Assorted Nail Packs

About Assorted Nail Packs

Assorted nail packs represent one of the most practical and cost-effective solutions for tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts who regularly undertake fixing and carpentry work. These comprehensive sets typically contain several hundred individual nails and pins organised within compartmentalised storage cases, covering the most commonly required sizes and types for everyday applications. From delicate panel pins for picture framing to robust round wire nails for general construction, a quality assorted pack eliminates the need to purchase and store dozens of individual nail boxes, saving both money and valuable workspace.

The selection available at Tooled-Up.com includes professional-grade assortments from trusted manufacturers like Draper, featuring varied collections of panel pins, lost head nails, oval wire nails, round wire nails, ring nails, drive nails, and square twist nails. These multi-compartment sets prove invaluable for second fix carpentry, furniture assembly, property maintenance, and general joinery tasks where different nail types and sizes are required throughout the working day. The robust plastic storage cases keep fixings organised and protected, with clear labelling that allows quick identification and selection of the appropriate nail for each specific application.

For mobile tradespeople working across multiple sites, assorted nail packs deliver exceptional convenience without adding excessive weight or bulk to tool bags and vans. Professional carpenters, joiners, shop fitters and maintenance contractors appreciate having immediate access to the right fixing without returning to base or visiting suppliers mid-job. The variety within quality assortments typically covers the range from fine 15mm panel pins through to substantial 75mm round wire nails, ensuring suitable options for both delicate finishing work and structural applications.

Jargon Buster

• Panel Pins: Slender nails with minimal heads designed for fixing thin panels, beading, mouldings and backing boards where visible fixings would detract from appearance. Available in gauges from 15mm to 50mm, these are essential for cabinet making and picture framing work.
• Lost Head Nails: Fixing nails featuring small heads that can be punched below the timber surface using a nail punch, then filled over for an invisible finish. Widely used in second fix carpentry for architraves, skirting boards, and door linings where aesthetics matter.
• Oval Wire Nails: Nails with an oval cross-section that significantly reduces splitting risk when driven parallel to the timber grain. Popular for floorboard installation, joinery work, and applications where the fixing line follows the wood grain direction.
• Ring Nails: Fixings featuring annular rings along the shank that provide superior holding power compared to smooth nails. The rings grip the timber fibres firmly, making them ideal for applications where withdrawal resistance is critical, such as securing cladding or structural timbers.
• Gauge: The diameter measurement of a nail, expressed numerically (e.g., 18 gauge, 15 gauge). Lower gauge numbers indicate thicker, stronger nails with greater holding power but increased splitting risk in delicate or narrow timber sections.
• Bright Finish: Uncoated steel nails suitable for interior applications in dry conditions. For exterior work or damp environments, galvanised or stainless steel alternatives offer essential corrosion resistance.

Who Uses Assorted Nail Packs?

• Carpenters and Joiners: Second fix work including architrave installation, skirting boards, door linings, panelling, and general timber fixing applications requiring varied nail sizes throughout each project.
• Cabinet Makers and Furniture Makers: Assembling components, securing backing panels, fixing decorative beading, and attaching trim where different nail types suit different materials and thicknesses.
• Shop Fitters: Installing retail display units, shelving systems, decorative mouldings, and exhibition stands where versatile fixing options are required on-site.
• Property Maintenance Professionals: Repair work, refurbishment projects, and general maintenance tasks across residential and commercial properties where the specific requirements vary from job to job.
• General Builders: Keeping a comprehensive selection of common fixings available for diverse carpentry tasks encountered during construction and renovation projects.
• Picture Framers: Assembling frames, securing backing boards, and attaching hanging hardware using appropriately sized panel pins and small nails.
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home improvement projects, flat-pack furniture assembly, picture hanging, household repairs, and general maintenance work requiring occasional access to various nail types.
• Set Designers and Props Makers: Theatre, film, television, and exhibition work requiring temporary and permanent timber fixings for constructing scenery and display pieces.

How to Choose the Right Assorted Nail Packs

The total piece count represents the first consideration when selecting an assorted nail pack. Sets available from Tooled-Up range from around 200 pieces for occasional DIY use through to comprehensive 500+ piece professional assortments. Examine the specific contents carefully—the best value packs concentrate on multiple sizes of frequently used nail types rather than including obscure varieties you'll rarely require. A balanced assortment should feature good quantities of panel pins, lost head nails, and round wire nails in the most common lengths, typically ranging from 15mm through to 65mm or 75mm.

Storage case quality directly impacts long-term usability and convenience. Look for robust compartmentalised boxes constructed from durable plastic with secure clip closures that won't accidentally open if knocked over in your tool bag or van. Clear lid designs allow quick visual identification of nail types and remaining quantities without opening compartments. Some premium sets feature removable dividers, allowing reorganisation as certain sizes deplete whilst others remain well-stocked, maximising the case's useful working life.

Consider whether the nail finishes included match your typical working requirements. For general interior carpentry and joinery in dry conditions, bright steel nails offer excellent performance and value. However, if your work regularly involves exterior applications, damp environments, or areas prone to condensation, prioritise assortments containing galvanised nails with superior corrosion resistance. Professional joiners undertaking high-quality finish work should ensure adequate quantities of lost head nails and fine gauge panel pins are included.

Brand reputation matters significantly with fixings quality. Established manufacturers like Draper ensure consistent sizing, proper hardening for reliable performance, and straight shanks that drive cleanly without bending. Cheap unbranded assortments may appear economical initially but frequently contain soft nails that bend during driving, inconsistent sizing affecting holding power, and poorly finished points that increase splitting risk. For professional applications where reliability and finish quality matter, investing in branded assortments from recognised manufacturers delivers better long-term value.

Popular Accessories

• Pin Hammers: Lightweight hammers typically weighing 100-200g, specifically designed for driving panel pins and small nails with precision and control in delicate applications.
• Nail Punches: Essential tools for countersinking lost head nails below the timber surface, available in various tip sizes (typically 1mm, 2mm, 3mm) to match different nail head diameters.
• Claw Hammers: General-purpose hammers from Stanley, Bahco, or Estwing for driving larger nails and extracting bent or misplaced fixings using the claw feature.
• Wood Filler: Interior and exterior grades for filling over countersunk nail heads to achieve invisible finishes on decorative joinery and painted surfaces.
• Magnetic Nail Holders: Clever devices allowing one-handed positioning and starting of small nails in awkward locations, particularly useful for overhead work or confined spaces.
• Tool Storage Systems: Organisers from Stanley FatMax, DeWalt TSTAK, or Milwaukee PACKOUT ranges for storing multiple nail assortments alongside complementary fixings and tools.
• Cordless Brad Nailers: Battery-powered alternatives from Makita, DeWalt, or Milwaukee for high-volume professional applications requiring faster fixing rates than hand nailing.
• Safety Glasses: Essential PPE to protect eyes from flying nail fragments, bent nails, or splinters during fixing work—a fundamental requirement on all professional sites.
• Pilot Drill Bit Sets: Fine drill bits for creating pilot holes in hardwoods or near timber edges to prevent splitting when driving nails in vulnerable locations.

Safety Information

Always wear appropriate safety glasses when hammering nails to protect eyes from flying fragments if a nail bends, breaks, or splinters the timber. This protection proves particularly important when working overhead or in confined spaces where debris can easily contact the face. Ensure adequate lighting in the work area to see nail placement clearly and avoid struck fingers or misplaced fixings.

When driving nails, maintain awareness of concealed services within walls, floors, and ceilings. Use a cable and pipe detector before nailing into any surface where electrical cables, water pipes, or gas lines might be present. On construction sites, follow HSE guidelines regarding nail gun usage if switching to powered alternatives, including proper training, sequential firing modes in appropriate circumstances, and never bypassing safety mechanisms.

Select appropriately sized nails for each application to avoid structural inadequacy or excessive splitting. Nails that are too long may penetrate through timber and create hazardous protruding points, whilst undersized nails may not provide adequate holding power for the intended purpose. When working at height, secure nail assortment cases properly to prevent them falling and injuring people below. Keep nail storage cases closed when not actively in use to prevent spillage creating slip hazards on floors and walkways.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between lost head nails and panel pins?

Lost head nails are slightly thicker with marginally larger (though still small) heads, offering greater holding power for heavier applications like securing skirting boards, architraves, and door linings. Panel pins are more slender with smaller heads, designed primarily for lightweight applications such as fixing thin panels, beading, picture frame backing boards, and delicate mouldings. Both types can be punched below the timber surface and filled over for an invisible finish, but lost head nails provide superior strength for demanding second fix carpentry.

Can assorted nail packs be used for exterior projects?

This depends entirely on the nail finish included in the specific assortment. Bright steel nails (the most common type in basic assortments) will rust rapidly when exposed to moisture and are only suitable for interior use in dry conditions. For exterior applications, garden structures, or damp environments, you specifically need galvanised or stainless steel nails, which some premium assortments include. Always check the product specification carefully before purchasing if you require weather-resistant fixings for outdoor projects.

How do I prevent timber splitting when hammering nails?

Several techniques help prevent splitting: drill small pilot holes in hardwoods or when fixing close to timber edges; use oval wire nails orientated with their long axis parallel to the grain direction; avoid placing nails too close to the end of timber sections (maintain at least 25mm from edges where possible); ensure you're using appropriately sized nails for the timber thickness; and consider blunting the nail point slightly by tapping it on a hard surface, as sharp points can act like wedges that split the grain. Staggering nail positions rather than aligning them in rows also reduces splitting risk.

Are assorted nail packs better value than buying individual boxes?

For most tradespeople and DIY users, assorted packs offer excellent value and convenience. You'll typically pay less per nail compared to purchasing small quantities of individual sizes separately, and you'll have the right size immediately available without maintaining extensive stock or making additional supplier trips. However, if you consistently use very large quantities of just one or two specific nail sizes for repetitive production work, buying those particular sizes in bulk 1kg or 2.5kg boxes may prove more economical. For general carpentry and varied projects, assortments provide better overall value.

How should I store assorted nail packs to prevent rust?

Keep the storage case closed when not in use to minimise moisture exposure, and store in a dry environment away from damp floors, external walls, or unheated spaces prone to condensation. For van or site storage where temperature fluctuations may cause condensation, consider adding silica gel packets to the case to absorb moisture and protect the nails. If nails develop light surface rust, they can still be used for non-visible structural applications, but replace them for quality finish work where appearance matters or where rust staining might bleed through paint or filler.