I've noticed the same thing with cordless models—super handy but definitely heavier after prolonged use. I think it might depend on the battery size and placement too. Some cordless nailers I've tried felt pretty balanced, while others were awkwardly top-heavy, making overhead work a real pain after an hour or two. Pneumatic guns do feel lighter in hand, but dragging around hoses and compressors can be its own hassle, especially in tighter spaces or multi-level jobs.
Have you tried different battery sizes or brands to see if that helps with the weight distribution? I'm curious if anyone's found a cordless model that's both lightweight and balanced enough for detailed trim work without causing wrist fatigue...
"Some cordless nailers I've tried felt pretty balanced, while others were awkwardly top-heavy, making overhead work a real pain after an hour or two."
Totally get what you're saying here... I've tried swapping to smaller batteries, and it did help a bit with balance. Still not perfect, but definitely easier on the wrists after long sessions. Worth experimenting if you haven't yet.
I see your point about battery size helping with balance, though I'm a bit skeptical it makes a huge difference overall. I've found that the tool's design itself—handle placement, motor positioning—plays a bigger role in comfort, especially overhead. Still, it's good advice to experiment with smaller batteries; even slight improvements can make long jobs more manageable. Sometimes, it's just about finding that sweet spot between weight and runtime... trial and error, I suppose.
I've noticed the same thing about handle placement making a bigger difference than battery size. A while back, I borrowed my brother's nail gun for a fence repair—it had a hefty battery, and I thought it'd be a nightmare overhead. Surprisingly, it felt balanced because the handle angle was just right. Still, tweaking battery size is worth messing around with... every little bit helps when you're up on a ladder all afternoon.
Totally agree about handle placement. I've used a few nail guns that looked heavy on paper but ended up feeling surprisingly comfortable overhead because the grip was just right.
"Still, tweaking battery size is worth messing around with... every little bit helps when you're up on a ladder all afternoon."
Yeah, battery size can matter, especially if you're working in tight spaces or awkward angles. Even a slight reduction in weight can save your arms after hours of use. For quick tasks, though, I still find myself grabbing the hammer—old habits die hard, I guess.