Nailers
Best Nailer for Trim and Molding
Installing baseboard, crown molding, and door trim requires a nailer that sets brads flush without splitting. Here are the ones that get it right.
What You Need
An 18-gauge brad nailer, 1-1/4" to 2" brads, nail set, wood filler, safety glasses
Top Picks
Top Pick
#1
DeWalt DCN680B
$189
Why This Pick Wins
18-gauge brushless — drives 2" brads flush in hardwood without a compressor
#2
Ryobi P320
$99
Why This Pick Wins
18-gauge, 18V — best value for occasional trim jobs, works with One+ system
#3
Milwaukee 2746-20
$249
Why This Pick Wins
M18 Fuel, flush drive adjustment — sets nails to the exact depth every time
Pro Tips
- ✓ Test depth on a scrap piece first
- ✓ Nail near the top and bottom of baseboard — avoid the middle
- ✓ Pre-drill at the ends of trim to prevent splitting
- ✓ Use 1-1/4" brads for 3/4" trim, 2" for thicker stock
Compare tools side-by-side
Browse All Nailers →Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need for best nailer for trim and molding?
An 18-gauge brad nailer, 1-1/4" to 2" brads, nail set, wood filler, safety glasses
Tip 1 for nailers: Test depth on a scrap piece first
Test depth on a scrap piece first
Tip 2 for nailers: Nail near the top and bottom of baseboard
Nail near the top and bottom of baseboard — avoid the middle
Tip 3 for nailers: Pre-drill at the ends of trim to prevent splitting
Pre-drill at the ends of trim to prevent splitting
Tip 4 for nailers: Use 1-1/4" brads for 3/4" trim, 2" for thicker stock
Use 1-1/4" brads for 3/4" trim, 2" for thicker stock
Which nailers brand is best for for trim and molding?
For nailer for trim and molding, our top pick is the DeWalt DCN680B because 18-gauge brushless — drives 2" brads flush in hardwood without a compressor. See our full picks above for alternatives at different price points.