Best Manual Rivet Gun with 5 Top Picks

When I’m out in the shop tackling automotive or sheet metal projects, having a reliable manual rivet gun makes all the difference. Nothing is more frustrating than a flimsy tool that constantly jams or requires agonizing effort to set a rivet. I recently put several top-rated models to the test, focusing on ease of use and durability. If you’re searching for a reliable pop rivet gun—whether you need a standard tool or a heavy duty option—this guide breaks down the features that matter most so you can choose the right tool for your specific needs.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Arrow Heavy Duty Riveter Kit, Professional Pop Rivet Gun…	View on Amazon
	WETOLS Pop Rivet Gun Kit with 200 Blind Rivets, Upgraded…	View on Amazon
	Libraton Heavy Duty Rivet Gun, Pop Rivet Gun Set,…	View on Amazon
	BEETRO Heavy Duty Hand Riveter, Rivet Gun,…	View on Amazon
	ValueMax 4-in-1 Hand Riveter/Rivet Gun, Pop Rivet Tool Kit…	View on Amazon

Arrow Heavy Duty Riveter Kit, Professional Pop Rivet Gun with Assorted 120 Rivets

The Arrow Heavy Duty Riveter Kit is a fantastic entry point for DIY users or those who need a dependable, general-purpose tool. This kit provides nearly everything you need right out of the box, including 120 assorted rivets. It’s designed for simplicity and portability, making it easy to carry around the job site or garage. Its key strength is its versatility in handling common household and general repairs like fixing gutters or working on canvas. The extended nosepiece is a great feature for reaching tight spots, saving time on awkward installations.

Key features that stand out:
– Portability: Manual riveter provides portable fastening and is lightweight.
– Reach: Extended nose makes work easier in hard-to-reach places.
– Interchangeable Heads: Includes 4 interchangeable heads for common rivet sizes (3/32 in. to 5/32 in.).
– Application: Suitable for metal work, automotive projects, and furniture.

Pros:
– Excellent value proposition for a complete kit.
– Simple and reliable operation for general-purpose tasks.
– Extended nose is highly practical for tight spaces.
– Comes with 120 assorted rivets to get you started immediately.

Cons:
– Not designed for 3/16 in. steel or stainless steel rivets, limiting heavy-duty use.

Best for: General DIY, household repairs, and beginners seeking a comprehensive kit.

Expert Opinion: This is a superb starter kit. While it lacks the extreme leverage needed for setting large steel rivets, its quality aluminum body and extended reach make it indispensable for standard repairs.

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 stands out immediately due to its impressive completeness and focus on user convenience. Not only does it include 200 aluminum rivets and a durable carrying case, but it also features tool-free changing of the nosepieces. The ergonomic design, featuring a double-curved handle and PVC sleeve, ensures comfortable, labor-saving operation, even when tackling thicker aluminum rivets. This upgraded manual single hand riveter can handle aluminum, steel, and even stainless steel rivets, making it a highly versatile addition to any professional’s toolbox.

Key features that stand out:
– Tool-Free Changes: Knurled design allows for quick and easy nosepiece changes without extra tools.
– Comprehensive Kit: Includes 200 rivets (50 of each size) and 4 corresponding twist drill bits.
– Ergonomics: Ergonomic double-curved handle saves effort and offers maximum comfort.
– Material Handling: Capable of setting aluminum, steel, and stainless steel rivets (though 4.8mm steel is not recommended).

Pros:
– Exceptional value with 200 rivets and drill bits included.
– Highly efficient and convenient tool-free nosepiece swapping.
– Durable aluminum alloy body reinforced with carbon steel heat-treated handles.
– Comes in a sturdy blow molded carrying case for organized storage.

Cons:
– Single-hand operation requires more effort for the largest, thickest rivets.

Best for: Serious DIYers and professionals needing versatility, high volume, and tool-free convenience.

Expert Opinion: The inclusion of drill bits and the tool-free mechanism pushes this model far beyond the competition in terms of user efficiency. It’s a truly comprehensive solution for anyone needing a flexible manual rivet gun.

Libraton Heavy Duty Rivet Gun, Pop Rivet Gun Set, Professional Hand Riveter, Manual Riveting Tool with 110Pcs Rivets and 4 Interchangeable Heads, for Metal, Wood and Plastic

If strength and longevity are your top concerns, the Libraton Heavy Duty Rivet Gun is an outstanding choice. This tool focuses on maximizing leverage to minimize operator fatigue. Thanks to its smart design, it boasts a larger lever ratio that saves 25% of the grip strength compared to conventional models, making it easier to set high-strength rivets. Constructed with 35Cr-Mo steel claw pieces and heat-treated alloy steel structural parts, Libraton guarantees a significantly longer service life, making this a true heavy-duty option.

Key features that stand out:
– High Efficiency: Provides 25% saving in grip strength due to the ergonomic handle design.
– Premium Materials: Features 35Cr-Mo steel claw piece for enhanced durability and lifespan.
– Smart Tooling: Includes a mini wrench with test holes to easily identify rivet sizes.
– Versatile Applications: Works effectively on construction, automotive, and industrial riveting tasks.

Pros:
– Significantly reduces hand fatigue during high-volume work.
– Built with high-quality, heat-treated steel components for extended durability.
– TPR soft rubber provides an excellent, comfortable grip.
– Enhanced structural parts increase the lifespan significantly.

Cons:
– The inclusion of a mini wrench means changes aren’t entirely tool-free.

Best for: Professionals and advanced users who frequently set tough or large diameter rivets and require maximum leverage.

Expert Opinion: For anyone dealing with high-strength materials or large quantities of rivets, this is arguably the best manual rivet gun simply because of the mechanical advantage it offers. The reduction in grip fatigue is noticeable immediately.

BEETRO Heavy Duty Hand Riveter, Rivet Gun, 3/32″-1/8″-5/32″-3/16″, 4 Nosepieces Set Includes 100pcs Rivets, Durable and Suitable for Metal, Plastic and Leather

The BEETRO Heavy Duty Hand Riveter is engineered for portability and broad application. It strikes a good balance between weight, comfort, and functionality. This model is exceptionally light, making it very easy and convenient to carry, yet it remains durable enough to handle common riveting tasks across metal, plastic, and leather. The ergonomic design ensures a maximum fit and comfort, which is crucial for repetitive small jobs around the home or workshop.

Key features that stand out:
– Portability and Comfort: Lightweight design with ergonomic grips for easy carrying and maximum comfort.
– Wide Material Suitability: Excellent for joining various materials including metal, plastic, leather, and pipe jobs.
– Standard Sizing: Includes the four most common rivet sizes (3/32″ to 3/16″).
– Simplicity: Features a basic head wrench for easy nozzle changes.

Pros:
– Very light and comfortable for extended use.
– Great option for multipurpose use, including fabric and leather work.
– Comes with 100 assorted rivets to accommodate various jobs.
– Simple, straightforward operation.

Cons:
– Lacks the advanced high-leverage features of some premium options.

Best for: Multi-material applications, light-to-medium duty household repairs, and users prioritizing portability.

Expert Opinion: This is a solid, reliable choice for the general user. It covers all the essential rivet sizes and materials without being overly complex or expensive. If you need a trustworthy, everyday hand riveter, this fits the bill nicely.

ValueMax 4-in-1 Hand Riveter/Rivet Gun, Pop Rivet Tool Kit with 200 Rivets – 3/32-inch, 1/8-inch, 5/32-inch, 3/16-inch, 4 Interchangeable Nosepieces, Suitable for Metal

The ValueMax 4-in-1 Hand Riveter emphasizes pure strength and foundational quality. Built with 100% steel construction, this rivet gun offers excellent resistance to high temperatures and corrosion, ensuring a long service life. Its primary draw is its sheer durability and the vast number of included rivets (200 pieces, 50 of each size). It also features plastic-covered grips for comfortable use and a crucial handle lock feature, which helps with easy storage and portability when not in use.

Key features that stand out:
– Construction Material: 100% steel construction guarantees durability and resistance to wear.
– High Rivet Volume: Comes with 200 rivets in the four standard sizes.
– Handle Lock: Includes a handle lock mechanism for safe and compact storage.
– Tool-Free Nosepiece: Nosepieces can be replaced manually without additional tools, simplifying maintenance.

Pros:
– Exceptional long-term durability thanks to the all-steel body.
– Generous quantity of included rivets minimizes the need for immediate restocking.
– Ergonomic grips and handle lock enhance user safety and storage.
– Easy, manual replacement of nosepieces speeds up work.

Cons:
– Being 100% steel, it is noticeably heavier than aluminum-bodied alternatives.

Best for: Users prioritizing maximum durability, extensive material life, and those needing a large supply of starter rivets.

Expert Opinion: If you prefer the old-school, rock-solid feel of an all-steel tool, this is the one. While heavier, the robust construction provides immense confidence that this hand riveter will withstand years of regular use without fail.

Comparison and Buying Insights

Choosing the best manual rivet gun often comes down to balancing durability, leverage, and convenience.

For sheer power and reduced operator fatigue, the Libraton Heavy Duty Rivet Gun is unmatched, offering superior leverage ideal for setting difficult stainless steel or large-diameter rivets. Its internal component quality (35Cr-Mo steel) ensures it outlasts cheaper models.

If you value a complete, high-efficiency kit, the WETOLS Pop Rivet Gun Kit is the market leader. Its tool-free nosepiece swapping combined with 200 rivets and four drill bits makes it the most convenient option for diverse projects.

Durability enthusiasts who prefer the reliability of traditional materials should consider the ValueMax 4-in-1 Hand Riveter, boasting 100% steel construction. While heavier, the handle lock feature adds a practical element to storage.

For those focusing strictly on budget and general home use, the Arrow and BEETRO models offer fantastic portability and handle the standard range of aluminum and light steel rivets perfectly well.

Final Verdict

The ideal choice depends entirely on your workload.

If high leverage and professional material strength are required, the Libraton Heavy Duty Rivet Gun stands as the top recommendation for minimizing hand strain when working with challenging materials.

For the best overall value and convenience, especially for intermediate users tackling aluminum and lighter steel projects, the WETOLS Pop Rivet Gun Kit wins due to its comprehensive accessories and smart, tool-free design.

For those needing a heavy-duty, budget-friendly starter kit, the Arrow Heavy Duty Riveter Kit provides reliable performance and the necessary components to start riveting immediately.

Best Manual Rivet Gun FAQ

What are blind rivets and how does a manual rivet gun set them?

Blind rivets, often called pop rivets, are mechanical fasteners designed to be installed from only one side of a workpiece (hence the term “blind”). A manual rivet gun sets these by gripping the mandrel (the internal pin) and pulling it through the body of the rivet. This action causes the back end of the rivet body to expand, forming a strong, permanent, secure joint.

How do I choose the correct rivet size and nosepiece for my project?

You must match the nosepiece (or nozzle) size on your manual rivet gun directly to the diameter of the rivet you are using. If the nosepiece is too large, it won’t grip the mandrel properly, leading to failed setting or jamming. Most rivet guns, like the ones reviewed here, handle the standard diameters: 3/32″, 1/8″, 5/32″, and 3/16″.

Can a manual rivet gun be used to set stainless steel rivets?

Yes, but with caveats. Stainless steel rivets require significantly more force to set than aluminum or mild steel. While models like the WETOLS and Libraton can handle stainless steel, you should use a heavy duty hand riveter specifically designed for high leverage (like the Libraton) to reduce the strain required and prevent premature tool failure.

Why is my pop rivet gun jamming, and how do I fix it?

Jams usually occur when the spent mandrel (the pin that breaks off) fails to exit the gun cleanly. This happens when the nosepiece is misaligned, the rivet material is too tough for the tool, or the internal jaws are dirty. To fix a jam, remove the nosepiece and clear the broken piece using pliers or a thin rod, then ensure the jaws are clean before reassembling.

What is the advantage of an ergonomic handle design in a hand riveter?

An ergonomic handle, especially one with a high leverage ratio (like the Libraton), provides greater mechanical advantage. This means you need to apply less force to the handles to set the rivet, reducing operator fatigue over prolonged use and making it easier to set high-strength fasteners.

What maintenance does my best manual rivet gun require?

Manual rivet guns require minimal maintenance. Regularly lubricate the internal jaw mechanism with light oil to ensure smooth gripping and release of the mandrel. Periodically remove the nosepiece and clean out any metal shavings or debris that might accumulate inside the barrel to prevent jamming and ensure optimal function.