Best Aircraft Rivet Gun: 10 Best Choices

There’s nothing quite like the sound of a perfectly set solid rivet. It’s a rhythmic thump-thump-thump that signifies structural integrity, especially when working on specialized sheet metal projects like aviation repair or restoration. For years, I’ve been cycling through pneumatic rivet gun options, searching for that sweet spot of power, control, and reliability. This guide cuts through the noise, offering my take on 10 top-tier choices. Whether you’re an A&P mechanic or a dedicated hobbyist, finding the best aircraft rivet gun is critical to ensuring your joints are robust and flawless. Let’s dive into the detailed reviews.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Wicks Aircraft 3X Deluxe Rivet Gun Set, Includes: 3X…	View on Amazon
	Wicks Aircraft 3X Rivet Gun Kit. Includes 3X Rivet Gun,…	View on Amazon
	Wicks Aircraft 2X Deluxe Rivet Gun Set, Includes: 2X…	View on Amazon
	5.5cfm Riveting Gun,190 Type Handheld Air Riveter Gun Round…	View on Amazon
	Wicks Aircraft Airstream Buck Riveting Kit with 3X Rivet…	View on Amazon
	Hanson Rivet 3X AIR Hammer KIT for Solid Rivets. Comes…	View on Amazon
	2X Pneumatic Rivet Gun for Solid Rivets, 1/8 inch Rivet…	View on Amazon
	HRH-3X-777 DELUXE AIR HAMMER KIT FOR SOLID & TUBULAR…	View on Amazon
	AERO – 4X RIVET GUN – TP84	View on Amazon
	Rivet Gun, 1/4 Pop Rivet Gun Kit with 200 Blind…	View on Amazon

Wicks Aircraft 3X Deluxe Rivet Gun Set, Includes: 3X Rivet Gun, 4 Bucking Bars, 10 Rivet Sets, and Air Tool Oil.

This Wicks 3X Deluxe kit is an outstanding starter package that provides almost everything you need to begin serious solid riveting work. The 3X rivet gun strikes a perfect balance of speed and power, ideal for driving 3/16″ aluminum rivets without being overly heavy or unwieldy. The teasing trigger offers exceptional control, which is vital when working on delicate airframes where precise impact is necessary. This comprehensive set saves you the hassle of sourcing compatible accessories separately.

Key features that stand out:
– Comprehensive Kit: Includes 4 bucking bars and 10 rivet sets, offering versatility right out of the box.
– Power: Drives up to 3/16″ aluminum rivets effectively.
– Precision: Teasing trigger allows for finely tuned operation and controlled impacts.

Pros:
– Excellent value proposition for beginners or experienced builders.
– High-quality, polished bucking bars included.
– Versatile selection of both straight and offset rivet sets.
Cons:
– Might be too much power for very light-gauge materials without careful regulator adjustment.

Best for: Builders needing a powerful, all-in-one kit for structural aluminum work.

Expert Opinion: This 3X model is often considered the industry workhorse. The inclusion of the full range of sets and bars makes this one of the most practical solutions if you are just starting your tool collection.

Wicks Aircraft 3X Rivet Gun Kit. Includes 3X Rivet Gun, 5 Rivet Sets, 2 Bucking Bars, 2 Retainer Springs, and Air Tool Oil.

Slightly leaner than the deluxe version, this Wicks 3X Kit focuses on the core necessities while maintaining high quality. It includes the robust 3X pneumatic rivet gun with a built-in pressure regulator and quick release, giving you immediate control over your impacts. The kit includes the most commonly used bucking bars and five straight rivet sets, making it highly functional for standard shop tasks. This is a durable and reliable choice for professionals and serious hobbyists who want quality without the bulk of less-used accessories.

Key features that stand out:
– Included Regulator: Built-in pressure regulator offers precise speed and power adjustment.
– Reliable Construction: Robust design guarantees long-lasting reliability in aviation and automotive settings.
– Essentials Only: Focuses on core, frequently used components (5 rivet sets, 2 bars).

Pros:
– High quality 3X gun ideal for common rivet sizes.
– Includes both standard and beehive retainer springs.
– Conveniently packaged in a rugged carrying case.
Cons:
– Fewer bucking bars and sets compared to the Deluxe version, requiring additional purchases for specialized work.

Best for: Experienced users looking for a high-quality, focused 3X setup with essential accessories.

Expert Opinion: If you already own specialty bucking bars or don’t need offset sets, this kit offers the best blend of quality tool and essential starting accessories. The built-in regulator is a huge bonus for precision work.

Wicks Aircraft 2X Deluxe Rivet Gun Set, Includes: 2X Rivet Gun, 4 Bucking Bars, 10 Rivet Sets, and Air Tool Oil.

When working on lighter sheet metal or smaller rivets, a 2X rivet gun is often preferred due to its faster action and lower impact force. This Wicks 2X Deluxe Set is specifically designed for such tasks, driving smaller rivets up to 1/8″ aluminum with exceptional accuracy. Like the 3X Deluxe, this set includes a full complement of 4 bucking bars and 10 rivet sets, making it incredibly versatile for light-to-medium work. The teasing trigger is particularly effective on this model, preventing accidental damage to thin materials.

Key features that stand out:
– Low Impact: 2X power level, ideal for delicate materials and smaller rivets (up to 1/8″ aluminum).
– Control: Highly responsive teasing trigger mechanism.
– Versatile Sets: Comes with both straight and offset sets, plus rubber-edged flush sets.

Pros:
– Reduced risk of “smiling” or bowing light-gauge aluminum.
– Includes two types of retaining springs (quick-change and beehive).
– An excellent array of high-quality accessories included.
Cons:
– Lacks the driving power required for larger, structural 3/16″ steel rivets.

Best for: Restorers or builders working primarily with light-gauge materials and smaller diameter rivets.

Expert Opinion: Many professional sheet metal mechanics keep a 2X and a 3X in their toolbox. If your primary focus is skin repair or light framework, the 2X provides superior control and finish. This is a fantastic option for precise work.

5.5cfm Riveting Gun,190 Type Handheld Air Riveter Gun Round Head Pneumatic Riveting Tool 1/4″ Inlet,for Solid Rivet, Aluminum Nail, Iron Nail,

This 190-Type Air Riveter steps into the realm of general industrial applications, offering high impact frequency and durability for a wide range of tasks beyond aviation. While its design is rugged and capable of handling solid rivets, it’s often used more as an industrial air hammer for heavy-duty metal fabrication rather than the precise needs of aircraft work. It requires a relatively high 5.5 CFM, indicating strong, consistent airflow is necessary for operation.

Key features that stand out:
– High Impact Frequency: Delivers rapid, strong blows for quick material setting.
– Durable Construction: High hardness riveted gun tip designed for wear resistance.
– Versatility: Capable of driving various material nails and rivets (aluminum, iron, steel).

Pros:
– Lightweight and handheld design is convenient for general use.
– Strong enough for thick materials in automotive and fabrication.
– Economical choice for heavy industrial riveting.
Cons:
– Lack of precision and teasing trigger control makes it less suitable for delicate aircraft skins.

Best for: Industrial riveting, sign mounting, general heavy-duty metal fabrication, and setting larger steel rivets.

Expert Opinion: Though marketed as a riveting gun, be aware that this is a heavy-duty industrial tool. If you need the precision required for tight aircraft tolerances, you’ll want a true 2X or 3X gun with better throttle control.

Wicks Aircraft Airstream Buck Riveting Kit with 3X Rivet Gun, Rivets, Rivet Cutter, Cleco’s, Cleco Pliers, and Drill Bits

This highly specialized kit is targeted squarely at the Airstream repair and restoration community, though its components are perfect for any aluminum sheet metal repair. Centered around the versatile 3X Rivet Gun, this package is truly comprehensive, adding essential temporary fasteners (Cleco’s and Pliers) and a heavy-duty rivet cutter. It simplifies the setup process entirely, ensuring you have every tool, fastener, and fitting needed for alignment and structural repair right away.

Key features that stand out:
– Specialized Kit: Full kit tailored for sheet metal repair and restoration projects.
– Includes Clecos: Comes with 1/8″ and 5/32″ Cleco fasteners and pliers for alignment before riveting.
– Ready-to-Use: Includes a supply of common rivets and a rivet cutter.

Pros:
– Eliminates the guesswork of finding compatible tools and fasteners.
– 3X gun offers sufficient power for typical repair gauge metal.
– Excellent value for someone starting an Airstream or similar aluminum project.
Cons:
– If you aren’t doing general sheet metal repair, some components might be redundant.

Best for: Airstream restorers, aircraft experimental builders, and specialized aluminum sheet metal repair.

Expert Opinion: If your project involves drilling, fitting, aligning, and riveting—not just the riveting part—this kit is a massive time saver. The inclusion of the correct drill bits and Clecos makes fitting replacement skin panels much easier.

Hanson Rivet 3X AIR Hammer KIT for Solid Rivets. Comes with 2 Bucking Bars, 4 Cupped Universal Head BITS (3/32, 1/8, 5/32 & 3/16), A 1inches Flush DIE, and 2 RETAINING Springs. HRH-3X-737

Hanson Rivet is a respected name in the solid riveting world, and their HRH-3X-737 kit delivers robust, reliable performance. This is a dedicated 3X air hammer system specifically for solid rivets, meaning it has the necessary power and stroke length for professional structural work. The kit is focused and effective, including two useful bucking bars and the most common universal head rivet sets needed for A-series rivets.

Key features that stand out:
– Professional Brand: Hanson is known for quality and durability in aviation tooling.
– Focused Contents: Includes four essential cupped universal head bits and a 1″ flush die.
– Standard 3X Power: Provides reliable driving force for up to 3/16″ rivets.

Pros:
– Strong, dependable tool construction.
– Excellent control for professional rivet setting.
– Includes the necessary components for standard AD rivet setting.
Cons:
– Lacks a variety of bucking bar shapes for difficult access areas.

Best for: Professional mechanics or dedicated builders prioritizing tool quality and focused accessories.

Expert Opinion: This is a no-nonsense, high-quality kit. While it lacks some of the accessory filler of other brands, the quality of the 3X air hammer itself is exceptional, making it a dependable shop tool.

2X Pneumatic Rivet Gun for Solid Rivets, 1/8 inch Rivet Capacity, Aircraft & Automotive Use

This standalone 2X pneumatic rivet gun is a true professional-grade tool designed for precision. It operates at an optimal air consumption of 3 CFM, making it efficient for smaller compressors often found in home shops. Its key selling point is the combination of low impact force and the highly responsive teasing trigger, offering incredible control when setting rivets up to 1/8 inch diameter. It accepts the standard 0.401″ shank rivet sets, ensuring wide compatibility with your existing tooling.

Key features that stand out:
– Low CFM: Highly efficient operation, requiring only 3 CFM.
– Precise Control: Teasing trigger prevents material damage on thin skins.
– Compatibility: Accepts standard 0.401″ shank sets common in aviation tools.

Pros:
– Perfect for smaller, more delicate riveting tasks.
– Includes both beehive and quick-release retainer springs.
– Brass pressure regulator included for micro-adjustments.
Cons:
– You must purchase all bucking bars and rivet sets separately.

Best for: Professionals needing a dedicated, high-control 2X gun to complement a larger 3X or 4X unit.

Expert Opinion: If you are already set up with rivet sets and bucking bars, purchasing a standalone, high-quality 2X gun like this is the smart choice for precision work. Its control features are top-notch for avoiding sheet metal deformation.

HRH-3X-777 DELUXE AIR HAMMER KIT FOR SOLID & TUBULAR RIVETS. INCLUDES: 4 BUCKING BARS, 4 CUPPED UNIVERSAL HEAD BITS & 4 OFFSET UNIVERSAL HEAD BITS (3/32″, 1/8″, 5/32″ & 3/16″)

The HRH-3X-777 Deluxe Kit is designed to handle virtually all solid rivet installations up to 3/16″ diameter. What sets this deluxe package apart is the inclusion of both cupped universal head bits and offset universal head bits. Offset sets are crucial for reaching rivets installed near flanges, bulkheads, or other obstructions. This robust 3X system is strong, dependable, and highly recommended for professional shops that encounter varied access challenges daily.

Key features that stand out:
– Offset Sets Included: Crucial for working in restricted or tight access areas.
– Maximum Versatility: Excellent kit for virtually all common solid rivet sizes.
– Robust Power: Recommend air pressure of 85 PSI for consistent, strong setting action.

Pros:
– Exceptional range of tooling provides solutions for challenging riveting locations.
– Strong and dependable 3X air hammer.
– High-quality bucking bars included.
Cons:
– At a higher price point, it might be overkill if you only perform simple, straight-shot riveting.

Best for: Advanced metalworkers and professional shops requiring maximum versatility in tight spots.

Expert Opinion: The inclusion of the offset tooling significantly increases the utility of this kit in a working shop environment. This is one of the most comprehensive kits specifically designed for challenging aerospace geometries.

AERO – 4X RIVET GUN – TP84

When you need serious driving power for larger or harder rivets, the AERO TP84 4X Rivet Gun is the answer. The “4X” designation means it has a longer stroke and delivers a significantly higher impact force compared to 2X or 3X models. This power is essential when setting larger diameter (like 1/4 inch) aluminum rivets or 3/16 inch steel rivets, where lesser guns would struggle or take excessive time. Despite its power, a quality 4X gun still maintains the required teasing trigger control expected in precision tooling.

Key features that stand out:
– Maximum Power: 4X designation for setting large or hard-material rivets.
– Efficiency: Long stroke reduces the number of hits needed to set a difficult rivet.
– Professional Grade: Tooling built for heavy-duty structural applications.

Pros:
– Necessary tool for heavy structural repairs and thick skin applications.
– Speeds up the setting process for larger fasteners.
– Excellent tool life under demanding conditions.
Cons:
– Too powerful for very light sheet metal unless air pressure is drastically reduced.

Best for: Heavy aircraft maintenance, structural repair on thick aluminum, and setting steel fasteners.

Expert Opinion: If your work frequently involves 1/4″ aluminum or 3/16″ steel rivets, investing in a high-quality 4X model like this one saves massive amounts of time and energy compared to struggling with a 3X gun.

Rivet Gun, 1/4 Pop Rivet Gun Kit with 200 Blind Rivets, 5 Interchangeable Rivet Heads (3/32″, 1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″, 1/4″), Heavy Duty Hand Riveter Tool for Metal, Gutter & Automotive

It is crucial to differentiate this tool from the pneumatic impact guns above. This is a heavy-duty hand pop rivet gun designed to install blind rivets, not solid rivets. Blind riveting is used when you cannot access the back side of the material (e.g., gutting, trim, non-structural panels). This manual tool is powerful enough to handle 1/4″ pop rivets due to its two-handed, high-leverage design. It’s an indispensable tool for non-structural fixes, automotive trim, and general household metalwork.

Key features that stand out:
– Blind Rivet Capability: Installs pop rivets (blind rivets) where access is limited.
– High Leverage: Two-handed design provides superior power for setting large 1/4″ rivets.
– All-in-One Kit: Includes 5 interchangeable heads and 200 aluminum rivets.

Pros:
– Required tool for non-structural, single-sided access repairs.
– Modular, tool-free nosepiece changes for easy maintenance.
– Robust, comfortable ergonomic grip.
Cons:
– Completely unsuitable for structural applications requiring solid rivets.

Best for: Automotive repair (trim/interior), home repair, guttering, and installing non-structural fasteners.

Expert Opinion: While not a traditional pneumatic aircraft rivet gun, a good pop riveter is essential for non-structural repairs. Understand that the rivets set by this tool do not offer the sheer and tensile strength required for structural airframe components.

Comparison and Buying Insights

Choosing the best aircraft rivet gun often comes down to balancing power (X-factor) with control and budget. Here are a few quick takeaways:

Power vs. Precision (2X vs. 3X vs. 4X):
* 2X Guns (like the Wicks 2X Deluxe or the 2X Pneumatic Standalone) are best for precision work on thin aluminum skins (up to 1/8″). They hit lighter and faster, minimizing the risk of denting or “smiling” the metal. Control is king here.
* 3X Guns (like the Wicks 3X Kits and Hanson HRH-3X) are the all-around shop standard. They can handle most common structural rivets (3/32″ to 3/16″ aluminum). If you can only buy one tool, buy a quality 3X model.
* 4X Guns (like the AERO TP84) are reserved for heavy-duty work, thick metal, or larger diameter steel rivets. They offer high efficiency when maximum driving power is required.

Kits vs. Standalone Tools:
* If you are just starting out, a comprehensive kit (like the Wicks 3X Deluxe or the Airstream Kit) offers the best introductory value, ensuring all components are compatible.
* If you already own bucking bars and sets, buying a standalone tool (like the 2X Pneumatic or 4X AERO) allows you to invest more money into a higher-quality gun body.

Solid vs. Blind Riveting:
* Remember that pneumatic aircraft rivet guns are for solid rivets (requiring a bucking bar and two-sided access) and provide structural integrity.
* Hand pop riveters (like Product 10) are for blind rivets (requiring only one-sided access) and are strictly for non-structural applications. Make sure you buy the tool appropriate for your task.

Final Verdict: Our Top Picks

The selection of the best aircraft rivet gun is highly dependent on your intended application, but based on reliability, value, and professional performance, here are our picks:

The Overall Best Aircraft Rivet Gun (Value & Performance):
The Wicks Aircraft 3X Deluxe Rivet Gun Set takes the top spot. It includes a versatile 3X gun, a wide array of quality accessories (bucking bars and sets), and provides the necessary power for 90% of structural riveting jobs you’ll encounter.

Best for Specialized Precision Work:
The Wicks Aircraft 2X Deluxe Rivet Gun Set is indispensable for aircraft builders focusing on thin-skinned or delicate restoration projects. Its light impacts offer superior finesse.

Best for Challenging Professional Access:
The HRH-3X-777 DELUXE AIR HAMMER KIT shines due to the inclusion of crucial offset rivet sets, making complex structural repairs in tight fuselage sections manageable.

Best Aircraft Rivet Gun FAQ

What does the “X” rating mean on a pneumatic rivet gun (2X, 3X, 4X)?

The “X” rating refers to the physical stroke length and impact power of the pneumatic rivet hammer. A 2X gun has a shorter stroke and lighter impact, ideal for small (3/32″, 1/8″) aluminum rivets. A 3X gun is the medium power standard, excellent for 3/16″ structural rivets. A 4X gun has the longest stroke and most power, used for large aluminum or steel rivets (up to 1/4″).

What PSI and CFM do I need to run a professional best aircraft rivet gun?

Most pneumatic rivet guns, especially the 2X and 3X models, require an operating pressure between 35 and 90 PSI for optimal performance, often around 85 PSI. Air consumption (CFM) is typically low, usually around 3 to 5 CFM, meaning you can often use a smaller home shop compressor, provided it can maintain that pressure consistency during use.

Why is a teasing trigger important when using an aircraft rivet hammer?

A teasing trigger allows the operator to control the impact intensity precisely. Instead of an immediate full-power blow, you can feather the trigger to deliver light, controlled taps. This is vital in aviation sheet metal work to start the rivet setting process gently and prevent the sheet metal skin from buckling or denting—a flaw known as “smiling.”

What is a bucking bar, and can I rivet without one?

A bucking bar is a heavy piece of polished steel, often irregularly shaped, held against the tail end of the solid rivet during installation. It serves two main purposes: absorbing the kinetic energy of the rivet gun’s impact and forming the required shop head shape on the rivet’s tail. You cannot set a solid rivet structurally without a bucking bar to counteract the force of the pneumatic rivet gun.

What is the standard rivet set shank size for most aviation tooling?

The overwhelming standard for professional pneumatic rivet guns used in aviation is the 0.401″ shank size. This ensures compatibility across virtually all common rivet sets, whether they are cupped, flush, offset, or specialized shapes. Always check this specification when purchasing new rivet sets or a new pneumatic rivet gun.

How do I maintain my best aircraft rivet gun for long life?

Proper maintenance is simple but critical. Always apply a few drops of air tool oil into the air inlet before each use. This lubricates the internal mechanisms and prevents corrosion. Additionally, store the tool in a clean, dry environment, preferably in a padded case, to protect the internal components from dust and moisture.