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Writer's pictureLaurence Edwards

Makita Nail Gun Review

Makita Nail Gun Review: The Ultimate Tool for Beekeepers and DIYers



As a beekeeper, I know first hand how tedious and time-consuming it can be to assemble frames for your hives. Traditionally, this process involves using a hammer and a handful of small pins, which can be fiddly and frustrating, especially for those of us with larger hands. That's why I was thrilled to discover the Makita Nail Gun DFN350ZJ - a game-changing tool that has revolutionised the way I approach frame-making and other DIY projects around the apiary.


In this in-depth review, I'll take you through the key features of the Makita Nail Gun, explain why it's the perfect solution for beekeepers and DIYers alike, and share my personal experiences using this powerful tool. Whether you're looking to streamline your frame-making process, tackle a range of woodworking projects, or simply upgrade your tool arsenal, the Makita Nail Gun is a must-have addition that will save you time, effort, and frustration.

Buy the Makita Nail Gun DFN350ZJ on Amazon HERE - https://amzn.to/49Su6xR


Some nail guns can be big and unwieldy. Not suitable for long frame making sessions!
Some nail guns can be big and unwieldy. Not suitable for long frame making sessions!

From Pins to Brads: The Evolution of Frame-Making


When I first started beekeeping, I relied on the traditional method of using pins and a hammer to assemble my frames. While this approach gets the job done, it can be incredibly tedious and time-consuming, especially if you have a large number of frames to build.


I soon grew out of using pins, as I found them to be fiddly and difficult to work with, particularly with my larger hands. I would constantly break the pins or drop them, which only added to the frustration of the process. It was clear that I needed to find a better solution, one that would allow me to work more efficiently and with greater ease.


From 23g to 16g, I find the 18 gauge brads are perfect for frame making
From 23g to 16g, I find the 18 gauge brads are perfect for frame making

Introducing the Makita Nail Gun DFN350ZJ


That's when I discovered the Makita Nail Gun DFN350ZJ, and my frame-making process has never been the same. This powerful tool is a game-changer for beekeepers and DIYers alike, offering a range of features that make it the perfect choice for a variety of projects.


The Makita DNF350JZ has everything I need to assemble my frames
The Makita DNF350JZ has everything I need to assemble my frames

Key Features of the Makita Nail Gun DFN350ZJ


18-Gauge Brads: Unlike the traditional pins, the Makita Nail Gun uses 18-gauge brads with heads, which provide a much stronger and more secure hold. This means that you can simply fire a single brad into each corner of your frame, rather than having to fire multiple pins from different angles to achieve the same level of stability.


Cordless Design: The Makita Nail Gun is powered by the same LXT battery system that I use for all of my other Makita power tools, which means I can take it with me wherever I go. This is particularly useful when working on frames in the field, as I can easily make repairs or adjustments without having to worry about finding a power source. Compressors can be used with a different model but I really like the freedom that battery operated tools provide.


Compact and Lightweight: Despite its impressive power, the Makita Nail Gun is surprisingly compact and lightweight, making it easy to handle and manoeuvre, even when working on larger projects. This is a crucial feature for beekeepers like myself, who may be working for extended periods of time on frame assembly.


Depth Adjustment: The Makita Nail Gun features a depth adjustment mechanism, which allows me to control the depth of the brads as they're driven into the wood. This is particularly useful when working with thinner materials, as it helps to prevent the brads from protruding through the other side and potentially causing damage.


Exceptional Warranty: Makita stands behind their products with an exceptional warranty, which gives me peace of mind knowing that my investment is protected. I've already had to take advantage of this warranty a couple of times, and the turnaround has been incredibly quick and hassle-free.


I love how precise this nail gun is. It never misses the target!
I love how precise this nail gun is. It never misses the target!

Putting the Makita Nail Gun to the Test


As soon as I got my hands on the Makita Nail Gun, I couldn't wait to put it to the test. I started by using it to assemble some new frames for my beehives, and the difference was immediately noticeable.


Gone were the days of fiddling with pins and struggling to get them to stay in place. With the Makita Nail Gun, I was able to quickly and effortlessly fire a single brad into each corner of the frame, securing it in place with a satisfying thunk. The brads provided a much stronger and more secure hold than the pins, and I was able to complete the frame-making process in a fraction of the time it would have taken using the traditional method.


But the Makita Nail Gun's usefulness extends far beyond just frame-making. I've also used it for a variety of other DIY projects around the apiary, such as assembling boxes and supers, attaching battens to my Swienty poly feeders, and even securing the occasional piece of equipment that needs a little extra reinforcement.


One of the things I really appreciate about the Makita Nail Gun is its versatility. With the ability to use nails up to 35mm in length, it's a powerful tool that can handle a wide range of projects, from delicate woodworking to more heavy-duty construction. And the depth adjustment feature ensures that I can always get the perfect finish, no matter the material I'm working with.


Oh young Laurence. There is SO much I need to warn you about! Not just about nail guns...
Oh young Laurence. There is SO much I need to warn you about! Not just about nail guns...

The Makita Nail Gun vs. the Makita Pin Nailer


Before I discovered the Makita Nail Gun, I was using the Makita DPT-353 Pin Nailer for my frame-making needs. While this tool was a significant improvement over the traditional pin-and-hammer method, it still had its limitations.


The main issue I had with the Pin Nailer was that it required me to fire multiple pins from different angles to achieve the same level of stability that I can now get with a single brad from the Nail Gun. This not only took more time, but it also meant that I had to be more precise in my placement to ensure a secure hold.


Another key difference is the size and strength of the fasteners. The 23-gauge pins used in the Pin Nailer are much thinner and less robust than the 18-gauge brads of the Nail Gun. This means that the Nail Gun can provide a stronger and more durable connection, which is essential for the long-term stability of my beehive frames.


Ultimately, while the Makita Pin Nailer was a significant improvement over the traditional pin-and-hammer method, the Makita Nail Gun has taken my frame-making and DIY capabilities to the next level. The speed, power, and versatility of this tool have made it an indispensable part of my beekeeping and DIY arsenal.


I much prefer the DNF350JZ to the DPT353 pin nail gun
I much prefer the DNF350JZ to the DPT353 pin nail gun

Upgrading Your Tool Arsenal: Where to Buy the Makita Nail Gun DFN350ZJ


If you're as excited about the Makita Nail Gun DFN350ZJ as I am, you'll be happy to know that it's readily available for purchase through various online retailers. One of the best places to buy this tool is through our Amazon Associates link, where you can take advantage of competitive pricing and the convenience of Amazon's fast and reliable shipping.


By purchasing the Makita Nail Gun through our link, you'll not only be getting a top-quality tool, but you'll also be supporting our beekeeping efforts. As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small commission on every sale, which helps us to continue providing valuable content and resources to our community.


Buy the Makita Nail Gun DFN350ZJ on Amazon HERE - https://amzn.to/49Su6xR


If you're interested in learning more about our beekeeping activities, be sure to follow us on social media or visit our website:


- Facebook - @BlackMountainHoney

- Twitter - @BlackMountHoney

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And if you enjoy our videos, don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel using the following link: https://www.youtube.com/c/BlackMountainHoney?sub_confirmation=1&app=desktop


Subscribe to our channel for more tips, tricks and beekeeping hacks!
Subscribe to our channel for more tips, tricks and beekeeping hacks!

Conclusion: The Makita Nail Gun - A Beekeeping and DIY Game-Changer


In conclusion, the Makita Nail Gun DFN350ZJ is a truly remarkable tool that has transformed the way I approach frame-making and a wide range of other DIY projects around the apiary. With its powerful 18-gauge brads, cordless design, and exceptional build quality, this nail gun has become an indispensable part of my toolkit.


Whether you're a beekeeper looking to streamline your frame-making process or a DIYer tackling a variety of woodworking projects, the Makita Nail Gun is a must-have addition to your tool arsenal. Its speed, power, and versatility make it the perfect solution for a wide range of tasks, and with Makita's exceptional warranty, you can have peace of mind knowing that your investment is protected.


So why wait? Upgrade your tool collection today and experience the difference that the Makita Nail Gun can make. Click the link below to purchase yours through our Amazon Associates program, and let's get to work on making your beekeeping and DIY dreams a reality!


Buy the Makita Nail Gun DFN350ZJ on Amazon HERE - https://amzn.to/49Su6xR



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