There are some tools that make every carpenter or DIY enthusiast’s job easier and there are some they just can’t live without. Framing nailers are one of those tools that everyone should have as they offer a specialized purpose that just can’t be accomplished with any other power tool.
Pneumatic framing nailers are second to none as they offer you amazing power fit to take on some of the most rigorous construction projects. When it comes to convenience, speed and precision, pneumatic nailers are the only one’s worth considering.
This review takes a much closer look at the Top 10 Pneumatic Framing Nailers in 2019 while detailing what exactly separates them from the rest.
| Image | Title | Brand | Rating | Check Best Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | NuMax SFR2190 21 Degree Framing Nailer | NuMax | 9.9 |  |
 | Hitachi NR90AES1 2-Inch to 3-1/2-Inch Plastic Collated Framing Nailer | Hitachi | 9.8 | |
 | Hitachi NR83A5 3-1/4" Plastic Collated Framing Nailer with Rafter Hook | Hitachi | 9.8 | |
 | BOSTITCH LPF21PL 21 Degree 3-1/4-Inch Low Profile Framing Nailer | Bostitch | 9.4 | |
 | Freeman PFR2190 21-Degree Full-Head Framing Nailer | Freeman | 9.4 | |
 | Valu-Air 9021C 21 Degree Full Round Head Framing Nailer 3-1/2 with Palm Nailer | Valu-Air | 9.3 | |
 | BOSTITCH N89C-1 Coil Framing Nailer | Bostitch | 9.3 | |
 | AeroPro 9021NS 21 Degree Framing Nailer 3-1/2" with Depth Adjustment | Aero-Pro | 9.3 | |
 | Grip-Rite GR150 1-1/2-Inch Multi Blow Joist Nailer | Gripe-Rite | 9.2 | |
 | Hitachi NR65AK2 1-1/2 Inch to 2-1/2 Inch Strap-Tite Fastening System Strip Framing Nailer | Hitachi | 9.1 | |
9.9/10
Pros
- Versatile, can be used for framing, fencing, sheathing and more
- Durable, made of die-cast aluminum
- Lightweight
- Features a finger depth adjustment
Cons
- Not the best for finish projects
The 21-degree NuMax pneumatic framing nailer is a multipurpose nailer that can be used for framing, fencing, roof/wall sheathing and wood box assembling. It comes with 21 degrees of shooting range and 360 degrees exhaust and finger depth adjustment.
NuMax is durable, sturdy and light in weight because it is made up of die-cast magnesium. The gun also features ergonomically designed comfortable grip that allows you to do an unlimited number of framing. For occasional or domestic users, the NuMax SFR2190 is considered as an effective and affordable choice.
9.8/10
Pros
- Simple tool-less depth adjustments
- Extremely durable
- Redesigned head guard makes disassembly faster
- Powerful
- Two step loading mechanism
Cons
- Requires more frequent reloading since plastic nails can't be packed as tight
Hitachi is a brand that speaks for itself and when buying the best pneumatic framing nailer, NR90AES1 is considered the best in terms of price, performance and durability. For disassembling, the gun features redesigned a head guard that is meant to save your time, energy; requiring less maintenance of your tools.
As an added feature, the gun comes with tool-less depth, so you don't need to put pressure on the compressor and a two-step loading mechanism that makes replenishment easy and uninterrupted. Unlike other nailers, the Hitachi NR90AES1 is less heavy but equally powerful and provides safe grip to the user to perform industrial projects with less fatigue and more comfort.
9.8/10
Pros
- More durable and reliable than the previous model
- Magazine capacity to 70 nails
- Features a selective actuation which makes more efficient changes between sequential and contact
- Easy to extract jammed nails with open nose design
- Depth adjustment without tools
Cons
- High price point
This pneumatic framing nailer is an advanced version of the original NR83A5, that includes the same mechanism, durability and reliability but with improved technology and efficiency. The new Hitachi NR83A5 comes with a loading capacity of 64-70 nails, a cylinder value drive system and selective actuation for change between sequential or contact nailing.
For heavy and lengthy projects, Hitachi NR83A5 features open nose design that allows you to extract the jammed nails easily, a tool-less depth drive adjustment and an ergonomic non-slip rubber grip that you can hold too without any fatigue or muscular pressure. All in all, if you are in search of a heavy duty, long lasting nailer gun, Hitachi NR83A5 it is.
9.4/10
Pros
- Can operate in small workspaces
- Features a flip switch for single drive to multiple drive modes
- Efficient and versatile
- Air filter prevents dust and debris from entering the engine
- Lasts longer than competitor models
Cons
- Higher price point
The Bostitch LPF21PL low profile framing nailer is ideal for small spaces and detailed projects. With great power, efficiency and versatility, it can shoot framing nails with 21-degrees plastic collated ranging from 2-3.5 inches. Powered by an air compressor, it features a tool-free selectable trigger for flip switch from single drive to multiple drive modes.
Most importantly it also features an internal air filter that keeps the harmful dust away from entering the engine, making the engine last longer than other framing nailers. Since it is designed to reach out to narrow spaces, cabinets and drawers, the machine is light in weight and the grip is over-moulded to give the user long hours of comfortable use.
9.4/10
Pros
- Quick task work with rapid-fire trigger
- Can be used on various types of surfaces
- Fewer jams and misfires
- Features interchangeable triggers
- Versatile, can be used with all types of nails
Cons
- Heavy
The Freeman PFR2190 is specially designed for wall sheathing, framing, wood box assembling, siding installations, fencing and subflooring. It comes with interchangeable triggers to between single or contact firing, a rapid-fire trigger for large projects and an adjustable depth to use this nailer on various surfaces.
Freeman PFR2190 is highly versatile and convenient, ensuring fewer jams and misfires. You can use it with all types of nails including 2 3/8, 3, 3 ½, straight and ring shanks with this nail gun. What becomes a problem with this gun is its bulky weight and inability to reach narrow and tight spaces
9.3/10
Pros
- Great price point
- Durable internal parts
- Features an single piece heat treated drive guard which is stronger
- Lightweight die-cast aluminum magazine
- Non-slip handle
Cons
- Louder than most
This is a heavy-duty framing, decking and general-purpose fastening machine that comes with a wide range of framing, sheathing applications for roofs, floors and walls.it consists of a single piece heat treated drive guide that gives stronger, durable and reliable internal parts than other nailers.
The Valu-Air 9021C pneumatic framing nailer is made up of a lightweight die-cast aluminum magazine that adds more life to the gun and an ergonomically designed non-slip grip handle that ensures comfort during long hours of nailing and framing. Valu-Air is great value for the price that will make you forget hammers and other alternatives.
9.3/10
Pros
- Can handle heavy-duty tasks with ease
- Lightweight magnesium design
- Has a magazine capacity of 300 nails
- Simple push button adjustable depth
- Exhaust easily adjusts keeping dust and debris from the engine
Cons
- Higher price than most
The Bostitch N89C-1 is a sturdy and powerful coil framing nailer made with a lightweight magnesium design to stand uneven and aggressive surfaces. With a magazine capacity of up to 300 nails, it features a powerful compressor that can shoot unlimited nails in a day and yet be capable of more.
BOSTITCH N89C-1also uses a patented push-button adjustable depth guide that allows you to set your desired nail depth so that you can perform your project with minimum downtime. The adjustable exhaust keeps dust and debris away from the engine making it last longer than other framing nailers.
9.3/10
Pros
- Lightweight
- Extended life with a heat-treated gas connector
- Smooth between sequential and bump-fire nailing
- Adjustments made without tools
- Minimal jamming with open nose design
Cons
- Magazine capacity of only 70 nails
The AeroPro 9021NS is a lightweight 21-degree nailer that holds a capacity of 70 plastic collated nails ranging between 2-3.5 inches. It comes with a heat-treated gas connector that extends its serving life and selective actuation that allows smooth change from sequential nailing to bump-fire without any hassle.
To handle different projects and nailing tasks, the tool-less adjustment feature is present that allows you to adjust the nail depth on different surfaces and material while the open nose design ensures nail jam cleaning in seconds.
9.2/10
Pros
- High regards with safety
- Works great with both plastic and paper collated joist nails
- Lightweight and portable
- Compact magazine
- Highly functional with a protruding nail head
Cons
- Upkeep is a must
Whether its quality, durability or safety, there isn't a feature that doesn't exist in the Grip-Rite GR150 pneumatic framing nailer. From multi-blow functionality to the protruding nail head and the compact magazine, everything in this framing nailer is worth the penny.
The gun works great on both paper and plastic collated joist nails, saving a lot of labour cost. Furthermore, while others claim their machines to be light in weight, the Grip-Rite GR150 is not only light but also compact to be used by women or frequently carry around.
9.1/10
Pros
- Compact design, can fit in tight spaces
- Accurate framing with sequential drive mechanism
- Can be used with 1 - 2.5 inch nails
- Multi-direction exhaust with air deflector that adjusts
- Double moulded handle
Cons
- Premium price tag
The Hitachi NR65AK2 framing nailer is a precision tool designed to fit into narrow spaces and unreachable spaces. It features an adjustable air deflector that gives multiple direction exhaustion. The sequential drive mechanism gives accurate nail framing and can be used for 1-2.5 inches nails.
The gun comes in two size magazines, however, to save time and energy, it is suggested that you buy the standard sized magazine. Although the machine weighs average, it has a double-moulded elastomer to ensure that your hands are not stressed while pressing the trigger and you can long hours of the job without any fatigue.
Conclusion
Be sure to drop us a comment below if you have anything else to add on the best pneumatic framing nailers this year and after you make your purchase, be sure to come back and tell us all about it.