Pins
Pins are ultra-fine collated fixings used for second fix applications like trim, moulding and delicate timber joins. They leave minimal surface marks and are ideal for finishing work where you want strong hold with an invisible finish.
What Are Pins Used For?
Pins are essential for fast, clean fixings during finishing work. They provide just enough grip to hold materials in place while adhesives set or to secure small components where nails would be too aggressive.
- Trim and Moulding Fixing – Attach decorative skirting, cornice or bead moulding with little to no filling required after firing.
- Furniture and Cabinetry – Secure lightweight panels or trims where screws or nails would split or leave visible heads.
- Beading and Stops – Pin stop beads to door or window linings quickly, without damaging fine timber sections.
- Glue Clamping Aid – Use pins to hold components while wood glue dries — keeps faces flush and reduces movement during clamping.
Who Uses Pins Onsite?
Pins are used by second fix trades, cabinetmakers, and finishers who care about speed, neatness and avoiding unnecessary filling or surface repair.
- Carpenters – Install architraves, trims and casings with minimal prep for final finish coats.
- Joiners – Fit beading and corner trims in pre-decorated areas with clean, invisible fixings.
- Kitchen & Wardrobe Fitters – Secure pelmets, cornices and internal panels inside units or along face frames.
- Cabinet Makers – Use for rapid assembly of delicate furniture joints, trims and reveals.
What Jobs Are Pins Best At?
Pins excel at non-structural fixings where a tight grip and clean surface matter more than pull-out resistance. Perfect for tasks that follow final decorating or detail finishing.
- Fixing Scotia or Quadrant Bead – Achieve tight mitres and edge profiles without splitting thin timber strips.
- Architrave Installation – Secure architraves with barely visible holes — less filling, faster painting.
- Fitting Pelmets and Cornices – Use fine pins to tack decorative elements without blowout or head visibility.
- Assembly of Flat-Packed Panels – Pin shelves or carcasses into place before screwing or gluing permanently.
- Holding Work While Glue Sets – Speed up jobs by pinning instead of clamping — great for curved or small parts.
How to Choose the Best Pins
Pin selection depends on your gun, job material, and required finish. Use this breakdown to match your pack to your task.
1. Pin Length
Ranges from 12mm up to 50mm. Shorter pins work well for trim and beads; longer ones for fixing through panels or into hardwoods.
2. Gauge
Most pins are 23 gauge — super fine and near-invisible. Some tools accept heavier gauges, but check spec first.
3. Finish & Coating
Galvanised pins resist corrosion. Stainless steel is essential for kitchens, bathrooms or humid zones. Bright steel pins suit internal use only.
4. Compatibility
Pin guns are more specific than brad nailers — double check gauge, length and collation format before buying.
5. Head Style
Most pins are headless for clean finishes, but micro-heads may give slightly better hold when using hardwoods or dense boards.
Pin Accessories & Add-Ons
- Non-marring tips to prevent scuffing soft or pre-finished surfaces
- Pin gun oils and cleaner kits to avoid residue buildup or misfires
- Micro head pin refills for high-hold finish trim jobs
FAQs
Are pins stronger than brads?
No — pins are finer and offer less hold. They’re used when appearance and finish matter more than strength.
Do pins need filling after firing?
Usually not. 23g pins are near invisible, and most decorators paint straight over them. Slight surface raise may occur on some soft timbers.
What’s the max depth a pin can go?
It depends on the tool and material. Most pins max out at 50mm. They’re not for structural jobs — just hold and finish.
Can pins be used on MDF?
Yes, but go carefully. Thin MDF can split. Use sharp pins and avoid firing too close to edges or corners.
Do I need a specific gun for pins?
Yes. Pin guns differ from brad nailers — they use narrower drivers and different collation formats. Always check compatibility.
