DEWALT 21-Degree Cordless Framing Nailer Tool Review
"DEWALT is giving framing nailer a whole new name with this cordless addition."
WHATS INCLUDED
The DEWALT Framing Nailer comes packaged with the 20-Volt MAX Lithium-Ion 21-Degree Cordless Framing Nailer, a DEWALT 20-Volt battery, battery charger and DEWALT carrying bag. I love tool kits that come with a carrying case, especially for traveling.
TESTING THE DEWALT CORDLESS FRAMING NAILER
This DEWALT Framing nailer is for sure a beast. I haven't had too many experiences with framing nailers; I've used one other framing nailer that was powered by an air compressor, but I must say this nailer is no tool to play with.
The nailer looks really big but I was surprised how light it felt. It does have some weight, but it was a lot lighter than what I expected and on top of that, this framing nailer is super durable. Dropping this thing would barely make a dent; this would definitely be a good tool for a job site.
I used 3" framing nails to drive into the back of my deck and the framing nailer drove them in with a lot of force. At first, when I used the nailer, the nails weren't going in completely all the way, but then I realized I was in mode 1, so I switched to Mode 2, and I had no problems.
I also noticed that there was a stall release lever to reset the driver blade in the case of a jam, a feature I thought would come in handy.
FAVORITE FEATURES
DUAL MODES
The Dewalt Framing Nailer has two modes. An Efficiency Mode (1), that will drive nails up to 2" and Power Mode (2), which will drive nails up to 3 1/2". Mode 1 will give you more nails per charge, as it conserves the battery but Mode 2 is where the powers at and will allow you to fire nails one after another quickly.
Dry Fire Lock-Out
The Dry Fire Lock-Out feature prevents the faming nailer from firing when the nails are low. I noticed this when I would get to the end of a nail strip and it would leave some there. I have experienced this with my brad nailer so I'm pretty used to this. I would think this helps nails from getting jammed in the gun, and I wouldn't want to get this beast jammed up, but if that were to happen at least there is an easy access to the nose piece for removing jammed nails.
High Strength Magazine
This DEWALT Framing nailer features a high strength aluminum magazine that has a pusher latch that is super easy and simple to use. It takes the pressure off those newbies who may not have that much experience with framing nailers.
Rafter Hook
I would be scared to just lay this thing down any type of way, so I was happy to see the adjustable rafter hook. So I can hang the nailer up instead of just laying on the ground each time. Im sure this small feature could prevent some pretty ugly accidents.
HOW IT COULD BE BETTER?
It seems as if this DEWALT Framing Nailer can only fit one whole stick of nails in it at once. It can fit more in there if you break the second stick in half but it would be nice if you could fit two whole stick of nails in it. I know that would mean extending the magazine which may not be possible and would add to the weight but I would love to see that kind of update to this DEWALT framing nailer.
The DEWALT 21-Degree Framing Nailer Kit retails for $399 at the Home Depot.
