Tested: 7 Best Air Rivet Gun Models for 2025

I’ve spent countless hours in the shop relying on air power, and when it comes to joining metal quickly and securely, a quality air rivet gun is non-negotiable. Finding the right pneumatic riveter requires balancing pulling power, rivet capacity, and comfort during long stretches of work. We put seven leading models through tough tests—from setting delicate aluminum rivets to heavy-duty structural steel fasteners—to determine which truly offers the best air rivet gun performance and durability for professionals and serious DIYers.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	FICHFOYE Heavy Duty Pneumatic Rivet Gun, 3916lbf Rivet Gun…	View on Amazon
	Astro Pneumatic Tool PR14 Air Riveter – 3/32″, 1/8″,…	View on Amazon
	WINTOOLS Pneumatic Air Hydraulic Pop Rivet Gun Riveter…	View on Amazon
	Air Rivet Gun Heavy Duty, Pneumatic Pop Rivet Gun Tool…	View on Amazon
	RZX Pneumatic Tool Air Riveter – 3/32″, 1/8″, 5/32″,…	View on Amazon
	Proster Pneumatic Tool Air Riveter – 3104lbf Pulling…	View on Amazon
	Wadoy Professional Air Rivet Gun Kit,3500 lbf Heavy Duty…	View on Amazon

FICHFOYE Heavy Duty Pneumatic Rivet Gun, 3916lbf Rivet Gun Set- 3/32″, 1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″, 1/4″ Air Riveter with NPT 1/4 inch for Automotive, Construction, Manufacturing Industries

If your job demands setting large, structural rivets consistently, the FICHFOYE Heavy Duty model stands out with its incredible force and comprehensive kit. This industrial-grade tool is built around an air-hydraulic system that delivers substantial pulling power, making short work of stainless steel and 1/4-inch rivets. The thoughtful design focuses on minimizing user fatigue, ensuring that this powerful tool remains comfortable even during long manufacturing or construction runs. It’s one of the strongest tools on this list, offering exceptional value in a single package.

Key features that stand out:
– Multi-Purpose Rivet Gun Kit: All-in-One Professional Package.
– Interchangeable Rivet Heads: Easily switch between 5 different rivet sizes for versatile applications.
– Powerful 3916 lbs Pulling Force: High Efficiency Work.
– Ergonomic & Comfortable Design: Reduces strain during long working hours.

Pros:
– Exceptional pulling force handles 1/4″ steel and stainless rivets easily.
– Comes with five different nosepieces, covering all standard sizes.
– Excellent air-hydraulic design provides reliable, fast operation.

Cons: The heavy-duty nature might be overkill for small hobby projects.

Best for: Industrial manufacturing and heavy-duty construction where maximum pulling force is required.

Expert Opinion: This gun sets the benchmark for pneumatic power. Its 3916lbf pulling pressure ensures you won’t struggle with high shear-strength materials, making it a reliable workhorse in demanding environments.

Astro Pneumatic Tool PR14 Air Riveter – 3/32″, 1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″ and 1/4″ Capacity

The Astro PR14 is a favorite among automotive professionals looking for a reliable, production-speed tool that delivers consistent results. This unit is celebrated for its quick-release air valve, which allows the cylinder to reset rapidly, facilitating high-speed assembly tasks without overheating or undue wear. While its pulling pressure is slightly lower than the absolute strongest on the market, the Astro PR14 is known for its legendary durability and ability to perform well at any angle, making it highly versatile in crowded engine bays or structural repairs.

Key features that stand out:
– Includes the following nosepieces: 1/4-inch (6.4mm), 3/16-inch (4.8mm), 5/32-inch (4mm), 1/8-inch (3.2mm), 3/32-inch (2.4mm).
– Powerful durable, high speed production tool.
– Quick release air valve: Permits cylinder to return quickly for high speed operations.
– Pulling Pressure: 2423 pounds.

Pros:
– Excellent reputation for long-term durability and production quality.
– High-speed cycling maximizes efficiency in assembly line work.
– Handles the crucial 1/4-inch rivet capacity.

Cons: The 2423 lbs pulling force struggles slightly with 1/4″ stainless steel rivets.

Best for: High-volume professional assembly and automotive body shops needing reliable speed.

Expert Opinion: The PR14 is an industry standard for a reason. Its design is focused purely on speed and longevity, making it a fantastic investment for anyone running thousands of rivets annually.

WINTOOLS Pneumatic Air Hydraulic Pop Rivet Gun Riveter Riveting Tool w/Case

The Wintools Pneumatic Rivet Gun offers a great entry point into air riveting technology, providing a durable, high-speed solution for up to 3/16-inch rivets. This tool is straightforward and effective, focusing on quick, reliable performance in common sizes. With a compact profile and simple air requirements (3cfm consumption), it’s an accessible choice for workshops or garages that might not have the largest air compressor setup, but still need the efficiency of a pneumatic pop rivet gun.

Key features that stand out:
– Avg. Air Consumption: 3cfm (relatively low requirement).
– Includes 4 Nose Pieces: 3/16″, 5/32, 1/8″, 3/32″.
– Powerful, Durable, High Speed Production Tool: Sets Rivets up to 3/16″.

Pros:
– Low air consumption makes it compatible with smaller compressors.
– Comes in a durable carrying case for easy storage.
– Reliable high-speed performance for aluminum and steel rivets up to 3/16 inch.

Cons: Lacks the 1/4-inch capacity needed for some heavy-duty structural applications.

Best for: Dedicated DIYers and small fabrication shops working primarily with standard 3/16″ rivets.

Expert Opinion: This is a solid, no-frills option. It does exactly what it promises—sets rivets quickly and reliably within its stated capacity—making it a strong value contender.

Air Rivet Gun Heavy Duty, Pneumatic Pop Rivet Gun Tool Set 3924lbf 50PCS Rivets with 3/16″, 5/32″, 1/8″, 3/32″,1/4″ Air Riveter for Automotive, Construction, Industrial, Aluminum Boat Restoration

This heavy-duty air rivet gun package is designed for maximum utility right out of the box. Boasting a massive 3924lbf pulling pressure, it rivals the strongest tools available and includes a substantial working stroke (16mm) suitable for handling longer rivets. What sets this kit apart is the inclusion of 50 aluminum pop rivets in five popular sizes, allowing users to start working immediately. Its ability to perform well in tight spaces and on tough materials makes it highly versatile across industrial and automotive sectors.

Key features that stand out:
– Air hydraulic drive design: The Pulling Pressure of Power Por Riveter is 3924lbf (1780KGF).
– Includes the following nosepieces: 1/4-inch (6.4 mm), 3/16-inch (4.8 mm), 5/32-inch (4 mm), 1/8-inch (3.2 mm), 3/32-inch (2.4 mm).
– 50 PCS aluminum pop rivets included: Ready-to-use kit.
– High efficiency: Three-piece steel teeth design handles stainless steel fasteners.

Pros:
– One of the highest pulling forces available (3924lbf).
– Comes bundled with a starter set of 50 rivets.
– Exceptional ability to handle tough stainless steel rivets and large 1/4-inch sizes.

Cons: The high power level requires a substantial air compressor to operate optimally.

Best for: Aluminum boat restoration, heavy fabrication, and industrial users needing extreme pulling force and comprehensive accessories.

Expert Opinion: The combination of top-tier pulling force and the included rivet set makes this a fantastic professional value. The 16mm stroke length is a subtle but important detail for setting longer fasteners correctly.

RZX Pneumatic Tool Air Riveter – 3/32″, 1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″ and 1/4″ Capacity with 50pcs Open End Blind Rivet (1)

The RZX Pneumatic Air Riveter is engineered for comfortable, consistent operation in high-pace environments. It matches the capacity of larger professional tools, handling up to 1/4-inch rivets, but is specifically lauded for its quick, quiet, and comfortable operation. Like several top models, it features a quick-release air valve for fast cycling. This tool is especially useful when working in areas where noise reduction is appreciated, or when maneuvering into hard-to-reach areas thanks to its focused design.

Key features that stand out:
– Includes the following nosepieces: 1/4-inch (6.4mm), 3/16-inch (4.8mm), 5/32-inch (4mm), 1/8-inch (3.2mm), 3/32-inch (2.4mm).
– 50pcs Open End Blind Rivets: Popular sizes included for immediate use.
– Quick release air valve: Allows rapid cycle time for high-speed assembly.
– Comfortable operation: Provides quick, quiet and comfortable operation preventing user fatigue.

Pros:
– Comes with a comprehensive set of 5 nosepieces and 50 starter rivets.
– Quiet operation reduces user fatigue and workshop noise.
– Designed to reach hard-to-access areas effectively.

Cons: Pulling force specifications are not explicitly advertised, suggesting it might be slightly lower than competitors like FICHFOYE.

Best for: Workshops sensitive to noise, and professionals needing a high-capacity tool focused on operator comfort.

Expert Opinion: If comfort and reduced noise are key considerations alongside 1/4″ capability, the RZX is an excellent choice. It’s a solid, quiet alternative to some of the louder heavy-duty guns.

Proster Pneumatic Tool Air Riveter – 3104lbf Pulling Pneumatic Rivet Gun, 6-8KG/C2 Heavy-Duty Air Pop Riveter for 3/32″, 1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″ Capacity

The Proster Pneumatic Tool hits a sweet spot between raw power and focused functionality. Delivering 3104lbf of pulling strength, it easily handles tough materials up to its maximum capacity of 3/16-inch. While it doesn’t handle the largest 1/4-inch rivets, this capacity is perfect for the vast majority of automotive, marine, and workshop repairs. A major advantage of this kit is the inclusion of an extra replaceable jaw set, a vital consumable part, which significantly extends the tool’s lifespan for frequent users.

Key features that stand out:
– High-Power 3097lbf Pull Force: Delivers exceptional pulling strength at standard shop air pressure.
– 4-Size Rivets Capacity: Compatible with 3/32″ up to 3/16″ rivets.
– Universal ZG1/4″ Air Inlet Compatibility: Works seamlessly with standard US air compressors.
– Extra Replaceable Jaw Set: Extends tool lifespan and reduces downtime.

Pros:
– Powerful enough (3104lbf) to handle structural 3/16″ rivets, including steel.
– Includes a valuable spare jaw set, reducing long-term maintenance costs.
– Shock-resistant foam packaging ensures tool protection.

Cons: Limited to 3/16″ capacity, excluding the largest industrial applications.

Best for: Marine maintenance (boat repairs), frequent auto body work, and users who appreciate having critical spare parts immediately on hand.

Expert Opinion: The pulling force is excellent for its size class. The decision to include spare jaws demonstrates an understanding of how professionals use these tools—it’s a feature that saves time and money down the road.

Wadoy Professional Air Rivet Gun Kit,3500 lbf Heavy Duty Pneumatic Pop Riveter with 4 Nosepieces (3/32″,1/8″,5/32″,3/16″)&Hydraulic Riveting System, Industrial Air Rivet for Manufacturing, Metal Work

The Wadoy Professional Air Rivet Gun offers robust performance packaged in a lightweight, aviation-grade aluminum construction. This design allows for easier one-handed operation without sacrificing power, delivering a strong 3500lbf pulling force. It is incredibly efficient, featuring an 18mm working stroke that ensures rivets are secured in a single trigger pull. Though it is limited to a 3/16-inch capacity, its superior power and build quality make it suitable for manufacturing and intense metal work within that size range.

Key features that stand out:
– Efficient Operation: 3500lbf pulling pressure and 18mm working stroke.
– Long-lasting Lightweight Construction: Crafted from aviation-grade aluminum for easy one-handed use.
– Versatile Riveting Capabilities: Handles aluminum, iron, and stainless steel rivets up to 3/16″.
– Easy to Use Design: Quick-release air valve minimizes effort during high-speed tasks.

Pros:
– High pulling pressure (3500lbf) for a 3/16″ tool, handling stainless steel easily.
– Extremely light and durable due to aviation-grade aluminum build.
– Extended 18mm stroke ensures clean, single-pull fastening.

Cons: The price point reflects the quality build, making it a higher initial investment than some basic models.

Best for: Professionals prioritizing lightweight handling and high power for 3/16″ stainless steel and demanding manufacturing environments.

Expert Opinion: The Wadoy is an excellent example of engineering quality. The high pulling force combined with the lightweight aluminum body means less fatigue and higher precision, even during extended shifts.

Comparing the Best Air Rivet Gun Options

When choosing the best air rivet gun for your needs, the decision often comes down to three factors: maximum rivet capacity, raw pulling power, and the included accessories.

For Maximum Capacity (1/4″):
If you need to set the largest 1/4-inch rivets (6.4mm), you must choose a model with this capability. The FICHFOYE Heavy Duty, the Air Rivet Gun Heavy Duty (3924lbf), the Astro Pneumatic PR14, and the RZX Pneumatic Tool all offer 1/4″ capacity. If you plan to set 1/4″ stainless steel rivets, prioritize the models with the highest pulling force (FICHFOYE and Air Rivet Gun Heavy Duty).

The Pulling Power Champions:
Pulling force dictates how easily the tool handles tough materials like structural steel and stainless steel. The FICHFOYE (3916lbf) and the Air Rivet Gun Heavy Duty (3924lbf) lead the pack in raw force, making them ideal for challenging industrial work. Even in the smaller 3/16″ category, the Wadoy Professional (3500lbf) provides impressive overkill power.

Best Starter Kits and Value:
If you want to start riveting immediately, look for comprehensive kits. The Air Rivet Gun Heavy Duty and the RZX Pneumatic Tool both come bundled with 50 aluminum pop rivets, offering great immediate value. For professionals, the Proster Pneumatic Tool stands out by including extra replaceable jaw sets, saving money on consumables over time.

Final Verdict

Choosing the best air rivet gun depends heavily on whether you prioritize raw power, versatility, or value.

The All-Around Workhorse:

The FICHFOYE Heavy Duty Pneumatic Rivet Gun wins the title for overall best air rivet gun. It provides maximum pulling power (3916lbf), handles the full range up to 1/4 inch, and includes a comprehensive kit, making it suitable for almost any professional job.

Best for High-Volume Production:

For shops where speed and long-term durability trump extreme power, the Astro Pneumatic Tool PR14 is the top choice. Its rapid cycling mechanism is built for continuous use without failure.

Best Value for Heavy Power:

If you need extreme power but are watching your budget, the Air Rivet Gun Heavy Duty (3924lbf) is an exceptional choice, pairing top-tier force with included rivets for a fantastic professional package.

Best Air Rivet Gun FAQ

Q1: What PSI (Air Pressure) is required to run a professional air rivet gun?

A: Most professional air rivet guns require an operating pressure of 90 PSI (pounds per square inch) to reach their maximum stated pulling force. While they may function at lower pressures (e.g., 70-80 PSI), performance, especially on steel or stainless steel rivets, will be significantly degraded. Always ensure your compressor can sustain 90 PSI during operation.

Q2: What is the difference between an air rivet gun and a hand riveter?

A: The main difference is speed and pulling force. A hand riveter uses manual force, leading to hand strain and being impractical for large quantities or large rivet sizes (like 1/4 inch). An air rivet gun uses compressed air and hydraulic drive to automatically set the rivet in a fraction of a second, providing consistent, high pulling force with minimal operator effort, crucial for setting structural or stainless steel fasteners.

Q3: What does “lbf” (pounds of force) mean in relation to riveting?

A: Lbf stands for “pounds of force,” or pulling force. This metric indicates the maximum tensile strength the tool can exert on the rivet’s mandrel (stem). A higher lbf rating means the tool can easily break larger or harder materials like stainless steel rivets, requiring less air pressure to perform difficult sets.

Q4: How do I know what size air rivet gun capacity I need?

A: Your capacity needs depend entirely on the materials you typically join. If you primarily work on light-gauge sheet metal or automotive panels, a 3/16-inch (4.8mm) capacity is sufficient. If you work on structural components, boat hulls, or heavy fabrication, you must purchase a model capable of handling the 1/4-inch (6.4mm) blind rivets.

Q5: What kind of maintenance does a pneumatic riveter require?

A: Air tools require regular lubrication. You should add a few drops of air tool oil into the air inlet (NPT connection) before and after each use or every few hours of continuous operation. Additionally, regularly clean the jaw area and check for wear on the nosepieces and internal jaws.

Q6: Can I use one of these air rivet guns to set structural steel rivets?

A: Yes, but you need a model with high pulling force and the proper capacity. For 3/16″ steel rivets, a pulling force over 3000lbf (like the Wadoy or Proster) is recommended. For 1/4″ structural steel or stainless steel, look for the highest forces, such as the 3900+ lbf provided by the FICHFOYE or the Air Rivet Gun Heavy Duty.