As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases. This means we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you click through and make a purchase.
Workshop creators, vloggers, and hobbyists often face a pivotal tool decision when assembling furniture or mounting trim: choosing between a 16-gauge finish nailer and an 18-gauge brad nailer. While thicker 16-gauge fasteners offer structural grip for door casings and wide baseboards, thinner 18-gauge brads prevent delicate moldings and craft joints from splitting. When researching a roybi finish nailer for home shop duties, balancing wire gauge, nose clearance, and cordless portability ensures clean results without damaging stock.
The Ryobi cordless nailer catalog is built around the 18V ONE+ battery platform using AirStrike technology, which compresses air internally to eliminate noisy compressors, cumbersome air hoses, and expensive gas cartridges. According to the brand listings, the lineup divides into heavy-duty 16-gauge straight finish nailers for substantial holding jobs and nimble 18-gauge brad nailers for delicate work. Shoppers must also navigate bare-tool configurations versus complete battery kits. For creators finishing decorative pieces, pairing neat mechanical fastening with a smooth coating like rustoleum spray paint gloss finish produces clean, professional surfaces without excessive putty work.
This guide by the numbers
9.8/10
Best rated model
Our highest score in this line-up
6
Models on file
Models in this guide that have a stored product record
1
Brand involved
Distinct brand names on the product records used here
Prices and specifications come from the stored Amazon listing data for the products in this article. Scores are out of 10, based on listed specifications and buyer feedback.
Ryobi Finish Nailer Lineup at a Glance
| Model Name | Fastener Gauge | Power and Weight | Listing Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| RYOBI ONE+ 18V 16-Gauge Cordless AirStrike | 16-Gauge Finish | 18V, 7.3 lbs | Bare Tool (P326) |
| Ryobi P325 One+ 18V Lithium Ion | 16-Gauge Finish | 18V, Weight Unspecified | Bare Tool with Clip and Sample Nails (P325) |
| RYOBI P322 ONE+ HP 18V 18-Gauge | 18-Gauge Brad | 18V HP Brushless, 6.3 lbs | Bare Tool with 2 Pads (P322) |
| RYOBI 18V ONE+ AirStrike 18GA Brad | 18-Gauge Brad | 18V, 7.8 lbs | Kit with 1.5Ah Battery and Charger (P321K) |
| Ryobi One+ 18v Cordless Brad Nailer | 18-Gauge Brad | 18V, 8.76 lbs | Kit with Battery and Charger (P320K) |
| RYOBI ONEAND 18V 16-Gauge Cordless AIRSTRIKE | 16-Gauge Finish | 18V, 7.0 lbs | Kit with 2.0 Ah Battery (P326K1N) |
The Models in Detail
01
RYOBI ONE+ 18V 16-Gauge Cordless AirStrike
Best for: DIYers needing an established brad kit
Pros
- Includes battery and charger
- Integrated LED lighting
- Onboard depth adjustment dial
Cons
- Heavier 8.76-pound package weight

RYOBI ONE+ 18V 16-Gauge Cordless AirStrike
Best for: Woodworkers needing compact 16-gauge power
Pros
- Narrow nose clearance
- Drives into hardwoods
- Tool-free depth adjustment
Cons
- Bare tool only
The RYOBI ONE+ 18V 16-Gauge Cordless AirStrike, identified under model number P326, is a straight finish nailer built on the 18V ONE+ platform. Constructed from green ABS plastic, it weighs 7.3 pounds with dimensions of 14.41 by 13.03 by 4.49 inches. The listing notes an internal AirStrike chamber that eliminates external compressors, hoses, and gas cartridges. Compared to the older P325, this tool features a 78 percent smaller nose profile, giving creators clearer sightlines and tighter corner access when pinning trim against adjacent walls.
According to listing specifications, this straight ryobi airstrike 16 gauge driver can sink up to 2-1/2-inch nails into hardwoods. It includes a tool-free depth-of-drive adjustment wheel and an air pressure dial to regulate cycle speed. The manufacturer states it can sink up to 1,000 nails per charge, allowing for sustained workflow sessions. Because it is sold as a bare tool, users must supply an 18V ONE+ battery and charger.
This model suits finish carpenters and workshop makers securing interior door casings, chair rails, and thick baseboards. In a ryobi finish nailer comparison, the P326 represents the current benchmark for 16-gauge work, yielding only to smaller 18-gauge units when fastening thin, split-prone moldings.
02
Ryobi P325 One+ 18V Lithium Ion

Ryobi P325 One+ 18V Lithium Ion
Best for: Trim installers wanting independent LED controls
Pros
- Separate light trigger
- Low-nail indicator
- Quick jam clearing latch
Cons
- Larger nose profile
- Bare tool only
The Ryobi P325 One+ 18V Lithium Ion is the predecessor 16-gauge cordless finish nailer in the AirStrike family. Built with a metal chassis in Ryobi green, this tool operates on the 18V ONE+ battery system, with the listing citing explicit compatibility across battery models P100 through P108. The package includes sample nails, a belt clip, and a 30-day limited warranty, though the battery and charger are sold separately.
Listing details highlight practical onboard diagnostic controls, including a rear-mounted air pressure adjustment switch and tool-free depth knobs. An integrated front LED illuminates dark work areas and is activated by an independent trigger to prevent accidental firing. A low-nail indicator alerts users before dry firing, while a flip-out front latch clears jammed fasteners without secondary hand tools. To see how cordless fastening balances against pneumatic competitors, woodworkers can review our metabo finish nail gun comparison.
This tool suits DIYers seeking a durable metal finish nailer for crown molding, baseboards, and exterior trim. In the ryobi p325 vs p326 comparison, the P325 offers familiar physical switches but gives way to the P326 due to the latter’s significantly narrower nose and lighter overall handling.
03
RYOBI P322 ONE+ HP 18V 18-Gauge

RYOBI P322 ONE+ HP 18V 18-Gauge
Best for: Makers prioritizing lightweight brushless handling
Pros
- ONE+ HP brushless motor
- Lightweight 6.3-pound chassis
- Non-marring contact pads
Cons
- Battery not included
The RYOBI P322 ONE+ HP 18V 18-Gauge represents the brushless tier of Ryobi’s cordless brad nailers. Designated under model P322, this bare tool weighs 6.3 pounds, making it noticeably lighter than brushed alternatives. The listing confirms that it ships with two non-marring pads to shield delicate work surfaces from indentation, along with an operator’s manual, though the required 18-volt battery must be acquired separately.
The ONE+ HP brushless motor optimizes battery efficiency and operational response. By firing slender 18-gauge brads, it allows makers to tack delicate components without splitting thin stock or leaving substantial nail holes to fill. The 6.3-pound chassis reduces operator fatigue during overhead installations, such as ceiling paneling or upper cabinetry moldings.
This ryobi p322 brad nailer is tailored for detailed craft builders, set decorators, and cabinetmakers assembling face frames and light boxes. It surpasses bulkier brushed brad nailers in ergonomics, but yields to 16-gauge tools when structural anchoring in heavy lumber is required.
04
RYOBI 18V ONE+ AirStrike 18GA Brad

RYOBI 18V ONE+ AirStrike 18GA Brad
Best for: Beginners seeking an all-in-one brad kit
Pros
- Includes 1.5Ah battery and charger
- Tool-free jam release
- Adjustable air pressure dial
Cons
- Shipped in generic bulk packaging
The RYOBI 18V ONE+ AirStrike 18GA Brad, cataloged as kit P321K, arrives in bulk packaging within a generic shipping box. The package includes the 18-gauge brad nailer, a 1.5Ah lithium-ion battery, a compatible charger, two non-marring pads, and a 30-day limited warranty. The full kit weight is listed at 7.8 pounds, providing an all-in-one entry into the cordless AirStrike ecosystem.
The listing states the P321 nailer can sink brads up to 2 inches long into hardwoods. It features an air pressure adjustment dial, a tool-free depth-of-drive adjustment mechanism, and a tool-free jam release latch. While the description claims driving endurance up to 1,900 nails per charge, it references a 4.0Ah battery, contrasting with the 1.5Ah pack listed in the included components. Makers assessing alternative 18-gauge platforms can explore our dewalt 18 gauge nailer comparison for broader shop options.
This kit fits creators needing an out-of-the-box brad nailer without buying separate batteries. In a ryobi p320 vs p321 evaluation, the P321 provides updated ergonomics and fine air pressure regulation, making it a compelling package for general workshop joinery.
05
Ryobi One+ 18v Cordless Brad Nailer
The Ryobi One+ 18v Cordless Brad Nailer, sold under part number P320K, is a complete 18-gauge nailing kit delivered in bulk packaging. Built with an ABS plastic body in Ryobi green, the kit weighs 8.76 pounds with dimensions of 14.02 by 10.51 by 8.58 inches. The listing emphasizes cordless convenience with power comparable to gas nailers, eliminating the recurring expense of fuel canisters.
Technical details indicate that when operating on a 4.0Ah battery, the P320 can drive up to 700 nails up to 50 millimeters (around 2 inches) long per charge. The tool features an onboard depth adjustment dial, built-in LED lighting for dimly lit workspaces, and an attached belt clip. The listing suggests broad home uses ranging from joint reinforcement to decorative projects.
The P320K serves hobbyists and homeowners who want an established brad driver bundled with power accessories. While reliable for everyday fastening, it steps aside for the lighter P321K kit and brushless P322 when minimizing tool weight during long crafting sessions is critical.
06
RYOBI ONEAND 18V 16-Gauge Cordless AIRSTRIKE
Best for: Carpenters needing a bundled 16-gauge setup
Pros
- Includes 2.0Ah lithium-ion battery
- Cordless AirStrike convenience
- Durable ABS plastic housing
Cons
- Listing details contain supplier catalog errors
The RYOBI ONEAND 18V 16-Gauge Cordless AIRSTRIKE is listed as model P326K1N, combining the modern 16-gauge P326 straight finish nailer with a 2.0Ah lithium-ion battery pack. Weighing 7 pounds and molded from green ABS plastic, this unit provides 18V battery-powered AirStrike convenience without tethering the operator to an air compressor or air hose.
The listing features an external catalog discrepancy, displaying bullet points referring to Stens lawn and landscape replacement parts. However, the model number identifies it as the P326 platform, delivering straight 16-gauge fastening performance. By packaging the updated nailer with a 2.0Ah battery, it supplies immediate cordless runtime for workshop builders.
This bundle is suited for creators installing baseboards, paneling, and interior doors who need a bundled battery alongside their ryobi 18v cordless finish nailer. It gives way to the lighter P322 or P321 brad nailers when assembling small decorative crafts that require invisible fastener holes.
Matching a Model to Your Setup
- For installing interior door frames and wide baseboards where strong mechanical holding power is necessary, select the RYOBI ONE+ 18V 16-Gauge Cordless AirStrike (P326).
- For workshop owners who prefer a durable metal tool with dedicated light switching and already own 18V packs, pick the Ryobi P325 One+ 18V Lithium Ion.
- For makers building delicate displays, dollhouses, or small craft boxes where minimizing weight and preventing wood splits are vital, choose the RYOBI P322 ONE+ HP 18V 18-Gauge.
- For beginners who need an all-in-one brad nailing kit with an included battery and charger, select the RYOBI 18V ONE+ AirStrike 18GA Brad (P321K).
- For woodworkers wanting a 16-gauge finish nailer bundled directly with a battery pack, choose the RYOBI ONEAND 18V 16-Gauge Cordless AIRSTRIKE (P326K1N).
- For general joint reinforcement and standard DIY repairs around the home shop, rely on the Ryobi One+ 18v Cordless Brad Nailer (P320K).
Before You Buy
Before purchasing, buyers should examine the packaging and bundled components carefully across these listings. Models like the P321K and P320K arrive in bulk packaging, meaning they ship in generic cardboard boxes rather than retail printed cartons. There are also listing contradictions to be aware of: the P321K specifications cite an included 1.5Ah battery, yet the text highlights runtime achieved with a 4.0Ah battery. Additionally, bare-tool models such as the P326, P325, and P322 do not include a battery or charger, which must be purchased separately if you are not already on the ONE+ platform.
The listings also omit certain operating metrics that woodworkers often track, including specific magazine fastener capacities, cycle cycle latency, and decibel sound levels. The P326K1N listing contains unrelated lawnmower part copy in its descriptive bullet points, requiring buyers to verify the P326 model number directly. Furthermore, ensure you purchase the correct fastener gauge: 16-gauge finish nails and 18-gauge brads are physically distinct and cannot be interchanged within the same magazine.
FAQ
How do 16-gauge finish nailers compare to 18-gauge brad nailers?
A 16-gauge finish nailer drives thicker fasteners that provide solid mechanical holding strength for heavier trim, baseboards, and interior door casings. An 18-gauge brad nailer shoots thinner wire nails that leave tiny holes, making it ideal for delicate crafts, picture frames, and thin moldings where wood splitting must be avoided.
What does Ryobi AirStrike technology do?
AirStrike technology uses an internal compression cylinder driven by an 18V ONE+ battery to generate driving force. This eliminates the need for bulky air compressors, dragging hoses, and costly gas cartridges, speeding up setup times on workshop projects.
What is the main difference between the Ryobi P325 and P326?
The P326 features an updated nose design that is 78 percent smaller than the P325, providing clearer sightlines and better clearance in tight corners. While the P325 offers an independent trigger for its LED light, the P326 delivers a more compact profile and refined air pressure controls.
Are all Ryobi ONE+ 18V batteries compatible with these nailers?
Yes, all six nailers operate on the Ryobi 18V ONE+ platform. As noted in the P325 listing, the tools function across the entire ONE+ battery range, allowing users to swap batteries between different Ryobi tools in their workshop.
Which ryobi finish nailer to buy for small woodworking crafts?
For small crafts and light decorative builds, the best ryobi cordless nailer is an 18-gauge model such as the brushless P322 or the P321K kit. Their thinner wire fasteners minimize wood splitting and require far less wood filler prior to finishing.



