Cordless nailers can now match the power of gas without the hassle, costs and maintenance and they’re getting lighter too, says Jonathan Peters from HiKOKI Power Tools.
For years, gas-powered nailers were the default choice for tradespeople tackling first-fix applications, roofing and cladding. They’ve offered the portability and power needed to drive nails consistently, providing a viable alternative to the bulk and restrictions of pneumatic systems. But as technology moves forward, battery-powered alternatives are redefining what professionals expect from their tools.
Cordless nailers are now matching, and in many cases surpassing, the performance of their gas-powered counterparts – without the hassle of ongoing fuel costs, maintenance and downtime. It’s this combination of power, usability and efficiency that is making more tradespeople switch to battery-powered models.
Traditional gas nailers come with inherent costs and limitations. Fuel cells require constant replacement, adding a recurring expense to every job, while the combustion process leads to wear and tear – gas powered tools need frequent servicing. In colder weather, gas cartridges can freeze or misfire, leading to frustrating delays – something no roofer or carpenter wants when working to tight deadlines. Safety is another concern, as handling combustible fuel adds an extra layer of risk on-site.
These issues are not something you need to worry about with modern cordless nailers. HiKOKI’s Air Spring Drive System for instance, uses sealed compressed air to drive nails consistently and with zero ramp-up time. It’s a system that can deliver up to three nails per second, ensuring rapid progress on site, while also providing a consistent flush finish regardless of external conditions. Because there’s no combustion, these nailers run cleaner and quieter without the fumes or the risk of misfires in cold weather.
The removal of gas dependency also means these tools are always ready to go. There’s no downtime caused by warming up fuel cells or the frustration of running out of gas mid-task. For busy professionals, this reliability is invaluable, ensuring that productivity isn’t compromised by tool-related stoppages.
Beyond convenience, the financial benefits of switching to cordless nailers are clear. Without the need for fuel cells, running costs are significantly lower – HiKOKI estimates that, compared to gas-powered alternatives, users can reduce their operating expenses by up to 25% while driving up to 25% more nails. Less maintenance also means less downtime, ensuring that projects stay on schedule with fewer interruptions.
From a safety perspective, removing gas eliminates the risks associated with storing and handling flammable materials on-site. Cordless nailers also reduce noise pollution, contributing to a healthier working environment. Additionally, battery-powered nailers produce zero emissions, making them a more sustainable choice for environmentally conscious tradespeople looking to lower their carbon footprint.
Advancements in battery and motor technology mean today’s cordless nailers are more than just an alternative to gas – they are an upgrade. HiKOKI’s latest range of nailers includes the NR1890DCA 18V 30° Clipped Head Framing Nailer, designed for tough tasks but light enough for all-day use. It weighs 450g less than its predecessor, has a reinforced alloy magazine for added longevity and an integrated LED light so you can still be accurate even in low-light conditions.
The aggressive new nose design provides better grip for angled shots, preventing slippage and making skew nailing more precise. An intuitive control panel and high-speed driving – up to 2.7 nails per second – means you’ll speed through jobs without the delays associated with older gas-powered models.
For second-fix applications, the NT1865DAA 15Ga Finish Nailer and NT1865DSA 16Ga Finish Nailer provide the precision and speed required for fine joinery and finishing work. Their slim nose design improves visibility, leaving a clean finish. These models can drive nails up to 65mm, and with the Air Spring Drive System, they offer consistent power without the need for gas or hoses.
The NV1845DA Coil Nailer is a high-output model designed for demanding tasks. Capable of driving up to 45mm nails, this versatile nailer is resistant to dust and tar, so it stays reliable even in harsh conditions. Suitable for applications including fencing, roofing, siding and window installation, it’s a true multi-purpose tool that reduces the need for multiple nailers on-site.
We have already had some fantastic feedback on these new tools; Dave Finnegan (well known on social media as Elwood Enterprises) has road tested the first-fix nailer and says “it is powerful, reliable and light enough to use all day, every day.” This is so important on site – repetitive jobs with a heavy tool can leave the user exhausted and unable to finish jobs or work efficiently.
For tradespeople still relying on gas-powered nailers, the benefits of switching to cordless are clear. HiKOKI’s latest battery-powered models deliver the power, speed and reliability needed for professional work while offering significant cost savings, reduced maintenance, improved safety and lighter weight. With no gas, no hoses and no emissions, cordless technology isn’t just an alternative – it’s the future of nailing.
For more information visit www.hikoki-powertools.co.uk/.
