Typically, brads are used for thin, delicate moldings as opposed to gun nails which are used for more substantial fastening jobs. Brads are thinner than nails and usually come in 18 gauge sizes.

The more common brad nailers are set up so that the brad cartridge sits horizontal to the brad gun handle to help to drive the brads in straight. However, there are times, particularly when using brads, when the nailing job requires access to tight or angled corners. In order to perform these delicate operations you will need an angled bradder. This will allow you to position the brad gun correctly when nailing beading, stained glass surrounds and cornices.

Brads are used in these situations to avoid splitting thin or delicate wood. A brad will remain the same diameter from one end of the nail to the other, regardless of its length. Brads differ to nails in that nails are generally larger and widen from the tip to the top, giving a more robust fastening.

Nail guns and brad guns both need an electric compressor to provide the air pressure that drives the nails into the wood although the demand is relatively small. Compact models are available with motors rated between ¾ and 2 ½ horsepower in both oil-less and oil-lubricated designs. Either system will be fine for trim installations.