The folks who are the lucky recipients of free home renovations on DIY shows are hilarious. Where do they find these people? You’d think they’d never seen a power tool in their lives. Invariably at one point during the show, the design expert hands the homeowner a pneumatic pin nailer, and the scenario unfolds like clockwork:
Homeowner gingerly accepts possession of nail gun. “Oh. Wow. It’s heavier than I expected.”
Homeowner, exercising extreme caution, places pin nailer against object to be nailed: “Here? Is this OK? Here?”
Design expert: “No, not like that. Hold it firmly against the wood before you pull the trigger, firmly against the wood, tighter, keep it flush! – OK, there ya go.”
Homeowner is now freaked out: “Maybe I shouldn’t-”
Design expert: “No, no, you’re fine, go ahead.”
Homeowner: “Go ahead and nail it?”
Design expert “Yes”
Design expert: “Go ahead, you’re all good.”
Design expert: “Any time now.”
Homeowner: “Ummmm, how do I -”
Design expert:“Just pull the trigger.”
BAM! Homeowner nearly leaps out of skin, design expert laughs uproariously. Narrow shot, showing that nail only went halfway in. Cut to commercial.
Like I said, hilarious. What’s not hilarious, however, is the Grex 23-Gauge Pneumatic Pin Nailer. This baby uses 23 guage headless pins, and is perfect for working on finishing trim, window beading, craft projects, rattan and lightweight paneling. The design eliminates the need to adjust for different pin lengths, and the double trigger safety makes the tool safe for even the most timorous homeowner. I wouldn’t use it to frame your house, but for fine woodwork, it’s just what the DIY host ordered. Get the Grex P635 23-gauge 1-3/8-inch Length Headless Pinner
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Just picked up a Grex P635 pinner. Your review of the Hitachi, Porter Cable, and Grex pinner was very helpful. I was leaning towards the Hitachi (to match my angled finish and 2″ brad nailers) but Amazon.com had the Grex on sale for $170 so I took the plunge. I’ve used a work mate’s Grex and love the feel (all metal & lightweight). I found your article very entertaining as well! Keep up the good work.
Xavier
(pro-carpenter in Florida)
Thanks for the comment and kind words Javier! Congrats on the new pinner acquisition! If you get the chance, please drop by again after you’ve had a chance to work with it and let us know what you think!