Among the growing category of cordless finish nailers, Hitachi now offers three new models: an 18-Gauge, 2-in. Cordless Brad Nailer (model NT1850DE), 16-Gauge, 2-1/2-in. Cordless Straight Finish Nailer (model NT1865DM) and a 15-Gauge, 2-1/2-in. Cordless Angled Finish Nailer (model the NT1865DMA).
This trio is powered by Hitachi’s new upgraded Compact 3.0Ah Lithium Ion battery; it has the same capacity as a conventional 3.0Ah lithium-ion battery, but it measures 3/4 in. shorter and weighs 0.6 lbs. less (compared to Hitachi battery model BSL1830). The batteries are also equipped with Hitachi’s Multiplex Protection Circuit to prevent overload, over-charge and over-discharge that further extends the lifetime of the battery. These new compact batteries are fully compatible with all Hitachi 18-volt lithium-ion slide type tools for more flexibility across Hitachi’s cordless line.
In addition to smaller, lighter batteries, these nailers feature Hitachi brushless motors that provide longer run time, less maintenance and increased durability. The driving system they employ is similar to Hitachi’s pneumatic line that uses compressed air to drive each nail. The result is a number of key benefits: zero ramp-up time between shots, increased shooting speed, recoil that feels like a pneumatic nailer, better flush driving — even at an angle — and fewer internal parts to maintain.
Other features include an on-tool battery charge indicator and tool-less depth-of-drive dial that can be adjusted to adapt to woods of varying density. A selective actuation switch provides either sequential mode or bump fire modes, and a tool-less nose latch makes jammed nails easier to clear. There’s also a narrow-profile, no-mar nose cap to protect work surfaces and a built-in LED light to brighten up the nailing area.
For added safety, Hitachi has added a power button located on the nailers’ control panel. When activated, the nailer is ready for use. It automatically shuts off power after 30 minutes of inactivity. A side-lock switch prevents accidental firing.
Soft-grip handles and pivoting belt hooks also come standard, as does a battery charger and soft carry case.
The NT1850DE Cordless 18-Gauge Brad Nailer ($339.97) accepts 5/8- to 2-in. fasteners to tackle trim work, furniture assembly and other finish applications. It is capable of driving up to 1,650 nails per charge and weighs 7.3 lbs. A visual nail reload indicator located on the magazine turns yellow when nail quantities are getting low to help the end user avoid dry-firing the tool.
Hitachi’s NT1865DM Cordless 16-Gauge Finish Nailer ($369.97) accepts 1- to 2-1/2-in. fasteners to install molding, chair rail, cabinetry and other finish applications. It is capable of driving up to 1,500 nails per charge and weighs 7.3 lbs. Dry-fire lock-out prevents nailer activation when the nail count is low.
The NT1865DMA Cordless 15-Gauge Angled Finish Nailer (also $369.97) accepts 1-1/4- to 2-1/2-in. angled fasteners to tackle almost any finish project. The 34° angled magazine allows the user to reach into corners or tight spaces with ease, and the 7.5-lb. gun will shoot up to 1,100 nails per charge. An open magazine allows fasteners to be easily viewed so that blank drives are avoided. This gun has dry-fire lock-out as well.
Hitachi Cordless Brushless Finish Nailers are covered by a lifetime warranty on the nailer, a 2-year battery warranty and a 1-year warranty on the charger. To watch a video that overviews these new nailers, click here.
