10 Best Screw Gun for Decking – Guide and Review

You can use the best screw gun for decking regularly without jeopardizing the equipment’s integrity.

Screw guns are power tools that are primarily used to drive screws into walls. They work best on materials like drywall and plywood, where the screws must be flat with the material’s surface.

Screw guns, like other power tools, are made by a variety of companies, and we’ll go through each of the best deck screw guns in terms of what they can do and where they excel.

Top Deck Screw Gun

1. Best overall: DeWalt Deck Screw Gun.

2. Best Budget: Rigid collated screw gun

3. Premium Choice: Senco Screwdriver

4. Muro Pro Auto-feed Deck Screw Gun

5. Bosch Screw Gun

6. DeWalt Cordless Screw Gun

7. Ryobi Brushless Screw Gun

8. Milwaukee Collated Drywall Screw Gun

9. DeWalt Variable Speed Drywall Screw Gun

10. Black and Decker Screw Gun

10 Best Deck Screw Gun Reviews

1. Best overall: DeWalt Deck Screw Gun

Given the incredible functionality crammed into such a corded palm-held gadget, it’s no surprise that the Dewalt deck screw gun is at the top of the list.

The depth-sensitive nosepiece on the Dewalt screw gun provides consistent depth while fastening screws. It also incorporates a two-finger trigger, which makes it more user-friendly. Its 4000 rpm engine is powered by a 120V system that draws 6.3 amps through an electric wire.

A metal gear housing protects the internal components, ensuring long-term reliability and endurance.

Overall, the Dewalt screw gun is a lightweight tool that only weighs 3.1 pounds and has excellent ergonomics, making it great for drywall.

Product Highlight:

• Brand: Dewalt
• Model: DW272
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Motor Power: 6.3 Amps
• Speed: 4000 RPM
• Head Style: Flat
• Weight: 4.15 Pounds

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Durable
• Efficient
• Easy to use

Cons:

• Less mobile
• Expensive

2.Best Budget: Rigid Collated Screw Gun

If you’re looking for a very efficient screw gun at a reasonable price, the Rigid collated screw gun is probably your best option.

The rigid collated screw gun has a powerful motor that spins at 3500 RPM and can drive screws up to 2 inches long.

It features a nose piece that can be adjusted, which helps drive various screws. A screw depth adjustment provides for consistent screw depth control at the proper setting.

The lock-on button makes it easy to use while driving a screw repeatedly, while the forward/reverse switch allows for quick direction adjustments.

Overall, it has a compact design with a hex grip for maximum comfort when used for extended periods.

Product Highlight:

• Brand: Ridgid
• Model: R6790
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Motor Power: 4.3 Amps
• Speed: 3500 RPM
• Auto Feed: Yes
• Weight: 5 Pounds

Pros:

• Compact design 
• Affordable
• Easy to use
• Reversible working direction

Cons:

• Relatively heavy

3. Premium Choice: Senco Screwdriver

The Senco screwdriver comes in as our premium choice for screw guns. The Senco screwdriver is a comprehensive kit containing a 4000 rpm SG4100 screw gun, Industrial grade DS320 attachment, extension pole with secondary handle, spare drive bits, and a storage bag.

The Senco screwdriver is a three-in-one tool that may be used for a wide range of tasks. It also features a proprietary sliding rail mechanism that prevents misfeeds during operation.

The Senco screwdriver weighs 6.8 lbs and draws 6.4 amps of current through its corded electrical input. It has a high-speed motor that is ideal for subfloor applications.

Overall, the Senco screwdriver can be used for decking, sub-flooring, underlayment, and rigid foam insulations.

Product Highlight:

• Brand: Senco
• Model: 6W0011N
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Motor Power: 6.4 Amps
• Speed: 4000 RPM
• Torque: 82 inch-foot
• Auto Feed: Yes
• Weight: 6.8 Pounds

Pros:

• Comprehensive kit
• Affordable
• Multi-purpose
• High-speed motor

Cons:

• Relatively heavy+

4. Muro Pro Auto-feed Deck Screw Gun

When professionals need a screw gun for continuous work, the Muro pro-auto-feed deck screw gun is called upon.

The auto-feed gun has a high-speed motor that spins at 2900 rpm on average. An auto-feed mechanism with a capacity of 100 to 150 screws is included with the pistol.

The gun incorporates an adjustable depth control system for driving screws, allowing for appropriate countersinking. It also comes with a 7-1/4-inch square drive bit that can drive screws from 1 inch to 3 inches in both forward and reverse directions.

In terms of appearance and handling, the gun features an ergonomically pleasant telescope grip that encourages standing while operating.

The screw gun weighs 8.8 pounds overall, including a 9-foot wire that needs 5 amps of current to run.

Product Highlight:

• Brand: Muro
• Model: FDRH02
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Motor Power: 5 Amps
• Speed: 2900 RPM
• Auto Feed: Yes
• Weight: 13.32 Pounds

Pros:

• Ergonomically friendly
• Reversible direction
• Adjustable depth control
• Auto feed mechanism

Cons:

• Expensive
• Bulky

5. Bosch Screw Gun

The Bosch screw gun is the top choice for beginners and Simple DIYers who want to perform daily operations around the house.

The Bosch screw gun is a small, light screw gun with an automatic feed attachment.

The auto-feed attachment is a corded, lightweight piece of plastic equipment. It has an ergonomic design that ensures comfort throughout extended periods of work. Its open design prevents dust from collecting in the collate, ensuring its long-term reliability.

The Bosch auto-feed attachment system allows for driving screws in a row at high speeds with precision.

When combined with the SG182, SG450, and SG250 Screw Guns, the auto-feed mechanism converts the SG182, SG450, and SG250 Screw Guns into a highly efficient tool for beginners.

Overall, the Bosch screw gun is ideal for beginners due to its lightweight material, ergonomic design, and other fascinating features.

Product Highlight:

• Brand: Bosch
• Model: MA55
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Motor Power: 6 Amps
• Speed: 4000 RPM
• Auto Feed: Yes
• Weight: 1.05 Pounds

Pros:

• Auto feed mechanism
• Lightweight
• Ergonomic
• Compact design

Cons:

• No reversible mechanism
• No reversible holder

6. DeWalt Cordless Screw Gun

The Dewalt drywall screw gun is the best cordless screw gun you can find available in the market. This cordless tool is made of a blend of plastic and metal, making it suited to various work environments.

The device stands around 11 inches tall and weighs roughly 2.8 pounds, which is primarily due to its plastic composition.

The Dewalt screw gun includes a motor that spins at 4400 rpm and has a brushless design, giving it an efficient performance while in use.

The screw gun’s Nosecone is secured in place while driving screws, and it can also be used with the DCF6201 collated magazine attachment.

The designers at Dewalt added a LED light to the screw gun’s body to help illuminate dark areas when working at night.

The Dewalt tool’s overall performance is outstanding, particularly its long-lasting battery, which can last for an entire workday when completely charged.

Product Highlight:

• Brand: Dewalt
• Model: DCF620B
• Power Source: 20V Battery
• Speed: 4400 RPM
• Auto Feed: No
• LED: Yes
• Weight: 2.8 Pounds

Pros:

• Lasting battery
• Mobility
• High-speed motor
• Led light
• Lightweight

Cons:

• Pricey

7. Ryobi Brushless Screw Gun

Out of all the numerous brushless screw guns available, the Ryobi 18v brushless screw gun is undoubtedly the best in the market.

The screw gun includes a brushless motor that spins at a stunning 4700 RPM and performs just as well as any corded item on the market.

The screw gun is powered by a Ryobi long-lasting lithium-ion battery that provides the necessary power. The device has an adjustable and removable nosecone that helps increase the tool’s accuracy while working.

A variable speed trigger with a lock-on feature is also included, allowing the user to choose between different speed versions.

The screw gun contains a heavy-duty clutch that engages when the bit is forced against the fastener and a quiet driving feature that helps the battery last longer when doing light-duty activities.

The screw gun’s comprehensive features are packed into a tiny form that weighs only 2.6 pounds, making it a very lightweight and mobile tool for all workers.

Product Highlight:

• Brand: Ryobi
• Model: 18V ONE+
• Power Source: 18V Battery
• Speed: 4700 RPM
• LED: Yes
• Weight: 2.59 Pounds

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Superfast
• Highly efficient
• mobility
• adjustable speed feature

Cons:

• Tool only
• Charger sold separately

8. Milwaukee Collated Drywall Screw Gun

Milwaukee’s collated magazine is the dedicated solution for the Milwaukee M18 Fuel drywall screw gun.

The screw gun magazine has a tapered tip that helps it enter into tight corners while feeding screws.

Screw lengths up to 2 inches can be easily adjusted thanks to a screw length adjustment function. While driving screws into dry walls, the collated magazine also provides for easy screw depth adjustment.

The magazine is 9.19 inches long and weighs only 0.98 pounds, making it exceptionally light and portable in various settings.

The magazine comes with a bumper, collator, and PR2 bit and is powered by a lithium-ion battery.

Overall, when used in conjunction with the Milwaukee M18 fuel cell screw gun, the combined devices provide the end-user with an efficient and long-lasting performance, making it the best-collated device on the market.

Product Highlight:

• Brand: Milwaukee
• Model: 49-20-0001
• Power Source: 18V Battery
• Speed: 4000 RPM
• Auto Feed: Yes
• LED: No
• Weight: 0.98 Pounds

Pros:

• Large magazine capacity
• Access tight spaces
• Screw depth adjustment
• Mobile
• lightweight

Cons:

• Bulky
• Requires training

9. DeWalt Variable Speed Drywall Screw Gun

The DeWalt screw gun takes the top spot once again for the best variable speed screw gun.

The Dewalt screw gun is a corded electric gadget made of metal and rubber composite material. The device weighs approximately 4.55 pounds, owing primarily to its metallic component, and has a length of 12 inches.

The Dewalt gun is made of helical-cut steel and heat-treated gears, which ensures its long life.

The DW276 has a depth-sensitive nose piece for consistent fastening depth and a two-finger trigger for comfort during operation, just like the DW272.

The ergonomics of the Dewalt screw gun make operating with it appear to be pretty straightforward. It also includes a metal gear casing, which protects the equipment’s vulnerable parts when used in harsh conditions.

The Dewalt screw gun offers a high torque, making it ideal for deck and drywall construction.

Product Highlight:

• Brand: Dewalt
• Model: DW276
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Motor Power: 5 Amps
• Speed: 2500 RPM
• Auto Feed: No
• LED: No
• Weight: 4.55 Pounds

Pros:

• Durable
• Efficient
• Depth sensitivity
• Variable speed mechanism

Cons:

• Relatively heavy

10. Black and Decker Screw gun

For DIYers who love doing household chores, the Black and Decker screw gun has you covered with its unique features designed to make working easy.

The black and decker screw gun is a cordless screw gun that is powered by a lithium-ion battery. Some of the screw gun’s features include a magnetic screw holder that holds the screw in place while the gun drives it into the surface.

It also has a six-position clutch to prevent screw stripping while working. The six-position clutch employs a smart technology mechanism that selects the appropriate amount of torque for each type of work.

When working at night or in dim lighting, a LED light built into the screw gun illuminates the work area.

The forward/reverse switch at the screw’s base allows the user to change the direction of screws easily while working.

Product Highlight:

• Brand: Black and Decker
• Model: LI4000
• Power Source: 3.6V Battery
• Speed: 180 RPM
• Torque: 70 inch-foot
• LED: Yes
• Weight: 1.96 Pounds

Pros:

• Magnetic holder
• Smart technology
• Flexibility
• Led light
• Lightweight

Cons:

• Expensive complete kit

Have a quick look of the features of best screw gun:

Screw Gun Buyer’s Guide

What to Look for When Buying Screw Gun

We have gone through the best types of screw guns for various purposes. Now it’s time to take a look at a few things we should consider before actually purchasing the best screw gun for decking.

Torque

The torque of a tool is the turning force exerted by the tool on the material being worked on, and it is measured in ft-lbs.

Screw guns have different ratings based on their design specifications. The greater the torque available to a screw gun, the more effort it can apply when driving screws.

Before purchasing a screw gun, consider the materials you will be working on in terms of the resistance they may pose to the screws.

This will help you decide whether you need a heavy-duty screw gun or a light-duty screw gun.

However, a heavy-duty screw gun with variable torque settings would be more beneficial to you as a buyer because it can be adapted to different work scenarios.

RPM

The RPM of a screw gun is defined as the number of revolutions per minute made by the screw gun’s turning parts. The revolutions per minute (rpm) is a speed measurement that is sometimes directly proportional to the available torque.

Although some machines lose torque at very high speeds due to a variety of other factors, in general, the RPM determines how fast the screw gun can drive the screw into the material.

Most powerful screw guns have a speed of up to 4000 rpm, which is quite fast.

When purchasing a screw gun for heavy-duty jobs or jobs that may require a significant amount of effort, it is best to go for screw guns with higher RPMs as these will allow you to complete your job faster and with less effort.

 Brushed or Brushless Motor

The motor of a screw gun is in charge of converting the power source into rotational energy, which is then delivered to the material as torque.

The motor typically achieves this by using carbon brushes and slip rings in the brushed type or a magnet in the brushless type.

Both types of conversion mechanisms do the job. Still, the main difference is that the brushless type converts energy more efficiently with no losses due to the absence of moving parts. In contrast, the brushed motor suffers energy losses due to the friction of the moving parts.

This essentially means that the battery of a cordless brushless screw gun will last longer than its brushed counterpart due to the absence of energy losses during conversion.

 Cordless Vs. Corded

The screw gun, like other power tools, is available in both corded and cordless versions. The corded variants draw power from an electric cable, whereas the cordless variants draw power from a battery source.

As a result of the constant power supply, the corded type can provide significantly more power than its cordless counterpart.

On the other hand, the cordless type has the advantage of being more mobile and adaptable in situations where there is no power source available.

So, before you buy a screw gun, make sure you consider the availability of sockets in your work area.

 Screw Length

The screw length is the length of the screw that will be driven into the material. A screw’s length is typically measured from the bottom of the head to the tip of the screw.

Screws vary in length depending on the material they are used to penetrate. The lengths of screws used in working would be determined by the type of jobs intended for the screw gun.

Different screw guns work with different screw lengths, and as such, the length of the screw will help you choose your screw gun.

 Collated or Single Screw

Screw guns now have an option of a collated attachment. This means that the screws come arranged like bullets in a machine gun clip and are easily fed to the screw gun one after the other.

The single screw, on the other hand, is inserted manually one after the other by the end-user. The advantage of the collated screw comes in when working on big jobs that would require the use of up to 200 screws.

For jobs of such nature, your best bet would be to go for the collated screw type.

Forward/Reverse Modes

The motion of a screw comes in two phases; the driving motion into the board and the removal motion from the board.

The driving motion into the board is made by the forward motion of the screw gun, while the reverse motion handles the removal of the screw from the material.

When purchasing a screw gun, it is best to look for models that have both modes, as this will make working more comfortable for you and eliminate the need for an additional tool to remove the screw.

Spindle Lock

At times, a screw might be challenging to remove from the board. This can be due to several reasons.

The spindle lock allows you to lock or turn off the spinning drill while manually adjusting the torque required to remove the screw.

For screw guns with both forward and reverse modes, the spindle lock is usually located at the middle of the switch between both modes.

Some screw gun models also have an automatic spindle lock option that engages itself when the gun encounters resistance during operation.

The spindle lock feature is also helpful in tightening screws where the user is cautious of stripping the screw head.

The spindle lock allows the user to manually tighten the screw firmly to the material using the desired amount of torque.

With this information in mind, it would be to your advantage to go for a screw gun with a spindle lock feature, as this would make your life easier while working.

Weight

 The weight of a screw gun is largely determined by the components contained inside and its materials of construction.

Screw guns made of rubber or plastic material tend to weigh lesser than their metal counterparts and are relatively easier to work with.

Their downside is that they are less durable and tend to spoil if misused.

Your best bet would be to look for a middle ground that can work to your advantage between the weight of the screw gun and its durability.

LED Lights

While this might seem like an unimportant feature, the importance of LED lights cannot be over-emphasized, especially when working in dark areas or at night jobs.

LED lights help illuminate the work area and can be the difference between you and a workplace accident.

By all means, get a screw gun with a LED light, especially If you see yourself working at night or in areas with poor illumination.

 Battery Life

The battery life might just save you from having to make multiple stops while working.

When choosing a cordless screw gun, choose one with long battery life so that you can get a lot more work done on a single charge.

Long battery life can also be a lifesaver in an emergency, especially if you are the type who forgets to charge the screw gun after each use.

Others

Aside from the considerations outlined above, there are a few other qualities to look for when purchasing a screw gun.

Adjustable depth settings, an adjustable nosecone, and two-finger trigger systems can make things a lot easier for you.

Before you buy a screw gun, make sure you do your homework on the criteria outlined above.

When you’ve narrowed down your choice of screw guns to choose from, the extra features available in each and their applicability to your chosen work might just be the decisive factor you need to make your final decision.

Benefits of Using a Screw Gun

Aside from the obvious reason, which is that a screw gun eliminates the effort required by the human arm when driving and removing screws. There are additional benefits to using a screw gun.

To begin, a screw gun allows the user to specify the depth to which the screw will be driven. A screw gun can also install drywall much more quickly than a human arm or a drill.

Moreover, most screw guns have an ergonomic design that makes it relatively easy for the operator to complete tasks.

Furthermore, when it comes to removing screws from surfaces, screw guns have a distinct advantage over other tools due to their reverse mode and spindle lock feature.

Most importantly, the screw gun can work with a variety of screw sizes by allowing the user to change the drill bit to the appropriate size for each job.

Screw guns are quite versatile in their operations, and the fact that they are available in both corded and cordless versions makes them even more appealing, especially for DIYers who perform various tasks in areas where electricity is not available.

Some people use a staple gun instead of a screw gun. Have a look at our best cordless staple gun list to choose the best one for you.

Final Verdict

After testing numerous screw guns in various job situations, our expert team determined that the best deck screw gun should be highly efficient, ergonomically friendly, simple to use, and, most importantly, long-lasting.

The DeWalt Deck screw gun combines all of these features and more, which is why we chose it as the overall best screw gun for decking.

The DeWalt deck screw gun is lightweight and equipped with a powerful 4000 rpm engine, making it ideal for soft and harsh working conditions. Its metal gear housing ensures its dependability at all times and contributes to its durability.