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Head-to-head · Best Brad Nailers

CRAFTSMAN CMCN618B V20 Brad Nailer vs Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2746

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2746 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.8 vs 4.0). Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2746 is best for: Professionals seeking pneumatic-like speed and reliability who use compatible fasteners. Read the strengths below before deciding.

CRAFTSMAN CMCN618B V20 Brad Nailer
Ranked #4 in Best Brad Nailers
CRAFTSMAN CMCN618B V20 Brad Nailer
1 sourceall derived$159as of Oct 28

Happytechfam.online found that this cordless brad nailer drives up to 420 nails per charge and features a tool-free jam release mechanism for efficient workflow. The lightweight design includes adjustable depth settings and a belt hook, though the unit feels slightly bulky compared to some competing models in its class. Because it is sold as a bare tool only, users must purchase a compatible battery and charger separately if they do not already own them from the V20 ecosystem. This nailer suits DIYers with existing batteries who need reliable endurance for trim work, while those seeking a compact profile or an all-in-one package should look elsewhere.

Strengths
  • — Drives up to 420 nails per charge on a single battery cycle.
  • — Fully cordless design eliminates the need for air compressors, hoses, or gas cartridges.
  • — Features tool-free jam release and adjustable depth settings for user-friendly operation.
Watch-outs
  • — Can feel slightly bulky compared to some competing models in its class.
  • — Requires separate purchase of battery and charger when buying the bare tool version.
$159 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2746
Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Brad Nailers
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2746
1 source$330as of Oct 28

Manualsnet found that the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2746 utilizes a nitrogen air spring mechanism to deliver zero ramp-up time, enabling it to fire up to 3 nails per second with consistent power. The tool features a brushless motor and accepts an 18-gauge capacity of 5/8 inch to 2-1/8 inches in lengths, holding 110 nails for extended workflow efficiency. However, TeamDIYNow identified that the Gen 2 version suffers from severe jamming when using DeWalt brad nails, requiring users to switch to brands like Hitachi or Porter Cable to avoid constant blockages. Additionally, achieving consistent depth requires strict hand pressure against the workpiece to prevent kickback from affecting nail set. This cordless nailer fits professionals seeking pneumatic-like speed and reliability but demands compatible fasteners and disciplined handling for optimal results.

Strengths
  • — Fires up to 3 nails per second with zero ramp-up delay due to nitrogen air spring mechanism
  • — Tool-free depth adjustment dial allows quick and easy changes for optimal nail placement
  • — Brushless motor ensures longer tool life and consistent power output across various wood densities
Watch-outs
  • — Highly sensitive to nail brand quality, with specific reports of jamming when using DeWalt brad nails
$330 · Buy at homebaseusa.comFull review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

CRAFTSMAN CMCN618B V20 Brad Nailer

The CRAFTSMAN V20 provides up to 420 nails per charge, offering significantly higher endurance than the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2746 which holds only 110 nails. While both are cordless, the Craftsman is sold as a bare tool requiring separate battery purchase, whereas the DEWALT DCN680D1 comes as a complete kit with its battery included.

Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2746

The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2746 fires up to 3 nails per second with zero ramp-up delay, significantly outperforming the sequential firing speeds typical of pneumatic models like the DEWALT DWFP12231. However, it is highly sensitive to nail brand quality and may jam when using DeWalt brad nails, a compatibility issue not reported for other cordless options in this list.

Specs side-by-side

SpecCRAFTSMAN CMCN618B V20 Brad NailerMilwaukee M18 FUEL 2746
Gauge18 GA18-gauge
Power SourceCordless (V20 Battery)Cordless
Nail CapacityUp to 420 nails per charge110 nails
Nail Length Range—5/8 inch to 2-1/8 inches
Firing Mode—Sequential and Contact Actuation
Motor Type—Brushless
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