Nail Pullers are devices that remove different types of nails on wood or other surfaces. Whether the nail has a head or is headless, the device should drive it out without damaging your workpiece.
Professionals, beginners, and DIY enthusiasts rely on these tools to accomplish their day to day projects. However, getting the right tool that will deliver satisfactory results may not be easy.
Whereas the nail puller's design is a top consideration, there are other things to consider as you shop for this amazing tool.
If you're searching for the best nail pullers, we have assembled a couple of them to make your selection hassle-free. Keep reading as we engage you in a prolific discussion.
11 Best Nail Pullers
With dozens of nail pullers on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide on the best option that will deliver to your expectation. Our best nail puller reviews will come in handy when picking the right tool for nail removal.
1. Air Locker AP 700
If you'd like to remove inserted nails without damaging the wooden surface below, you need a high-quality nail puller to get satisfactory results. Air Locker AP700 Nail Puller has incredible power that pushes the nails out of a workpiece in a flash.
With a slender shape and an elongated muzzle, this tool also features a drive diameter of 0.16 inches and an air inlet of 0.25 inches. Hence, it can navigate easily on tight spaces of your workpiece.
Unlike other models, this air punch nail remover can punch, pull, and sink nails of gauges of different sizes using air pressure. It can pull nails between 10 to 20 inches at a pressure 80-120 PSI. As you can see, most regular nails fall under this category.
Additionally, you'll have a guarantee of consistency in terms of power and strength.
Moreover, the handle is made of rubber, which offers a perfect grip. It does this by reducing fatigue and friction that may cause soreness to your palm as you work for long hours.
Besides, the body consists of a lightweight aluminum body weighing only 3 pounds. For this reason, it's comfortable to work with, and you'll not feel the heaviness. The quality and build of this device are top-notch, and this is an assurance of durability.
Lastly, it's versatile for using on different types of surfaces such as softwood, pine, maple, poplar, and more. So, this one nail puller can be remedy for multiple issues.
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2. Crescent 11" Nail Puller
As a woodworker, you need a reliable plier that will help you remove nails of different sizes from the workpiece. Crescent 11" is one such tool that offers a quick and efficient operation that leaves your wood underneath intact.
There's more to this than meets the eye, and unlike ordinary nail puller pliers, this device can pull nails even in places where they're not easy to access.
Furthermore, it helps you to safely remove nails where you need to demolish, remodel, and safely rework on the workpiece.
As for quality, you'll get more value with this puller plier since the structure consists of a durable steelhead that is perfectly finished with a black oxide that resists corrosion or rust. Best of all, it offers a rubber grip, and this employment of rubber grips makes your hands comfortable as you grasp and pull the nail.
Crescent nail remover is a versatile tool that you can use for laying floor tiles and removing old nails on surfaces or tracks easily. With this tool, you can easily remove nails from the front or back of the wood. Simply grip, twist, and pull the nail or the staple.
It has dual handles, and that makes it easy and fast to hold, twist, and extract all sizes of nails (including long nails) or staples with little effort and minimal damage. Additionally, the teeth are designed to ensure the best grip on different types of nails
As a final remark, the grips have a clipping design which simplifies the cleaning process, just wipe for a quick clean up. And to make it last longer, it would be better for you to clean it occasionally with a sandblaster after work finished.
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3. Estwing Nail Puller
If you're handling renovations, construction, or demolition, where you need to pull nails, coaxial staples, floor staples, brads, pin nails, nail heads, and more, you need a reliable tool. Estwing is designed for DIY hobbyists as well as professionals, unlike a traditional nail puller.
Simplicity is an essential factor in its design, and the Estwing fits the bill. It features a round head that boosts leverage, and rounded heads like this help you grasp the nail with ease, even for smaller nails.
Even better, it has a thin claw hammer design that enables you to access and remove headless nails. Moreover, the ends of this claw bar nail puller are perfectly polished, and hence you can pull different types of exposed nail.
Some devices out there may end up damaging your wood, but not so with the Estwing nail removers. You'll have a clean job, and this preserves the condition of your wood or surface.
We love this tool's versatility, which makes it the perfect nail puller for home use, for professionals, and all woodworks. It's a friend to the rescue for all carpenters, demolition crews, and any person who may require pulling nails from the wood.
The Estwing is made of durable steel and is tempered for extra strength. Therefore, it'll hold steady even when extracting tough nails. Further, it has an external coating that resists corrosion and enhances durability, thereby boosting your value.
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4. Stanley Claw Bar
If you're a DIY fan, then the word Stanley must ring a bell.
The brand is famous for quality tools for woodworking, and its claw bar is just one example of what they have to offer.
At home, there are small tasks that don't require calling in a professional, such as pulling small to medium sized nails and fasteners from surfaces. Also, you may want to do some minor renovations, such as pulling the padding staples from your wall-to-wall carpet.
In this case, the Stanley claw bar will be the right nail puller for these small projects. It's a cost-saver that will surely ensure your dollars stay in your wallet.
The design incorporates a flat face that enables you to extract nails that are deeply rooted in the surface. Also, it features sloping claws, which are ideal for accurate extraction. Other than pulling nails from surfaces, you can also use this tool for prying nails apart from wood pieces.
Not many tools can match the Stanley claw bar in terms of quality. For strength and power, it's made of high quality carbon steel and has a smooth coating to enhance longevity. In addition the high carbon spring steel build, it has a limited warranty from the manufacturer, thereby giving you more reason to shop.
Lastly, the tool, although small-sized, has a perfect handle that provides a comfortable grip. Also, it’s tempered for your safety even in high temperatures.
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5. Shark CORP Nail pullers
It may be simple and straightforward to remove regular nails from surfaces. However, the same cannot be said when it comes to pulling headless nails, deeply rooted nails, and rusted nails. For sure, you need the right tool for the job.
The Shark Corp nail puller makes it to our recommendation as it can remove even the most stubborn nails, unlike most other nail pullers. Whether the nails have been stuck inside surfaces for many years or are freshly done, this tool is the best fit to easily pull them out.
Further, the device is made of durable steel alloy, which is tempered for strength and safety. That's not all; it's well coated and will not rust under any condition.
For a clean operation, it offers a powerful bite on the shank, thereby pulling the nail from the surface. Further, it has a V design that ensures accuracy.
The underside of the puller is curved to make it dig into wood, slide under the head of an embedded nail, or into the shank of the headless nail, easily grip it, and removing it without breaking a sweat.
This is a specialized tool that can pull nails ranging between 2 to 3 inches, some of the sleekest options available on the market. Indeed, it can embed even the tiniest spots effortlessly without damaging the surface.
With a curvy design, the tool can lift molds and reach different types of nails and remove different nail sizes, whether tiny, headless or tightly fitting nails with little effort.
This tool is built to endure tough conditions, and you may sharpen the blade using a steel file.
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6. 3PLUS HAPT50SP Punch Nailer
Quite too often, small nail pullers may not be effective where you have large projects to accomplish. For instance, when working in a large industry, you need a nail puller, which is powerful to do the job fast and accurately, unlike conventional nail pullers.
For efficiency, you need a machine that can deliver fulfilling results. In such a situation, we highly recommend the 3PLUS Punch Nailer, which can handle bigger projects.
This machine can effectively pull nails out of hardwood quickly and with little effort. Additionally, you're likely to feel less fatigued even when working for long hours.
The 3PLUS Punch Nailer is a versatile tool that can punch nails out of different surfaces. Plus, it's mostly used in situations that demand reusing wood pallets. With such incredible power, it can pull nails ranging between ten to twenty gauges.
Reliability is critical when choosing a nail puller for a large project. This tool will not disappoint as it drives nails out of a workpiece quietly and with accuracy. The best part of it is that it doesn't affect the quality of your wood or cause damages.
Something else to note is the rubberized grip that minimizes your hand's discomfort as you work for long hours. Additionally, it's well-balanced, and this allows for easy maneuverability.
When working on large projects, the weight of your tools matter; otherwise, you may end up feeling fatigued much faster. This tool is made of die-cast aluminum, which is much lighter and easier to carry.
The design also features a slim and extended nose that navigates tighter areas with ease.
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7. Dead on Tools Nail Puller
The company Dead on Tools is famous for its high-quality tools, widely used in the construction projects. Majority of experts trust this too, since it's outwardly sturdy and will last many days. As a leader in the design, quality, and innovation, there's more to it than meets the eye.
As the name suggests, this Exhumer will remove nails from underlying wood surfaces in one instance. Make no mistake; it doesn't end there as there is more to the design, which is meant to boost your overall experience.
For starters, it's loaded with the latest technology, enabling it to perform different functions such as pulling nails on different surfaces. It can pull out deeply embedded nails easily and fast.
This Dead On Tools ex9cl is also extremely lightweight and suitable for projects outside your workshop. Since it weighs only 0.5 pounds with an overall length of 10.5 inches, it can fit in a small pouch and will not clutter your toolbox.
Other additions include a built-in blade and a bottle opener. Therefore, you can open your bottles for a drink as you go about your projects.
Overall, the Dead on Tools nail removal has been tested for quality assurance. Hence, you'll have the confidence to buy a product that's a mark of strength and durability.
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8. Vaughan and Bushnell Nail Puller
Whether you're a beginner, professional or DIY enthusiast, picking the right tool for any task requires making a hard choice. Most of the time, you may be faced with a plethora of tools. Fortunately, the clear winner here is a high-quality tool that will get the job done.
With this mind, a nail puller is an incredibly useful tool that removes nails on a workpiece. On our list, we have the Vaughan, which is one of the best nail puller tool you can ever get.
Moreover, with this tool within your reach, you can remove molds and trim your work easily without any damage to your workpiece — quite amazing!
There is no need to worry about the deeply entrenched nails since it features a flat-claw design that embeds on surfaces. In this way, it can reach nails at the base and pulls it out with little or no damage to the wood. Even better, the rocker-head design offers better leverage, and this enhances performance.
The design also includes a curvy edge that allows for a better grip. Therefore, you can work for many hours without feeling fatigued. Also, it's amazingly thinner and sleeker than other pullers within the category.
It weighs only 2.44 pounds and a length of 14 inches. For this reason, it will fit in your toolbox, and you can carry it along for your outdoor projects.
When it comes to durability, the Vaughan is built like a rock and is tempered, which is a benefit that ensures durability. Despite the strength and sturdiness, the device is lightweight and easy on the hands.
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9. Stiletto Nail Puller
The Stiletto brand has come a long way as far as tools are concerned, and no wonder their claw tool has made it to the top of our recommendation list. Several features set this hand tool from the others on the market.
Firstly, this nail puller is extremely strong, and you can feel the sturdiness as you perform tasks. Therefore, this gives you the confidence that the tool is heavy-duty, will last longer than expected, and is a good value for the money.
You'll be glad to note it's super strong such that it even beats the normal titanium steel bars. It's five times stronger than ordinary steel and has a lower recoil rate. Also, the plate and claw tips are likely to endure longevity than ordinary steel.
Its quality is no doubt what you may be looking for a tool to perform big projects. Other than that, it promises a clean operation and will not chip or damage the wood. It does this by creating a hollow space around the head before pulling the nail.
Despite the sturdiness, this toolbar is unbelievably light. With an overall length of 12 inches and a weight of 8.5 oz., this tool can fit in a small bag for your outdoor projects.
You'll enjoy using the tool since it's heat resistant and will not harm your hand as you work outdoors.
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10. Crescent 19 Inches Nail Puller
The material strength determines the quality of any nail puller. As a professional, you would wish to have a tool that will serve you efficiently. You'll need a tool that doesn't bend under excess pressure or crack as you pull out stubborn, embedded, and headless nails from the wood.
In our recommendation, we have the crescent nail puller, which is one of the most popular nail pullers we have on the market today. This tool will not disappoint you, and several reasons make it a top contender.
Every user of tools will obviously look at the features before picking a product for use. The Crescent 19 inches has outstanding features that boost its performance.
Specifically, the forged alloy box joint design is strong as it can be, and has a tempered jaw. This combination offers a hardened steel alloy tool that is a mark of strength and endurance. Therefore, this tool will deliver a stellar performance and will last many years.
In addition, you can choose either a short or a long jaw depending on your project requirements.
The Crescent 56 nail puller has an elegant black finish made of enamel that enhances durability. Also, it blends with other tools in your workshop, and you'll enjoy having it in your toolbox for outdoor tasks.
Another thing to add to its performance is the hard grip on nails that effectively pulls them out in one instance. Also, the 19 inches length and forged steel body make it suitable for robust Jobsite projects, remodeling, and renovations.
Lastly, the tool weighs only 3.89 pounds, which enhances portability.
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11. Dewalt 55524 Claw Bar
Removing a nail from wood may sound an easy job, but it's not so if you use the wrong device. Carelessness may lead to damage to your piece of furniture or wood and result in poor quality.
In our selection list, the Dewalt 55524 model takes the trophy as a highly efficient tool. It will not only pull out the nail but also take care of your wood to prevent damage.
How does it achieve a clean job? It entrenches to the base of the nail, thereby flushing out the nail in one instant without damaging your wood piece.
Furthermore, it offers a wider stroke on the surface, and hence it enables you to hit the bar with precision. In this way, the tool can reach underneath the nail or at the back of the material with precise penetration.
The design of this nail pull consists of an I-beam tube that offers maximum strength. With its weight remaining constant, it directly points into the material, thereby removing deeply embedded nails.
At 10 inches, this nail puller is versatile and can remove longer nails on surfaces. The build is top-notch, and the outer coating consists of black oxide to protect against corrosion.
Finally, the material is heat-treated, and hence it can be used in situations where there's a need for strength and reinforcement.
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What to Look for Before Buying?
What is the best nail puller? When looking for a nail puller, you need to consider some key features that determine whether it will fit into your demands. Some features are standard in all nail pullers, while some come with additions to make them more unique and favorable.
You may not find one with all the good features, but you'll not miss one that fits your description.
Design
The best nail puller should have precise and sharp claws that'll help remove imbedded or headless nails with ease without causing damage to the wood. Its rounded head will provide great leverage plus more torque, and the precision thin claw design will enable you to get into hard to reach places.
Project
You may require assessing your project first to determine the right size of the nail puller. If it's for industrial use, you may need a heavy-duty nail puller that can run continuously for long plus has the ability to remove both large and small nails.
Choosing a small size puller may require a lot of effort, which will cause fatigue to the user and reduce productivity for heavy duty jobs. For home use, a small handheld device will do the job.
Material
It's important to consider the material used in construction. Tempered and heat-treated metal body will be durable, and the likelihood of the tool bending or cracking is therefore minimized.
Budget
You don't need to spend a lot of money to buy a nail puller for simple jobs in the home like removing and re-fixing carpets. However, heavy-duty tools cost more than simple DIY tools.
Extra Features
Like a utility knife box cutter, nail pullers also has many uses. Besides pulling out the nails, you may require a tool that can be put to other uses. Some can open bottles, which is advantageous to you if you may require quenching your thirst as you embark on the hefty projects and outdoor jobs.
Ease of Use
It's always important to choose a tool that you can use by just reading the manual and without requiring any training.
Portability
A lightweight nail puller that you can pack into your tool bag as you embark on outdoor jobs is sufficient. Also in your workshop, you can keep a lightweight puller easily in a hardware storage cabinet. This would also depend on the size, the weight, and the availability of space.
Sturdiness
Pulling of nails may re require applying a lot of force, especially when the nails are old and rusty or even big nails. It will require a strong nail puller capable of pulling hard struck nails on the hardwood.
What you would need to pull out a 1/2", 1" and other small gauge nails may not apply to a 6" nail of the strong gauge. You need a strong, built tool for that purpose. However, to pull out strong and big nails, a pallet buster is also a very effective tool along with nail pullers.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What's the best nail puller?
Any nail puller is designed purposely for removing nails. The best nail puller is the one that will satisfy your demands and, more importantly, a tool that is of high performance. Also, it should be a durable and strong tool.
When searching for this tool, it's essential to consider all the factors wholesomely. Budget is also a major consideration since different projects may require different types of tools.
2. How does a nail puller work?
For a nail puller to function properly, it all depends on the specific features. A plier is also a nail puller, but its mechanism is quite different from a claw bar.
All the same, the two designs are for grabbing the nail and pulling it out. To understand how each of them works, users may need to read the instruction manual.
3. What are the three main types of nail pullers?
There are three main types of nail pulling devices: the chisel bars, the flat bars, and the cat's paw.
Moreover, the cat's paws are also known as nail claws or carpenters pincer plier. The cat's paw comprises a straight steel rod with a curved claw at one end. It flushes out the nail by simply grabbing and pulling off from the workpiece.
4. What are the other uses of a nail puller?
Basically, a nail puller is designed for pulling out nails, whether the nails are on the surface or sunken into the wood. No other serious uses can be associated with this tool.
5. How do you remove deep nails without damaging the wood?
To remove sunken nails, you must use a cat's paw pry bar, which you drive into the wood around the nail head with a hammer to hook the claw around the nail. There is no other way applicable for sunken nails to avoid damaging the wood when using a cat's paw.
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Conclusion
The best nail pullers are important tools for woodwork projects. For simple jobs that you can do it yourself without outsourcing, you need a complete toolbox for that matter.
It is an essential tool that is necessary, and with these factors, you can choose one that will satisfy your needs, be it industrial or for home use.
