Grex P635 Pin Nailer Review: Small Tool, Big Convenience
Before getting into fine woodworking, I spent several years working as a general contractor. And even now, I still find myself helping friends and family with projects around the house.
That experience has taught me to appreciate tools that are compact, dependable, and easy to use, whether I'm working in the shop or taking them along to a job site.
One tool that's earned a place in that category is the Grex P635 pneumatic pin nailer. It's designed to drive tiny 23-gauge headless pins, making it especially useful for attaching trim and securing small woodworking parts without leaving large, noticeable nail holes.
Why I Like the Grex P635 Pin Nailer
Grex offers several models in its P6 series of 23-gauge pin nailers. My preference is the P635, which drives headless pins up to 1⅜" long.
That capacity handles most of the pin-nailing tasks I encounter in my woodworking projects.
And if a job calls for longer fasteners, chances are I'd reach for my brad nailer instead.
One of the first things I noticed about the P635 is its aluminum body. The tool feels sturdy without being unnecessarily heavy, which makes it comfortable to maneuver when working on small parts or installing trim.
Convenient Features Make a Difference
A few thoughtful details help set this pneumatic pin nailer apart.
Lightweight Aluminum Construction
The aluminum body keeps the nailer relatively light, making it easier to position accurately and use for extended periods.
That's particularly helpful when working around cabinets, bookcases, and other projects where you need to place fasteners precisely.
Automatically Adjusting Magazine
The P635 features an extruded aluminum magazine that slides smoothly and automatically adjusts to the length of the pins being used.
There's no need to make a separate magazine adjustment every time you change fastener lengths.
It's a small convenience, but one that makes the tool easier to use.
Swiveling Air Coupler
Another feature I appreciate is the swiveling air coupler.
It helps prevent the air hose from kinking or getting twisted as you move the nailer around a project.
That makes a difference when you're working in tight spaces or changing positions frequently.
How Does the Grex P635 Perform?
Of course, convenient features don't mean much if a nailer can't do its primary job.
Fortunately, I've been pleased with the P635's performance.
It had no trouble attaching ¼"-thick black walnut trim to a bookcase, where the small headless pins help keep the fasteners inconspicuous.
I also used it to drive longer pins through ¾" plywood, holding a butt joint together before adding screws.
That's one of the ways I find a pin nailer especially useful. It can temporarily hold parts in position while you complete the assembly with screws or other fasteners.
Is the Grex P635 Worth It?
The Grex P635 isn't necessarily the least expensive 23-gauge pin nailer available.
At the time of my original review, it was priced at approximately $200. However, I felt the quality of its construction and the convenience of its features justified the investment.
Between the lightweight aluminum body, automatically adjusting magazine, and swiveling air connection, it's a tool that's pleasant to use.
And its ability to drive small headless pins makes it a handy addition to the shop for installing trim and holding parts during assembly.
Final Thoughts on the Grex P635
For woodworking projects that call for small, nearly invisible fasteners, a 23-gauge pin nailer is a useful tool to have on hand.
The Grex P635 combines good performance with a handful of practical features that make everyday fastening tasks easier.
Whether I'm attaching hardwood trim to a bookcase or temporarily securing parts before driving screws, it's a tool I'm happy to reach for.
If you're looking for a compact pneumatic pin nailer for fine woodworking and general shop use, the P635 is worth considering.
