Are mythical creatures like unicorns, sasquatch, or leprechauns with pots of gold real? Similarly, the rumored Milwaukee M18 FUEL Framing Nailers seemed like a distant dream. But now, we have reliable information that these nailers will hit the market in July 2020. We’ve had the chance to see, hold, and use them, and while we can’t reveal the reasons for the delays, we’re excited to look forward to their arrival.
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Framing Nailers will be available in two angle options: 21 degree (model 2744 – 21) and 30 degree (model 2745 – 21). You can choose between a 349 bare tool option. The big question on everyone’s mind is whether a true cordless tool (without gas cartridges) can truly replace a pneumatic framing nailer.
Runtime and Battery Options
The runtime of the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Framing Nailers is quite impressive. With a 5.0Ah battery, you can fire up to 700 nails. If you’re looking to reduce weight, you could opt for a High Output 3.0Ah battery. For those who don’t want to bother with changing batteries frequently, the High Output 8.0Ah battery can provide over 1000 nails. Additionally, extended magazines will be available as an option for both the 21 and 30 – degree nailers. These extended magazines can hold 2 full strips of nails. The nailers can fire at a rate of over 3 nails per second, which should enable full – production crews to make the switch and never look back.
Demo and Performance
Kyle from RR Buildings has tested the Milwaukee M18 Nailers. At last year’s NPS19, he skipped other presentations to spend more time with the nailers. He tested different nails and was very impressed, especially when using full – length 3.5” ring shank nails on bump fire.
Other Milwaukee Nail Guns
Milwaukee first entered the nail gun market in 2017 with finish nailers for 15ga, 16ga, and 18ga nails. The initial performance of these nailers was not outstanding. However, the second – generation 18ga nailer (model 2746 – 21CT), which was relaunched late last year, has shown solid performance in the field. There are no longer concerns about nails not sinking at an angle or firing too slowly.
Another tool that was showcased along with the M18 Framing Nailer is the M18 18ga Crown Stapler. Rob Robillard from Tool Box Buzz highlighted this stapler in a video, and it seems to have hit the mark, even though it hasn’t been in the field for long.
Features of the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Framing Nailers
2745 – 21 and 2745 – 20 (30 Degree)
Power: Can sink 3.5” nails in engineered lumber.
Firing Rate: Fires 3 nails per second.
No Gas Cartridge: Eliminates the need for gas cartridges, making it more convenient.
Zero Ramp – up Time: Starts firing immediately without any delay.
Tool – free Drive Depth Adjustment: Allows for easy adjustment of the nail depth without the need for tools.
Firing Modes: Offers both sequential and contact actuation firing modes.
Dimensions: Measures 14.1” x 4.7” x 13.3”.
Weight: Weighs 9.4 lbs (including the tool and a 5.0Ah battery).
2744 – 21 and 2744 – 20 (21 Degree)
Power: Can sink 3.5” nails in engineered lumber.
Firing Rate: Fires 3 nails per second.
No Gas Cartridge: Eliminates the need for gas cartridges, making it more convenient.
Zero Ramp – up Time: Starts firing immediately without any delay.
Tool – free Drive Depth Adjustment: Allows for easy adjustment of the nail depth without the need for tools.
Firing Modes: Offers both sequential and contact actuation firing modes.
Dimensions: Measures 14.1” x 4.7” x 13.3”.
Weight: Weighs 9.4 lbs (including the tool and a 5.0Ah battery).
Related topics:
- New Makita Cordless Framing Nailer is Coming Soon?
- 11 Best Framing Nailers In 2025 (Buying Guide)
- 10 Best Framing Nailers (May 2025)
