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The short answer: If your DEWALT DCN680B is not firing, it’s usually due to a dead battery, jammed magazine, dirty contact points, or incorrect depth adjustment. Sometimes it’s a simple safety mechanism not being triggered properly. This guide walks you through step-by-step troubleshooting to get your nailer back in action.
The DEWALT DCN680B is a 20V MAX cordless 18-gauge brad nailer, known for its convenience and portability. It uses a brushless motor and a flywheel mechanism to drive nails. Unlike pneumatic nailers, it doesn’t rely on air pressure, but it does depend on electrical and mechanical components that can fail or need adjustment.
Before diving into fixes, ensure you’re using the correct nails: 18-gauge brad nails, typically 5/8-inch to 2-inch in length. Using incorrect nails can cause misfires or jams.
The most common reason a DCN680B won’t fire is a dead or low battery. The tool requires a fully charged 20V MAX battery. If the battery is old or has a low charge, the motor may not spin up to speed, and the tool won’t fire. Check the battery charge with the indicator on the battery or tool. If it’s low, recharge it. Also, clean the battery terminals with a dry cloth to ensure good contact.
A jam is another frequent culprit. Nails can get stuck in the magazine or the internal feed mechanism. To clear a jam:
Also check the nose piece for any broken nail pieces.
Over time, dust and debris can accumulate on the safety contact tip or the trigger mechanism, preventing proper engagement. Use a brush or compressed air to clean the area around the safety tip and trigger. Also, check if the safety tip moves freely. If it’s worn, it may need replacement (available from DEWALT service centers).
The DCN680B has a depth adjustment wheel near the nose. If it’s set too shallow, the safety tip might not depress enough to fire. Turn the wheel to increase depth, typically counterclockwise to extend the tip. Test on a scrap piece of wood.
If all else fails, the tool may have an internal electrical issue, such as a faulty trigger switch, motor, or control board. This is less common but can happen after heavy use or if the tool has been dropped. If you suspect this, contact DEWALT customer service or an authorized repair center.
Follow this systematic approach to diagnose the issue:
If the tool still doesn’t fire, you may need to reset it by removing the battery for 30 seconds and reinserting.
If you’ve gone through all the above and the nailer still won’t fire, it’s best to contact DEWALT support or a certified repair technician. Attempting to disassemble the internal motor or flywheel can void your warranty and cause injury. The DCN680B has a 3-year limited warranty, so check if you’re covered.
While troubleshooting, consider if this nailer is the right fit for your projects. Sometimes upgrading to a different model might be more efficient. You can compare features and read reviews on top-rated nail guns to see alternatives.
To avoid future firing issues, follow these habits:
These practices will extend the life of your DCN680B and reduce downtime.
Using the correct nails is critical for reliable firing. The DCN680B accepts 18-gauge brad nails with lengths from 5/8 inch to 2 inches. However, not all brad nails are compatible. DEWALT recommends using their brand of nails, but other quality brands that meet the 18-gauge specification can work. Avoid using nails that are rusty, bent, or have damaged heads, as these can cause jams and misfires. Additionally, nails with a slight adhesive coating (to hold strips together) are fine, but excessive glue can gum up the magazine. For best results, store nails in a dry place to prevent rust.
The DCN680B relies on a 20V MAX battery, and proper battery care is essential for consistent performance. Lithium-ion batteries do not have a memory effect, but they can degrade over time. To maximize battery life, avoid fully discharging the battery before recharging. Instead, recharge when the battery indicator shows one bar or when you notice a drop in power. Store batteries in a cool, dry place, ideally at around 50% charge if not used for extended periods. Extreme temperatures can damage battery cells, so avoid leaving the battery in a hot vehicle or freezing environment. Also, clean the battery contacts periodically with a dry cloth to ensure good electrical connection. If you have multiple batteries, rotate their use to prevent one from wearing out faster than others.
Many firing issues stem from user error. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:
By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll reduce downtime and extend the life of your nailer.
Intermittent firing is often due to a partially jammed magazine or debris on the safety tip. Clean the magazine and ensure nails are feeding smoothly. Also check the battery charge; a weak battery can cause inconsistent firing.
No, never hit the nailer with a hammer. This can damage internal components and is dangerous. Instead, troubleshoot the jam or safety mechanism.
No, the DCN680B is designed for finish and trim work (18-gauge brad nails). For framing, you need a heavier-duty nailer like a 21-degree framing nailer. Check the buying guide for recommendations.
For more detailed comparisons and recommendations, visit our best nail guns guide.
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