Cordless nailers are becoming more popular. Most feature a gas fuel cell, a rechargeable battery, and eliminate the hassle of air hoses and compressors. Although cordless nailers won’t replace the traditional stick nailer, they are a good choice for smaller scale projects. If you’re on the fence about getting a cordless nailer, here are some things to think about before you buy.

Advantages of Cordless Nailers

• Convenience: You don’t have to haul a hose and compressor to and from jobsite.
• Safety: Safer to use on ladders and scaffolding where there is a chance to get tangled up with the air hose.
• Less Upfront Expense: With the cordless unit there is no more expensive equipment to purchase and maintain like the air compressor and hoses.
• Better Workflow: Jobs will no longer be stalled when waiting for the compressor to cycle. Air powered nailers will lose effectiveness when the compressor tank gets drained and the     operator must wait for the compressor to cycle in order to proceed with their task.
• Better Range of Movement: With no hose to worry about you can move freely and have unlimited range.

Disadvantages of Cordless Nailers

• Fuel Cell Cost: Gas charged nailers require disposable fuel cells, which add to the cost. Gas fuel cells vary in price from $11.99 to $24.99 and can drive approximately 1,200 nails.
• More Maintenance: Cordless nailers require more frequent and complex maintenance than a traditional pneumatic nailer. Up-keep on these units involves disassembly, oiling, and cleaning of the air filter, while a traditional air powered nailer simply needs to be lubricated.
• Expensive Nails: Brands such as Paslode recommend using their specific brand of nails. These boxes of nails are more expensive than generic brands.
• Battery Limitation: If the battery on the cordless nail gets drained the nailer is inoperable until charged. To limit interruptions you would have to purchase additional batteries.

There are positives and negatives when considering a gas charged cordless nailer. They are excellent for jobs that demand work with awkward angles. Purchasing fuel cells can get expensive but improved mobility and compact size justify the cost for some jobs. They’re also a good choice for someone who has an occasional need for a nailer and the huge investment in a compressor doesn’t make sense. Cordless nailers make projects like installing molding and overhead framing easier and quicker. Need a cordless nailer for an upcoming project? Check out toolbarn.com’s selection.

There are a few tools that every homeowner should have in their bag to perform basic repairs and maintenance. The 8 tools listed below will allow you to complete almost any basic task.

Cordless Drill/Driver
If you only buy one power tool, make it a cordless drill. Accessories like drill bits, hole saws, and  screwdriver bits make the drill very versatile. Cordless drills are run off rechargable batteries and eliminate the need for an extension cord. Drills are differentiated primarily by their voltage. If all you need to do is small projects like assembling furniture a 9.6 volt to 12 volt drill is suitable. On larger projects like drilling holes through wood, a 14.4 volt or larger drill will be needed. Keep in mind, higher voltage drills weigh more, but have more power and last longer.

Multi-Bit Screwdriver
A multi-bit screwdriver takes the place of the traditional screwdriver set. Most 5-in-1 screwdrivers contain Phillips bits, flat head bits and handy nut driver bits. Cheaper than a traditional set of screwdrivers, this tool also saves space in your tool bag. The 5-in-1 is perfect for most projects, but if specialty bits are needed combination screwdrivers up to 11-in-1 are available.

Hammer
One of the first tools invented, the hammer and is essential to any tool bag. A basic claw hammer can set and remove nails quickly. Heavier hammers are more effective at driving nails, but the additional weight makes them more difficult to use. Hammers are available with handles made of vibration absorbing wood or a more durable composite material. Weights can vary from 10 oz. to more than 20 oz. A 16 oz. hammer is ideal for projects like hanging pictures and removing old nails.

Adjustable Pliers
Adjustable pliers enable the user to tighten or grip objects of different size, shape, and thickness. Great for tightening those pesky toilet bolts or assembling furniture. These pliers come in sizes ranging from 6” to 20” in length depending on how large of objects need to be gripped.

Tape Measure
One of the most universal tools out there, the tape measure has thousands of applications. It’s a great reference tool when checking to see if a TV will fit on the wall or if a couch will fit through the doorway. Tape measures are available from 12′ to 30′ in length. A 20′ tape measure is a very popular size for the average consumer.

Hacksaw
The hacksaw is a multipurpose saw that can cut materials like metal, plastic and wood. Great for cutting off rusted nuts, drain pipes and other materials. Hacksaws come in full size and compact.

Bubble Level
When hanging something on a wall, a level will ensure that the object is straight. A standard three-bubble level can be used on a vertical, horizontal or 45-degree angle surface. Levels are available in lengths of 9” up to 12’. Longer levels will give a more accurate reading, but are difficult to keep steady on smaller surfaces.

Flashlight
In dimly lit places nothing comes in handy more than a flashlight. Newer models are equipped with L.E.D. bulbs that last longer and use less power. Flashlights are also available in combo kits with a drill that use the same batteries for convenience. New flashlights are much improved over the traditional design that was popular for so many years. These new designs feature longer run time, increased brightness and adjustable positioning.