WORX Nitro 20V WX842L.9 Cordless Brad Nailer: features and fit

The WORX Nitro WX842L.9 is a cordless 18-gauge brad nailer that runs on a 20V Power Share battery. It is meant for trim, moulding and other light finish carpentry where a compressor and hose would be in the way. Note the ".9" in the model name: this is the tool only, and the battery and charger are sold separately.

How it drives nails without air

Pneumatic nailers use a compressor and hose. WORX uses what it calls NailForce Air Impact Technology, an electric mechanism that drives the nail without a compressor, hose or gas cartridge. WORX says it sets brad nails up to 2 inches into hardwood and fires up to 80 nails per minute. That makes it practical for a job such as fixing baseboard in several rooms, where dragging a hose around is a nuisance.

What 18-gauge brads are for

An 18-gauge brad is thin, so it leaves a small hole that is easy to fill. Brads typically hold lightweight trim in place, often alongside glue, rather than carrying structural loads. WORX lists uses including panel moulding, window and door trim, small baseboards, crown moulding, hardwood flooring, fence panels and cabinetry.

Firing modes and depth

Two modes are available. Contact Actuation lets you bump the nose against the work to fire quickly. Single Sequential requires you to press the nose and then the trigger for each nail, which gives more precise placement. A tool-free depth adjustment dial controls how far nails sink, and a non-marring pad on the tip helps protect the work surface.

Jams, magazine and safety features

A tool-free jam release clears stuck nails by lifting and unhooking a lever. WORX says an anti-ejection design stops nails from becoming airborne when the magazine is opened or a jam is cleared. The quick-load magazine has a low-nail indicator, and a dry-fire lockout prevents firing when it is empty. As with any nailer, wear eye protection, keep hands clear of the nose and follow the manual.

Comfort and visibility

The tool has a micro-textured rubber grip, a narrow nose for a clear line of sight and dual LED lights for working under cabinets or in dim corners. It measures about 11.8 inches long and weighs 6 lb (about 2.7 kg) without a battery.

The Power Share battery system

The same Power Share 20V batteries run more than 140 WORX tools, outdoor equipment and lifestyle products, according to the brand. If you already own WORX tools, you may have a battery and charger. If not, you will need to add them.

What is in the box

WORX lists one 20V cordless 18-gauge brad nailer, a belt clip and 200 1.5-inch 18-gauge brad nails.

Who it suits

It suits homeowners and DIYers doing trim, moulding and cabinet work, and anyone already invested in the Power Share range.

What to check before you buy

• Battery and charger: confirm you have a compatible Power Share 20V battery and charger.
• Nail size: check the nail lengths and the 18-gauge brad type the magazine accepts.
• Material: think about whether you will nail into hardwood or only softwood and trim.
• Weight: hold it, if you can, to see if 6 lb suits overhead work.
• Use: read the manual on the firing modes and on safe handling.

The short version

• A 20V cordless 18-gauge brad nailer, tool only.
• Fires up to 80 nails per minute, with nails up to 2 inches.
• Contact and single sequential modes, tool-free depth and jam release.
• Anti-ejection design, dry-fire lockout and low-nail indicator.
• Includes belt clip and 200 brad nails; battery sold separately.

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