The compressor gives your great power with relatively low noise (about 80 decibels as opposed to most oil-free models, which hover around 90 decibels and above), oil-free (thus worry-free) maintenance and the ability to run both nailers at the same time. The gauges are all up-front, where we like them, and the unit itself is really light and comfortable to tote. Finally, we always prefer a ball valve like this one on the tank drain over a petcock, and our knuckles agree.

Light as a feather and mean as a junkyard dog, DeWALT's 18-gauge brad nailer is a heck of a tool. We like the fit and feel of it, and DeWalt wins points from us for putting low-nail indicators on the side and the top of the magazine. The sliding depth adjustment is fantastic: just unlock it with your index finger, slide the adjustment with your other hand, and you're ready to fire. Like DeWalt's other nail guns, this model has a nice plus in the 360-degree swivel exhaust cap that directs the flow away from you. Great pad, too--it didn't mar anything to which we introduced it.

Two things set the finish nailer apart from its classmates: the large nail capacity and the rear-loading magazine. The tool is light, comfortable, and sturdy, features DeWALT's ingenious tool-free jam-clearing mechanism, and offers a fantastic line of sight along with the same sliding depth adjustment, swivel exhaust and non-marring pad on the brad nailer. You can’t beat this combo.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste

What’s in the Box
18-gauge Brad nailer, 16-gauge finish nailer, 2-gallon compressor, belt hook