Which tool is best for pulling large or stubborn nails due to high leverage?

• A. Flat Crowbar
• B. Cordless Pin Nailer
• C. Pneumatic Pin Nailer
• D. Paddle Bit Set (Spade Bit)

Answer: (D)

Pulling large or stubborn nails hinges on leverage. A flat crowbar is ideal because its long handle provides a high mechanical advantage, letting you seat the bar under the nail head and pivot around a fulcrum. With controlled pressure on the opposite end, that leverage turns a small effort into a strong lifting force on the nail, making it easier to pull out cleanly without bending the nail or tearing the wood.

Cordless or pneumatic pin nailers are designed to drive nails, not pull them. They don’t offer the gripping surface or pry action needed to remove nails safely or effectively. Spade bits are for drilling holes and have no role in nail removal; they won’t engage the nail and would just damage the surrounding material if used for that purpose.

So, for stubborn nails, use a pry bar or nail puller to take advantage of leverage, then work the nail out gradually.