Dewalt 20V Cordless Nailer DCN690 Review

Today is finally here, something you guys have been asking for us to review for a long time, the Dewalt DCN690 review.  This is Dewalt’s new 20V Nailers, so let’s see how it stacks up and what it has to offer.

Before we start I have to admit before using this nailer I was a huge fan of the Paslode Framing Nailer.  The issue I had with the Paslode is the expense of fuel.  I know some people complain about the smell, but that never really bothered me.  It really came down to cost and the fact that without fuel, I am down.  So if for some reason my fuel was old, I forgot it or misplaced it, I was down.  With the Dewalt, you don’t have to worry about fuel.  That is because Dewalt runs straight from their 20V battery platform.  When I first heard about this I was a little skeptical in regards to run time and performance.  I know Dewalt makes great tools, but still you never know.  I can say that after using this nailer, all my worries are put to rest.

Not only did Dewalt create a great nailer without the worries of fuel, but they included some great features.  First, this nailer uses a brushless motor which we know can be better than a brushed motor.   My biggest feature of this nailer I love is the ability to use this nailer in bump or sequential mode.  My Paslode, I have to put the nose piece on the work, then pull the trigger.  With the Dewalt, I can just pull the trigger and start firing.  Now before I go on, I just want to let you know while this nailer is fast, it will not keep up with a pnematic nailer in speed.

Not a huge deal, but it would be nice to see this nailer utilize a method for tool free jams.  Currently you need a hex wrench (Stored on the tool) to remove a jam.  Not a huge deal because most don’t offer this with a framer.  On the front you have the ability to turn a wheel and adjust the depth.  I have to say this does a very good job and stays true shot after shot.  Dewalt also implemented a trigger lock feature so when not in use, you can lock the trigger.

On the handle is a rafter hook which hides nicely when not in use.  The hook is made from an ABS plastic, so it should hold up under rough conditions.  On the top of the nailer, there is a lever.  This lever resets the driver blade if the tool stalls or after clearing a jam.  We only had to use this lever one time and it worked as indicated.

Now I heard some people aren’t sure what nails to use with this gun, but you can use a common framing nail which pretty much any store has.  The magazine is a lock and load system with s 33° and holds 55 nails.  The nail gauge is from .113 to .131 gauge and can drive nails from 2″ to 3-1/2″ nails.

While the balance of the nailer could be a little better, it’s not really bad, but just wanted to note it.  The nailer weighs in at 9.1 lbs. so it is a little heavier than the Paslode.  This one was hard to find, but it looks like you can shoot about 600 nails per charge with cleaning after 50,000 nails.  I have to say Dewalt hit a home run with this nailer.  The ability to lose the fuel and run straight from a battery is a huge money saver.  The nailer fired great time after time never seeming like it was struggling.   The ability to move quickly from bump to sequential is a great feature. Having a grip styled after the 20V drills makes this a tool that is easy to work with all day long.  Bottom line if you are looking for speed, this won’t replace a pneumatic nailer.  If you’re looking to get away from loud air compressors and fuel, the Dewalt is a great alternative.