You’ve got strong options in 2026, from the reliable Metabo HPT 18V and 36V models to the high-end Milwaukee M18 FUEL, which delivers brushless power and fast jam clearance.
Battery systems like FLEX 24V offer cross-compatibility and long runtimes, while Paslode’s fuel-cell tech gives you thousands of shots.
Watch for weight, nail compatibility, and whether the tool includes a battery.
You’ll want to weigh speed against safety and runtime.
There’s a lot more to unpack about what fits your build style.
| Metabo HPT 18V Cordless Framing Nailer Kit |  | Best Overall | Nail Length Range: 2″ to 3-1/2″ | Magazine Angle: 30° | Firing Modes: Bump or contact | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Milwauke M18 FUEL 21-Degree Framing Nailer (Tool Only) New |  | Professional Grade | Nail Length Range: 2″ to 3-1/2″ | Magazine Angle: 21° | Firing Modes: Not specified | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless Framing Nailer (CMCN630PTB) |  | Best Value | Nail Length Range: 2″ to 3-1/2″ | Magazine Angle: 30° | Firing Modes: Sequential | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Metabo HPT 36V Paper Strip Framing Nailer |  | Highest Capacity | Nail Length Range: 2″ to 3-1/2″ | Magazine Angle: 30° | Firing Modes: Sequential or contact | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Paslode Xpro 30° Cordless Framing Nailer |  | Lightest Weight | Nail Length Range: 2″ to 3-1/2″ | Magazine Angle: 30° | Firing Modes: Not specified | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| DEWALT 20V MAX XR Framing Nailer Dual Speed Bare Tool Only (DCN692B) |  | Most Versatile | Nail Length Range: 2″ to 3-1/2″ | Magazine Angle: 33° | Firing Modes: Sequential or bump-fire | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| DEWALT 20V MAX Framing Nailer (DCN21PLB) |  | Budget-Friendly Pick | Nail Length Range: 2″ to 3-1/2″ | Magazine Angle: 21° | Firing Modes: Sequential or bump-fire | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| FLEX 24V 30° Framing Nailer Kit |  | Longest Runtime | Nail Length Range: 2″ to 3-1/2″ | Magazine Angle: 30° | Firing Modes: Not specified | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| 18V ONE+ HP BRUSHLESS 30° AIRSTRIKE FRAMING NAILER KIT |  | Editor’s Choice | Nail Length Range: 2″ to 3-1/2″ | Magazine Angle: 30° | Firing Modes: Not specified | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Metabo HPT 18V Framing Nailer Kit |  | Pro Preferred | Nail Length Range: 2″ to 3-1/2″ | Magazine Angle: 30° | Firing Modes: Sequential or bump-fire | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Metabo HPT 18V Cordless Framing Nailer Kit
If you’re a professional framer tired of lugging around compressors and hoses, the Metabo HPT 18V Cordless Framing Nailer Kit gives you freedom without sacrificing power. You get cordless convenience powered by an 18V 4.0Ah lithium-ion battery that drives up to 600 nails per charge. It fires two nails per second with zero ramp-up time, matching pneumatic speed. It accepts 2″ to 3-1/2″ clipped or offset round head nails and features tool-less depth adjustment. Choose bump or contact firing mode. A built-in fuel gauge and two-year battery warranty add peace of mind. It’s lightweight, reliable, and has earned Pro Preferred ratings for nine straight years.
- Nail Length Range:2″ to 3-1/2″
- Magazine Angle:30°
- Firing Modes:Bump or contact
- Battery Voltage:18V
- Depth Adjustment:Tool-less
- Nail Type Compatibility:Paper-tape collated clipped head and offset round head
- Additional Feature:600 nails per charge
- Additional Feature:Zero ramp-up time
- Additional Feature:Pro Preferred 9 years
Milwauke M18 FUEL 21-Degree Framing Nailer (Tool Only) New
You tackle framing jobs fast when you’ve got the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 21-Degree Framing Nailer in your kit—it’s built for pros who need power and portability without cords getting in the way. You drive 300+ nails per charge with the M18 REDLITHIUM battery, and the tool’s brushless motor delivers consistent power in tough lumber. Milwaukee designed it with pros on real jobsites, so it’s durable, balanced, and easy to handle all day. It fires 30–90mm nails, works in tight spaces, and clears jammed nails fast. While it’s pricier than some, its reliability saves downtime. You’re not just buying a nailer—you’re upgrading your workflow.
- Nail Length Range:2″ to 3-1/2″
- Magazine Angle:21°
- Firing Modes:Not specified
- Battery Voltage:18V
- Depth Adjustment:Not specified
- Nail Type Compatibility:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Side-by-side development
- Additional Feature:Unmatched durability
- Additional Feature:Disruptive innovation focus
CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless Framing Nailer (CMCN630PTB)
The Craftsman V20 Brushless Framing Nailer (CMCN630PTB) delivers long-lasting power and smart design for contractors and serious DIYers tackling framing jobs on the fly. You get a high-efficiency brushless motor that boosts runtime and performance without overheating. Its rapid sequential firing mode lets you work quickly, while the LED jam indicator warns you of motor stalls before they waste time. Tool-free depth adjustment guarantees clean countersinking, and the lightweight, balanced body with a rubberized grip cuts down fatigue. An adjustable rafter hook keeps your workspace tidy, and you can store it easily on Versatrack. It’s part of the V20 system, so battery reuse is simple—no extras needed. You trade a bit of heft for real versatility on framing, repair, and restoration tasks.
- Nail Length Range:2″ to 3-1/2″
- Magazine Angle:30°
- Firing Modes:Sequential
- Battery Voltage:20V
- Depth Adjustment:Tool-free
- Nail Type Compatibility:Paper-tape collated
- Additional Feature:Brushless motor efficiency
- Additional Feature:LED jam indicator
- Additional Feature:VERSATRACK compatible
Metabo HPT 36V Paper Strip Framing Nailer
Though cordless framing nailers suit many builders, the Metabo HPT 36V Multivolts NR3690DC stands out best for pros who demand power and portability without tethering to an air compressor. You get consistent performance driving 2″ to 3-1/2″ paper-strip nails at up to 3 nails per second. With the included 2.5Ah battery, you’ll fire around 900 fasteners on a single charge. Its air spring drive feels like a pneumatic, while selectable actuation lets you switch between sequential and contact modes. Weighing 10.6 lbs, it’s well-balanced and easy to handle all day. Use genuine Metabo HPT nails for best results. It’s been a Pro Preferred Nailer since 2014—nine years running—a trusted choice on real job sites.
- Nail Length Range:2″ to 3-1/2″
- Magazine Angle:30°
- Firing Modes:Sequential or contact
- Battery Voltage:36V
- Depth Adjustment:Tool-less
- Nail Type Compatibility:Paper strip
- Additional Feature:900 nails per charge
- Additional Feature:Air spring drive system
- Additional Feature:3 nails per second
Paslode Xpro 30° Cordless Framing Nailer
When tackling large framing jobs where mobility and speed matter, Paslode’s Xpro 30° Cordless Framing Nailer pulls ahead as a top pick for pros who want power without the drag of hoses or compressors. You get battery and fuel cell power, so there’s no need for bulky compressors. It drives nails flush even in tough lumber, and the 7.9-pound weight makes it the lightest cordless model out there. You’ll stay productive all day with up to 6,000 shots per charge. Paslode’s 80+ years of pro-grade engineering show in every detail. While refills cost more than air, the freedom and reliability are worth it.
- Nail Length Range:2″ to 3-1/2″
- Magazine Angle:30°
- Firing Modes:Not specified
- Battery Voltage:Battery and fuel cell
- Depth Adjustment:Not specified
- Nail Type Compatibility:Not specified
- Additional Feature:6,000 shots per charge
- Additional Feature:Lightest on market
- Additional Feature:Over 80 years trusted
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Framing Nailer Dual Speed Bare Tool Only (DCN692B)
Skip the cord and boost your framing speed with the DEWALT 20V MAX XR Framing Nailer, DCN692B—a top pick for contractors and serious DIYers who demand power and flexibility on job sites. You get a dual-speed motor that handles everything from softwood to dense lumber, driving 3-1/2-inch nails reliably. The 33-degree magazine holds up to 55 paper-collated nails, reducing reloads. Switch between sequential and bump-fire modes without tools, and rely on the dry-fire lockout to prevent damage. Tool-free depth adjustment gives you precision, while the stall release lever clears jams fast. You’ll appreciate easy nose access and solid performance—though you’ll need to buy batteries and a charger separately.
- Nail Length Range:2″ to 3-1/2″
- Magazine Angle:33°
- Firing Modes:Sequential or bump-fire
- Battery Voltage:20V
- Depth Adjustment:Tool-free
- Nail Type Compatibility:Paper-collated
- Additional Feature:Dual-speed motor
- Additional Feature:55-nail magazine
- Additional Feature:Stall release lever
DEWALT 20V MAX Framing Nailer (DCN21PLB)
You’ll find the DeWalt 20V MAX Framing Nailer (DCN21PLB) best suits construction pros and serious DIYers who need reliable power and flexibility in tight job sites. Its dual-speed motor drives 0.0148-inch nails into dense lumber with ease, and you can switch between sequential or bump-fire modes without tools. The tool-free depth adjustment guarantees precise nail placement, while the stall release lever and accessible nosepiece make jam clearance quick. It holds 49 plastic-collated nails in a durable 21-degree aluminum magazine. An adjustable rafter hook adds worksite convenience. You’ll appreciate its balance of power, ease of maintenance, and thoughtful design—all without a battery included.
- Nail Length Range:2″ to 3-1/2″
- Magazine Angle:21°
- Firing Modes:Sequential or bump-fire
- Battery Voltage:20V
- Depth Adjustment:Tool-free
- Nail Type Compatibility:Plastic-collated
- Additional Feature:49-nail plastic collation
- Additional Feature:High-strength aluminum magazine
- Additional Feature:Adjustable rafter hook
FLEX 24V 30° Framing Nailer Kit
For pros who need power and portability on the job, the Flex 24V 30° Framing Nailer Kit FX4351B-1C delivers strong performance without tethering you to a compressor. You get 20% more power from the 24V lithium system and can drive up to 3 nails per second with no ramp-up time. The 5.0Ah battery powers around 1,100 nails on a single charge, and Therma-Tech management extends runtime by preventing overheating. Dual LEDs help you see in tight spots, while the dry fire lockout stops wasteful blank triggers. You’ll appreciate the pivoting rafter hook and 160W fast charger, which cuts charging time by up to 50%. It’s cross-compatible with all Flex 24V tools and backed by a limited lifetime warranty—just register within 30 days.
- Nail Length Range:2″ to 3-1/2″
- Magazine Angle:30°
- Firing Modes:Not specified
- Battery Voltage:24V
- Depth Adjustment:Tool-free
- Nail Type Compatibility:Paper-tape collated
- Additional Feature:1,100 nails per charge
- Additional Feature:Dual worklights
- Additional Feature:160W fast charger
18V ONE+ HP BRUSHLESS 30° AIRSTRIKE FRAMING NAILER KIT
The 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 30° AirStrike Framing Nailer Kit delivers cordless freedom without sacrificing power, making it a top choice for contractors and serious DIYers who need mobility and reliability on the job. You get instant driving speed thanks to ONE+ HP Technology, and the brushless motor boosts efficiency and lifespan. With AirStrike Technology, there’s no need for a compressor, hose, or gas cartridge—just load and go. The 30° magazine works great for framing, and the included 4Ah battery offers solid runtime. You can even share the battery and charger across other ONE+ tools, saving money and space. It’s lightweight, dependable, and ready wherever work takes you.
- Nail Length Range:2″ to 3-1/2″
- Magazine Angle:30°
- Firing Modes:Not specified
- Battery Voltage:18V
- Depth Adjustment:Not specified
- Nail Type Compatibility:Paper-strip
- Additional Feature:AirStrike Technology
- Additional Feature:ONE+ HP speed
- Additional Feature:No gas cartridge
Metabo HPT 18V Framing Nailer Kit
Metabo HPT powers tough jobs with the 18V MultiVolt Cordless Framing Nailer Kit (NR1890DCS), a top pick for framers who need reliable, hose-free performance on busy sites. You’ll drive up to 400 nails per charge using the compact 3.0 Ah battery, thanks to its brushless motor and efficient air-spring drive system. It fires 2 in to 3-1/2 in clipped or offset round-head nails with pneumatic-like feel—no ramp-up time. Switch easily between sequential and bump-fire modes, adjust depth without tools, and tackle framing or punch-out work reliably. It’s earned Pro Preferred status for nine years straight—solid proof it performs.
- Nail Length Range:2″ to 3-1/2″
- Magazine Angle:30°
- Firing Modes:Sequential or bump-fire
- Battery Voltage:18V
- Depth Adjustment:Tool-less
- Nail Type Compatibility:Paper-strip
- Additional Feature:Air-spring drive system
- Additional Feature:400 nails per charge
- Additional Feature:Pneumatic-like feel
Factors to Consider When Choosing Cordless Framing Nailers for Construction Framing
You’ll want to weigh power source type and battery runtime since they directly impact how long you can work without recharging. Look at firing modes, nail compatibility, and how the tool feels in your hand—because speed and flexibility matter on the job. A lightweight design with good balance cuts fatigue, but don’t overlook whether it handles the nail sizes you use most.
Power Source Type
While you’re weighing options for a Cordless Framing Nailer, the power source plays a key role in how the tool performs on the job. You’ll mainly choose between battery-powered models, fuel-cell systems, or mechanical spring drives. High-voltage batteries (like 36V) with large amp-hour ratings deliver strong, consistent power and more shots per charge—great for long framing runs. Fuel-cell nailers offer powerful, pneumatic-like performance and hundreds of shots per cartridge but need replacement cells and careful handling. Spring-driven models fire instantly without ramp-up and skip fuel costs, though their power relies heavily on internal mechanics. Each type changes how you work: batteries need recharging, fuel cells require cartridge swaps, and spring tools demand manual reloading. Pick based on your jobsite workflow, power needs, and whether you value convenience over refill costs.
Battery Runtime
Most of the time, battery runtime directly affects how much you get done on the job site without stopping to recharge. You’ll want higher voltage and amp-hour (Ah) batteries—like 21V 5.0Ah—for more shots per charge and longer runs. Check manufacturer specs for estimated shots; it’s the best way to compare models. Brushless motors help, sipping power so you get more nails from each charge. But your firing habits matter—bump firing drains batteries faster than single sequential shots. Cold weather or dense lumber also cuts into runtime, so plan extra batteries for tough conditions. Efficient tools handle framing pine all day, but stacking up walls in sub-zero temps? That’ll test any battery. Bring a spare, charge smart, and pick a model built for endurance. You’ll stay moving instead of waiting.
Firing Modes
Firing modes
Battery runtime keeps you moving, but how you fire the nails matters just as much for speed and safety on the job. You’ve got two main options: sequential and contact (bump) mode. Sequential fires one nail per trigger pull—safer and preferred for overhead or tight spots, especially where code compliance is key. Contact mode lets you hold the trigger and “bump” the nose for rapid nailing, boosting speed but raising risk of accidental shots. Most pro models now offer selectable actuation, so you can switch modes as the task changes. Look for tool-less selectors—they save time and keep you efficient without needing extra tools. Use sequential when precision and safety come first, like on trusses or ledges. Reserve contact mode for high-speed framing where control is manageable and safety’s enforced. Many tools also include dry-fire lockout, which stops firing when the magazine’s empty, reducing damage and waste. Choose flexibility—you’ll want both modes in your arsenal.
Nail Compatibility
Match your Cordless Framing Nailer to the right nails, and you’ll keep the job moving without hiccups. Make sure it accepts the angle and collation type you use—common angles are 21°, 30°, and 33°, with paper-tape, plastic-strip, or clipped-head collation. This affects how smoothly nails feed and load. Check that it handles your needed nail lengths (usually 2″ to 3-1/2″) and diameters (.11″–.15″) so it won’t struggle on framing tasks. Some jobs require clipped-head or round-head nails, especially if codes specify shear strength or spacing—your nailer must support the right head type. A larger magazine means fewer reloads, which helps on big jobs, and fast reloading cuts downtime. Look for dry-fire lockout and jam-clearing features that work with your nail type—they protect the tool when nails run low or jam. Getting this right saves time and frustration.
Weight and Balance
While power matters, how a cordless framing nailer feels in your hand can make or break your day on the job. You’ll want a tool that won’t wear you out after hours of use—especially overhead. Most powerful cordless models weigh 9 to 11+ pounds, and that extra heft adds up fast. A well-balanced design, with weight centered near the grip, reduces wrist strain and boosts control during repeated nailing. Lightweight units help in tight spots or on ladders, but go too light and you’ll feel more recoil, hurting stability. Battery placement plays a big role—compact packs near the handle keep the tool balanced, while top- or rear-mounted ones can make the nose dip. Ultimately, the right mix of weight and balance improves accuracy and cuts fatigue, so pick one that fits your daily tasks.
Depth Adjustment
Set the right depth, and every nail sinks just far enough—clean, consistent, and ready for the next. You want tool-free depth adjustment so you can tweak settings fast, no screwdrivers needed, especially when switching from softwood to dense engineered lumber. Look for a model with a wide range that handles 2″ to 3½” nails smoothly across varying wood densities. Precise control stops you from driving nails too deep—which weakens joints—or leaving them proud, which risks snagging or failed inspections. The dial or adjuster should stay locked in place, even with heavy recoil and all-day bump firing. Clear markings and tactile stops help you reset the same depth quickly, whether you’re swapping triggers or passing the tool to a teammate. A solid depth system isn’t flashy, but it keeps your work flawless and saves time when every nail counts.
Conclusion
You’ve got solid options, from Metabo HPT‘s reliable brushless motors to Milwaukee’s robust FUEL tech. Cordless framing nailers cut cord clutter like a sharp blade through wood grain, but battery life can lag on long shifts. Models like the Paslode Xpro bring gas-powered power without the hose, while newer 24V and 36V systems deliver stronger drives. Weigh voltage, nail angle, and weight carefully—your crew’s rhythm depends on it.