Milwaukee FUEL 18 Gauge Brad Nailer 2740-21CT

By Robert Robillard on Tool Reviews

Depth of drive knob

Depth of Drive and Fastener Penetration

The depth of drive is easily adjust and straightforward to use by turning a thumb knob at the tools nose contact.

We installed approximately 1800 brads in this shop testing, including fastening ¾” Oak into blue board and 2×4 framing material, without a jam or any issues. The only time a fastener was not installed to the correct depth was when one of use failed to hold the nailer securely in contact with the nailing surface, [i.e, operator error].

Power Switch

The power switch is located on the lower rear area of the tools handle. This power button needs to be pressed for approximately 2-3 seconds to power on the tool. A safety feature that I appreciate.

An LED power indicator lights up and stay on the entire time the tool is connected to the battery, and in the “powered on mode.”

Power and actuation select

Power Actuation Setting

This brad nailer will operate in single sequential actuation, as well as contact [bump fire] actuation. Once powered on, there is a selector switch and LED light just above the slide pack battery, and stays on the entire time the tool is on. The indicator light tells you which mode the tool is set on:

  • Continuous solid green for single sequential actuation,
  • Continuous flashing green for contact actuation operation.

Milwaukee claims this nailer will fire 3 nails per second. I did not try to test this, as speed is far less important to me, than fastener placement [i.e, line of sight], accuracy and doing a good job!

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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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