A nail gun can install quarter round and leave invisible holes. This effect preserves the aesthetics of your home.
However, it can be hard to find a product that drives nails without breaking the delicate molding. In this article, you will learn how to choose the best nail gun for quarter round.
We’ve also included a detailed buying guide to help you inspect the key factors of a reliable product.
Whether you are a beginner or professional in quarter round projects, you will surely find a suitable nail gun for your home.
Last update on 2024-03-19 at 04:53 UTC-8 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Things to Consider Before Buying A Nail Gun For Quarter Round
Types Of Nail Guns
Cordless Nailer
This type of nailer runs on a battery that lasts an average of 1,000 shots on each charge.
The cordless design brings a high safety level because you and other family members won’t be tripping over the cord lying around the house.
The next benefit of this nailer is you can maintain the right balance when working with different angles.
This feature helps you drive the nail with the correct depth to keep the quarter round stable for a long time.
In short, cordless nailers are ideal for light, DIY quarter round projects. The design is also lightweight, so beginners can control the tool with ease.
Pneumatic Nailer
As the name suggests, you will need an air compressor to power this unit, with the compressor running on gas.
The pneumatic nailer is typically lighter than the cordless counterpart, weighing approximately 2 pounds.
However, it can be harder to maintain the quality because you will need to check various components at a time.
This type of nail gun is suitable for professionals or users who don’t mind an additional cost for an air compressor and fuel, as it will deliver a more constant power source for larger-scale projects.
Nail Gun Size
To choose the nail gun size, consider the material that you’re working with. Since the quarter round is usually made from wood, such as oak, plywood, or MDF, the thickness level may vary.
The nails need to be large enough to keep the quarter round stable but not too large that it breaks the material.
An 18-gauge nail gun is the best candidate. This size works with both 1.5-inch and 2-inch nails to penetrate all types of wood.
Plus, the nails will also be thinner than the regular type, giving almost invisible holes for such a delicate project like quarter round installation.
Firing Modes
A nail gun can have sequential or contact firing mode. Depending on your requirements, you can get products that let you switch between these two modes for versatile use.
With sequential firing mode, you will need to activate the controls one by one. Start by choosing the safety tip, aim the nail gun at the quarter round, then pull the trigger to fire a nail.
This mechanism is especially safe for beginners since you can observe the position of the nails on the quarter round carefully. The safety tip also prevents accidental firing that damages the molding.
Contact firing mode, on the other hand, allows you to fire nails continuously while pressing the safety tip on a stable surface.
The continuous firing shortens working time faster, but it is only suitable for experienced users.
Best Nail Guns For Quarter Round
NEU MASTER Cordless Brad Nailer – Best Overall
NEU MASTER is suitable for 18 gauge brad nails from 5/8” to 1-1/4”, which provides high convenience in working with various materials.
From a soft oak base to a hard plywood one, the nails can penetrate the quarter round with ease. The non-marring rubber nose helps you get a flawless finish.
>>> See The Latest Pricing for NEU MASTER <<<
Each unit is integrated with spiral-drive technology to maximize runtime and durability. This technology provides consistent power through a long working time.
If you’re looking to install the quarter round in a large area, then this feature will help you complete the job in one go.
As a cordless unit, NEU MASTER allows you to move around the house with ease. Plus, you won’t have to worry about an extra budget for fuel.
When you’re using this product, the ergonomic handle eliminates fatigue during time-consuming tasks. This handle helps you finish long projects at better efficiency without hand fatigue at the end of the day.
On the flip side, the charger sometimes doesn’t work on some first uses. The faulty design results in the battery not getting charged properly, so you’ll have to check the unit from time to time.
- 🔰【Spiral-Drive Technology And Cordless Design】With its spiral-drive technology, nail gun battery powered deliver more full-power shots than comparable corded tool without the hassle of using cord, gas and compressor. More Convenience, Higer Effeciency.
- 🔰【Up To 1100 Shots Per Full Charge】Stably powered by NEU MASTER 20V MAX rechargeable 2.0Ah Lithium-Ion battery which has passed 1000 charging cycle test, the cordless nail gun/staple gun can deliver up to 1100 full power shot per full charge.
- 🔰【2-in-1 Versatile Battery Nail gun/Staple gun】It drives 1/4'' crown staple from 5/8'' to 1'', and 18 gauge brad nail from 5/8'' to 1-1/4'', which makes the electric nailer/stapler ideal for fastening lightweight decoration trim, installing sheets of insulation, home repair while not recommended for quarter round installation or heavy duty construction projects.
Last update on 2024-03-19 at 04:53 UTC-8 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros
- 18 gauge brad nail from 5/8” to 1-1/4” compatibility to work with both soft and thick wood
- Rubber nose for a flawless finish
- Spiral-drive technology included to maximize efficiency
- Cordless design for clutter-free movements
- Ergonomic handle for sore arm prevention
Cons
- Faulty battery charger
Metabo HPT Pin Nailer Kit – Best For Beginners
This product stands out on the market with the automatic depth adjustment for various nail sizes. The category includes 5/8”, 3/4″, 1”, 1-3/16”, and 1-3/8″ lengths.
With this feature, you will find it easy to drive the nails into the desired depth. Newbies should have no worries when dealing with different surfaces and projects, thanks to this automatic function.
>>> See The Latest Pricing for Metabo HPT <<<
Metabo features a total weight of only 2 pounds, making it easy to navigate the nail gun when in operation.
This feature combines with the dual trigger to achieve a precise aim with ease, which novice framers will appreciate.
When you’re working with this unit, the no-mar tip on the nose protects the quarter round from unintended markings.
This feature helps beginners achieve a quality result without too much pausing to check the process.
However, the design has no hook, meaning you will need dedicated storage space. Placing the nail gun in between other tools exposes it to accidental damages, especially on the tip.
- AWARD: Rated the Pro Preferred Nailer for 9 years running (2014 - 2022) by Builder and Developer Magazine
- FASTENERS: 23-gauge headless pins with automatic adjustment for 5/8 In., 3/4 In., 1 In., 1-3/16 In. and 1-3/8 In. fastener lengths
- APPLICATIONS: Great for cabinets, paneling, small moldings and trim, glazing bead, craft work, and picture frame assembly
Last update on 2024-03-19 at 04:53 UTC-8 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros
- Automatic depth adjustment that helps users reach desired depth easily
- Lightweight design for easy navigation
- Dual trigger included for a precise aim
- A no-mar tip that supports a perfect finish
Cons
- Lack of hook to protect the nose tip
PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Cordless Brad Nailer Kit – Best For Convenience
Harsh climate conditions can degrade a nail gun’s quality. For example, high moisture levels can corrode the battery, or cold winter can freeze the parts inside.
PORTER-CABLE solves this problem by providing consistent power that withstands all climates.
>>> See The Latest Pricing for PORTER-CABLE <<<
The manufacturer enhances firing power with durable battery life, offering up to 1,300 shots per charge. This unit maintains nail firing even when the battery is low.
Once the product is operated, the tool-free settings make it quicker for you to change the speed according to the project’s requirements. Steady speed helps drive nails into thick materials.
Whenever you get jammed nails during the working process, use the built-in jam removal to restore the nail. This feature ensures you can finish the project smoothly.
But that’s not all to say about its convenience. To support you in different work conditions, PORTER-CABLE even includes dual LED lights to illuminate the workspace.
These lights also help you fix errors immediately for a perfect result.
The only minus point for this product is the bulge design. Since the bulge is located on the right side of the nail gun, it may leave accidental marks on the wall or floor when you’re working with different angles.
- 100% Battery Power Of The Cordless Brand Nailer Eliminates Need For Compressor, Hose Or Costly Gas Cartridges
- Motor Design Of 18 Gauge Brad Nailer Provides Consistent Firing Power Into Various Materials And Climate Conditions
- Multiple Tool-Free Settings Of The Battery Brad Nailer Provide Ease Of Use
Last update on 2024-03-18 at 19:15 UTC-8 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros
- Durable battery life for long working hours
- Consistent power including in low battery mode
- Corrosion proof battery for working in different climates
- Tool-free speed setting for easy switch to meet the user’s requirements
- Jam removal function for a smooth working process
- LED lights for workspace illumination and immediate error detection
Cons
- Faulty bulge design that may scratch the wall or floor
- Quite pricey
BOSTITCH Brad Nailer Gun – Best For Heavy-Duty Projects
With this BOSTITCH nail gun, you can utilize the sequential firing mode to have a precise aim. When combined with the 18 gauge design, this unit can get the perfect result in driving 2-inch nails in tough wood.
The best part is yet to come. The trigger system lets you convert from sequential to contact firing mode, which enhances flexibility in choosing the suitable mode for your quarter round.
>>> See The Latest Pricing for BOSTITCH <<<
Moreover, the Dial-A-Depth control supports the unit in driving the nails into the desired depth.
This flexibility is a real blessing for heavy-duty jobs requiring different nail sizes. You don’t have to invest in other gauge models or waste time switching to another nailer while working.
Each BOSTITCH unit comes with an ultra-quiet rear exhaust with a muffler. This feature directs air away from the nailing point, helping you maintain the correct balance and have a better aim.
When working with large projects for a long time, this quiet operation won’t annoy you.
Another benefit from this product is the nail lockout to prevent dry firing, meaning you won’t accidentally fire the nail gun.
The drawback for this unit lies in the lack of a jam indicator, so you will have to pause to check the overall unit whenever it stops firing nails.
- Oil-free operation of the electric brad nailer requires no regular maintenance and eliminates the risk of oil stains
- Selectable trigger system converts from sequential to contact operation
- Low nail lockout prevents dry firing
Last update on 2024-03-19 at 04:53 UTC-8 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros
- 2-inch nail compatibility to work with tough wood quarter round
- Easy controls to switch between sequential and contact firing mode
- Ultra-quiet rear exhaust available to maintain balance
- Nail lockout to prevent dry firing
- Depth control included
- Require little maintenance
Cons
- No jam indicator to support the smooth working process
PORTER-CABLE Pneumatic Nail Gun – Best For Budget
This PORTER-CABLE nailer is the cheapest candidate on our list, yet you can expect equally outstanding features like high-end products to assist you in quarter round installation.
This nail gun comes with easy depth-of-drive adjustments, a helpful function for users who are just starting out with DIY projects.
>>> See The Latest Pricing for PORTER-CABLE Pneumatic <<<
The adjustment setting gives you room to experiment with different depths to make your own quarter round installation.
While you’re working with this unit, choose any nailing angle that works best for you because the oil-free engine won’t cause accident stains when you tilt the nail gun.
Moreover, the rubber grip offers a comfortable hold, supporting a correct balance in getting a precise aim.
One factor to consider when using this product is it often jams with large nails. The manufacturer compensates for this flaw by including a jam removal function.
- Tool-free jam release mechanism for easy nail removal
- Rear exhaust to keep contaminates away from work
Last update on 2024-03-19 at 04:53 UTC-8 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros
- Cheap price
- Easy depth adjustment settings to suit the user’s requirements
- An oil-free engine that ensures the perfect finish
- A rubber grip included for a comfortable hold
- Jam release function included
Cons
- Frequent jams when working with large nails
Frequently Asked Questions
What Size Brad Nails For Quarter Round?
The 1-1/4” or 1-1/2” nails are best for quarter rounds because these sizes are thin enough to penetrate the wood without bending the material.
Can You Use 16 Gauge Nails For The Quarter Round?
It’s not recommended to use 16-gauge nails because this size is for the finish nailer, a type of nail gun that uses stronger force than the 18-gauge one. If you’re not careful, the force can ruin the delicate quarter round.
Is It Possible To Install Quarter Round Without A Nail Gun?
Yes, another method to install quarter round is by using a hammer. However, the nail gun makes the process easier, reduces the risk of damage, and guarantees the aesthetics for your house.
Do I Need A Nail Gun To Install A Quarter Round?
Amongst the methods to install quarter round, a nail gun is preferred because it brings various benefits. A nail gun provides precise aim, helps you get the necessary depth, and avoids ruining the quarter round.
As mentioned, quarter round installation needs an aesthetic finish. When the nail gun finishes the job, it leaves invisible holes, which meet this standard.
Can You Use 18 Gauge Nails For Quarter Round?
18 gauge nails are best for quarter round, thanks to the perfect finish with invisible holes. Plus, the force from 18-gauge nail guns is sufficient for the quarter round material.
Conclusion
After a close inspection on our top list, the best nail gun for quarter round goes to the NEU MASTER Cordless Brad Nailer.
This product ensures the perfect finish by offering the right nail driving force, along with the anti-marring tip. The handle is designed to give a comfortable working experience, eliminating sore arms.
When choosing nail guns for quarter round, the key factors lie in the type of nail gun, the size, and firing modes.
Choose the product based on the nail size you need for the quarter round material and how experienced you are with controlling the nail gun.