Hitachi Finish Combo Kit KNT50AB Review

Hitachi Finish 18-Gauge Brad Nailer, Model NT50AE2 and Pancake Compressor EC710S

Unless you are searching to replace either a compressor or pneumatic nailer, you more than likely are looking for a kit, mainly because it tends to offer a decent deal. Hitachi put together their Hitachi Finish Combo Kit KNT50AB into a kit listed as KNT50AB for $200.00 on Amazon, which includes:

EC710S Pancake Compressor
25’ Hybrid hose with fittings
safety glasses
nailer lubricant
NT50AE2 Brad Nailer

Not holding any punches here, whether you are a weekend warrior or professional the Hitachi Finish Combo Kit KNT50AB offers itself to both.

Hitachi EC710S Compressor

There really aren’t too many frills that come with compressors, I personally feel they are pretty straight forward as to what they are utilized for. The EC710S is a 6 gallon, offers 150 psi, single phase universal 1 horsepower, with a 12 amp/120 volt oil-less motor. At 38.5 pounds, it is not cumbersome, but is rugged, as one would expect for the jobsite. Hitachi put decent thought into the design, giving you fully rubberized pads covering what you would consider legs of the compressor, a roll cage/handle for the top to protect the motor, bright red control knobs that one could operate even with gloves on, and 2, ¼” quick connect/disconnect couplers. Add in the 25’ hybrid hose that already has the factory fittings installed, it’s as good as plug n’ play.

Hitachi NT50AE2 Brad Nailer

The NT50AE2 Brad Nailer, at first glance, is superbly light. Weighing in at 2.2 pounds, it’s almost baffling that it doesn’t crumble in your hands, it’s that light. Its grip is fully rubberized, the export of the air is multi-directional, the air intake is at an angle towards the rear, and a slightly large trigger. With its ¼” air inlet, operating pressure of 70-120 psi, and single/sequential actuation mechanism it comes as a great tool in a small package. This nailer offers a 100, 18 gauge nail capacity (5/8” to 2”), a tool-less easy to clear nose, and depth of drive dial. My only pitfall is it is not oil-less. This isn’t a complete deal breaker, as any nailer, just like a firearm, it should be maintained for safety and accuracy reasons. Will in use with various types of trim I found myself assessing a few malfunctions as far as nails go. I experienced about 6-8 jams with the 2” brad nails, but with the tool-less access to the nailer firing pin and of course switching to a slightly shorter brad, I was back in business in no time.

After using this for odds and ends around the house (i.e. reassembling a dresser drawer front, attaching thin trim to various openings) I found myself pleased with the results. Now, this compressor is what one would expect as a pancake compressor style.

Hitachi Pancake Compressor EC710S Specifications

Single Phase Universal Motor
1 Horsepower
12 Amp/120 Volt – Low Amp draw motor
17” x 18” x 22” Dimensions
6 gallon/ 150 PSI
2 – ¼” Fittings
Air Delivery 2.8 cfm @ 90 PSI
38.5 pounds
Oil-less
Brad Nailer Specifications:
70-120 PSI Operating pressure
10” x 9 3/16” x 2 3/8” Dimensions @ 2.2 pounds
100 nail capacity
5/8” – 2” straight 18 gauge brad nails
Single/Sequential Actuation mechanism
Tool-less/Easy clearing nose
Depth of drive dial
Oil Required

Final Thoughts

This kit as stated before offers itself to the weekend warrior who may be installing trim, inflating tires, or even balls. However professionals might find themselves looking at this set up as well. I would not find myself setting up a crew for framing, but having at least 2 professionals working on installing trim, minor framing, or other odds and ends. Add in a light weight pneumatic brad nailer, whether it be your first or making it your 2^nd or 3^rd nailer, for the price, this kit sells itself. The standard pancake compressor, is perfect for the tasks you assign it. The nailer, slim, light weight, while offering options of how you wish to have it fire (single or sequential),tackle tight spaces, various trim styles, all while giving you the ergonomics/comfort, of grip while also allowing you to keep sight of where and what you are nailing.

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About the author

Josh Bordenca

Carpenter / Remodeler / ACC Videographer

Josh has been a carpenter for twelve years. He began his carpentry career long before he even knew it. His grandfather, and uncle, had strong interests in carpentry and were a big influence on him growing up.In order to pay for college, Josh joined a small remodeling company and worked after school and weekends eventually earning a bachelor’s degree from Salem State University.After college, He continued working as a carpenter, perfecting his skills. Later on Josh joined a large general contracting company based out of Marblehead, Massachusetts. He began as a laborer and was quickly put on the finish carpentry team. Spending just over 6 years with this company, he worked on high-end homes, additions, and foundation to finish builds.Josh joined the Concord Carpenter crew in 2012. His passion for perfection and excellent finish carpentry skills are a great asset to the Concord Carpenter team. Josh takes pride in producing quality work, while expanding his knowledge and skill, all with a little country music in the background!

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