hey i missed this. i have a cheapo cambell-hausfield that i use on occasion. works just fine. i would never try and do trim work without one.
i also have a low budget harbor freight model that will shoot brads or staples. i have never shot a brad without. i just needed it for an upholstery job and it seemed to work fine for that.
i don't consider either great but very usable. if i was going to be doing trim or craft work all day i would want better but they sure work for occasional use.