The idea of getting rid of the hose and compressor for your nailer is nothing new. Fuel cell nailers have been around for a while and lithium-ion nailers have made heads turn the past few years. The problem with leaving the hose behind is that no one has come up with a really compact solution. Grab an 18 gauge pneumatic brad nailer and hold it up to a fuel cell or lithium-ion model and you’ll think about waiting for something better. That day is here thanks to the Grex GC1850 Cordless Brad Nailer.
We first saw the Grex GC1850 at STAFDA back in November of 2015. What’s immediately noticeable is how much smaller the 18 gauge brad nailer is compared to its fuel cell and lithium-ion counterparts. So how is it powered? That’s the first question I wanted answered when I saw it.
The Grex Cordless Brad Nailer is a fuel cell finish nailer, but very different from other models on the market. It runs on a fuel cell that offers up to 1300 shots per cell and really doesn’t have much odor. There’s also no expiration date, so those of you who like to stock up will be able to without worrying about waste.
The battery concept is also completely different. Forget the Li-ion or Ni-cad battery packs. The Grex GC1850 18 Gauge Brad Nailer uses two standard alkaline AAA batteries rated for at least 50,000 shots before needing to be replaced.
There’s a bit of sticker shock to be expected with an MSRP of $499 (retail is running in the $440 range right now). Is it worth it?
Well, AA batteries are a lot cheaper to replace than li-ion packs for starters. You’ll get 10,000 – 12,000 shots out of each charge on a battery pack and 50,000 out of two AA’s. A 4-pack of Grex fuel cells will run $25 compared to about $30 for four of the other guy’s. You’ll also get about 300 more shots per fuel cell.
The short answer is yes, but it’ll take a little while for the investment to pay off. Price aside, the build quality looks very solid.
Grex GC1850 18 Gauge Brad Nailer Key Features
- Self-lubricating piston ring and cylinder
- All-metal body
- Safety nose with no-mar tip
- Dry fire lockout
- Depth of drive adjustment
Grex GC1850 18 Gauge Brad Nailer Specifications
- Power Source: Fuel cell and AAA batteries
- Fuel Cell Run Time: 1300 shots
- AAA Battery Run Time: 50,000 shots
- Nail Length: 5/8″ – 2″
- MSPR: $499
- Street Price: $438
