Several months ago we got the first look at the M12 Palm Nailer 2458-21 ($129, Ohio Power Tool) and it would be hard for me to express the level of skepticism we had before getting our hands on it. This is because we had tested out the Craftsman Auto-Hammer previously and seen a few other automatic hammers from Ryobi and Ridgid, all of which were significantly underpowered to be called “Palm Nailers”. In the defense of these other hammers they were not claiming to be palm nailers and for smaller nails do an ok job. These units could certainly not drive the 16D nails we think of when using a pneumatic palm nailer to perhaps frame a deck.
After about 5 seconds with the Milwaukee M12 Palm Nailer our whole view on cordless “Auto Hammers” had changed. Apparently it is possible to get all the power of a pneumatic palm nailer into a cordless unit. It is also much more effective because the main purpose of the palm nailer is to get into tight spaces, dragging a long air hose only makes that more difficult. Also in confined spaces it is often dark and hard to see the work space. The LED light built into the cordless M12 unit is very handy in these situations. The 2458-21 kit is one of the first tools to come with the new M12 Red Lithium batteries for added power and battery life. You can expect up to 100 nails per charge, which is very impressive for such a compact tool. For more info read the Milwaukee Press Release Below.
(Hal, ExtremeHowTo.com & Doug, ToolSnob.com)
MILWAUKEE, WI – Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation continues to expand their M12™ LITHIUM-ION system with the introduction of the industry’s first cordless palm nailer. This ground-breaking advancement in technology delivers the performance professionals have come to expect from pneumatic nailers without the burden of hauling a hose and compressor.
“A revolutionary impacting mechanism and new cutting edge battery technology combine to deliver unmatched performance,” says Corey Dickert, Associate Product Manager, Cordless for Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation. “Not only is this tool capable of driving a 16D 3-1/2” nail in under 2 seconds, it will also deliver impressive run time at up to 100 of these nails per charge.
At only 3.4lbs and 6.5” from palm to tip, the M12™ Palm Nailer easily operates in tight spaces, providing a unique solution in places that are unreachable by a traditional nail gun. The palm nailer also features a 6D-16D industrial magnetic collet to securely hold framing nails for one-handed use and all metal gear housing for jobsite durability.
Though the new tool is the ideal solution for a professional framer or remodeler, the cordless palm nailer can be used in applications far beyond what is commonly associated with a compressor and hose. Electricians, plumbers and HVAC technicians now have a close quarter nailing solution for canned lighting, electrical boxes, half nail clamps and more. Among the first products powered by REDLITHIUM™ battery technology, the new palm nailer will deliver unmatched run-time, performance and durability for the professional tradesman. With constant innovation in Lithium-Ion and plans to grow the M12™ cordless platform in the future, MILWAUKEE® continues to expand its leadership position in the sub-compact category. The M12™ platform will continue to offer innovative solutions in power, productivity, and portability.
Specifications (2458-20)
Fastener Range: 6D-16D
Blow Energy: 2.2 ft/lbs
IPM: 2700
Height: 6.5in
Length: 7.5in
Width: 2.5”
Weight: 3.4lbs
Includes 2458-20 Palm Nailer, (1) M12™ RedLithium Battery, 30 minute charger, and carrying case
