# TLDR Review: PORTER-CABLE PIN138 Pin Nailer

*Published: 2026-03-21 | Updated: 2026-03-21 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/reviews-tldr/porter-cable-pin138-pin-nailer*

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## Verdict

The PORTER-CABLE PIN138 is a solid choice for serious woodworkers and finish carpenters seeking precision and clean results with minimal surface marking. It shines in handling hardwoods and intricate trim work thanks to its balanced design and oil-free operation. However, potential buyers should be mindful of inconsistent reliability reports; if long-term dependability is crucial, it might be worth exploring alternatives or confirming warranty support. Overall, this pin nailer offers excellent value and performance comparable to pricier models, especially if you can ensure your unit isn’t a refurbished dud.

**Top pro:** Delivers high-quality performance, especially for intricate woodworking and fine furniture making
**Top con:** Reliability is a major concern for some users; reports exist of the pin nailer failing after just one day or first use post-storage

## Product: PORTER-CABLE PIN138 Pin Nailer
**Brand:** PORTER-CABLE
[Compare prices and price history on ShopSavvy](https://shopsavvy.com/products/porter-cable-pin138-pin-nailer)

## Pros
- Delivers high-quality performance, especially for intricate woodworking and fine furniture making
- Comfortable and well-balanced, allowing easy access to tight spots and awkward angles
- Supports shooting invisible pins at an angle by removing the plastic tip, increasing versatility for glue-ups and trim work
- Pins hold wood pieces securely, proven effective even on very hard woods like rosewood, sepele, and quarter sawn white oak
- Oil-free design prevents staining on wood, ideal for finish carpentry
- Features thoughtful design elements such as rubber side pads, a tip holder, and a larger, user-friendly safety lever
- Operates quietly and is lightweight, suitable for extended use without fatigue
- Performs reliably at around 95 psi with consistent, perfect nail sets and almost invisible holes left by headless pins
- Compared favorably to more expensive, high-end models in terms of durability and performance
- Includes 1-inch pins and safety glasses, adding convenience

## Cons
- Reliability is a major concern for some users; reports exist of the pin nailer failing after just one day or first use post-storage
- Some buyers suspect receiving refurbished units sold as new
- The tool requires proper nail orientation (following the arrow on nail packs) to avoid jams because of headless pins
- Like many pin nailers, it can experience common issues such as jamming and firing pin wear over time
- A brief adjustment period is needed to get used to the relatively unique safety trigger design

## Pros vs Cons at a Glance

| Pros | Cons |
|------|------|
| Delivers high-quality performance, especially for intricate woodworking and fine furniture making | Reliability is a major concern for some users; reports exist of the pin nailer failing after just one day or first use post-storage |
| Comfortable and well-balanced, allowing easy access to tight spots and awkward angles | Some buyers suspect receiving refurbished units sold as new |
| Supports shooting invisible pins at an angle by removing the plastic tip, increasing versatility for glue-ups and trim work | The tool requires proper nail orientation (following the arrow on nail packs) to avoid jams because of headless pins |
| Pins hold wood pieces securely, proven effective even on very hard woods like rosewood, sepele, and quarter sawn white oak | Like many pin nailers, it can experience common issues such as jamming and firing pin wear over time |
| Oil-free design prevents staining on wood, ideal for finish carpentry | A brief adjustment period is needed to get used to the relatively unique safety trigger design |
| Features thoughtful design elements such as rubber side pads, a tip holder, and a larger, user-friendly safety lever |  |
| Operates quietly and is lightweight, suitable for extended use without fatigue |  |
| Performs reliably at around 95 psi with consistent, perfect nail sets and almost invisible holes left by headless pins |  |
| Compared favorably to more expensive, high-end models in terms of durability and performance |  |
| Includes 1-inch pins and safety glasses, adding convenience |  |

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