Craftsman Cordless Brad Nailer (18 Gauge)

After years of dealing with the hassle of compressors and hoses, I decided to try out a cordless brad nailer, and the Craftsman CMCN618B seemed like a solid choice. From the get-go, the convenience of not having to drag around bulky, noisy equipment was a game-changer. This tool promised to simplify my woodworking projects, and I was eager to see if it would live up to those expectations.

Initial Impressions

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the build quality. The Craftsman brad nailer feels robust and well-constructed. At 6.9 pounds, it’s not the lightest tool in the shed, but it strikes a balance between heft and maneuverability. The grip is comfortable, and the overall design feels ergonomic, which is crucial for extended use.

Setup and Getting Started

The setup was straightforward. Since I already own several Craftsman tools, I had compatible 20V MAX Lithium-Ion batteries on hand. Once I popped in a fully charged battery, loading the nails was a breeze. The tool accepts 18-gauge nails ranging from 5/8" to 2" in length, offering flexibility for various tasks. I appreciated the tool-free jam and stall settings, which promised easy maintenance.

Performance

The performance of this brad nailer exceeded my initial expectations. It claims to drive up to 420 nails per charge, and in my experience, it came pretty close, delivering consistent power throughout. I tackled a variety of projects, from installing baseboards to building a new set of shelves for my garage. The nailer handled each task with ease.

The firing power remained reliable, even in colder weather, which can sometimes be a challenge for battery-operated tools. I did notice that the tool operates more quietly than pneumatic nailers, which was a pleasant surprise. No more disturbing the entire neighborhood with the loud hiss of an air compressor!

Features and Usability

One feature I found particularly useful was the LED lights. They provided much-needed illumination in dimly lit areas, making precision nailing easier. The depth adjustment worked well, allowing me to set nails flush or slightly below the surface as needed. However, it’s worth noting that the nailer doesn’t notify you when you’re out of nails, so I had to develop a habit of checking the magazine regularly during large projects.

The belt hook was another thoughtful addition. It allowed me to keep the tool within easy reach without having to set it down repeatedly. This small convenience saved me a lot of time, especially when working on ladders or in tight spaces.

Battery Life

Battery life is always a concern with cordless tools, but the Craftsman brad nailer impressed me. I used a 4.0 Ah battery and found that it lasted through most of my projects without needing a recharge. When it did come time to recharge, the battery was ready to go in about an hour, which is fairly standard for 20V batteries.

Drawbacks

No tool is perfect, and the Craftsman brad nailer has its quirks. While overall performance was strong, I did encounter a few issues. Occasionally, the tool would experience false jams, where the LED light would blink as if there was a jam, even though there wasn’t. This required me to remove and reinsert the battery to reset the tool, which disrupted my workflow.

Another minor gripe is the size and weight. While the tool is designed to be portable, it can feel a bit heavy during extended use, especially when working overhead. If you’re planning to use this nailer for long periods, be prepared for some arm fatigue.

Durability and Reliability

After several months of use, I can confidently say that the Craftsman brad nailer has held up well. It’s been dropped, knocked around, and exposed to various weather conditions, yet it continues to perform reliably. The 3-year limited warranty offers some peace of mind, though I haven’t had to use it so far.

Versatility

The Craftsman brad nailer is versatile enough for a wide range of DIY projects. Whether you’re installing trim, building furniture, or tackling home repairs, this tool can handle it. The ability to use different nail lengths adds to its flexibility, making it a valuable addition to any tool collection.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Craftsman CMCN618B cordless brad nailer is a solid performer that brings the convenience of cordless operation without sacrificing power or reliability. While it has a few minor drawbacks, the benefits far outweigh them. The ease of use, consistent performance, and freedom from compressors and hoses make it a worthwhile investment for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the Craftsman brad nailer? Absolutely. If you’re tired of dealing with the hassle of pneumatic tools and want a reliable, powerful alternative, this nailer is a fantastic choice. It offers the performance you need for a variety of tasks while providing the convenience of cordless operation. Just be prepared for occasional false jams and the weight if you’re using it for extended periods. Overall, it’s a tool that has earned its place in my workshop and one that I believe will serve you well in yours.