As we approach the end of the year, we’re showcasing some of our favorite tools that took home Pro Tool Innovation Awards in 2024. In the realm of nailers and compressors, there were quite a few stand-out tools to discuss. I’m taking a look back to highlight some of the most innovative tools in this category that you should consider adding to your 2025 arsenal.
Electric Air Compressors – DeWalt Xtreme Quiet 2-Stage Workshop Compressor
The DeWalt Xtreme Quiet 2-Stage workshop compressor is ideal for professionals who require a high level of air volume with low noise output. It delivers up to 5.0CFM at 90 PSI and can fill its tank with maximum pressure 200 PSI. As far as noise goes, it’s also ultra-quiet, running at 60.3dBA which is ideal for both indoor work and pneumatic jobs with noise restrictions. Additionally, its compact footprint makes storage easy, with the ability to store it either horizontally or vertically.
Price: $469
Cordless Finish Nailers – Milwaukee 2541-20 18-Gauge Compact Brad Nailer
If you’re looking for a compact, lightweight brad nailer that doesn’t need a hose, look no further than the Milwaukee M12 Fuel 18 Gauge Brad Nailer. Weighing in at just 4.6 pounds including the battery, it’s ideal for accessing tight areas and corners without sacrificing power. This cordless nailer delivers instantaneous firing when you pull the trigger, with no pneumatic hoses or air compressors required. The 2541 can fire up to 700 nails on a single charge using a 2.0Ah M12 battery.
Price: $249
Cordless Framing Nailers – DeWalt DCN920 20V Max 21° Plastic Framing Nailer
The DeWalt DCN920 cordless framing nailer has a flywheel that stays active for 6 seconds after releasing the trigger, creating virtually zero firing delay and addressing one of the biggest complaints from previous models. This is great for quick nailing work since it doesn’t require the tool to spin back up before firing another nail.
DeWalt actually offers two framing nailers with the same specs, the 21° DCN920 and a 30° Paper Tape Framing Nailer. Using a 5.0Ah battery, both allow you to install up to 530 square feet of subflooring on a single charge, or frame up to 100 feet of walls. These tools are lightweight substitutes for air nailers, delivering pneumatic performance without the hassle of hoses and compressors.
Price: $379
Duplex Framing Nailers – Milwaukee 2844-21 M18 Fuel Duplex Nailer
If you’re used to the feel of a pneumatic nailer, Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel Duplex Nailer replicates the experience and performance of air tools thanks to nitrogen air spring technology. It speeds up concrete framework assembly and other framing jobs, firing up to 4 nails per second.
The 2844 is compatible with Milwaukee’s proprietary Collated Duplex Nails, which come in two sizes: 8D and 16D. Using a 5.0Ah battery, this tool can sink up to 800 nails per charge. It also features convenience details we like to see in cordless nailers, including tool-free jam clearing and manual tool-free depth adjustment.
Price: $649
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