DEWALT DCN680D1
DEWALT 20V MAX* Cordless Brad Nailer Kit, 18GA (DCN680D1)
Instruction Manual
Product Overview
The DEWALT DCN680 18 Gauge Brad Nailer is designed for fastening 18 Gauge brad nails ranging from 5/8 inches to 2-1/8 inches. This makes it an ideal tool for various finishing applications such as installing decorative molding, casing, kitchen crown, and shoe molding. Powered by a DEWALT 20V MAX* Lithium-Ion battery and featuring a brushless motor, the DCN680 offers the convenience of cordless operation, eliminating the need for gas cartridges, compressors, or hoses. It combines the performance of a pneumatic tool with the freedom and portability of a cordless design.
This kit includes the DCN680 Brad Nailer, a 20V MAX* Lithium-Ion battery, and a charger, providing a complete solution for your nailing needs.

Safety Information
Always read and understand all safety warnings, instructions, illustrations, and specifications provided with this power tool. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire, and/or serious injury.
- Work Area Safety: Keep your work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents. Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust.
- Electrical Safety: Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces, such as pipes, radiators, ranges, and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is earthed or grounded.
- Personal Safety: Always wear eye protection (safety glasses or goggles) and hearing protection when operating the nailer. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times.
- Tool Use and Care: Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. The correct power tool will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it was designed. Disconnect the battery pack from the power tool before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools.
- Battery Tool Use and Care: Recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer. Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs. Use of any other battery packs may create a risk of injury and fire.
- Nailer Specific Safety:
- Always assume the tool contains fasteners.
- Do not point the tool at yourself or anyone nearby.
- Keep hands and body parts away from the discharge area.
- Do not operate the tool if the trigger or safety mechanism is damaged or malfunctioning.
- Ensure the workpiece is stable before nailing.
Components and Features
Familiarize yourself with the various parts and functions of your DEWALT DCN680D1 Brad Nailer.
- Brushless Motor: Maximizes runtime and durability, providing efficient power delivery.
- Micro Nose: Improves line of sight and accuracy for precise nail placement, especially in tight corners.
- Tool-Free Depth Adjustment: Allows for precise countersinking of nails without the need for additional tools.
- Tool-Free Jam Release: Enables quick and easy clearing of nail jams, minimizing downtime.
- Multi-functional LED Lights: Provide workspace illumination and serve as diagnostic indicators for the tool.
- Tool-Free Selectable Trigger: Switch between sequential actuation (for precision) and contact actuation (for speed) modes.
- Integrated Tool-Free Stall Release Lever: Quickly resets the driver blade in case of a stall.
- Adjustable Belt Hook: Can be attached to either the left or right side for user convenience.
- Low Nail Lockout: Prevents dry firing when the magazine is nearly empty, protecting the workpiece from unwanted marks.


Setup
1. Battery Installation and Charging
Ensure the battery is fully charged before first use. Insert the battery pack into the tool handle until it clicks into place. To remove, press the release button and pull the battery out.
2. Loading Nails
- Pull back the magazine follower until it locks in the open position.
- Insert a strip of 18-gauge brad nails into the magazine with the nail points facing down.
- Release the magazine follower, allowing it to push the nails forward.
3. Adjusting Depth of Drive
The tool-free depth adjustment allows you to control how deep the nail is driven into the material. Rotate the depth adjustment dial (typically located near the nose of the tool) to increase or decrease the nail depth. Test on a scrap piece of material to achieve the desired countersink.
4. Selecting Actuation Mode
Use the tool-free selectable trigger to choose between sequential or contact actuation modes:
- Sequential Actuation: Requires the contact trip to be pressed against the workpiece and then the trigger pulled to fire a nail. This mode offers precise placement.
- Contact Actuation: Allows for rapid firing by holding the trigger and bumping the contact trip against the workpiece. This mode is suitable for high-speed applications.
Operating the Nailer
Before operation, ensure all safety precautions are understood and followed.
- Positioning: Place the nose of the nailer firmly against the workpiece where you intend to drive a nail. Ensure the contact trip is fully depressed.
- Firing:
- In Sequential Actuation mode, pull the trigger to fire a single nail. Release the trigger and lift the tool from the workpiece to prepare for the next nail.
- In Contact Actuation mode, hold the trigger and press the nose against the workpiece to fire nails rapidly.
- Nail Placement: The micro nose design allows for improved visibility. Use this feature to accurately place nails, especially in intricate trim work.
- Low Nail Lockout: The tool will stop firing when the nail count is low to prevent dry firing and marking the workpiece. Reload nails when this occurs.





Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your tool.
- Cleaning: Keep the tool clean and free of debris. Use a dry cloth to wipe down the exterior. Do not use solvents or harsh chemicals. Periodically clear any sawdust or small particles from the magazine and nose area.
- Battery Care: Store batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Do not store batteries in a discharged state for extended periods.
- Storage: When not in use, store the nailer in its carrying bag or a safe, dry location, out of reach of children. Remove the battery pack before storage.
- Fastener Compatibility: Always use 18-gauge brad nails of the correct length (5/8 in. to 2-1/8 in.) to prevent jams and damage to the tool.
Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your DEWALT DCN680D1 Brad Nailer.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Nailer does not fire. |
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| Nails not driven flush or countersunk. |
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| Nails jam frequently. |
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| LED lights flashing. |
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Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Model Number | DCN680D1 |
| Nail Diameter | 18 Gauge |
| Nail Length Capacity | 5/8 in. to 2-1/8 in. |
| Power Source | 20V MAX* Lithium-Ion Battery |
| Motor Type | Brushless |
| Item Weight | 1 pounds (tool only, approximate) |
| Product Dimensions | 18.72 x 11.11 x 6.36 inches |
| Batteries Included | 1 Lithium Ion battery (included in kit) |
| Manufacturer | DEWALT |
Warranty and Support
This DEWALT product comes with a 3-year manufacturer's warranty. For detailed warranty information, terms, and conditions, please refer to the official DEWALT warranty statement included with your product or visit the DEWALT website.
For technical assistance, service, or to locate an authorized service center, please contact DEWALT Customer Service or visit their official website. Have your model number (DCN680D1) and serial number ready when contacting support.
DEWALT Official Website: www.dewalt.com
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