Craftsman Brad Nailer Manual

The Craftsman Brad Nailer is a pneumatic tool designed for precision fastening with 18-gauge brad nails, ideal for trim work, cabinetry, and furniture assembly. It features a lightweight, ergonomic design, adjustable depth control, quick-release jam clearing mechanism, and a no-mar tip to protect work surfaces. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Ergonomic grip, Magazine, Depth adjustment wheel, Exhaust deflector, Quick-release nose, No-mar tip, Air inlet.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection.

1. Disconnect air supply before loading, clearing jams, or performing maintenance.
2. Never point the tool at yourself or others.
3. Keep hands and body clear of the nail exit area.
4. Use only 18-gauge brad nails specified for this tool.
5. Ensure workpiece is secure and free of obstructions like nails or screws.

WARNING! Risk of serious injury. Do not disable safety features. Use in well-ventilated areas. Keep away from children.

Tool Setup & Preparation

Prepare the tool for first use.

1. Connect air hose: Attach a 1/4" NPT air hose to the tool's air inlet. Ensure all connections are secure.
2. Set air pressure: Adjust compressor regulator to 70-120 PSI as required for material and nail length.
3. Load brad nails: Disconnect air, slide magazine latch, insert nail strip, close magazine.
4. Test fire: Reconnect air, point tool at a safe scrap material, and test fire to ensure proper operation.

CAUTION! Always disconnect air supply when not in use. Use dry, regulated air to prevent internal damage.

Specifications

• Nail Gauge: 18-gauge.
• Nail Length: 5/8" to 2".
• Magazine Capacity: 100 nails.
• Operating Pressure: 70-120 PSI.
• Air Inlet: 1/4" NPT.
• Tool Weight: Approx. 2.5 lbs.
• Firing Modes: Sequential and contact actuation.
• Oil Requirement: Add 2-3 drops of pneumatic tool oil into air inlet daily.
• Sound Level: < 90 dB(A).
• Warranty: Limited 1-year warranty.

Controls and Operation

Understand tool controls for safe and effective use.

Trigger: Sequential mode (safety tip must be depressed, then trigger pulled) for precision; contact actuation mode (depress safety tip and trigger together) for rapid nailing.

Depth Adjustment Wheel: Rotate to adjust drive depth. Turn clockwise (+) to drive nails deeper (countersink); counterclockwise (-) for shallower drive (flush).

Exhaust Deflector: Can be rotated to direct exhaust air away from user.

Quick-Release Nose: Slide lever to open nose and clear jammed nails.

Loading Brad Nails

Always disconnect air supply before loading.

1. Slide the magazine latch forward to open the magazine.
2. Insert a strip of compatible 18-gauge brad nails with points facing down toward the nose.
3. Push the strip fully into the magazine until it clicks into place.
4. Close the magazine and ensure the latch is securely locked.
5. Reconnect air supply and test fire into scrap material.

Tip: Use only straight, undamaged nails. Do not force nails into magazine.

Depth Adjustment

Proper depth setting ensures professional results.

1. Test on scrap material identical to your workpiece.
2. Rotate depth adjustment wheel: Clockwise (+) drives nail deeper; counterclockwise (-) drives shallower.
3. Fire a test nail and check depth.
4. Adjust as needed until nail head is flush or slightly countersunk as desired.

Note: Softer woods require less depth; harder materials may require higher air pressure and deeper setting.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures long tool life.

1. Daily: Add 2-3 drops of pneumatic tool oil into the air inlet before connecting air hose.
2. Weekly: Clean exterior with dry cloth. Inspect for damage.
3. Monthly: Disconnect air, open quick-release nose, and blow out dust with clean, dry air.
4. Lubrication: Apply light oil to moving parts per manufacturer's schedule.

CAUTION! Never use solvents or immerse tool in liquid. Always disconnect air supply before maintenance.

Storage

Store tool properly to prevent damage.

1. Disconnect air hose.
2. Clear magazine of nails or store with nails loaded (in a dry place).
3. Apply a few drops of oil into air inlet and fire tool once to coat internal parts.
4. Store in a dry, clean location, protected from dust and extreme temperatures.

WARNING! Do not store with air hose connected. Keep out of reach of children.

Warranty Information

Craftsman Brad Nailer is covered by a limited 1-year warranty from date of purchase against defects in materials or workmanship. This warranty does not cover wear parts, misuse, improper maintenance, or commercial use. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Proof of purchase is required.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs not covered under warranty, contact authorized service center. Do not attempt to disassemble tool beyond user instructions.

Support: 1-888-331-4569; www.craftsman.com