A fine-gauge pin nailer is a useful tool for fine moldings and other delicate parts; in most cases, the resulting holes are so tiny that the grain of the wood makes them all but invisible. Because I work primarily in a shop with convenient electrical receptacles, I haven’t seen the need for a cordless version. There are times when a cordless pinner could be handy, such as adding trim to freshly finished work that hasn’t dried completely—you wouldn’t have to worry about the cord accidentally touching or dragging across the finish. It would also be an asset on a job site.

If you’re in the market for a cordless one, consider Milwaukee’s M12 23-gauge pinner. I tried it with 1-in. pins on cypress, a softwood; and white oak. In both cases, even on the same setting, it sank pins nicely below the surface. This tool is designed for convenience. The battery and pins are easy to load, and the safety lock operates with the same finger you use to pull the trigger. The depth of set is adjustable, there’s a work light, and there’s a hook for hanging the tool on your toolbelt. A gauge lets you keep track of when you’ll need to recharge.

Milwaukee M12 23-Gauge Cordless Pin Nailer

This tool is designed for convenience. The battery and pins are easy to load, and the safety lock operates with the same finger you use to pull the trigger. The depth of set is adjustable, there’s a work light, and there’s a hook for hanging the tool on your toolbelt. A gauge lets you keep track of when you’ll need to recharge.

Price: $419.99 at the time of writing

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For a pinner, this model is on the heavy side, and I found the handle clunky. I have large hands for a woman and am used to using job-site power tools, but a smaller-diameter handle would be easier to work with, especially for prolonged sessions.

—Nancy R. Hiller runs NR Hiller Design.

Photo: Barry NM Dima

From Fine Woodworking #297

	Tool review: True Position TP-1935 hardware locating jig If you’re matching up differently sized pieces of casework, the TP-1935 from True Position Tools has you covered.
	On nails Nails sometimes get a bad rap from modern woodworkers – Megan Fitzpatrick thinks that’s because most of the naysayers are using the wrong nails.
	Keep it comfortable for you and your tools Even if you set comfort aside (but why would you?), humidity makes woodworking more difficult.