Best Nail Guns for Crown Mold Installation 

Installing crown molding is a precise job that requires the use of similarly suited tools. One such tool is getting yourself the best nail gun for crown molding installation. 

Unlike traditional hammers, a nail gun will ensure better trimming and nailing regardless of how narrow the space is. As a result, it will end up helping you save valuable time and make your construction operation easier. Specifically, it can allow you to put multiple nails in no time especially if the nailer has a fast refiling magazine and cylinder. 

On the downside, using an inappropriate nail gun may end up damaging your interior and expensive materials. And with so many options out there, chances of that happening are quite high. 

Don’t worry though! In this guide, I’ve reviewed some of the best nail guns available for crown molding installation to help narrow down your option. In addition, I’ve covered key factors you need to consider when buying one to make an informed decision. 

First, let’s get into the best 5 nail guns for crown molding in the market at the moment! 

5 Best Nail guns for Crown molding Reviews 

1. PORTER-CABLE PCC790LA Cordless Brad Nailer 

 
Considered the best cordless nail gun for crown molding, the PORTER-CABLE PCC790LA is a smart option for most small and mid-intensity home projects. 

It has many quality and adjustment features that make it simple to operate for both professional woodworkers and novice DIYers. Moreover, it’s equipped with a reliable motor and comes at an affordable price. 

Key Features 

• Powerful Lithium-Ion battery 

With this nailer gun, you don’t need an air compressor, hose, or gas cartridges. That’s because the device is battery-powered and even comes with a standard 20v Li-ion battery. This 4.0 AH battery is so powerful that it can fire up to 1300 2” brad nails per charge. 

• Multi-functional dual LED lights 

Another unique feature displayed by this nailer is that it has dual-LED lights and a magazine capacity of 100 nails. These lights efficiently illuminate your workspace, thus improving your nailing accuracy when installing crown molding in dark areas. 

• Good adjustability options 

This versatile device provides several tool-free settings for safety and enhanced user productivity. As a result, you can easily use it to fire 1 – 2.5” fasteners into crown molding, cabinet assembly, shoe molding and baseboard. This is because the settings allow you to troubleshoot and adjust the device with ease. Moreover, it’s equipped with an integrated flywheel system to ensure consistent firing power on various materials. 

• Lightweight design 

Due to its unique motor design, this cordless nailer has a lightweight body and measures 13.88” long. For that, it’s quite easy to carry around the house when installing crown moldings. At the same time, it distributes its weight uniformly over the body, reducing users’ fatigue in different positions. 

Interestingly, despite its lightweight nature, this nailer discharges nailers faster than most pneumatic finish nail guns. Moreover, it has a large magazine that holds up to 100 nails. 

Highlighted Features 

• LED lights indicate battery life and errors 
• Weight 5.9 lbs 
• Fires up to 1300 nails per charge 
• Battery-driven device 
• 3-year warranty 
• Tool-free settings for convenient use 
• Ergonomic and lightweight design 

Drawbacks 

• No carrying case 

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2. NUMAX SFN64 Pneumatic 16-Gauge Nail Gun 

NUMAX is a reputable brand in the power tool industry that is well-known for producing high-quality and affordable products. Their SFN64 Pneumatic nail gun for crown molding is no exception. In addition, this tool is ideal for various projects, making it a popular option among homeowners, contractors, and DIYers. 

So, apart from using it to install crown molding, it’s ideal for other tasks like installing door & window casing, handrails, decorative baseboard trim, etc. 

Key Features 

• Ergonomic and durable construction 

Weighing just 4.5 lbs, this nail gun for crown molding performs extremely well in terms of stability and lightweight. Thanks to its lightweight, yet durable die-cast aluminum body with heat-treated steel parts and one piece of hardened steel drive blade. Therefore, it will not rust, even when exposed to moist conditions. In addition, it is equipped with a non-slip ergonomic handle to provide extra comfort. 

• Depth adjustment feature 

The device comes with a tool-less adjustment wheel to ensure the depth you’re using will not damage the molding. In addition, it’s equipped with an adjustable exhaust that swivels up to 360 degrees. This allows you to direct the exhaust away from your face in any direction. 

• No-mar safety tip 

To ensure your exterior or interior surfaces are not left with dents when installing crown moulding, this nail gun has a no-mar safety tip. In addition to preventing surface damage, this feature improves precision and ensures great results. 

Still, on safety, the tool has an integrated quick jam release mechanism, allowing you to remove nails with ease. Talking of nails, this finishing tool works with 16-gauge straight nails ranging from 1” to 2.5”. Even better, its dual spring magazine has a reload indicator that shows when there is a nail shortage to avoid dry firing.

Highlighted Features 

• No-mar safety contact 
• Quick jam release 
• Ergonomic grip 
• 360-deg adjustable exhaust 
• High capacity dual spring magazine 
• Air-powered (Pneumatic) nailer
• Nail adjustable-depth feature 

Drawbacks 

• Comes with a 1-year warranty 

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3. KIMO 20V 18-Gauge Cordless Brad Nailer/ Stapler

 
Designed to act both as a nailer and a crown stapler, this dual tool from KIMO is another great nail gun for crown molding installation. It will help you save a lot of time and it’s ideal for various applications. 

Apart from crown moulding, you can also use it for heavy-duty tasks like installing woodwork. Besides, this cordless 18 gauge brad nailer has an ergonomic design that allows you to work conveniently in tight spaces or overhead applications using one hand! 

Key Features 

• 2 firing modes; sequential and contact 

The most unique feature about this nail gun is that it has 2 firing modes; sequential and contact. You can easily toggle between these modes using the dual-mode switch. This will allow you to fire a single nail with each trigger push or in succession by pressing the contact element at the rate of 90 nails per minute. 

• Battery-powered 

You’ll also note that this cordless brad nailer is powered by a 20v 4.0Ah Li-Ion battery. More importantly, this battery can fire a maximum of 1400 nails per charge and takes about 45 to 60 minutes to charge fully. 

Interestingly, the device even has an error indicator that allows you to know when the battery is low. However, you can also use these front positioned LED lights to troubleshoot various issues and fix them quickly. 

• Adjustable firing depth 

To ensure nails go deep into your crown moulding as they should, this nailer is equipped with a depth-adjustment feature. This makes it easy to set the nail depth for different nail needs. In addition, the device has a quick-release magazine, allowing you to load it up with staples or nails without needing extra tools. On the same note, this nailer is compatible with any standard 18 gauge brad nail ranging from ¾” to 2” long. 

• Easy to carry and store 

Lastly, this device has a cordless design that makes it easy to operate and carry around since it doesn’t need an air compressor or other tools. On top of that, it has a belt hook on its back to ensure easy storage and access. 

Highlighted Features 

• Dual-mode toggle switch 
• Adjustable firing depth 
• 100 nails/ staples magazine capacity 
• Front positioned LED lights 
• Has sequential & contact actuation modes 
• Fires up to 90 nails per minute 

Drawbacks 

• A bit heavy (6.2 lbs)

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4. BOSTITCH N62FNK2 Finish Nailer 

The BOSTITCH N62FNK nailer is an excellent entry-level nail gun for crown molding that you can use for home projects. Thanks to its durability, affordability, and lightweight nature. Better still, this pneumatic finish nail gun delivers consistent performance and comes with many great accessibility features.

So, if you want a nail gun that you can use to install crown molding and add a more delicate finish to your carpentry projects, it’s a good option! Besides, it’s very comfortable to use for extended periods since it only weighs 3.8 lbs. 

Key Features 

• Oil-free operation 

Although this pneumatic nailer has many wonderful features, the most interesting one is that it allows an oil-free operation. This helps to lower the maintenance costs and reduces the risk of jamming and oil stains. So, if you frequently forget to oil your nailer before use, BOSTITCH N62FNK is an excellent option for you. 

• Lightweight & compact body design 

In terms of construction, this nailer features a lightweight and compact, but durable design, To be precise, it has a magnesium-alloy frame, giving it exceptional shock absorption and lightweight properties. More notably, this makes it ideal for heavy-duty projects and renders it corrosion-free.

• 100-nail magazine capacity 

To improve your overall nailing experience, this unit comes with a tool-free nail magazine. The magazine can hold up to 100 15-gauge nails and operates at a pressure of around 70 to 120 psi. In addition, it has an angled tip, making it easy to use even in narrow spaces when installing crown moldings. 

• Adjustable drive depth 

The depth adjustment feature allows you to drive the nails in your crown moldings further, making it easy to smooth the surface. At the same time, it allows you to use the nailer with other materials apart from crown molding. 

Highlighted Features 

• 7-year warranty 
• Lightweight & compact body 
• Durable magnesium housing 
• Angled & tool-free removable magazine 
• Adjustable depth control 
• 4 profile tips & sample fasteners 

Drawbacks 

• No LED lights 

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5. NEU MASTER NTC0040 Electric Nail Gun 

Unlike the nailers we’ve reviewed above, NEU MASTER NTC0040 is an electric corded brad nail gun. This makes it a relatively affordable option since it does need a battery and charger or compressor and accessories like its cordless counterparts. Nonetheless, it generates enough power to drive 18-gauge nails both into soft and hardwood surfaces. 

For that, it’s suitable for various projects such as simple repair works, crown molding installation, decorative work, upholstery work, etc. To add to its versatility, this nail gun accommodates brad nails of various sizes and crown staples ranging from 0.25 to 1”. 

Key Features 

• Ergonomic design 

This tool is quite lightweight since it only weighs 5.15 lbs. Therefore, you can use it to install your crown molding the whole day without being fatigued. Besides, it’s equipped with a soft rubberized grip, giving you adequate control with the tool. 

You’ll also find this device to be quite simple to use. According to the manufacturer, you should operate the tool with both hands to improve the penetration strength, especially when handling tough joints like hardwood. 

• Rubber anti-mar nose 

Another feature that makes this tool the best nailer for crown molding is that it has a non-marring rubber nose. This ensures that there are no scratches on the surface you’re working on, giving you a flawless finish. 

• Quick-release mechanism 

With its quick-release mechanism, this brad nail gun makes it easy to remove a jammed nail without disassembling the tool. 

Moving on, its bottom magazine loads up to 100 staples/ nails continuous nailing. In terms of safety, the tool only fires the nails when the lock is off and your fingers are on its trigger, thus reducing the risk of accidental firing. Other than that, this nailer can drive about 20 staples or nails per minute. 

• Free nails 

Once you buy this NEU MASTER nailer for crown molding, you’ll get 200 pcs of ¾” staples and 800 nails. This will allow you to get started on your DIY project right away. 

Highlighted Features 

• Ergonomic handle for user comfort 
• Impact resistant nose to protect the work surface 
• Quick release system for convenient jam clearance 
• Adjustable power function for heavy & light-duty projects 
• Electric powered 
• Adjustable firing power 

Drawbacks 

• Comes with a warranty of 1 year only 

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Buying Guide: Things to Consider when buying the best Nailer for Crown Molding

Crown molding installation can be a bit difficult, especially if you’re using an impractical nailer. To prevent that, there are certain aspects you should consider when looking for the best nailer for crown molding. This will help you undertake the project quickly and with high precision. 

That said, here are some important factors you need to pay close attention to; 

• Type of power source  

There are various types of crown molding nailers depending on their power source. That is; electric (corded and cordless) and pneumatic. 

Cordless nailers are usually battery-powered, so you have to charge them frequently to continue using them. Fortunately, these types of nail guns are highly portable since they allow free movement. 

On the contrary, a pneumatic nailer draw its power from an air compressor. Therefore, you cannot use it without an air tank or air compressor. Other than that, pneumatic nail guns have their set of benefits such as being ultra-lightweight, powerful, and precise. More importantly, they provide more consistent performance than electric nail guns. 

All in all, the best type of nail gun for your crown molding projects will depend on your preference and needs. For instance, battery-powered nailers are suitable for one-time applications and occasional DIYers. But if you’re a professional woodworker who undertakes several projects in various locations, they may not produce sufficient pressure to operate. 

• Nail length & type

Although there are several types and sizes of nails on the market, each nail gun is designed to use a specific nail type and size. In this case, considering you’re looking for a crown molding nailer, you choose the one that’s compatible with 15-gauge or 16-gauge nails. Alternatively, you can choose an 18-gauge nailer, but its outcomes will not be as effective. 

• Weight 

The weight of a nailer is another important factor to consider, especially when installing crown molding since the task may take some time. For that reason, you need to look for a tool that is both lightweight and durable. In essence, the tool should weigh around 3 to 5 lbs to make it easier to hold and fire, even in hard-to-reach places. Besides, this will improve your overall performance and reduce the risk of arm fatigue. 

• Magazine capacity 

The magazine capacity of a nail gun determines how many nails it can hold, affecting how much work you can do without reloading. 

When installing crown molding, you don’t necessarily need a tool with a larger magazine since such tools are more expensive. However, it should have a reasonable magazine capacity to save you time and hassle. 

Final Word 

As mentioned earlier, a nailer is one of the most important tools you should have when installing crown molding. It will make your job relatively easy, saving you both time and effort. Besides, it will enhance your overall nailing performance and precision during the project. 

Hopefully, after reading this article, you’ve already found the best nail for crown molding to use for your project. Whichever product you choose, make sure you consider the above factors and other aspects like your budget and requirements! 

FAQs 

1. Can you use a brad nailer to install crown molding? 

Crown molding is usually nailed up using 2” finishing nails, while outside corners are done with a 1” brad nail and wood glue. 

2. What is the best nail gauge for crown molding? 

15-gauge nails are the best fasteners for non-structural interior applications like crown molding and chair rail installation. 

3. What’s the difference between a finish nailer and a brad nailer? 

In general, finish nails are stronger and more durable than brads, making them ideal for thick wood. On the other hand, brad nails are thin, 18-gauge nails designed for more delicate woodworking projects. 

4. What can you use to install crown molding instead of a nailer? 

Nail guns make it easy to fasten your crown molding and speed up the installation. Alternatively, you can use nails, a hammer, and construction adhesive to install the crown.