Bostitch TrimAir Compressor (CAP1512-OF) Review

Bostitch TrimAir Compressor Model CAP1512-OF

This summer Bostitch announced the a new compact TrimAir Compressor, Model CAP1512-OF. We were fortunate enough to receive one of these new compact compressors to test and review.

According to Product Manager James Vintzel, “We designed this next generation compressor to provide all of the benefits of the ever-popular TrimAir unit, but with a new level of power and performance.”

I was very eager to try out the new TrimAir compressor once I heard that it weighs under 25 lbs and it’s able to support up to two finish nailers at one time. Read on to hear our thoughts on this exciting new compact compressor.

TrimAir Compressor Features

• High-output oil-free pump delivers 2.8 CFM @ 90 PSI and 150 PSI max operating pressure for multiple fi nish tool operation
• 2.0 HP (Peak), 1.5 HP (Running) motor draws 12 amps for easy start up without tripping circuit breakers
• 1.2 gallon compact design weighs 23.5 lbs. for easy portability
• Integrated control panel with roll cage protects gauges from jobsite damage
• LED ON/OFF switch lets you know when the compressor is on to eliminate low-pressure misfi res
• On-board tool and hose storage
• Convenient storage pocket for hand tools, fasteners and fittings
• Integrated cord wrap for improved portability
• No-marring rubber feet

Size & Portability

Right out of the box you’ll notice a significant difference in the size of the TrimAir compressor compared to our old workhorse Bostitch pancake compressor. Obviously there is a big difference in the horsepower and tank size between these two compressors. However, what impressed me was the output of the new TrimAir compared to my older compressor. The TrimAir weighs in at 23.5 lbs while the older one weighs in at over 50 lbs. The TrimAir puts out 3.7 CFM @ 40 psi while the older one 3.4 CFM @ 40 psi. Pretty impressive if you ask me!

The other huge advantage here is the shape and portability. The new TrimAir compressor is much narrower and far less top heavy. This means you can hold the weight closer to your body, run into fewer things on the job site and the compressor is less likely to tip over in your truck and break.

The role cage around the controls is also a great feature. As I pointed out above the older versions were very top heavy and prone to tipping over. They also had no protection for the controls and I personally have broken then before when rolling them over. The TrimAir’s new role cage pretty much eliminates that possibility which is a huge improvement.

Much Quieter

The other thing that really got my attention with this new compressor is how quiet it is compared to many of the other small compressors that we use. Small compressors are most often used inside a finished home while working on small projects like trim, cabinetry and even flooring. The old pancake compressor has been through thick and thin with me on projects but it wakes up everyone around the second it comes on to fill up with air.

The new TrimAir compressor is one of the quietest compressors I’ve ever used. When this little guy switches on you hardly know it. I would guess it’s two to three times more quiet than my old compressor.

Power & Versatility

The TrimAir Compressor can muster an impressive 150 psi max operating pressure and 2.8 CFM at 90 psi. In addition this little guy only draws 12 amps at start up which means you get plenty of pressure with less chance of throwing electrical breakers on the job site. We tested the TrimAir Compressor on several projects including a cabinet install, some stair parts and some exterior trim work. The compressor did a great job keeping a consistent pressure without any down time.

I really like that the compressor has enough power to be a very capable punch list tool.  You can go from installing window trim to hardwood cabinet moldings and even shoot some framing nails into engineered lumber.

Neat Features

The TrimAir Compressor comes with a couple of neat features and a great overall design. The back of the compressor includes a heavy velcrow strap. The strap can be used to easily attach a tool or nail gun for easy transportation. The bottom of the compressor also has an easy to use cord wrap so you won’t be tripping over the cord when you move from job to job. The non-marring rubber feat are nice as well especially when working in finished homes.

Maintenance Free

This compressor is an oil-free design. This isn’t all that new but I do like the feature. It makes maintenance a non issue and also allows the unit to be operated on uneven surfaces.

Final Thoughts

Compact compressors are very useful when it comes to small jobs like trim, cabinetry and punch lists. Having a light-weight, small, powerful compressor is key for productivity and reducing damage on the job site. The TrimAir Compressor is great for this type of use and a compact compressor that I recommend. I was very impressed with it’s power, quiet operating and compact design.

The new TrimAir CAP1512-OF Compressor should be available  this summer at construction supply stores, woodworking stores and online retailers for about $149. If you’re in the market for a compact compressor I recommend you check this one out!

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