Given the convenience and speedy setup, it’s no wonder that carpenters continue to switch from pneumatic to hose-free finish nailers. The latest cordless model to enter the market is an 18-ga. brad nailer from Grex, a company known for high-quality pin nailers. The Grex GC1850 is powered by an internal combustion engine similar to the setup on Paslode’s hose-free tools, among others. But the GC1850 is ­lighter (4.4 lb.) and smaller (10-1⁄2 in. long; 10 in. tall) than every other hose-free nailer out there. That’s partly because instead of a proprietary rechargeable battery pack, this tool uses two standard AAA batteries, which Grex claims can drive up to 50,000 brads.

Grex also claims that the aerosol fuel doesn’t go bad and that the GC1850 works consistently at high altitudes and in cold temperatures — a contrast to common complaints about Paslode’s popular hose-free nailers. A quick trial using the tool with a half-dozen materials shows that it works well and has plenty of power. The adjustable power prevents overdriving fasteners, which can create oversize holes and damage the tool’s internal driver. Best of all, this new nailer is smaller and better balanced than most of the other hose-free models on the market.

Grex GC1850
Fasteners: 1⁄2-in. to 2-in. 18-ga. brads
Shots per charge: up to 50,000
Shots per fuel cell: 1300
Price: $440