DeWalt Cordless Angled Finish Nailer

There's something liberating about breaking free from the constraints of cords and hoses when working on a finishing project. That's where the DeWalt DCN660B cordless angled finish nailer truly shines. As someone who has spent countless hours tethered to compressors and air hoses, the freedom this tool offers is genuinely refreshing.

Build and Design

First off, let's talk about the design. The DeWalt finish nailer feels robust right out of the box. It's evident that DeWalt has put thought into the build quality, and it stands up well to wear and tear on the job site. However, it does lean towards the heavier side, especially with the larger 5.0AH battery attached. This weight can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it gives the tool a solid, balanced feel that helps with precision. On the other, extended use can lead to some arm fatigue, particularly when working overhead.

The brushless motor is another highlight, providing both improved runtime and durability. I found that it significantly extends the battery life, allowing for longer work sessions without the constant need for recharging. Speaking of batteries, the DCN660B is compatible with all 20V MAX* batteries, making it easy to swap batteries between other DeWalt tools.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the DCN660B doesn't disappoint—most of the time. It offers plenty of power to drive nails consistently and precisely. The depth adjustment feature allows for accurate countersinking, although I did find myself occasionally turning the knob the wrong way. A clearer indicator for depth settings would be a useful addition. The selectable trigger is a nice touch, offering different actuation modes to suit various tasks.

However, the tool does have its limitations. It struggles with denser materials like hickory, which can result in nails not being driven fully. This is something to keep in mind if you frequently work with hardwoods. Misfires also occur intermittently, which can be frustrating during a large project. Clearing jams is relatively straightforward with the jam release mechanism, but it's an interruption that can slow down your workflow.

User Convenience

One of the standout features is the inline magazine, designed to fit into tight spaces. This is especially useful for trim work in corners and other hard-to-reach areas. The adjustable belt hook is convenient, though it does feel a bit awkward at times, particularly when working with more closed-off materials.

The LED lights are a thoughtful addition, providing illumination and diagnostics. While the lighting location could be improved, it's still a helpful feature for working in low-light conditions. The stall release lever is another practical feature, allowing for quick resets of the driver blade, which can save valuable time during a project.

Practical Use

In real-world applications, the DeWalt finish nailer excels in many areas. For installing baseboards and trim, the tool's performance is hard to beat. The bump fire mode is particularly impressive, allowing for fast, efficient nailing without marking the wood surfaces. It’s ideal for quick, repetitive tasks like installing baseboards throughout a house.

One thing to note is that the tool's performance can vary depending on the nails used. I had the best results with brand-name nails, experiencing fewer jams and more consistent performance. It's worth investing in quality nails to get the most out of this tool.

The Downsides

Despite its many strengths, the DCN660B is not without its flaws. The inconsistency in nail depth can be a persistent issue, which is a significant drawback for precision work. Additionally, the weight and bulkiness of the tool can make it less suitable for prolonged use or for projects that require a lot of overhead work.

Customer support from DeWalt also leaves something to be desired. If you encounter issues, be prepared for a potentially slow response time. This could be a concern for professionals who rely on quick resolutions to keep their projects on track.

Final Thoughts

All things considered, the DeWalt DCN660B cordless angled finish nailer is a solid addition to any tool collection, particularly for those who value the freedom of cordless operation. It’s well-built, powerful, and packed with features that make many finishing tasks easier and more efficient. However, its performance inconsistencies and weight may make it less ideal for certain applications.

Would I recommend this tool? Yes, but with some reservations. If you primarily work with softer woods and can handle the occasional misfire, this tool will serve you well. The convenience of cordless operation and the quality of build outweigh the drawbacks for many users. However, if you frequently work with dense hardwoods or require absolute precision, you might want to consider a more consistent option.

In the end, the DeWalt DCN660B is a versatile and powerful finish nailer that delivers on many fronts, but it’s not without its limitations. If you can work around its quirks, it’s a valuable tool that can make your finishing projects smoother and more efficient.