Glad someone finally said it. Palm nailers are underrated for sure. I've used mine plenty of times in tight spots where a framing gun just won't fit, especially retrofitting joist hangers or working around plumbing and wiring. Yeah, they're slower, but the control you get is unmatched. Wouldn't frame a whole addition with one either, but dismissing them as just a specialty tool misses the point—they're versatile enough to earn a permanent spot in my toolbox.
"Yeah, they're slower, but the control you get is unmatched."
Exactly. I picked up a palm nailer on sale thinking I'd use it once or twice, but it's saved me more times than I can count. Sure, it's not flashy or fast, but when you're squeezed between pipes or wiring, flashy doesn't matter much. Plus, for the price, it's a no-brainer to keep around. Definitely earned its keep in my toolbox.
Interesting take on the palm nailer. I've tried one a couple times, and yeah, they're handy in tight spots, but honestly, I find myself reaching for a good old-fashioned hammer more often than not. Maybe it's just habit or something, but there's something about the feel and feedback you get from swinging a hammer that helps me gauge things better—especially when I'm working with delicate trim or finish work.
"Sure, it's not flashy or fast, but when you're squeezed between pipes or wiring, flashy doesn't matter much."
True enough, but even then, I've found that a compact cordless nail gun can usually squeeze into those awkward spaces too. Plus, it saves my wrist from getting sore after a long day. Not knocking the palm nailer entirely—it's definitely got its moments—but for me personally, it's just never become an essential tool. Curious if anyone else feels similarly or if I'm just stuck in my ways...
I get your point about the cordless nail gun, but honestly, I've found myself reaching for the palm nailer more often lately. Had a recent plumbing project where even my compact cordless was just too bulky to maneuver comfortably around pipes. The palm nailer saved me there—small enough to fit, and less risk of accidentally nicking something important. Still prefer a hammer for finish work, but for tight framing spots, the palm nailer's earned its spot in my toolbox.
Interesting you mention plumbing—had a similar issue recently with some tight joist spaces. Got me wondering if the palm nailer might've been easier than wrestling my cordless around those corners... How's the control on it, though? Seems like it could get jumpy in tight spots.
