Best Blind Rivets with 7 Top Picks

I’ve spent countless hours in the shop working on everything from automotive trim to marine repairs, and I’ve learned that the quality of your fasteners makes all the difference. When you need a fast, strong, single-sided connection, a reliable pop rivet is essential. After testing various materials and sizes, I’ve broken down the features that separate the good from the great. This comprehensive guide highlights the best blind rivets currently available, ensuring you can choose the precise fastener or kit needed for your next professional or DIY project.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Wensilon (250Pcs) 3/16″x1/2″ Aluminum blind pro…	View on Amazon
	WETOLS Pop Rivet Gun Kit with 200 Blind Rivets, Upgraded…	View on Amazon
	Linkup 600pcs 15 Sizes Pop Rivets Assortment Kit,Aluminum…	View on Amazon
	SATANTECH 500pcs Pop Rivets Assortment Kit,14 SAE Sizes…	View on Amazon
	ZQZ 970Pcs Aluminum Pop Rivets with Washer Assortment Kit,…	View on Amazon
	INCLY 1000PCS Aluminum Pop Rivets Assortment Kit, 14 Sizes…	View on Amazon
	ISPINNER 50pcs 3/16″ x 1/2″ Large Flange Aluminum Blind…	View on Amazon

Wensilon (250Pcs) 3/16″x1/2″ Aluminum blind pro Rivets,Aluminum Grip and Steel Mandrel

These Wensilon rivets are the workhorse of the 3/16-inch class, offering a robust combination of aluminum body for corrosion resistance and a steel mandrel for reliable breaking strength. Designed for heavy-duty assembly, they offer great performance in challenging environments thanks to their superior acid and corrosion resistance. They boast a smooth, reliable riveting process that won’t deform the surrounding material, making them suitable for everything from automotive work to large DIY home projects.

Key features that stand out (Bold):
– High-Quality Materials: Premium aluminum body with a steel mandrel.
– Corrosion and Acid Resistance: Excellent performance in outdoor and wet environments.
– Self-Plugging Open End Design: Ensures easy use with a standard rivet gun.

Pros:
– Strong, durable connection ideal for metal sheets and pipes.
– Excellent value for a high-quantity, single-size batch.
– Includes a 24-month worry-free warranty.

Cons:
– Only one size is included, limiting versatility.

Best for: Projects requiring a high volume of a specific, heavy-duty 3/16-inch rivet, like trailer repair or ductwork installation.

Expert Opinion: These are straightforward, reliable rivets. The aluminum body/steel mandrel combination hits the sweet spot for durability and rust prevention, making them a consistently solid choice when you need sheer connection strength.

WETOLS Pop Rivet Gun Kit with 200 Blind Rivets, Upgraded Manual Single Hand Riveter with 4 Tool-Free Interchangeable Rivet Heads and 4 Drill Bits, Pop Rivet Tool Kit with Sturdy BMC Carrying Case

The WETOLS kit isn’t just about fasteners; it’s a complete system designed for versatility and ease of use. This set includes a high-quality, upgraded manual riveter along with 200 aluminum rivets across four common sizes. The standout feature is the tool-free interchangeability of the heads and the inclusion of corresponding drill bits, meaning you have everything needed to start riveting immediately. The reinforced carbon steel handle ensures longevity and the ergonomic design reduces hand strain, even when dealing with thicker fasteners.

Key features that stand out (Bold):
– Complete Kit: Includes the rivet gun, 200 rivets (4 sizes), 4 drill bits, and a sturdy carrying case.
– Tool-Free Head Changes: Quick and easy size swapping without needing extra wrenches.
– Wide Material Compatibility: Can handle aluminum, steel, and stainless steel rivets (though the largest size is not recommended for stainless).

Pros:
– Exceptional value as an all-in-one starter kit.
– Ergonomic, labor-saving handle design.
– Durable construction with a PVC protective sleeve on the handle.

Cons:
– The largest 3/16″ size is not recommended for use with very tough stainless steel rivets.

Best for: Beginners, general home mechanics, or DIYers needing a high-quality tool plus an assortment of starter fasteners.

Expert Opinion: This is the ideal setup if you don’t already own a rivet gun. The quality of the included tool is impressive for a kit, making the process of installing blind rivets fast and efficient. The inclusion of the correct drill bits eliminates guesswork.

Linkup 600pcs 15 Sizes Pop Rivets Assortment Kit,Aluminum Rivets, Silver pop rivet set including 3/32″ 1/8″ 5/32″ 3/16″ 1/4″ blind rivets for metal Dome Head rivet kit

When variety is your main concern, the Linkup 600-piece kit delivers. This huge assortment includes an incredible 15 different sizes ranging from small 3/32″ diameters up to large 1/4″ sizes, ensuring you have the right rivet length and diameter for almost any household or professional repair. Made from quality aluminum, these dome-head rivets are reliable for general metal-to-metal applications. The kit is housed in a sturdy case with non-mixing compartments, labeled clearly for quick identification.

Key features that stand out (Bold):
– Massive Variety: 600 pieces across 15 distinct sizes and five major diameters (3/32″ to 1/4″).
– Reliable Packaging: Durable case with double buckles and non-mix, labeled compartments.
– Wide Applicability: Excellent for general DIY, household maintenance, and professional repairs.

Pros:
– Outstanding selection ensures the right fit for various grip ranges.
– Easy to organize and transport without the rivets mixing.
– Good quality aluminum material.

Cons:
– Does not include any washers for soft material applications.

Best for: Fabricators, hobbyists, and shops that deal with a diverse range of sheet metal thicknesses and require numerous sizes readily available.

Expert Opinion: This set is a shop staple. Having 15 sizes means I rarely have to stop a job because I’m missing the right length. It’s a pure value play focused on quantity and size range, and the packaging holds up well in a busy environment.

SATANTECH 500pcs Pop Rivets Assortment Kit,14 SAE Sizes Aluminum Rivets (3/32″ 1/8″ 5/32″ 3/16″ 1/4″), Assorted Blind Rivets with Reinfored Divider & Labeled Case

The SATANTECH kit offers a slightly smaller, yet still comprehensive, range of the best blind rivets, focusing on 14 of the most frequently used SAE sizes. Constructed from high-quality aluminum and steel mandrels, these rivets provide superior corrosion and acid resistance. A key benefit is the reinforced labeled storage case featuring thickened latches and robust dividers, ensuring that the 500 pieces stay sorted and protected whether they are in your toolbox or on the workbench.

Key features that stand out (Bold):
– Reinforced Storage: Thickened latch and dividers prevent mixing and increase durability.
– Premium Materials: High-quality aluminum provides anti-rusting performance.
– Great Performance: Self-plugging design is strong, handy, and easy to install in various materials.

Pros:
– Good balance of quantity (500 pieces) and common sizes.
– Durable storage case is excellent for long-term organization.
– 24-month worry-free service adds peace of mind.

Cons:
– The size range is slightly less varied than the Linkup 600-piece kit.

Best for: Professionals and serious DIYers looking for a dependable, well-organized assortment of standard aluminum pop rivets.

Expert Opinion: This kit excels in organization. The labeling and the robust dividers mean I don’t waste time sorting or hunting for sizes. For standard aluminum rivets in the most common diameters, this is a very practical choice.

ZQZ 970Pcs Aluminum Pop Rivets with Washer Assortment Kit, 14 Sizes Silver Rivets with 3/32″ 1/8″ 5/32″ 3/16″ Blind Rivets, Assorted Pop Rivets Set

What sets the ZQZ assortment apart is the inclusion of washers. This massive 970-piece kit includes 640 aluminum pop rivets in 14 sizes and 330 silver washers in four corresponding sizes. Washers are critical when riveting softer materials like plastic or thin fiberglass, as they spread the load and prevent pull-through. The high strength and durability of the aluminum/steel components ensure a long service life, and the convenient storage case keeps the rivets and washers separate and organized.

Key features that stand out (Bold):
– Includes Washers: 330 washers provided to prevent pull-through on softer or oversized holes.
– High Strength: Constructed from high-quality aluminum and steel for durability and corrosion resistance.
– Comprehensive Kit: 14 different rivet sizes covering the most common applications.

Pros:
– Washers significantly increase connection stability and versatility.
– Ideal for use in automotive and non-metal applications where load spread is needed.
– Clear case with size stickers for excellent organization.

Cons:
– The included washers are basic silver, not stainless steel for maximum corrosion resistance.

Best for: Automotive restorers, boat repair, or any project involving thin materials, fiberglass, or plastic where backing washers are necessary.

Expert Opinion: If you work with anything other than straight metal, this kit is non-negotiable. The ability to grab the corresponding washer immediately is a huge time saver and dramatically improves the longevity and shear strength of the resulting blind rivet connection.

INCLY 1000PCS Aluminum Pop Rivets Assortment Kit, 14 Sizes Pop Rivets (3/32″ 1/8″ 5/32″ 3/16″ 1/4″) with 5 Size 304 Stainless Steel Backup Washers, Assorted Blind Rivets for Metal with Storage Case

Taking the washer concept to the next level, the INCLY 1000PCS kit includes a total of 500 aluminum rivets and 500 304 stainless steel backup washers. The stainless steel washers offer far superior corrosion resistance compared to standard silver washers, making this set excellent for outdoor or marine applications. The 14 rivet sizes cover standard needs, while the reinforced double-sided labeled case ensures superior organization, labeling the contents both inside and out. This combination provides enhanced stability, preventing rivet pull-out even in challenging conditions.

Key features that stand out (Bold):
– 304 Stainless Steel Washers: Provides maximum corrosion resistance for outdoor or harsh environments.
– Enhanced Stability: Washers prevent pull-out in oversized or weak holes.
– Massive Count: 1000 total pieces (500 rivets, 500 washers) ensures long-term stock.

Pros:
– Superior protection against rust and oxidation due to 304 SS washers.
– Excellent organizational system with double-sided labeling.
– Ideal for high-stakes applications like aviation or heavy marine use.

Cons:
– The higher quality stainless steel washers make this kit more expensive than standard assortments.

Best for: Users who demand the highest corrosion resistance and maximum stability, particularly in marine, external construction, or highly corrosive industrial environments.

Expert Opinion: If I were building a small aluminum boat trailer or installing exterior metal trim near the coast, this is the kit I’d reach for. The stainless steel washers provide a significant durability upgrade that’s worth the extra investment, ensuring the fasteners remain robust for decades.

ISPINNER 50pcs 3/16″ x 1/2″ Large Flange Aluminum Blind Rivets, 4.8 x 12mm Pop Rivets (Silver)

The ISPINNER 50-piece pack focuses on a specialty fastener: the large flange blind rivet. Unlike standard dome-head rivets, the large flange dramatically increases the contact area with the material being fastened. This increased force area is essential when working with thin, soft, or brittle materials (like plastic, canvas, or very thin sheet metal) where a standard rivet head might punch through or pull out under stress. They maintain the standard aluminum body and steel mandrel for high strength and excellent corrosion resistance.

Key features that stand out (Bold):
– Large Flange Design: Significantly increases the surface area for superior hold and load spreading.
– Strong Hold: Thick shaft ensures a secure connection that pops reliably when tight.
– Non-Deforming: Designed not to damage or deform surrounding surfaces upon installation.

Pros:
– Perfect for soft materials or repairing oversized holes.
– Excellent resistance to temperature variations.
– High corrosion resistance.

Cons:
– Not suitable if a low-profile, standard dome head appearance is required.

Best for: Repairing vehicle interiors, attaching canvas or vinyl to frames, or working with plastic/thin aluminum where standard rivets risk pull-through.

Expert Opinion: Standard rivets sometimes fail when they pull through material that is too thin. The large flange on these ISPINNER rivets solves that problem instantly by distributing the clamping force over a much wider area. They are indispensable for upholstery or thin gauge sheet metal work.

Comparison Insights: Choosing the Right Blind Rivets

When deciding between the many options for the best blind rivets, consider whether you need a complete tool and fastener system or just a bulk supply of rivets.

For those just starting out or needing a portable field repair solution, the WETOLS Pop Rivet Gun Kit offers the highest immediate value because it includes the necessary tool, four sizes, and drill bits. It’s a true “ready-to-go” setup.

If your priority is sheer size assortment and bulk quantity, the Linkup 600pcs and SATANTECH 500pcs kits offer phenomenal variety across the standard 3/32″ to 1/4″ diameters, ensuring you always have the right length for standard applications.

However, if you are frequently working with softer materials, thin laminates, or making repairs where an existing hole is slightly oversized, you must choose a kit that addresses pull-through. The ZQZ 970Pcs and INCLY 1000PCS kits, which include separate washers or backup plates, are significantly more reliable in these scenarios. The INCLY kit is superior for exterior use because of its 304 stainless steel washers, which provide maximum rust protection.

Finally, for specific structural applications involving thin sheets where you need concentrated strength without adding a washer, the ISPINNER 50pcs Large Flange Rivets are the specialized answer, offering excellent load distribution through their oversized head design.

Final Verdict: Our Top Blind Rivet Recommendations

Finding the best blind rivets depends entirely on your application: are you equipping a shop, or tackling a marine restoration?

For the Best All-Around Shop Stock: The SATANTECH 500pcs Pop Rivets Assortment Kit takes the win. It provides a massive quantity of the most common sizes, uses quality aluminum/steel materials, and features an excellent, reinforced case that ensures long-term organization.

The Best Specialty Solution (High Stability): Go with the INCLY 1000PCS Aluminum Pop Rivets Assortment Kit. The inclusion of 500 high-quality 304 Stainless Steel Washers makes this set unbeatable for durability, corrosion resistance, and stabilizing connections in high-stress or outdoor environments.

The Best Starter Kit (Tool Included): If you need the tool and the fasteners immediately, the WETOLS Pop Rivet Gun Kit is the easiest way to jump straight into riveting, offering reliable tools and a good starter assortment.

Best Blind Rivets FAQ

What are blind rivets and how do they work?

Blind rivets, often called pop rivets, are mechanical fasteners used to join two or more pieces of material when access is only available from one side (hence “blind”). They consist of a rivet body (the barrel) and a mandrel (a nail-like stem). Installation involves inserting the rivet into a pre-drilled hole and pulling the mandrel with a specialized pop rivet gun. This pulling action creates a bulb on the blind side of the material, clamping the pieces together before the mandrel snaps off.

What is the difference between aluminum and steel blind rivets?

Most standard blind rivets have an aluminum body because it is lightweight, cost-effective, and resists corrosion well. Steel or stainless steel rivets are used when significantly higher shear and tensile strength is required, making them common in heavy-duty or structural applications. Note that even aluminum rivets often use a stronger steel mandrel for reliable installation and snap-off.

How do I choose the correct grip range for my project?

The grip range is the total thickness of the materials you are trying to fasten. It is critical to choose a rivet whose grip length matches this thickness. If the grip range is too small, the rivet won’t clamp correctly; if it’s too large, the rivet might buckle or fail to set properly. Always measure your material thickness precisely before selecting your fastener.

What diameter blind rivet should I use?

The diameter (e.g., 1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″) should be chosen based on the required strength. Larger diameter rivets provide greater shear strength (resistance to sideways forces) and are used for heavier materials. Always use the largest diameter blind rivet possible that fits the application and the capabilities of your pop rivet gun.

Why would I need a washer or backup plate with blind rivets?

Washers (or backup plates) are necessary when joining materials that are soft (like rubber or plastic), brittle, or very thin. The washer sits under the head of the rivet on the accessible side, spreading the load across a larger surface area. This prevents the rivet head from pulling through the material, which significantly increases the joint’s stability and load capacity.

Can I use a standard rivet gun to install large flange blind rivets?

Yes, as long as the large flange rivet diameter (e.g., 3/16″) matches the nosepiece size of your standard pop rivet gun, you can install them. The difference in the flange size only affects the material interface, not the installation mechanism of the mandrel.