The Ridgid Headless Pin Nailer Displays Excellent Driving Power With Zero Ramp-Up
Pros know that nothing outshines a pin nailer when it comes to installing small trim pieces or fastening delicate materials. There’s no need to fill nail holes, less touch up required, and you lower the risks of damaging the work surface. The Ridgid 18V Headless Pin Nailer makes a compelling case for ditching the traditional air hose and compressor, but is it the best option for you? Let’s find out!
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Narrow nose design
- Zero firing delay
- Easy depth adjustment
- Dry-fire lockout
Cons
- No significant drawbacks
Ridgid Headless Pin Nailer Performance
- Magazine Capacity: 120 nails
- Gauge: 23-gauge
- Pin Length: 1/2 in. – 1-3/8 in.
The Ridgid pin nailer holds up to 120 23-gauge nails ranging in length from 1/2-inch up to 1-3/8 inches. Ridgid tells us you can expect up to 1,875 nails per charge with a 2.0Ah battery! The magazine is very easy to load, and a small viewing window lets you know when you’re running low on nails. There’s also a dry-fire lockout to prevent potential damage to the firing mechanism.
We’re happy to report that this nailer has zero ramp up or firing delay thanks to Ridgid’s Clean Drive Technology, similar to its pneumatic counterpart. Speaking of firing, this headless pin nailer performed flawlessly during our testing. It drove nails with confidence, even in hardwoods like Oak and Poplar.
The depth adjustment is very easy to use and gives you a lot of options. In fact, the thumbwheel has roughly 35 points of adjustment. The wheel turns easily between each one and seats confidently. It’s not too hard on your thumb and gives you clearly defined depth positions
As for accuracy, it’s pretty spot on. The nail shoots out about 1/8 of an inch above the no-mar tip, so we suggest you practice on a piece of scrap wood before getting started. My only complaint is the placement of the LED work light. When illuminated, it casts a large shadow where the no-mar pad comes in contact with the work surface. It’s not a huge deal, but perhaps adding a top mounted LED light could solve the issue.
Ridgid Headless Pin Nailer Design Notes
- Model: Ridgid R09898
- Power Source: Ridgid 18V battery
- Weight: 3.5 lbs (bare), 4.4 lbs (with 2.0Ah Max Output battery)
- Height: 7.7 in.
- Length: 9.3 in.
This cordless pin nailer weighs in at 3.5 pounds as a bare tool and 4.4 pounds when you add a 2.0Ah battery. The head measures 9.3 inches from end to end, and it stands 7.7 inches tall. Thanks to the flat battery base, you can also set it down without it tipping over.
The biggest difference you’ll find is there isn’t a nose safety like we see on most nailers, but that’s common with pin nailers. Instead, Ridgid uses a dual trigger system—one you hold down to activate the tool and one to fire the nailer. This helps prevent it from accidentally firing during transport.
We haven’t had any jams yet. However, you need a hex wrench to access the head if you have one. It stores on the right side of the magazine so you have it when you need it.
Additional Features
- Spare no-mar tip
- Compatible with all Ridgid 18V batteries
- Reversible belt hook
Ridgid Headless Pin Nailer Price
This cordless pinner retails for $219 as a bare tool and $259 as a kit. The kit includes a standard Ridgid 18V battery and a single port charger. Ridgid backs this pin nailer with their Lifetime Service Agreement, so be sure to register your tool within 90 days of purchase.
The Bottom Line
With a large nail range, dual-trigger safety, and plenty of power, the Ridgid 18V Headless Pin Nailer makes a pretty strong case for itself. Its lightweight, compact profile is easy to maneuver in tight spaces, especially without an air hose getting in the way. Overall, this is a great option if you’re a woodworking Pro looking to retire your pneumatic pinner, or even a hobbyist who’s just getting started.
