Finishing nails are essential hardware items used for carpentry, woodworking, and various DIY projects. These nails are designed to leave a smooth and seamless finish, making them perfect for delicate tasks like attaching moldings, trims, and picture frames. To help you find the best finishing nail on Amazon, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 products, along with a detailed review for each one.

To see our related product guide article, click here.

Top Picks for Best Finishing Nail

Hillman 592301 Polished Finishing Nail (6D x 2″) – 60 Pieces, Silver

The Hillman 592301 Polished Finishing Nail set comes in a pack of 60 pieces, each measuring 2 inches in length. These silver-finished nails are perfect for projects requiring a sleek and polished appearance. They are manufactured using high-quality materials, ensuring durability and long-lasting performance. The 6D size provides excellent holding power while still maintaining a discreet profile, making them ideal for various woodworking and carpentry applications.

Pros:

• Durable and long-lasting construction.
• Sleek and polished silver finish.
• Ideal for various woodworking projects.
• Provides excellent holding power.
• Discreet profile for a seamless finish.

Cons:

• Some users may prefer a larger pack size.

Tuplip Fe – Finishing Nail Pack 800pcs

The Tuplip Fe – Finishing Nail Pack are a comprehensive set of 800 pieces, each measuring 3/4 inch (20mm) in length. These brass plated gold nails offer a touch of elegance and sophistication to your projects. With a brad head design, they provide excellent support and stability when hanging pictures, wooden frames, or completing carpentry and plaster wall projects. The ample quantity of nails in this pack makes it a cost-effective choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.

Pros:

• Elegant and sophisticated brass plated gold finish.
• Brad head design offers excellent support and stability.
• Versatile nails suitable for multiple projects.
• Large quantity pack for cost-effectiveness.
• Ideal for hanging pictures and wooden frames.

Cons:

• Not suitable for projects requiring longer nails.

The Hillman Group 532584 Finish Nail 3D, 1-1/4-Inch, 90-Pack

The Hillman Group 532584 Finish Nail pack is sized at 3D and measure 1-1/4 inches in length. This pack contains 90 nails, providing ample supply for various finishing projects. The nails are carefully constructed to ensure optimal performance and reliable holding power. The smooth finish leaves behind minimal marks, making these nails a top choice for projects that demand a neat appearance.

Pros:

• Ample supply of 90 nails in a pack.
• Reliable holding power.
• Smooth finish for minimal marks.
• Versatile size for various finishing projects.

Cons:

• Some users may require longer nails for specific tasks.

Uxcell Finishing Nail Carbon Steel Nail 30mm 1.2-inches 200pcs

The Uxcell Finishing Nails are crafted from carbon steel, providing exceptional strength and durability. With a length of 30mm (1.2 inches), these nails are suitable for a wide range of carpentry and woodworking projects. The 200-piece pack ensures you have an ample supply of nails for multiple tasks. The hand-drive design allows for precision and control during installation, resulting in a clean and professional finish.

Pros:

• High-strength carbon steel construction.
• Suitable for various carpentry and woodworking projects.
• Ample supply of 200 nails.
• Hand-drive design for precision and control.

Cons:

• May not have a decorative finish like some other options.

QJZXUEZHEN 100pcs Carbon Steel Finishing Nail 25mm 1-inches

The 100pcs Finishing Nails from QJZXUEZHEN are crafted from durable carbon steel. Measuring 25mm (1 inch) in length, these nails are designed for smaller finishing projects and delicate woodworking tasks. The hand-drive feature allows for easy installation with a hammer or nail gun, ensuring a secure hold. Whether you’re working on crafts or small carpentry endeavors, these nails are a reliable choice.

Pros:

• Durable carbon steel construction.
• Ideal for smaller finishing projects and delicate woodworking tasks.
• Easy to install with hand-drive feature.
• Reliable and secure hold.

Cons:

• May not be suitable for larger projects that require longer nails.

Conclusion

Selecting the right finishing nail is crucial for achieving a professional and polished look in your woodworking and carpentry projects. Each of these top 5 products on Amazon offers unique features and advantages, catering to various project requirements. Consider the specific needs of your project and the quantity of nails required before making your choice. With any of these top-rated finishing nail products, you can be confident in the quality and performance of your work.

What Should You Look for in a Finishing Nail?

When looking for the right finishing nail for your project, several key factors should be taken into consideration to ensure optimal performance and a polished end result. Here are the essential aspects to look for in a finishing nail:

1. Nail Material: Finishing nails are typically made from various materials, including carbon steel, stainless steel, brass, or copper. Each material has its own unique properties, such as strength, corrosion resistance, and appearance. Choose a material that suits the specific demands of your project and provides the desired finish.
2. Nail Size: Finishing nails come in different sizes, typically measured by “penny” sizes (e.g., 6D, 8D, 10D) or metric measurements (e.g., 20mm, 30mm). Consider the length and gauge of the nail, ensuring it is appropriate for the thickness of the material you are attaching. Longer nails may be necessary for thicker wood or projects that require deeper penetration.
3. Head Style: Finishing nails often come with various head styles, such as brad head, flat head, or lost-head. The head style affects how visible the nail head will be once driven in. Brad head and lost-head nails offer a more concealed appearance, making them ideal for projects that require a clean and seamless finish.
4. Finish and Appearance: Consider the finish of the nail, such as polished, silver, gold-plated, or other decorative coatings. The finish should complement the overall aesthetic of your project. For instance, if the nails will be visible in the finished product, you may want a decorative finish that matches the surrounding materials.
5. Quantity: Determine the number of nails needed for your project. Some finishing nail products come in bulk quantities, while others may be sold in smaller packs. Having the right quantity of nails ensures you have enough to complete your project without any interruptions.
6. Application Method: Hand-driven nails are installed with a hammer, while others may require a nail gun. Consider the application method that suits your comfort level and the complexity of the project.
7. Durability and Holding Power: Look for nails that are durable and have good holding power. Finishing nails with high-quality materials and construction will be less likely to bend or break during installation and will hold your materials securely in place.
8. Smooth Finish: Finishing nails should have a smooth surface and minimal imperfections to prevent damage to the surrounding materials and ensure a clean appearance.
9. Versatility: Opt for nails that can be used in a variety of projects, from carpentry to woodworking to DIY crafts. Versatile nails will save you from buying multiple types for different tasks.
10. User Reviews and Ratings: Check online reviews and ratings from other customers to get insights into the performance and reliability of the finishing nails you are considering.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when selecting the right finishing nail for your project, ensuring a professional and polished finish every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a finishing nail?

A finishing nail, also known as a finish nail, is a type of nail specifically designed for use in woodworking, carpentry, and various DIY projects. It is distinct from other types of nails due to its slim and smooth shank, which minimizes the size of the hole left behind once the nail is driven in. The primary purpose of a finishing nail is to provide a neat and polished appearance in the finished work, as the nail head is either hidden or barely noticeable on the surface.

Key characteristics of finishing nails include:

1. Slim Shank: Finishing nails have a slender and tapered shank, which reduces the risk of splitting the wood or causing noticeable marks on the surface.
2. Small Head: The nail head of a finishing nail is relatively small compared to common nails. Some types of finishing nails, such as brad nails or lost-head nails, have heads that can be easily concealed or hidden beneath the wood’s surface.
3. Smooth Finish: The surface of finishing nails is generally smooth and free from imperfections, reducing the likelihood of damaging the wood or creating blemishes in the finish.
4. Various Materials and Finishes: Finishing nails can be made from different materials, such as carbon steel, stainless steel, brass, or copper. They often come with various finishes, including polished, silver, gold-plated, or other decorative coatings to suit the aesthetic needs of different projects.
5. Application: Finishing nails are typically installed using a hammer or a nail gun, depending on the type and size of the nail and the project’s complexity.

Finishing nails are commonly used for attaching moldings, trims, baseboards, crown molding, picture frames, and other decorative elements to wood, plaster, or drywall surfaces. They are especially popular in woodworking and carpentry projects where appearance and precision are crucial, as they provide a clean and seamless finish. Because of their discreet appearance, finishing nails are ideal for projects where the nail heads should not be visible, contributing to an overall polished and professional appearance.

What is a finishing nail used for?

Finishing nails are used for a variety of woodworking, carpentry, and DIY projects where a neat and polished appearance is essential. They are specifically designed for applications where the nail heads should be either hidden or barely noticeable on the surface. Here are some common uses of finishing nails:

1. Attaching Moldings and Trims: Finishing nails are commonly used to secure moldings, trims, and baseboards to walls, ceilings, and floors. They provide a secure hold while leaving a minimal and inconspicuous hole.
2. Picture Frames and Artwork: Finishing nails are often used to attach picture frames, artwork, and other wall hangings. Their small heads and sleek appearance make them ideal for keeping the focus on the artwork rather than the fasteners.
3. Cabinet and Furniture Making: Finishing nails are frequently employed in cabinet and furniture making to attach wood pieces together. They are particularly useful for delicate or intricate joinery where larger nails or screws may be too noticeable.
4. Installing Paneling and Beadboards: Finishing nails are used to secure paneling, beadboards, and other decorative wall coverings. They offer a clean and seamless look while providing adequate holding power.
5. Window and Door Casings: Finishing nails are commonly used to secure window and door casings in place. Their slim shank prevents the wood from splitting while keeping the casings securely attached.
6. Crown Molding and Cornices: Finishing nails are an excellent choice for installing crown molding and cornices. Their small heads and smooth finish ensure a professional appearance.
7. Wood Crafts and DIY Projects: Finishing nails are widely used in various DIY projects, crafts, and woodworking endeavors. They are ideal for smaller projects where appearance is crucial.
8. Trimming Edges and Corners: Finishing nails can be used to neatly trim edges and corners of furniture or woodwork, providing a clean and refined look.
9. Fixing Loose Floorboards: Finishing nails can be employed to fix squeaky or loose floorboards without leaving unsightly marks.
10. Panel Door Construction: Finishing nails are used in the construction of panel doors to attach the stiles and rails, keeping the joints tight and concealed.

The versatility and discreet appearance of finishing nails make them a popular choice for projects that demand a professional and polished finish. They are essential tools for craftsmen, carpenters, and DIY enthusiasts looking to create visually appealing and well-constructed woodworking projects.

What is the difference between a finishing nail and a common nail?

The main differences between a finishing nail and a common nail lie in their design, purpose, and appearance. These distinctions make each type of nail suitable for different applications in woodworking, carpentry, and various construction projects. To read more about common nails, see our product review here and our product guide here. 

Here are the key differences:

1. Shank Design:
   • Finishing Nail: Finishing nails have a slender and smooth shank with minimal taper. The slim design reduces the risk of splitting the wood and leaves behind a small hole, ensuring a clean and polished finish.
   • Common Nail: Common nails have a thicker and more robust shank with a noticeable taper towards the tip. The tapering may cause the wood to split, and the larger diameter of the shank leaves a more prominent hole in the wood.
2. Nail Head:
   • Finishing Nail: Finishing nails have small, flat heads or brad heads that are designed to be concealed or barely visible on the surface of the material once driven in. This creates a seamless and polished appearance.
   • Common Nail: Common nails have larger, domed heads that are more visible on the surface. The larger heads provide better holding power but may leave a noticeable mark in the material.
3. Purpose:
   • Finishing Nail: Finishing nails are primarily used for applications where appearance is crucial. They are designed for attaching trim, moldings, picture frames, and other decorative elements where the nail heads should not be visible.
   • Common Nail: Common nails are versatile and widely used for general construction purposes where strength and holding power are more critical than appearance. They are suitable for framing, sheathing, and other structural applications.
4. Applications:
   • Finishing Nail: Finishing nails are commonly used in woodworking, carpentry, and DIY projects that require a polished and refined finish. They are often used for delicate and decorative tasks.
   • Common Nail: Common nails are used in a wide range of construction projects, such as framing walls, building fences, and securing structural elements.
5. Material and Coating:
   • Finishing Nail: Finishing nails are often made from materials like stainless steel, carbon steel, brass, or copper. They may come with polished or decorative coatings to enhance their appearance.
   • Common Nail: Common nails are typically made from carbon steel and may be coated with zinc for increased corrosion resistance.

In summary, finishing nails are designed for applications where appearance is crucial, providing a polished and seamless finish. They have a slim shank, small head, and come in various decorative finishes. On the other hand, common nails are more utilitarian and versatile, designed for structural applications where strength and holding power are essential. They have a thicker shank, larger head, and are typically used in construction and framing tasks. Choosing the right type of nail depends on the specific requirements of your project and the desired outcome.

Why is a finishing nail given the name finishing nail?

A finishing nail is given its name because of its specific purpose and design, which is to provide a clean and polished appearance in the finished work. The term “finishing” refers to the final stage of a woodworking or carpentry project, where attention is given to the aesthetic aspects and the finer details. Finishing nails are used in this stage to attach trim, moldings, and other decorative elements that require a neat and seamless finish.

The name “finishing nail” implies that these nails are intended for applications where appearance is crucial. They are designed to leave a minimal and inconspicuous hole in the material once driven in, ensuring that the fasteners do not detract from the overall aesthetics of the project. The slender shank, small head, and smooth finish of finishing nails contribute to this goal.

When finishing a woodworking or carpentry project, the final touches play a significant role in achieving a professional and refined outcome. Finishing nails are carefully selected to complement the materials and provide a cohesive and polished look. They are commonly used for attaching trim, baseboards, crown molding, picture frames, and other decorative elements to walls, ceilings, and floors.

In contrast, “common nails” are named for their widespread use in various construction tasks where appearance is less critical compared to their holding power. They are commonly used for framing, sheathing, and other structural applications. The name “common” reflects their general utility and prevalence in everyday construction projects.

In summary, a finishing nail is named so because it is specifically designed for the final stages of a project, where aesthetics and appearance are essential. Its slim design and discreet head ensure a polished and seamless finish, making it a suitable choice for woodworking and carpentry tasks that demand a professional touch.