Wise Buys: No-Hose Brad Nailers

 

DeWalt DC608

Weight: 7.4 lbs.
Brad capacity: 5/8" to 2-1/8"

Editor test-drive:
DeWalt's DC608 18-gauge, battery-operated bradder hadn't hit the market when we tested no-hose brad nailers for issue 180 (November 2007). But with those results fresh in my mind, I wholeheartedly recommend this tool. The 18-volt DC608 uses a flywheel drive mechanism to sink brads from 5/8" to 2" long in rapid-fire mode, just like a pneumatic unit, but with no stinky fuel cells.

I gave it a good workout installing red-elm trim with 2" brads. I quickly dialed in the right setting using its 12-position depth adjustment, and found I could return to it later without test firing. Its narrow tip and dual LED lights make pinpoint brad placement easy. After a full day of use (in a measure-cut-fit-and-nail sequence), the battery never ran dead. The DC608 has a low-charge indicator light to let you know when to swap batteries. It also features quick, toolless removal of jammed brads, a low-on-brads indicator magazine window, and a switch lockout for safety without removing the battery.
-- Tested by Jan Svec, Contributing Craftsman

To learn more:
800-433-9258; dewalt.com

Shop for this nailer on Amazon.com