Craftsman Cordless 23GA Pin Nailer Kit

The Craftsman Cordless 23GA Pin Nailer Kit (CMCN623C1) is a tool that I recently added to my collection, and it has quickly become indispensable for my woodworking projects. As someone who frequently works on finish carpentry and cabinetry, I was looking for a reliable, cordless pin nailer that could offer both convenience and performance. After using this tool extensively, I can confidently say it meets those criteria.

One of the first things that impressed me about this pin nailer is its brushless motor. The improved runtime and performance are immediately noticeable. Whether I’m driving 5/8" nails for delicate trim work or the longer 1-3/8" nails for more robust applications, the motor handles it all without a hitch. The consistent power output ensures that each nail is driven flush with the surface, which is crucial for achieving a professional finish.

The cordless nature of this nailer is a game-changer. No more fumbling with air hoses or worrying about finding a nearby power outlet. The freedom to move around the workspace unencumbered by cords is liberating, especially when working in tight or awkward spaces. The 20V MAX* Lithium-Ion battery provides ample power, and the 1.5Ah capacity is sufficient for most tasks. For longer projects, having a spare battery on hand ensures that I can keep working without interruption.

Ergonomically, the Craftsman pin nailer is well-designed. It’s lightweight at just 5 pounds, and the balance is excellent, reducing user fatigue during extended use. The handle is comfortable to grip, and the trigger mechanism is responsive, allowing for precise control over nail placement. The LED light is a thoughtful addition, illuminating the workspace and making it easier to see exactly where the nail will go, especially in dimly lit areas.

One of the standout features of this nailer is the tool-free jam release mechanism. Jams are an occasional inconvenience with any nailer, but being able to clear them quickly and without additional tools is a significant advantage. This feature saves time and reduces frustration, allowing me to maintain my workflow with minimal disruption.

However, the tool is not without its minor flaws. Adjusting the depth of fire requires an allen key, which is supplied with the nailer. While this isn’t a deal-breaker, it’s a bit inconvenient compared to other models that offer tool-free depth adjustment. I found that once I had the depth set to my liking, I rarely needed to adjust it again, so this issue is relatively minor in the grand scheme of things.

The performance of the pin nailer is generally excellent, but it’s worth noting that it seems to work best with specific brands of nails. I had the most success using Stanley and Porter Cable brand nails, while other brands occasionally caused jams or misfires. This is something to keep in mind when purchasing nails for the tool, as using the recommended brands will ensure optimal performance.

In terms of battery life, the nailer performs admirably. The 1.5Ah battery included in the kit is sufficient for most small to medium-sized projects. For more extensive work, I found that a 4Ah battery provided all-day power without needing a recharge. The charger included in the kit is efficient, and having a spare battery charged and ready to go is always a good practice to keep the workflow smooth.

One aspect that might be a concern for some users is the lack of a depth adjustment feature for countersinking nails. While the nailer does a good job of driving nails flush with the surface, it doesn’t offer the ability to countersink them. For most finish work, this isn’t a significant issue, but for specific applications where a countersink is required, you might need to manually adjust the nails afterward.

Overall, the Craftsman Cordless 23GA Pin Nailer Kit is a robust, reliable, and convenient tool that excels in delivering precise and consistent results. Its cordless design, brushless motor, and user-friendly features make it an excellent choice for both professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts.

Would I recommend this tool? Absolutely. The convenience of a cordless design combined with the performance of a brushless motor makes it a valuable addition to any toolkit. While it has a few minor drawbacks, such as the need for an allen key to adjust the depth of fire and the preference for specific brands of nails, these are relatively minor issues in light of the overall performance and ease of use. If you’re looking for a reliable pin nailer that offers both power and convenience, the Craftsman Cordless 23GA Pin Nailer Kit is a solid investment.