framing Nailer is the ideal tool for framing, decking, and fencing jobs. It features a strong, lightweight magnesium body, a one piece drive blade, and rubber O-rings. This air powered nail gun features a no mar tip to protect your work surface from damage, but you can take it off to reveal teeth that grip onto lumber for a secure, no-slip hold when firing. The tool-free finger depth adjust provides a wide variety of options for driving depth, while the air filter and anti-dust cap help keep the interior of your tool clean and functioning smoothly. The 1/4" industrial NPT swivel fitting rotates 360 degrees for maximum accessibility in tight spots. Hang your nailer up with the integrated rafter hook when you need to free up an extra hand. You can quickly switch from bump to single fire using the select fire trigger. It features an anti-dry-fire mechanism that protects the internal parts by stopping any firing when there are only a few nails remaining. Insert an additional strip of nails through the rear-load magazine and you are ready to go. This nailer is designed to use 21 degree plastic collated round head framing nails from 2" to 3-1/2" (.113" to .131" shank). This framing nailer is suitable for any professional construction contractor at the job site or DIYer at home, and is high-performing in both indoor and outdoor applications. The Pneumatic 21 Degree 3-1/2" Full Round Head Framing Nailer is part of Estwing's professional line of pneumatic tools.

  • Nailed It: This framing nailer has a tool-free depth adjust and selectable fire trigger. The anti-dry-fire feature will stop it from firing when there are less than 5 nails in the magazine. It's great for framing, sheathing, remodeling and general outdoor uses.
  • Pro Design: This pneumatic nailer features a durable and lightweight magnesium construction, ergonomic grip, and integrated rafter hook. A no mar tip protects surfaces from damage and can be removed to reveal no-slip teeth that grip wood for secure firing.
  • The Right Tool for the Job: We're committed to providing outstanding value, top tier customer service and long lasting, high quality products. We make nailers and staplers for every purpose, from roofing to siding to flooring and everything in between.
  • Quality and Durability: We manufacture tools with the most durable materials under strict quality control guidelines, suitable for professional contractors and do-it-yourselfers alike. Our tools are sold, distributed, serviced, and warrantied in the USA.
  • Tough and Dependable: We make an array of durable construction tools and accessories, including staplers and nailers for siding, flooring, framing, finish, and roofing. Compare our products to similar items by Makita, Hitachi, Bostitch, Senco, Paslode, and Dewalt.

User questions & answers

Question: What brand of nails work best with this gun
Answer: I shoot full head passload nails daily ... Don’t know about the quick release. My gun if I recal was purchased 12 years ago and I’m pretty sure it didn’t come with a connection at all ...
Question: Where is it made
Answer: The tool comes with a belt hook on the right side of the tool where the magazine attaches to the bottom side of the handle.
Question: I there a warranty? Mine bit the dust in 9 months
Answer: Does not come with a case and mine has never double tapped. It comes with a separate trigger for multiple shots so as configured it will only do 1 at a time.
Question: Where is this Mfg'd? Anyone with extensive experience with this gun
Answer: The only nails I can find for this gun in south Florida is Passload full head nails ... My gun has fired close to 100 thousand nails and it’s never been rebuilt ! They don’t make them like this anymore

Product features

Estwing EFR2190 21º Full Head Framing Nailer

Since 1923, Estwing has taken pride in designing one of the world's most durable, comfortable, and attractive tools. Designed with the professional in mind, the EFR2190 comes equipped with all of the features and durability you need to get the job done - whether it's framing, sub-floors, roof decking, wood fencing, sheathing, or anything else that comes your way.

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