One of the things that is wrong with ordinary nailsets is that the hammer is too far from the head of the nail. This gives more room for a glancing blow. The solution is to use a Japanese nailset (also called a nitokukugishime 二徳釘しめ) which has both the traditional long orientation, but also can be used the short way. This gives a very positive and secure feel, especially useful when dealing with air-driven brads or finish nails which can have a tendency to bend if not struck just right.
There are a couple of other less obvious advantages. The right angle and the square cross section give a good grip and keep it from rolling away from you. The larger size and smooth taper lets you use it as a wedge or as a mini-spud to align holes in two different objects.
