13 best finishing nails

Finishing nails are a type of fastener used in woodworking and carpentry for a variety of applications. They are designed to be discreet and leave a minimal visible mark on the surface they are driven into. Here's what you need to know about finishing nails:

  1. Design and Construction:

    • Finishing nails are typically small, slender nails with a small, rounded head. The head is designed to be barely noticeable when driven below the surface of the wood.
    • These nails are usually made of steel or stainless steel to provide strength and corrosion resistance.
  2. Common Uses:

    • Woodworking: Finishing nails are commonly used in woodworking projects for tasks such as attaching trim, moldings, baseboards, and other decorative elements.
    • Carpentry: Carpenters use finishing nails to join wooden pieces together, particularly in situations where the nail heads need to be hidden for aesthetic reasons.
    • Interior Finishing: They are often employed in interior finishing work, including installing doors, window casings, and crown moldings.
    • Cabinetry: Finishing nails are used to assemble and secure wooden cabinets and drawers.
  3. Sizes and Lengths:

    • Finishing nails come in various sizes and lengths, typically ranging from 1 inch to 4 inches or more.The choice of nail length depends on the thickness of the wood and the specific application.
  4. Installation:

    • These nails are driven into wood using a hammer, nail gun, or pneumatic nailer.
    • To achieve a clean finish, the nail head is driven slightly below the surface of the wood, and the resulting hole is often filled with wood putty or filler before sanding and painting or staining.
  5. Collated Finishing Nails:

    • In industrial and construction settings, collated finishing nails are available. These are nails that are held together in strips or coils, making them compatible with nail guns and allowing for quicker and more efficient installation.
  6. Finishing Touch:

    • The name "finishing nails" reflects their primary purpose, which is to provide a polished, finished appearance to woodworking and carpentry projects. They create a clean, unobtrusive fastening solution.
  7. Alternatives:

    • While finishing nails are popular for their inconspicuous appearance, other fasteners like brad nails and pin nails are also used in similar applications, each with its own set of characteristics and advantages.

In summary, finishing nails are a fundamental component in woodworking and carpentry, valued for their ability to securely fasten wood pieces while maintaining a clean and unobtrusive finish. They come in various sizes and are used in a wide range of interior and decorative applications, often concealed beneath the surface of the wood for a professional appearance.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best finishing nails on the market
  

Hillman 592301 Polished Finishing Nails (6D x 2") - 60 Pieces, Silver

Based on 301 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Finish nails are used for attaching trim and fine woodwork. The cupped head countersinks when driven into trim, giving a more finished look.

From the Manufacturer

Finish nails are used for attaching trim and fine woodwork. The cupped head countersinks when driven into trim, giving a more finished look.

  • Common applications include interior trim and finishing work
  • Smooth shank and small head design make countersinking, filling and finishing easy
  • Polished finish offers a decorative appearance
  • Using a driver can reduce the risk of damage to your surface
  • Do not use in treated lumber or where corrosion is a concern

User questions & answers

Question: Picture shows 5 packs in the box. Are there 60x5 nails total
Answer: 2 inches
Question: How long are these nails
Answer: Stainless steel
Question: Are these stainless steed or galvanized? Thank you
Answer: Yes, 12 coils total makes up the 3,600 count.

The Hillman Group 532584 Finish Nails 3D, 1-1/4-Inch, 90-Pack

Based on 54 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Small diameter nail and cupped head make countersinking, filling and finishing easy. Often used in the construction of interior projects. These might include moldings, wainscoting, millwork, furniture, cabinets and paneling. They are also very useful for small projects, such as wooden jewelry boxes.

  • Use for trim and fine finishing work
  • Polished finish
  • Smooth-shank design
  • Package Dimensions: 8.89 L x 2.286 H x 3.81 W (centimeters)

User questions & answers

Question: How many per package
Answer: I don't know the exact amount, however, it is the same amount as the container you would find at the hardware or grocery store. I would guess there is about 100

PRIME-LINE Nail Assortment Kit. Plastic Compartment Box Includes Common, Finishing, Brad & Picture Hanging Nails. Zinc Finish. (550 Count), 9220077

Prime-Line

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Do you need a variety of nails for projects around the house? This is an assoretment of nails for the average homeowner. Each set includes common, finishing, brad and picture hanging nails. The nails are have a zinc fiinsh. The sizes contianed in each kit are 3/4 in, 1 in, and 1-1/2 in common or picture hangning nails. Sizes for the brad and finish nails are 5/8 in, 1 in, 1-1/4 in and 1-1/2 in. A hammer will be required for all nails and a nail set will be required for the finishing and brad nails. Keep a set on hand in your tool box or junk drawer, and be ready .

  • Typically used for hanging pictures
  • Can be used for finish woodworking projects
  • Each kit contains 130 5/8 in. finished nails, 60 1 in. finished nails, 30 ea. 1-1/4 in and 1-1/2 in. finished nails and 150 3/4 in. common nails, 100 1 in. common nails and 50 1-1/2 in. common nails
  • Constructed of steel with a zinc coated finish

DEWALT Finish Nails, 1-1/2-Inch, 16GA, 2500-Pack (DCS16150)

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

DEWALT DCS16150 1-1/2-Inch by 16 Gauge Finish Nail (2,500 per Box)

From the Manufacturer

The DeWalt DCS16150 1-1/2-Inch by 16 Gauge Finish Nail are manufactured out of cold-worked carbon steel and galvanized in a "hot-dip" process, which ensures that each nail will resist rust and moisture. These 1-1/2-inch 16 gauge nails are ideal for finish work and are packaged in quantities of 2,500.

  • Consistent drivability for applications
  • Box contains 2,500 durable and reliable nails
  • For Indoor Use
  • Each nail resists rust and moisture process
  • Ideal for finish work

User questions & answers

Question: will the Dewalt 1-1/2" nails work in my campbell hausfeld NB005001 brad nailer
Answer: No. Absolutely will not work because of different nail gauges. Susan, your Campbell Hausfeld NB005001 Brad Nailer uses 18 gauge brads. Your gun brads must always be 18 gauge THICKNESS of brad is quoted as GUAGE - - the LENGTH of your 18 guage brads is quoted as INCHES. Therefore your purchases for examples, should ALWAYS be 18 GUAGE by 1-1/2 Inches - or - 18 GUAGE by 1-Inch for shorter length brads.
Question: will these nails work with the porter cable 16 gage nail gun
Answer: Yes. Any 16ga nails will work with your porter cable gun.
Question: What nails fit my Craftsman 351 18314 finish air nailer
Answer: That depends on the gauge of the nailer. Generally 16 or 18 gauge.
Question: Will these finish nails work in my Dewalt D51257 Finish nailer
Answer: I do not have a Dewalt D51257 finish nailer but it will work in a Dewalt D51257K model. do you have a manual on your model? Sorry I could not help you on this.

Hard-to-Find Fastener 014973212049 Smooth Finishing Nails, 8D-2-1/2, Piece-235

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

We stock a wide variety of fasteners ideal for many applications arround the home, farm, business, automotives, and in industry. Most of our fasteners have a light zinc plating over steel giving a more rust resistant finsh. We also sell coated and stainless products for additional rust resistance. We stock many grades of fasteners ranging from low carbon steel on up to hardened, heat treated steel. Not all fasteners are applicable for all applications so be certain to test thouroughly and get the opinion of a licensed building or certified building or structural engineer before relying on these fasteners for any situations where failure would result in damage to property or person.

  • Diameter: 12 gauge
  • Length: 2-1/2 inches
  • Material: Steel
  • Nominal Size: 8D
  • Style: Smooth Finishing

Paslode, Finishing Nail, 20 Degree Angled Galvanized, 16 Gauge, 2,000 per Box, 2 inch

Based on 87 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Paslode finishing nails are designed to work hand-in-hand with our finish nailers. With a 16 gauge size to create smaller holes and a chisel point to help prevent splitting in expensive trim woods, these finish nails do the job precisely every time.

From the Manufacturer

Paslode 2" 16 Gauge Angled Finish Nail is for use with Paslode's Cordless IM250A 16 Gauge Finish Nailer (#900600) or Pneumatic T250A 16 Gauge Finish Nailer (#500910). The high quality Paslode 2" finish nail ensures consistent drivability. Uses include: door jambs, base shoe, baseboard molding, chair rails, paneling, crown molding, cabinetry and much more. 2,000 ct

  • Durability - We have galvanized our finishing nails to resist superior corrosion once placed in trimming woods
  • Efficient - We have implemented a chisel point that helps reduce wood splitting in expensive trim woods, making the job more efficient for you
  • Less Downtime - Precision of nail strip collation helps reduces nailer jams and misfires to prevent downtime
  • Performance - Stronger and stiffer 16 Ga nail ensures consistent drivability
  • Precision and Appearance - Smaller 16 Ga nail hole is ideal for reducing appearance in finish work; small head for countersinking

User questions & answers

Question: Are these nails galvanized
Answer: Yes, these nails are galvanized.
Question: Are these ring shanked for good holding power
Answer: These are trim nails and are not ring shank
Question: Are they 20 degrees nails
Answer: Yes, these are 20 degree nails.
Question: Does it come with small fuel canister
Answer: This product does not include a fuel canister.

National Hardware N278-523 V7712 Wire Brad in Bright

Based on 119 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Used for small projects around the house. Finishing type nail that has a small head so it can be used as a fastener. Available in many different sizes and gauges. Wire brads are available in a bright or galvanized finish. Steel material.

From the Manufacturer

Used for small projects around the house. Finishing type nail that has a small head so it can be used as a fastener. Available in many different sizes and gauges. Wire brads are available in a bright or galvanized finish. LifeSpan Limited Lifetime Warranty.

  • Used for small projects around the house
  • Finishing type nail that has a small head so it can be used as a fastener
  • Available in many different sizes and gauges
  • Wire brads are available in a bright or galvanized finish
  • Steel material

User questions & answers

Question: Do i have to use a nail gun
Answer: No. A small hammer works fine.
Question: How many nails come in a pack
Answer: Hi, I'm sorry I not sure.
Question: Approximately how many nails are in the package
Answer: Approximately 150.

National Hardware N278-572 V7712 Wire Brad in Galvanized,3/4" x 18 Ga

Based on 57 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Used for small projects around the house. Finishing type nail that has a small head so it can be used as a fastener. Available in many different sizes and gauges. Wire brads are available in a bright or galvanized finish. Steel material.

From the Manufacturer

Used for small projects around the house. Finishing type nail that has a small head so it can be used as a fastener. Available in many different sizes and gauges. Wire brads are available in a bright or galvanized finish. LifeSpan Limited Lifetime Warranty.

  • Used for small projects around the house
  • Finishing type nail that has a small head so it can be used as a fastener
  • Available in many different sizes and gauges
  • Wire brads are available in a bright or galvanized finish
  • Steel material
  • Used for small projects around the house
  • Finishing type nail that has a small head so it can be used as a fastener

User questions & answers

Question: How many come in a pack
Answer: Sorry I do not have the patience to count all of them But My guestimate is from 150-200 maybe more. They are very small. I don't think you could pound them all in one at ta time and be done in less than an hour or so. Happy Pounding. Also take note on the ones I marked used it is for 2 packages not just one. Just me yvonne.
Question: how many nails come in the $4.84 pack
Answer: 264 brads.
Question: How many finish nails come in an order
Answer: approximately 486 brads per package.

The Hillman Group 41806 Panel Nail, 1-Inch, White

Based on 163 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Hillman has served North America as the leading provider of complete hardware solutions delivering the industry’s best customer service and support. Hillman provides innovative solutions for complex projects that deliver superior performance while simplifying the shopping experience. Hillman delivers tools to guide and educate professionals and DIYers through all phases of a project, from inspiration to planning, from selection to purchase and from installation to completion. Hillman shows the way.

From the Manufacturer

Used to attach panel board or other applications to indoor materials such as drywall. Painted in variety of color to blend in to the surface of the panel. Available in many lengths for your home improvement project.

  • To hang paneling, various craft applications or home improvement project
  • Available two point types for wood or metal applications
  • Size: 1 inch
  • The Package Weight Of The Product Is 0.4 Pounds

User questions & answers

Question: What size is the pack (quantity and weight
Answer: there are 6 oz
Question: What gauge are these
Answer: 16 gauge x 1 inch
Question: are they rust proof
Answer: Not sure, however they are mainly designed/intended for indoor paneling.
Question: How many come in a package
Answer: The package is 6 oz and contains approximately 375 nails.

ARROW 160451 Utility Nail/Brad Assortment, 485 Piece

Arrow

Based on 380 reviews Check latest price

Product description

485 piece Utility Nail/Brad Assortment kit. The nails and brads combo pack is great to have in the home or office, the reusable plastic case has dividers to keep assorted parts organized. This combo pack contains 7 different types of nails perfect for use on variety of small projects and repairs. Steel construction Zinc-plated.

  • High Value Combo Pack, Steel construction Zinc-plated, Reusable plastic case
  • Wire Bradhangers: 17 gauge x 3/4 inch (75), 18 gauge x 3/4 inch (125), Wire Brad: 16 gauge X 1-1/2 inch (70)
  • Wire Nailhangers: 17 gauge x 1 inch (50), 19 gauge x 3/4 inch (50), Wire Nail: 16 gauge x 1-1/4 inch (40),
  • Escutcheon Pins: 18 gauge X 3/4 inch (50)

User questions & answers

Question: Are there 4d finish nails and how long are the finish nails
Answer: The pack contains the following: High Value Combo Pack, Steel construction Zinc-plated, Reusable plastic caseWire Bradhangers: 17 gauge x 3/4 inch (75), 18 gauge x 3/4 inch (125), Wire Brad: 16 gauge X 1-1/2 inch (70)Wire Nailhangers: 17 gauge x 1 inch (50), 19 gauge x 3/4 inch (50), Wire Nail: 16 gauge x 1-1/4 inch (40),Escutcheon Pins: 18 gauge X 3/4 inch (50)Thanks!CherylFlying Bulldogs

DEWALT DCS16200 2-Inch by 16 Gauge Finish Nail (2,500 per Box)

Based on 667 reviews Check latest price

Product description

DEWALT DCS16200 2-Inch by 16 Gauge Finish Nail (2,500 per Box)

From the Manufacturer

The DeWalt DCS16200 2-Inch by 16 Gauge Finish Nail are manufactured out of cold-worked carbon steel and galvanized in a "hot-dip" process, which ensures that each nail will resist rust and moisture. Ideal for finish work, these 2-inch 16 gauge nails are packaged in quantities of 2,500.

  • Durable and reliable
  • Consistent drivability for applications
  • Ideal for finish work
  • Comes in a box of 2,500
  • Each nail will resist rust and moisture

User questions & answers

Question: Will this nail use for bostitch 20v max 2.0 ah 16ga straight finish nailer bcn662d
Answer: The BCN662D1 requires fastners Fastener Length: 1-1/4" to 2-1/2" Fastener Type / Gauge:: 16 Gauge Finish Yes, the DCS16200 will work
Question: Can these be used for nailing pickets to stringers when building a fence
Answer: I would say so. Just back the stringer with a little force so the nail sinks completely. I would also nail in a triangular pattern.
Question: Can this nail penetrate 18 gauge steel framing
Answer: I have never used it for metal but I have nailed oak an 1 1/2 thick and popular, I could only guess at it, and I believe it would, but that is a guess not facts.
Question: Will this work with the ryobi p325 cordless finish nailer
Answer: I've never used that nail gun but yes they should work fine.The gun doesn't specify a brand of nail just that they are 16ga (diameter of the nail) and straight (as apposed to angled)

CRAFTSMAN Finish Nails, 16GA Straight Project Pack (CMFN16PP)

Based on 201 reviews Check latest price

Product description

16 GA Straight Finish Nail Project Pack is designed for indoor use only, with nailing projects such as small trim, shoe molding, and baseboards.

  • 16 gauge finish nails are perfect for small trim, shoe molding, and baseboards
  • These CRAFTSMAN finish nails are for indoor use only
  • Includes 300 each 1-1/4-inch, 2-inch, and 2-1/2-inch 16 GA straight finish nails for all of your project needs

User questions & answers

Question: Need 16gauge 1in. Nails for nail gun. Can I get them
Answer: It depends on your nail gun but they work in my Bostitch SB-1664FN

Metabo HPT 24201SHPT 1-1/4" x 15 Gauge Galvanized Angled Finish Nails For NT65MA4 | NT65GAP9 | NT1865DMA | 1000 Count

Based on 207 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Metabo HPT (formerly known as Hitachi power tools) offers an extensive line of professional grade power tools and accessories for woodworking, metalworking, drilling and fastening, concrete drilling and cutting, outdoor power equipment products as well as a complete line of pneumatic nailers, staplers, compressors and collated fasteners.

  • Same tools. New name. Hitachi power tools has renamed to Metabo HPT
  • 1-1/4" X 15 gauge galvanized angled finish nails
  • For NT65MA4 | NT65GAP9 | NT1865DMA
  • 1000 Count

User questions & answers

Question: Diameter of head
Answer: 15 Gauge is the size of the nail, aka diameter
Question: are these hot dip galvanized or electrode galvanized
Answer: Electrogalvanized
Question: Does this work on the finish nailer
Answer: Yes it will work. Check your nail gun to see what sizes it will take.
Question: are these "DA" style
Answer: If you mean will they work in a finish nailer that will either set one nail with one pull of the trigger or will set a nail each time the nose is pushed against the work piece then yes, they are the DA style

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