Compressed carbon dioxide has long provided the get-up-and-go in guns that fire pellets and paintballs. Now it can power nail guns, too. A new product, called the JacPac, lets you drive nails and brads without an air compressor or fuel cell. The power comes from a lightweight canister that hooks on your belt. The canister is filled with CO2 compressed to about 825 psi.

JacPac says a single 9-oz. cylinder of CO2 has enough power to drive nearly 700 1-in.-long brads. I didn’t do a test to check that number, but I did fire at least 250 1-in. brads and the canister still had plenty of pressure. According to the manufacturer, it can power any standard pneumatic tool, and that includes nail guns that fire brads, finish nails, and framing nails.

The 9-oz. cylinder, regulator, and hose weigh less than 4 lb. Expect to pay about $3 to refill the canister at most paintball or sporting-goods stores. The JacPac retails for $90. For more information, go to www.jacpacco2.com  or call 800-567-0864.

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Makita SP6000J1 Track Saw

With enough power to slice through thick hardwoods, the Makita makes smooth, chip-free cuts in all materials.

Buy at Amazon

Fein Turbo II HEPA Wet/Dry Dust Extractor

Among the most powerful HEPA-rated shop vacs on the market, Fein’s Turbo II is quieter, more compact, and nimbler than the rest.

Buy at Amazon

Craftsman Random Orbit Sander

While this sander is among the least expensive models in the test, its performance ranks among the best. The stock removal was excellent, and dust collection was solid when used with a vacuum. It handles really smoothly, too, and has a tall body that fit my hand nicely whether I was holding it from above or around the waist.

Buy at Amazon