DEWALT DCN681B 20V Narrow Crown Stapler Review: Cordless Freedom Done Right

By Stephen Barnay

If you’ve ever wrestled with an air hose while stapling trim, you know how good it feels to finally cut the cord.
The DEWALT DCN681B is a fully cordless narrow crown stapler built for that exact purpose. Fast, clean, and no compressor required.

I picked up the tool-only version since I already had DEWALT 20V MAX batteries from my drill set. If you don’t, you’ll need the version that includes a battery and charger, or grab one separately.

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Power Without the Hose

Right away, the brushless motor makes a difference. This stapler fires consistently, even through thicker trim and plywood edges, and it does it quietly.
No hiss, no lag, no misfires. It’s surprisingly powerful for a cordless model — some users even say it hits harder than their pneumatic staplers.

During a full day of stapling hardware cloth on a large chicken run, it ran for hours on a single charge. That’s where the 20V system really shines — long runtime, zero fuss.

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Handling & Ergonomics

Let’s be real: this tool’s a bit on the heavy side.
At just over 5 pounds before the battery, it feels closer to holding a cordless drill than a traditional stapler.
It’s fine for waist-level work, but your shoulders will feel it if you’re working overhead for long periods.

The grip is comfortable though, and the balance is good once you get used to it. I’d take the extra weight over dragging a compressor hose any day.

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Accuracy & Features

Depth adjustment and trigger mode changes are all tool-free and intuitive.
You can flip between sequential and contact fire modes depending on how you like to work.
The depth wheel dials in easily, and it’s been spot-on for trim and light framing — no staples blowing through thin material or sitting proud.

Reloading is quick and smooth, and the magazine handles 18-gauge narrow crown staples from 1/2" to 1-1/2".
We didn’t experience a single jam in testing, even when running long strips.

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Battery & Compatibility

This stapler runs on the same 20V MAX batteries as DEWALT’s drills, saws, and nailers. It's a huge bonus if you’re already in the system.
If you’re starting from scratch, look for the kit version that includes a battery and charger. Otherwise, save a bit by going tool-only.

Battery life is excellent; one 5Ah pack easily lasts through multiple hours of work.

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The Real-World Verdict

The DCN681B has replaced my pneumatic stapler for nearly everything I do, from trim to decorative panels, even light framing and shop projects.
It’s a little heavier than I’d like, but it delivers pro-grade consistency with none of the compressor hassle.
I do still use other staplers for specific tasks, but this remains my go-to for most jobs.

If you’re already running DEWALT 20V tools, this is a no-brainer addition to your lineup.

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✅ Verdict: 4.6 / 5

Cordless convenience, perfect drive depth, and long battery life. Just expect some heft.
(Side effect: Shoulder gains when working overhead)

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