Brad nails are small, thin, finishing nails with narrow heads that protrude only slightly to one side, allowing the nails to become embedded once hammered into the wood. Some brad nails are even headless, and average 1/2 to 2 inches (1.25 to 5 centimeters) in length. A brad nailer will be used to shoots brad nails in place. Brad nailers use compressed air to create enough force to shoot the nails, and must be used with an air compressor.