The thinnest and shortest finishing nails commonly available are 23-gauge Arrow Pin Nails.
Arrow Pin Nails: The Thinnest Option
23-gauge Arrow Pin Nails are designed for delicate work like trim, molding, and picture framing. Their key feature is their thinness, along with their short length (available in 3/8" and 1/2"). Because they lack a traditional nail head, they leave a minuscule hole, often eliminating the need for wood putty. This makes them ideal for applications where a virtually invisible fastener is required.
- Gauge: 23 gauge (thinnest in the common finishing nail range)
- Length: 3/8" and 1/2" (shortest lengths available in this gauge)
- Head: Pin-style, virtually no head for minimal hole appearance.
- Uses: Trim, molding, picture framing, and other fine woodworking applications.
This answer focuses on readily available finishing nails. Other specialty nails might exist that are even thinner, but they would likely be less common and for very specialized applications.
