Best Nail Pullers of 2026

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2026

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Nail pullers are essential tools for anyone who needs to remove nails from wood, metal, or other materials. These tools come in various shapes and sizes, but they all serve the same purpose – to extract nails without damaging the surrounding material. Some nail pullers have a claw-like design that grips the nail tightly and allows for easy removal. Others have a curved head that provides leverage and reduces the effort required to pull out the nail. Nail pullers are a must-have for carpenters, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone who works with wood or metal.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Bates- Nail Puller and Plier Tool Cover #TOP 1
Bates- Nail Puller and Plier Tool
ftb score rating icon 9.9
GreatNeck TL4C Tack Lifter Cover #TOP 2
GreatNeck TL4C Tack Lifter
ftb score rating icon 9.8
PacTool RS501 Roof Snake Tool Cover #TOP 3
PacTool RS501 Roof Snake Tool
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Nail Pullers

#TOP 1

Bates- Nail Puller and Plier Tool

7", 1 Pack
Bates- Nail Puller and Plier Tool Cover
Bates Nail Puller - Cat's Paw Nail Puller & Remover, End Cutting Pliers, Staple Puller, Carpenter's Tool

This Bates Nail Puller and Plier Tool is made from high carbon steel for long-lasting performance. The soft plastic-coated grip provides comfort when in use. The dual-use end nipper pliers can be used to cut wires or nails or simply pull them out. With its 7" size, it is perfect for carpenters, construction, handymen, and installing new floors.

What We Like
Sturdy and durable build
Excellent leverage and grip
Versatile for nails and staples
Great value for price
Sharp cutting edges
What We Don't Like
Grip pads may slip
Requires some skill for deep nails
#TOP 2

GreatNeck TL4C Tack Lifter

TL4C
Color May Vary
1 Pack
GreatNeck TL4C Tack Lifter Cover
GreatNeck TL4C Heavy-Duty Tack Lifter, Chrome Vanadium Steel Nail Remover Tool With Ergonomic Acetate Handle, Ideal for Carpet Tacks, Upholstery, Rivets, Nails, And Pins, Color May Vary

The GreatNeck TL4C Tack Lifter, also known as the GreatNeck Tack Lifter, is a versatile tool designed to make your nail pulling tasks easier. Its 1/4 inch thick heavy duty shank provides strength and durability, allowing you to tackle even the toughest nails with ease. The chrome vanadium steel construction ensures long-lasting performance, while the chrome plating resists rust, keeping the tool in great condition for years to come. The quality acetate handle offers a comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue during extended use. With the GreatNeck TL4C Tack Lifter, you can effortlessly remove nails and complete your projects efficiently.

What We Like
Thin tip for tight spaces
High-quality build
Easy nail and tack removal
Good leverage and control
Reasonable price
What We Don't Like
Smaller than expected
Longer handle than anticipated
#TOP 3

PacTool RS501 Roof Snake Tool

RS501 Roof Snake
Steel Grey
1-(Pack)
PacTool RS501 Roof Snake Tool Cover
PacTool RS501 Roof Snake Tool - Shingle Pry Bar - Heavy Duty Nail Remover Tool - Roof Shingle Remover - Professional Roofing Tools

The PacTool Roof Snake Tool is a must-have for all roofers. This commercial crowbar is designed to make replacing composition roofing shingles quick, accurate, and safe. With its patented offset nail slot feature, you can easily align nails with the correct one-inch offset from the bottom edge of your current course. The handy claw tip allows you to loosen and remove old, damaged shingles and nails with ease. Say goodbye to bent or damaged shingles and accidental finger strikes. Trust in PacTool, a leader in specialized construction tools, to provide you with the best roofing tools and equipment for your projects.

What We Like
Durable steel construction
Efficient shingle and tile repair
Easy nail removal
Compact with good leverage
Specialty tool for roofing
What We Don't Like
No magnetized nail holder
Packing could be improved
#TOP 4

DURATECH 7-Inch CRV Nail Puller Pliers

7866e65a-881d-44d6-bf99-ef643a5fc904
Blue, Black
DURATECH 7-Inch CRV Nail Puller Pliers Cover
DURATECH 7-Inch Nail Puller, CRV Steel End Cutting Pliers with Blackened and Polished Finish, Non-Slip Handle Nail Remover Tool, End Nippers for Pulling Nails and Cutting Wires

The DURATECH Nail Puller Pliers are crafted from high-quality CRV steel, offering strong and lasting durability for your daily tasks. The comfortable TPR handle ensures a secure grip, reducing hand fatigue and giving you better control while working. Thanks to its blackened and polished finish, these pliers resist rust and corrosion, so they stay looking good and perform well even in tough conditions. Plus, their versatile design lets you not only pull nails but also cut wires and shape materials, making them a handy tool for home projects and renovations.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
Comfortable handle
Efficient nail pulling
Sharp cutting performance
Good value
What We Don't Like
Minor finish imperfections
#TOP 5

Bates Choice Pry Bar Nail Puller Set

SGHV003B425VQ
Bates Choice Pry Bar Nail Puller Set Cover
Bates- Pry Bar Nail Puller Set, 3 Pack, 8"/10"/12", Nail Puller Tool, Small Pry Bar

The Bates Pry Bar Set is designed to make removing nails, tacks, and staples easier for you. With three different sizes—8", 10", and 12"—you’ll have the perfect tool no matter the job size. Each pry bar features strong steel tips that hold firmly, giving you precise control whether you're working on woodworking projects or demolition tasks. The red-coated steel handles are comfy to hold and won’t slip, helping reduce hand fatigue during longer use. This set is a handy choice whether you’re a pro or a DIY fan working on furniture repair, flooring, or general fixes.

What We Like
Multiple size options
Sturdy construction
Comfortable grip
Effective nail removal
Sharp, precise ends
What We Don't Like
Not titanium quality
#TOP 6

Decotacks DX0511AB Upholstery Tacks 100pcs

DX0511AB
7/16"
Decotacks DX0511AB Upholstery Tacks 100pcs Cover
Decotacks 100 Pcs/Box Upholstery Tacks Upholstery Nails ∅7/16" Head x 1/2" Long Shank Antique Brass DX0511AB

The Decotacks Upholstery Tacks come in a pack of 100, each with a head diameter of 7/16 inch and a total length of 5/8 inch, making them ideal for securing fabric firmly in place. Made with high-quality steel using advanced German machinery, these tacks offer durability and strength, ensuring your upholstery projects last. Their double-layer electroplated finish not only provides a beautiful antique brass look but also helps resist wear over time. These tacks are heavy-duty and perfect for professional or DIY upholstery work, giving you reliable and attractive results without the hassle.

What We Like
Antique gold finish
Easy to install
Sharp and sturdy
Great for upholstery
Good value
What We Don't Like
May bend on hard wood
Pre-drilling recommended for tough materials
#TOP 7

WORKPRO 10-inch Multi Fence Pliers

WORKPRO 10-inch Multi Fence Pliers Cover
WORKPRO Fencing Pliers, 10-inch Multi Fence Pliers Tool, Heavy Duty Fencing Tools, Barbed Wire Fence Tools, Fence Cutter, Nail Puller, Staple Puller, Cutting Wire, Hammer Head

The WORKPRO Fence Pliers are a handy all-in-one tool that combines six uses into one, including cutting wire, pulling nails and staples, gripping, hammering, and twisting. This means you won't need to switch tools while working on fences, saving you time and hassle. The comfortable, ergonomically designed handle helps reduce hand strain, so you can work longer without discomfort. Made from tough chrome vanadium steel with a special finish, these pliers are built to last and handle heavy-duty tasks. Whether you're fixing or building a fence, this tool makes the job easier and more efficient.

What We Like
Easy to use
Multi-purpose tool
Comfortable grips
Good value
Durable for farm use
What We Don't Like
Minor finish imperfections
Appearance could be better
#TOP 8

WORKPRO Pneumatic Nail Remover

W189002
Red+black
WORKPRO Pneumatic Nail Remover Cover
WORKPRO Pneumatic Nail Remover, Professional Heavy Duty Punch Nailer/Nail Puller/Nail Remover for Wood Workpieces, 60-100 PSI Denailer Removes 9-16 Gauge Nails

The WORKPRO Nail Remover is designed to make removing nails a breeze. Its long nail nose can handle nails from 1 to 4 inches in length, allowing you to access tight spaces easily. The swivel air-outlet lets you direct exhaust for safety and comfort while you work. Made from lightweight aluminum, this tool is not only durable but also easy to handle, reducing fatigue during use. Whether you're working on pallets, decks, or boxes, this nail remover saves you time and energy by keeping wood intact for reuse.

What We Like
Fast nail removal
Lightweight and comfortable grip
Durable construction
Efficient for wood salvaging
Works on nails and screws
What We Don't Like
Slightly underpowered for heavy nails
Occasional flying nails
#TOP 9

WORKPRO 8 Inch Nail Puller End Cutting Pliers

W031420A
Black
Large
WORKPRO 8 Inch Nail Puller End Cutting Pliers Cover
WORKPRO 8 Inch Nail Puller, End Cutting Pliers - Black Finish Chrome Vanadium Steel, High Leverage End Cutting Nipper, Carpenters Pincers, End Snips for Pulling Nails or Cutting Wires

The WORKPRO End Cutting Pliers feature a laser-hardened edge that stays sharp longer, allowing you to cut nails and wires cleanly and with less effort. Made from durable chrome vanadium steel with a black anti-rust coating, this tool resists corrosion, so it lasts through tough jobs. It’s designed for professionals like carpenters and handymen, making it easy for you to pull nails or cut wires efficiently. Plus, the soft, non-slip grip fits comfortably in your hand, reducing fatigue and giving you better control during use. This combination of features makes your work smoother and faster.

What We Like
Excellent cutting performance
High quality materials
Comfortable, stable grip
Great value for price
Strong and durable build
What We Don't Like
Handles could use spring mechanism
Smaller jaws not much narrower
#TOP 10

ESTWING Pro Claw Nail Puller - PC300G

PC300G
Blue
12.5" (Inches)
ESTWING Pro Claw Nail Puller - PC300G Cover
ESTWING Pro Claw Nail Puller - 12.5" Pry Bar with Forged Steel Construction & No-Slip Cushion Grip - PC300G

The Estwing Pro Claw Nail Puller is a high-quality nail pulling and prying tool designed to make your DIY projects easier. With its high leverage design, this nail puller produces maximum torque when pulling nails and prying boards, outperforming standard cat's paw tools. It also features a precision thin claw, allowing you to reach those hard-to-reach places with ease. The tool is made from a single piece of solid steel, making it extremely durable and long-lasting. Additionally, the Estwing Pro Claw Nail Puller is proudly crafted in the USA using the finest American steel. Say goodbye to struggling with headless nails, as this nail puller is designed to remove them with minimal wood damage. Whether you're a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, this nail puller is a must-have tool for your toolbox.

What We Like
Excellent leverage and control
Durable, high-quality steel
Compact size for tight spaces
Comfortable cushioned handle
Minimal wood damage
What We Don't Like
Handle can be damaged if abused
Could be slightly longer for leverage
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do nail pullers work?

Yes, nail pullers are effective tools for removing nails without damaging the wood surface. They are essential for woodworkers and provide practicality and usefulness in nail extraction.

2. What are the 3 types of nail pullers and how are they different?

There are three main types of nail pullers: Cat's Paw (also known as nail claws and carpenter's pincers), Chisel Bars, and Flat Bars. The Cat's Paw is a straight steel rod with a curved claw at one end. It is specifically designed to pull nails that are flush with or slightly below the wood surface.

3. What might a carpenter use to pull out nails?

Carpenters often use carpenters' pincers to pull out nails. These tools have sharp, forward-facing cutting edges that can also cut wires or small metal pins. The round head shape of the pincers allows for a lever movement, making it easier to pull out nails from wood.

4. Does pulling a nail out hurt?

Pulling a nail out can be painful, especially if the nail separates from the nail bed. This can happen due to injuries or accidents, particularly when someone has long fingernails. It's important to be cautious and handle nail removal carefully to minimize any discomfort or potential injury.

Editor's Notes

During our nail puller research, we found 24 nail puller products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 73,266 customer reviews through our big data system to write the nail pullers list. We found that most customers choose nail pullers with an average price of $17.98.

The nail pullers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of nail pullers, including Bates Choice, Great Neck, PacTool, DURATECH, decotacks. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 3,439 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.