15 Gauge vs 16 Gauge Finish Nailers

By Robert Robillard on Tool News

15 Gauge vs 16 Gauge Nailers

How to Choose A Finish Nailer | What’s The difference?

When determining the difference between 15 gauge vs 16 gauge nailers, it’s important to know that the gauge of a nail refers to the diameter of the nail wire.

15 Gauge vs 16 Gauge | Rule Of Thumb

When asked what is the difference between 15 gauge vs 16 gauge nailers my rule of thumb is this:

If you’re working with thick, dense wood, or hanging doors you need a heavier 15 gauge nail. The 15 gauge finish nailer is ideal for heavier jobs. If you’re working with thin wood, delicate molding or want a smaller nail head to fill, then the 16 gauge nailer is the better option.

15 Gauge Nailer | Explained

A 15 gauge finish nailer has an angled feed type and will fire nails with a round head and has excellent holding power. A 15 gauge nail can easily split delicate moldings and will leave a much larger hole than a 16 gauge nail head. The 15g finish nailer also has more power, so it can easily blow apart or split small molding.

A 15-Guage Nailer is best used for:
• Door trim
• Hanging doors
• Casing

15 Gauge vs 16 Gauge Nailers

16 Gauge Nailer | Explained

A 16 gauge finish nailer doesn’t have quite as much holding power, leaves a smaller hole, and is better suited for more delicate, thinner trim. A 16-gauge nailer is best used for:

• Base molding
• Smaller bed moldings
• Trim
• Back bands, trim

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About the author

Robert Robillard

Carpenter / Remodeler / Editor

Rob Robillard is “The Concord Carpenter” Rob is a builder, general contractor, carpenter, woodworker, and editor of Concord Carpenter and ToolBoxBuzz As a General Contractor and carpenter, Rob owns and operates Concord Carpenter LLC. A full-service remodeling and construction company. Rob is a recognized leader in home building best practices and a source for how-to information for building professionals. On this website, Rob covers all aspects of home construction, building science, home improvement, woodworking, remodeling, and some of the best product and tool reviews. Rob is in charge of our Tool and Product Review series - Concord Carpenter Videos where we post all of our tool reviews and video tutorials. Rob approaches remodeling and building construction with a pragmatic and problem-solving approach. He enjoys using his knowledge and experience to help and educate building professionals as well as DIYers on best practices in the construction and remodeling industry. He's a strong advocate for "raising the bar" in the construction trades and promoting the trades to youth. #BeAMentor #Green2Great Craftsmanship, quality, and pride guide his journey on this channel The Concord Carpenter's motto: "Well done is better than well said!" : Read more about Rob

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