Nail guns, often referred to as "nailers," come in a variety of types, each tailored to specific tasks in the world of construction and DIY. Understanding these types is crucial to selecting the right tool for your project. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of nail guns.

Framing Nailers: Powerhouses for Big Jobs

Picture this: You’re about to construct a sturdy wooden frame for a new house. This is where framing nailers shine. These beefy nail guns are the workhorses of the construction world. They use large, heavy-duty nails that can effortlessly penetrate lumber and other tough materials.

• Nail Size: Typically, framing nailers use nails from 2 to 3.5 inches in length.
• Applications: Ideal for framing, sheathing, and other heavy-duty structural work.

Finish Nailers: Precision for the Final Touch

Now, shift your focus to the exquisite details in woodworking or trim work. Finish nailers are your best friends in these delicate tasks. These guns employ smaller, slender nails that leave behind tiny holes, making them perfect for delicate finish work.

• Nail Size: Finish nailers use nails ranging from 15 to 16-gauge, which are thinner and less noticeable.
• Applications: Perfect for crown molding, baseboards, and attaching delicate trims.

Brad Nailers: The Art of Subtlety

For a moment, imagine you’re crafting a piece of custom furniture. It’s an intricate process where aesthetics matter just as much as structural integrity. This is where brad nailers excel. They use even thinner nails, which virtually disappear upon driving.

• Nail Size: Brad nailers use 18-gauge nails, almost as thin as a staple.
• Applications: Ideal for delicate tasks like attaching thin moldings, veneers, and lightweight panels.

Roofing Nailers: Tackling Overhead Challenges

Let’s shift our perspective to the top of a building. Roofing is a demanding job, and roofing nailers are designed to handle it with ease. These specialized tools use nails with large heads to secure shingles and roofing materials, providing a watertight seal.

• Nail Size: Roofing nailers use large-head nails, often with a coil or strip magazine.
• Applications: Primarily used for shingle installation and other roofing applications.

Upholstery Staplers: A Different Kind of Nailer

Now, consider a scenario where you’re reupholstering a chair or couch. Upholstery staplers might not use traditional nails, but they’re essential in the world of fastening fabrics and materials.

• Fastener Type: These tools use staples, not nails, to secure fabric to furniture frames.
• Applications: Ideal for upholstery work and crafting.

Pin Nailers: Virtually Invisible Joinery

As we explore further, picture yourself engaged in intricate woodworking, where hidden joinery is the goal. Pin nailers are the secret to achieving this, using extremely fine nails that leave almost no visible mark.

• Nail Size: Pin nailers employ 23-gauge nails, the thinnest in the nail gun realm.
• Applications: Perfect for attaching delicate moldings, securing joints, and hidden fastening.

Micro-Pinner and Headless Pinner: The Pin’s Evolution

In the evolution of pin nailers, we arrive at micro-pinners and headless pinners. These take subtlety to a whole new level. The difference lies in the type of pin they use, with micro-pinners being slightly larger.

• Nail Size: Micro-pinners use 21-gauge nails, slightly thicker than headless pinners, which use 23-gauge nails.
• Applications: Micro-pinners are versatile for delicate woodworking, while headless pinners excel in ultra-hidden fastening.

Now that you’ve uncovered the world of nail guns and their diverse applications, the next step is choosing the right one for your project. Whether you’re a seasoned contractor or an avid DIY enthusiast, understanding the specific needs of your task will lead to the perfect nailer selection. Dive into the details and discover the power of precision with the right nail gun.

Imagine this scenario: You’re embarking on a construction project, whether it’s a home renovation, building a deck, or crafting a piece of custom furniture. You’re excited and ready to roll up your sleeves, but before you start, you’re faced with a crucial decision – choosing the right nail gun. It’s like selecting the perfect tool from a treasure chest, and it can make all the difference in the world. Let’s explore the intricate details of making this choice.

Understanding the Power Sources

Nail guns come with different power sources, each with its unique advantages and considerations. Understanding these power sources is the first step in making an informed decision.

1. Pneumatic Nail Guns: These are powered by compressed air and are typically the go-to choice for professional contractors due to their power and reliability. They deliver consistent performance, making them suitable for heavy-duty tasks.

2. Cordless Nail Guns: Cordless nail guns are becoming increasingly popular, and for a good reason. They offer excellent portability and don’t require an air compressor, making them ideal for on-the-go tasks. Powered by rechargeable batteries, they are versatile and perfect for DIY enthusiasts.

3. Electric Nail Guns: Electric nail guns are known for their convenience and consistent power. They are plug-and-play, making them suitable for indoor tasks like trim work. Some models come corded, while others are cordless, giving you flexibility.

Nail Size and Angle

Once you’ve chosen the power source, it’s time to consider the specifics of the nails you’ll be using. The nail size and angle play a crucial role in the performance of your nail gun.

1. Nail Size: Nail guns are designed to accommodate a range of nail sizes. The size of the nail should match the thickness and material you’re fastening. Using the wrong size could lead to jamming or ineffective fastening.

2. Nail Angle: Some nail guns have a specific angle at which they drive nails. Common angles are 21 degrees, 28 degrees, and 30 degrees. The choice of angle affects accessibility and maneuverability in tight spaces.

Ergonomics and Weight

Considering the ergonomics and weight of your nail gun is essential for comfort and control during extended use.

1. Ergonomics: Look for a nail gun with a comfortable grip and trigger. An ergonomic design reduces fatigue and enhances precision.

2. Weight: Consider the weight of the nail gun. For overhead work, a lightweight model is a game-changer. Heavy nail guns can be tiring to use for extended periods.

Special Features and Adjustability

Nail guns come with a variety of special features and adjustable settings. Understanding these can help you fine-tune your tool for the task at hand.

1. Depth Adjustment: Most nail guns allow you to control the depth to which the nail is driven. This is vital for preventing over-penetration or under-driving.

2. Firing Modes: Some nail guns offer options like sequential firing and bump firing. Sequential firing requires a deliberate trigger pull for each nail, ensuring precision. Bump firing allows for rapid nailing, increasing efficiency.

3. Jam Clearing: Check if the nail gun has easy access to clear jams quickly. No one wants to be stuck in the middle of a project with a jammed nailer.

User Reviews and Recommendations

As you research and consider all these technical aspects, don’t forget to seek advice from experienced users. Online reviews and recommendations from fellow contractors and DIY enthusiasts can provide valuable insights. They may have encountered specific challenges or found exceptional features in certain nail gun models that could align with your needs.

In the world of nail guns, the right choice can make your project smoother and more efficient. Armed with a deep understanding of power sources, nail size, ergonomics, special features, and user recommendations, you’re ready to pick the perfect tool for your next construction adventure.

Let’s dive into a world of tiny but mighty essentials – nails and fasteners. Imagine, if you will, the foundation of your dream house or the delicate finishing touches on a custom-made piece of furniture. In both cases, nails and fasteners are the unsung heroes holding it all together. But, how do you pick the right ones? Let’s unravel this nail-biting mystery.

Understanding Nail Sizes

Nails come in various sizes, and understanding these sizes is fundamental. It’s like finding the right key to unlock a treasure chest. Here’s a peek into this intriguing world:

1. Gauge: The gauge of a nail determines its thickness. The lower the gauge number, the thicker the nail. For instance, 18-gauge nails are thicker than 23-gauge nails.

2. Length: Nail length is crucial and should match the thickness of the material you’re fastening. Using a nail that’s too short won’t provide a secure hold, while an excessively long nail can weaken the structure.

3. Head Type: Nails can have different head types, including flat heads, countersunk heads, and raised heads. The choice of head type depends on the material and application. Raised heads provide a strong grip, while countersunk heads are used for a flush finish.

4. Shank Type: Nails can have smooth, ring-shank, or spiral-shank designs. The shank type affects the nail’s holding power. Ring-shank nails, for instance, offer superior grip.

The Right Nail for the Job

Selecting the right nail for your project is like choosing the right tool for the task. Here are some scenarios to illustrate this:

1. Framing: Imagine you’re constructing a sturdy wooden frame for a new house. This is where framing nails, often 3.5-inch 16d nails with a ring shank, come into play. They provide incredible holding power, ensuring your structure remains rock solid.

2. Fine Woodworking: Now, picture crafting a delicate piece of custom furniture. In such cases, thinner 18-gauge brad nails, with countersunk heads, are your best choice. They leave tiny, inconspicuous holes and provide a secure yet subtle connection.

3. Roofing: Shifting our perspective to the roof, roofing nails are specifically designed for securing shingles. They often have large heads to prevent shingles from tearing. The length of these nails depends on the thickness of the roofing material.

4. Finishing Work: In a world of crown molding, baseboards, and detailed trim work, finish nails (often 15 or 16-gauge) are the unsung heroes. They offer precision without leaving noticeable marks.

5. Upholstery: Now, imagine reupholstering a chair or a sofa. In this world, upholstery staples are your choice, fastening fabric to furniture frames without causing damage.

Nail Material Matters

Nails aren’t just about size and shape; the material also plays a significant role. Different materials have different properties:

1. Common Nails: These are typically made of steel and are suitable for general construction applications.

2. Galvanized Nails: These nails are coated with zinc to resist rust, making them ideal for outdoor projects or areas with high moisture.

3. Stainless Steel Nails: Stainless steel nails are corrosion-resistant, making them perfect for projects near the coast or in highly humid environments.

4. Copper Nails: These are used for roofing and other applications where corrosion resistance and appearance matter.

How to Store Nails

Nails may seem simple, but they require proper storage to maintain their quality and performance. Picture a toolbox full of rusty nails – not a pretty sight. Here’s how to prevent that:

1. Keep Them Dry: Store nails in a dry environment to prevent rust. Airtight containers or bins work well.

2. Organize by Size: Sort nails by size in labeled containers to easily find the right one when needed.

3. Avoid Moisture: Moisture is the enemy of nails. Store them away from damp areas.

4. Check for Rust: Before use, inspect nails for rust or damage, and discard any compromised ones.

So there you have it, the fascinating world of nails and fasteners, where size, shape, and material all come into play. The right choice of nails can make the difference between a sturdy structure and a shaky one, or between a flawless piece of craftsmanship and a flawed one. The next time you reach for a nail, you’ll know just what you need to make your project a resounding success.

Now that we’ve explored the world of nail guns and understood the intricacies of nails and fasteners, it’s time to talk about safety. Picture this: you’re at a construction site, surrounded by the noise and chaos of a bustling project, and you’re holding a powerful tool in your hand – a nail gun. It’s a fantastic feeling, but it comes with responsibilities. Operating a nail gun safely is paramount, and it’s something every contractor and DIY enthusiast should take seriously.

The Essential Safety Gear

Before we dive into the technical aspects of nail gun safety, let’s talk about the gear that’s as crucial as the nail gun itself. Just like a knight gearing up for battle, you need to be equipped with the right armor.

1. Eye Protection: Safety glasses or goggles are non-negotiable. Nail guns can kick back debris, and a stray nail can cause serious eye injuries.

2. Hearing Protection: The noise of nail guns can be deafening. Earplugs or earmuffs shield your ears from the constant roar.

3. Respiratory Protection: When working with wood or in dusty environments, a respirator protects your lungs from harmful particles.

4. Gloves: Gloves with good grip and protection against splinters are essential. They also provide some protection against nail misfires.

5. Steel-Toed Boots: Protect your feet from falling nails or heavy materials. Steel-toed boots offer the best safeguard.

6. Hard Hat: In a busy construction site, a hard hat is a must. Falling objects can be a significant hazard.

Workspace Safety

Once you’re geared up, it’s time to think about your workspace. Safety doesn’t just rely on personal protective equipment; it’s also about where and how you work.

1. Clear Workspace: Imagine your workspace as a battlefield; it needs to be clear of obstructions and debris. Keep the area free from trip hazards.

2. Secure Material: Before firing your nail gun, make sure the material you’re fastening is secure. If it moves, the nail can miss the mark, causing potential hazards.

3. Disconnect Air Supply: If you’re using a pneumatic nail gun, disconnect the air supply when not in use. This prevents accidental discharges.

4. Mind the Trigger: Keep your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to fire. It’s a bit like keeping your finger off the trigger of a firearm until you intend to shoot.

5. Avoid Bypassing Safety Features: Nail guns often come with safety features like sequential triggers that require deliberate pulls. Avoid bypassing these safety mechanisms.

Maintenance and Inspection

Just like a knight maintaining their armor and weapons, you need to ensure your nail gun is in top shape.

1. Regular Maintenance: Regularly clean and lubricate your nail gun as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Neglecting this can lead to misfires and accidents.

2. Visual Inspection: Before each use, visually inspect the nail gun for any damage, loose parts, or jammed nails.

3. Air Pressure: For pneumatic nail guns, ensure the air pressure is within the recommended range. Using too much or too little pressure can lead to problems.

4. Clear Jams Safely: If a jam occurs, don’t attempt to clear it with the air connected. Disconnect the air supply, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to clear the jam safely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

In the heat of the moment, it’s easy to overlook safety measures. Let’s take a look at some common mistakes you should avoid:

1. Firing Towards the Body: Always keep the nail gun pointed away from your body and others. Accidental discharges can cause severe injuries.

2. Hands and Feet Placement: Keep your hands and feet away from the nail’s path. It’s all too easy to make contact accidentally.

3. Rushing the Job: Impatience can lead to accidents. Take your time to align the nail gun properly and ensure a secure shot.

4. Firing into Unknown Areas: Before nailing, be aware of what’s behind the material you’re fastening. Avoid nailing into electrical wires, pipes, or other hidden hazards.

5. Horseplay: On a construction site, safety is no joke. Avoid any kind of horseplay or reckless behavior that could lead to accidents.

Operating a nail gun is empowering, but it comes with the responsibility of ensuring safety. Just like a knight who is vigilant on the battlefield, you should be vigilant in your workspace. With the right gear, a clean workspace, proper maintenance, and a keen eye for common mistakes, you can make sure every nail you drive is a safe one.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Picture this: You’re deep into a woodworking project, and your nail gun suddenly starts misfiring. Or, you’re in the middle of a roofing job, and the nail gun jams. Frustrating, right? Just like a car needs regular tune-ups, your nail gun requires maintenance to stay in peak condition. And when issues do arise, troubleshooting can save the day.

Nail Gun Maintenance: The Unsung Hero

1. Regular Cleaning: Imagine your nail gun as a precision instrument. It needs to be kept clean and free of debris to operate smoothly. Cleaning it after each use is essential. This involves removing any dust, wood chips, or dirt that may accumulate.

2. Lubrication: Just like a knight’s armor needs oil to prevent rust, your nail gun requires lubrication to prevent wear and tear. Use the recommended lubricant for your nail gun type, whether pneumatic or electric.

3. Safety Check: Conduct a thorough safety check before each use. Ensure that safety features like the trigger mechanisms are working correctly. A malfunction in these features could lead to accidents.

4. Nail Magazine Inspection: Examine the nail magazine for any damage or misalignment. A damaged magazine can lead to jamming.

5. Air Compressor Maintenance: If you’re using a pneumatic nail gun, regularly maintain the air compressor. Ensure it’s free of moisture and that it’s generating the right pressure.

6. Battery Care: For cordless nail guns, pay attention to the battery. Charge it fully before each use, and store it in a cool, dry place. Batteries can degrade over time, so monitor their condition.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Now, let’s talk about what to do when things go south with your nail gun. It’s a bit like a knight facing a dragon; you need to have a strategy to prevail.

1. Misfires: Misfires can be caused by various factors, such as low air pressure, a worn trigger valve, or even the wrong nail size. When a misfire occurs, follow these steps:

• Check air pressure and adjust it to the manufacturer’s recommended range.
• Inspect the trigger valve for wear and tear. Replace it if needed.
• Ensure you’re using the correct nail size and that the nails are loaded properly.

2. Jams: Nail gun jams can be a real headache. They often result from nails misaligned in the magazine or a damaged driver blade. To clear a jam:

• Disconnect the air supply or remove the battery to ensure the nail gun can’t accidentally discharge.
• Open the magazine and remove any misaligned or jammed nails.
• Inspect the driver blade for damage, and replace it if necessary.

3. Double Shots: Double firing can occur if the trigger isn’t released fully between shots. It’s like a knight wielding a sword – each swing needs to be deliberate. To avoid double shots:

• Release the trigger fully between shots to prevent rapid, unintended firing.
• If double shots persist, it may indicate a worn or damaged trigger mechanism that needs replacement.

4. Weak Firing: If your nail gun is firing weakly, it could be due to low air pressure, a worn piston o-ring, or a dirty driver blade. In this case:

• Check and adjust the air pressure as needed.
• Inspect the piston o-ring for damage or wear and replace it if necessary.
• Clean the driver blade and ensure it moves freely.

5. Inconsistent Depth: Achieving consistent nail depth is critical for a successful project. If your nail gun isn’t driving nails to the desired depth, follow these steps:

• Adjust the depth setting on your nail gun if it has this feature.
• Ensure the air pressure is within the manufacturer’s recommended range.
• Check the driver blade for damage, as a damaged blade may not drive nails consistently.

Just like a knight’s armor requires regular inspection and care to stay battle-ready, your nail gun needs consistent maintenance and troubleshooting skills to perform at its best. With these practices in your toolbox, you’ll be well-equipped to face any challenges that arise in your construction or DIY adventures.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

In the realm of nail guns and construction, we often focus on power and performance. But here’s a different perspective – one that takes us beyond the workshop and into the world of environmental responsibility. Picture this: you’re constructing a new building, and amidst the clatter and buzz of the construction site, you pause to think about the impact on the environment. Can nail guns be sustainable? Let’s delve into this intriguing topic.

The Hidden Impact

When we think of the environmental footprint of construction, we often think of big machinery, heavy vehicles, and piles of materials. Nail guns might seem insignificant in comparison, but they have their own impact. Consider the following:

1. Energy Consumption: Nail guns, especially pneumatic ones, rely on air compressors that consume energy. This energy generation can have a carbon footprint.

2. Material Waste: Misfires, nail jams, and inaccurate shots can lead to material waste, which can add up over time.

3. Emissions: Pneumatic nail guns produce noise and emissions from the air compressor, contributing to the overall environmental noise and air pollution.

Sustainable Practices

Just as a knight seeks a righteous path, contractors and DIY enthusiasts can also adopt sustainable practices when using nail guns. Here’s how:

1. Choose Electric or Cordless: Electric nail guns and cordless models are generally more energy-efficient and produce fewer emissions compared to pneumatic nail guns. They’re ideal for indoor projects.

2. Battery Recycling: If you use cordless nail guns, consider recycling or properly disposing of the batteries to minimize their environmental impact.

3. Energy-Efficient Compressors: If you must use a pneumatic nail gun, invest in an energy-efficient air compressor to reduce energy consumption.

4. Minimize Misfires: Take care to load nails correctly, maintain your nail gun, and ensure that your shots are accurate to minimize material waste.

5. Noise Reduction: Use hearing protection to mitigate the noise pollution associated with nail gun use.

Sustainable Fasteners

Just as a knight seeks the finest materials for armor and weapons, contractors can make eco-conscious choices when it comes to fasteners. Sustainable fasteners are an emerging trend in construction.

1. Recycled Materials: Some manufacturers produce fasteners using recycled steel, reducing the demand for virgin materials.

2. Eco-Friendly Coatings: Look for fasteners with environmentally friendly coatings that reduce the use of toxic chemicals.

3. Consider Alternate Fasteners: In some cases, screws or other fasteners might be a more sustainable choice compared to nails.

The Bigger Picture

In the grand tapestry of construction and DIY, nail guns are just one thread. But collectively, the choices we make regarding tools and practices can significantly impact the environment. Just like a knight protecting their kingdom, we can take steps to protect our planet. By adopting sustainable practices and being mindful of the environmental impact, we can build a better, greener future for all.

Remember, while nail guns play a role in construction, it’s our choices and practices that can truly make a difference in the fight for a sustainable world. So, the next time you pick up your nail gun, consider the bigger picture and the positive impact you can have on the environment.

Beyond Nailing: Creative Applications

Nail guns are the unsung heroes of construction, the quiet workhorses that hold the world together. But what if we told you that nail guns have ventured far beyond the world of two-by-fours and drywall? Imagine a nail gun in the hands of an artist or a designer, and suddenly, the possibilities are as vast as the imagination. Let’s explore the creative applications of nail guns, where they transform from tools of function into instruments of artistry.

Woodworking Masterpieces

Nail guns are a woodworker’s best friend, speeding up the assembly process and ensuring a solid bond. But in the hands of a master craftsman, nail guns become instruments of precision and creativity.

1. Intricate Inlays: Picture a tabletop adorned with intricate wooden inlays. Nail guns, especially brad nailers, help woodworkers affix delicate pieces of wood together seamlessly.

2. Sculptures and Art: Wood artists use nail guns to construct intricate wooden sculptures or large-scale installations, where precision and strength are of utmost importance.

The Art of Upholstery

Just as a knight’s armor is crafted with care, upholsterers take great pride in creating beautiful, comfortable furniture. Nail guns play a significant role in this art form.

1. Securing Fabric: Upholstery staplers use nails to secure fabric and padding to furniture frames. The nails are essential for ensuring a tight, wrinkle-free finish.

2. Tufted Furniture: Creating tufted furniture, like button-tufted headboards or sofas, requires precise nail placement to achieve that iconic tufted look.

Construction Beyond Buildings

Nail guns aren’t limited to traditional construction sites; they find their way into more unconventional spaces.

1. Movie Sets: In the world of filmmaking, nail guns are often used to create or dismantle temporary sets quickly and efficiently.

2. Theme Parks: The structures in theme parks, designed for durability and speedy assembly, often rely on nail guns to bring the magic to life.

Crafting for Fun

Just as a knight might enjoy a good game of chess, DIY enthusiasts find joy in crafting for fun. Nail guns can make these hobbies even more exciting.

1. Pallet Furniture: Reusing pallets to create unique furniture pieces is a popular DIY project. Nail guns provide the strength needed for these projects.

2. Custom Treehouses: For those building treehouses for their kids or a personal retreat, nail guns speed up the process, ensuring a safe and sturdy structure.

Sculpting with Nails

Finally, let’s take a moment to appreciate the artists who have elevated nail guns to tools of sculptural expression.

1. Nail Gun Art: Some artists create striking sculptures using nail guns as the primary medium. These sculptures are a testament to the versatility of this tool.

2. Metal Art: Nail guns aren’t just for wood; they’re also used in metalwork. Metal artists use nail guns to attach pieces together, creating unique art installations.

The world of nail guns is far more diverse and imaginative than we often realize. From intricate woodworking to upholstery, unconventional construction, and art, nail guns have stepped into the realm of creativity. Just as a knight wields their sword with precision and artistry, craftsmen and artists alike use nail guns to craft, create, and build the extraordinary. So, the next time you pick up a nail gun, remember, it’s not just a tool; it’s a brush in the hands of a master painter, ready to create a masterpiece.

Conclusion: The Power and Potential of Nail Guns

As we wrap up this journey through the world of nail guns, from the construction site to the artist’s studio, there’s a resounding theme – the power and potential of these unassuming tools. Just like a knight’s sword, they are instruments of precision, strength, and, as we’ve discovered, artistry.

In the hands of a skilled contractor or a passionate DIY enthusiast, nail guns are the catalysts of creation. They transform ideas into reality, whether it’s a towering skyscraper, a cozy home, or a handcrafted piece of furniture. The power of a nail gun lies not just in its mechanical force but in the hands that wield it.

But beyond the strength and speed, we’ve explored the softer side of nail guns – their potential for art and creativity. From the delicate inlays of woodworking to the precision of tufted upholstery and the whimsy of movie sets and theme parks, nail guns have become brushes for the modern-day artist. Just as a knight dons their armor for battle, craftsmen and artists use nail guns to sculpt, build, and create.

So, whether you’re a contractor constructing a new world or a DIY enthusiast crafting for fun, remember the potential in your hands when you pick up a nail gun. It’s not just a tool; it’s an extension of your vision and your dedication to the craft. Embrace the power, explore the creativity, and continue building a world that reflects your dreams and aspirations. With a nail gun in hand, the possibilities are as boundless as your imagination.

Nailing the Future: Technological Advancements

The world of nail guns, much like the rest of our lives, is constantly evolving. Just as knights once relied on swords and armor, today’s contractors and DIY enthusiasts have access to cutting-edge technology that’s reshaping the way we use nail guns.

Cordless Revolution

If you’ve been in the construction or DIY game for a while, you probably remember the days when pneumatic nail guns ruled the roost. These tools required an air compressor and hoses, making them somewhat unwieldy. But today, the cordless revolution has changed the game. Here’s what’s happening:

1. Lithium-ion Batteries: Cordless nail guns now use high-capacity lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are lighter, hold a charge longer, and allow for more freedom of movement.