Addressing both pneumatic and battery-powered cordless nailers, the 2023 Pro Tool Innovation Awards for pneumatic tools and nailers have seen a lion’s share of innovation this year. Increases in battery density and brushless motor technology have allowed smaller and more capable battery-powered nailers than ever before.
While pneumatic tools still deliver the quickest nails and the lightest operation, untethered battery nailers have increased in speed and decreased in weight and size. Compressors, including cordless models, and other products and accessories are also part of advancing the innovation present in both framing and finish applications. Carpenters as well as roofing & siding professionals will do well to check out the 2023 Pro Tool Innovation Awards Winners for pneumatic tools and nailers.
WINNER – Air Compressors Accessories
SST MEGAFLOW 3 Stage Air Filter and Regulator
What they said:
In 2020, at a time when I most needed it, my pneumatic impact gun seized up and stopped working. After hastily disassembling it, I discovered the culprit – dirty, wet, unregulated air had ravaged the delicate internals. I turned to Amazon to purchase an air filter, only to be confronted with the disheartening reality: nearly all the products available were identical copies of one another! Scrolling through the pages, you would see the same thing over and over – subpar cast aluminum bodies, filtration stages joined together by Teflon tape and couplings, and tiny filter elements housed in big metal canisters where you couldn’t see them. None of the hundreds of identical air filters met our standards, so our small-but-mighty four-person team spent two hard years designing a better option – focusing on improvements in filter life, user ease-of-use, and overall product quality and capability.
Our hard work resulted in the release of the SST MEGAFLOW: a Mega-Tough 3-Stage Shop Air Filter & Regulator, designed to outlast your shop and be passed down to your kids.
The CNC machined solid billet aluminum monoblock body holds the three air filtration stages – each housed in shatterproof polycarbonate canisters with 360-degree viewing angles – allowing you to visually inspect filter health and watch the contaminants and water get pulled from your input air.
Our oversized filter elements have 10-20x more surface area than similar setups, offering significantly longer functional life, while removing particles and contaminants down to 0.01 micron in size – thats smaller than the diameter of average bacteria.
We also incorporated an easy-to-read filter status indicator on its front face, alerting you when it’s time to replace the filter for optimal performance. No more guessing if its time to install new filters – you can avoid the unnecessary expense unless the system genuinely requires them.
The final stage houses a desiccant air dryer that effectively eliminates any residual moisture from the air supply. It utilizes reusable, color-shifting silica beads, transitioning from blue to pink when they require replacement or servicing. This ensures that your tools and equipment receive the cleanest and driest air possible.
Compatible with the smallest portable air compressors all the way up to industrial-grade factory air distribution – with an unmatched max air throughput of 200CFM.
Many of the readers of the PTIA have an impressive collection of high-quality pneumatic tools – and it’s important to give them the air they deserve to ensure they aren’t taken from us prematurely (like my poor Earthquake XT impact gun in 2020). For individuals who want to purchase a shop air filter once and never think about it again, our MEGAFLOW air filter is hands down the best unit for the job.
What we say:
The SST MegaFlow 3 Stage Air Filter and Regulator is a classic example of “see a problem, solve a problem” engineering. If you’ve used compressors or air tools for any length of time, you know that contaminants cause problems eventually. By incorporating a 3-stage filter on the intake end, the SST MegaFlow ensures you’re getting more time between maintenance and longer service life. Plus, the visible cartridges make it easy to see when filter changes are due, and the high-quality construction ensures it will be around for a long time. It’s a fantastic solution to a common problem.
Price: $349.99
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Cordless Air Compressors
Milwaukee Tool M18 FUEL 2 Gallon Compact Quiet Compressor 2840-20
What they said:
Harnessing the power, performance, and run time delivered by M18 FUEL™ technology, Milwaukee Tool has developed the industry’s quietest cordless air compressor for professional carpenters and remodelers. At only 68 dBA the M18 FUEL™ 2-Gallon Compact Quiet Compressor is also 2X quieter than standard corded compressors, reducing overall noise on jobsites. At only 68dB(a), the new compressor drastically reduces one of the biggest frustrations with compressor usage: the noise. At less than 31.2lbs*, and equipped with two carrying handles, it’s easy to transport to and from the jobsite. A low profile and stackable design aids in storage as well. Through M18™ REDLITHIUM™ Battery technology, the tool eliminates the hassle of cords and delivers the power to fire up to (1,600) 18ga brad nails per charge on an M18™ REDLITHIUM™ HIGH OUTPUT™ XC12.0 Battery. For ease of use, the compressor has a quick-change coupler connector and a single-turn regulator. Equipped with front-facing gauges and battery access in close proximity, users can easily adjust the compressor when needed.
What we say:
Milwaukee pushes the cordless air compressor market further forward with a 2-gallon design. At 90 PSI, it’s capable of delivering 1.2 CFM and it gives you a maximum of 135 PSI. The big deal for remodelers and carpenters who find themselves working in occupied spaces is the noise level. Producing just 68 decibels, it stakes its claim as the quietest cordless compressor currently on the market. Even when the job isn’t in occupied homes or offices, the reduction in noise might just help bring you some of the peace you’ve been missing.
Price: $349
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Cordless Finish
RIDGID Power Tools 18V 23 Gauge 1-3/8 in. Headless Pin Nailer R09898
What they said:
The R09898 18V 23 Gauge 1-3/8 in. Headless Pin Nailer is the most compact pin nailer in its class. Great for fastening decorative trim, this pin nailer has the power to drive 1-3/8 in. 23-gauge headless pin nails into hardwoods with zero ramp-up time. Capable of sinking up to 1,875 nails per charge using a 2.0Ah Lithium-Ion Battery, the RIDGID 18V 23 Gauge 1-3/8 in. Headless Pin Nailer delivers all day runtime. Equipped with CLEAN DRIVE™️ Technology, this tool is engineered to increase productivity meaning you can spend less time fixing and more time working. With CLEAN DRIVE™ Technology, this pin nailer drives nails flush at any angle, reduces jams, eliminates MDF trim blowouts, and doesn’t leave driver blade marks on the work surface. It is also equipped with an LED light for improved visibility in low-light situations, and a soft grip handle for user comfort.
What we say:
One of the biggest challenges facing cordless nailers is the size and weight. Ridgid is taking that head-on, and the R098898 it the most compact pin nailer in the 18V class. Despite is small size, it still has the capability to sink nails in hardwood and you can get more than 1800 shots out of a compact 2.0Ah battery. Ridgid’s Clean Drive design ensures you’re not spending your time clearing jams and the narrow tip offers an excellent line of site to ensure you’re getting accurate placement.
Price: $219
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Framing
ET&F Fastening Systems (a BECK member) Model 710 Coil Nailer
What they said:
The ET&F® Model 710 was engineered for the power and durability required for use with steel and concrete substrates, making it perfect for heavy-duty applications. It has the capacity of driving pins 1-1/8″” to 3-1/2″” long, and the ability to drive into poured concrete or 10ga steel. Being extremely versatile, it’s not only great for steel framing, but also for drywall, flooring and subflooring, and insulation installations. The Model 710 also helps improve job site safety with the ability to quickly and securely join materials, creating fewer accidents or injuries due to unstable frames or structures.
What we say:
When you’re framing SPF studs, just about any framing nailer can get the job done. But when you’re dealing with concrete or steel substrates, the game changes. ET&F Fastening Systems’ Model 710 is specifically designed with the power to deal with those fastening jobs. It’s adjustable, though, and can handle a wide range of other materials as well. Constructed with the durability to stand up to the toughest jobsites, it just might be the most reliable member of your crew.
Price: TBA
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Cordless Framing
RYOBI Power Tools 18V ONE+ 21° Framing Nailer PBL345
What they said:
The 18V ONE+™ HP Brushless Framing Nailer features ONE+ HP Technology, delivering more power, runtime, durability, and speed. Available in both 21° and 30°, these nailers use brushless motors, advanced electronics, and HIGH PERFORMANCE lithium technology to provide users performance equal to a traditional, pneumatic solution without the hassle. RYOBI’s AirStrike™ Technology eliminates the need for noisy compressors, bulky hoses, and expensive gas cartridges. These cordless framing nailers provide instant driving speed and the ability to drive up to 750 nails per charge on a 4Ah HIGH PERFORMANCE Lithium battery. A selectable drive switch allows users to choose between single sequential and contact actuation modes for either precise or rapid, repetitive nail placements depending on the need of the application. These framing nailers deliver the power to sink up to 3-1/2″ full round head nails (21° and 30°) or clipped head nails (30° only.) A tool-free depth of drive adjustment ensures nails will be driven flush every time, even in the densest of materials. The onboard air fill valve enables field serviceability, which results in decreased downtime and increased productivity. An integrated rafter hook allows for safe and easy on-the-job storage.
What we say:
While Ryobi was one of the first into the cordless finish nailer market, it took quite a bit longer for the framing nailer. You can understand why—this class has to be able to drive nails in today’s engineered lumber, and that’s not an easy task, even for the premium professional brands. The design team persevered, and now users of the popular 18V One+ brand have a cordless framer that can tackle the toughest wood framing applications thanks to Ryobi’s HP Brushless motor and High Performance batteries.
Price: $299
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Metal Connector
Everwin Pneumatic Corp. 65mm (2 1/2″) Metal Connector Nailer MCN65
What they said:
Metal connector nailers have been a game-changer in the construction industry, significantly improving productivity for professionals worldwide. Nevertheless, there have been challenges like heavier tools, safety concerns, and complicated maintenance. Addressing these issues head-on, EVERWIN proudly presents the MCN65, a 2-½” (65mm) Metal Connector Nailer that redefines excellence in this category.
Best-in-Class Power-to-Weight Ratio
With the MCN65 weighing in at just 5.6 lbs (2.55 kgs), our commitment to ergonomic excellence is evident. We recognize the strain of holding a tool overhead all day, and that’s why we focused on reducing weight without compromising power. Boasting an impressive 680 inch-lbs, this nailer outperforms competitor models, providing outstanding maneuverability for effortless nail flush, even with today’s engineered lumber.
Enhanced Safety
Innovative design elements truly set the MCN65 apart, including our anti-backup pawl feature, guaranteeing enhanced consistency and fewer disruptions. This guide slips down between nails, preventing them from backing into the nose channel and potentially causing jammed nails or dangerous nail ricochets. Precision is crucial in these applications, so we’ve tapered down the contact arm cover to enhance the line of sight, ensuring you don’t miss those pre-punched metal connector holes.
Simplified Maintenance
We’ve prioritized simplicity and ease of maintenance by opting for a full mechanical contact arm instead of more complex pneumatic versions used by some nailers. This decision makes maintenance considerably easier, quicker, and more cost-effective, reducing downtime and increasing overall efficiency.
Other Practical Features of the MCN65:
• All-Metal Cap Unit: Ensuring easier maintenance and long-lasting performance.
• Rotatable Rafter Hook: For added workplace convenience.
• Low Nail Lockout: To prevent dry fire shots, thus extending the tool’s lifespan and protecting your work surface.
• Extended Magazine Optional: With a loading capacity of 55 nails is available, reducing reload time and boosting productivity.
• Beefed-Up Contact Arm: Reinforced contact arm, providing ultimate durability and reliability in demanding construction environments.
What we say:
Everwin nailers have been on our radar for years, and they’ve been reliable performers in the field. Their metal connector nailer is getting even better things to several improvement. It now has a better power to weight ratio with a weight well under 6 pounds. It’s also less likely to jam, has an even better line of sight, and easier maintenance. Overall, it’s a well-built metal connector nailer that’s better than ever!
Price: TBA
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Roofing/Siding
Bissett Fasteners Coil Siding Nailer BT-CNS65
What they said:
Introducing the Bissett BT-CNS65 Coil Siding Nailer, 2-1/2″”. The BT-CNS65 is very powerful, light, and versatile. Designed for siding, decking, and fencing applications. It has you covered from 1-1/4” x .083” to 2-1/2” x .110”. The BT-CNS65 also comes with our Cold Weather Rating, meaning it performs in temperatures as low as -25 degrees celsius. No matter the season, you can count on your Bissett Tool to get the job done.
The BT-CNS65 also features:
- 2 Function Trigger
- Ergonomic Handle
- Depth Adjustment
- No Mar Pad, to protect the workpiece, plus storage compartment for no mar-pad
- Multi-Directional Deflector
- Dust Shield
Our BT-CNS65 also comes with our 6 Year Limited Warranty, and local service centers across the country.
What we say:
For those of you who need a nailer for siding, decking, and fencing, Bissett fasteners has a very intriguing coil nailer for you. Their BT–CNS65 has a couple of great things going for it. First of all, it’s cold weather rated, and you can use it in temperatures as low as -13°F (-25°C). It’s also a very lightweight tool, weighing just 4.4 pounds bare. Wrapped into a well-built housing, it’s a coil nailer you can rely on, no matter what season you’re working in.
Price: $486
For more information, click here.
WINNER – Cordless Staplers
Milwaukee Tool M12 Cable Stapler 2448-21
What they said:
The MILWAUKEE M12™ Cable Stapler delivers unmatched stapling performance in the most compact battery-powered solution leading to a faster, more efficient rough-in process. The compact, lightweight design provides users with access to tight stud bays and improved ergonomics when stapling overhead or during difficult-to-reach situations. Moveable cable guides ensure proper alignment, and the coil-spring mechanism consistently sinks the staples to the appropriate depth when fastening standard NM-B (14, 12, 10 AWG) and low voltage cables, supporting peak stapling productivity. Only compatible with the Milwaukee 1″ insulated staples (sold separately), the M12™ Cable Stapler gives the user the run-time needed to sink up to 1,200 staples per charge*.
What we say:
If you’ve been manually hammering staplers or using a mechanical stapler, the 2448 is an absolute God-send on electrical and cable installs. Its compact frame and driving capabilities allow for fast and accurate operation, it works great when space is limited, and dramatically speeds up your cable-securing jobs. The staples are wide enough to accommodate Romex, they’re insulated, and the combination of the tool and staple helps mitigate the risk of punching through the wire/cable insulation. The Milwaukee M12 Cable Stapler is a tool that will pay for itself on the first job!
Price: $299
For more information, click here.
Finalist