7 Best Cordless Rivet Gun Models Tested 2025 Best Cordless Rivet Gun: 7 Top…

I remember the days of painfully hand-pumping blind rivets—it was exhausting! Switching to a cordless rivet gun completely changed how I approach metal fabrication and automotive work. After putting several top contenders through rigorous testing on various materials, I’m ready to share my findings on the best cordless rivet gun options available. If you’re looking for battery-powered efficiency to handle those tough stainless steel jobs or just need reliable, fast performance for pop rivets, you’re in the right place to find the tool that fits your needs.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Rivet Tool, 3/16″, Bare Tool…	View on Amazon
	Milwaukee Electric Tools 2550-20 M12 Rivet Tool (Bare Tool)	View on Amazon
	Cordless Rivet Gun Tool for Dewalt 20V Max Battery(No…	View on Amazon
	Cordless Rivet Gun Compatible with Dewalt 20V MAX…	View on Amazon
	Yutesiri Cordless Rivet Gun Compatible with Dewalt 20V Max…	View on Amazon
	Milwaukee M12BPRT-0 Pop Rivet Tool	View on Amazon
	Cerycose Rivet Gun Compatible with Dewalt 20V Battery,…	View on Amazon

DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Rivet Tool, 3/16″, Bare Tool Only (DCF403B)

The DEWALT DCF403B is built for serious professionals who demand maximum power and durability. As part of the XR line, this tool delivers consistent, high-speed performance, easily handling large volumes of rivets, including demanding stainless steel ones. Its powerful BRUSHLESS MOTOR provides massive pulling force, making short work of jobs that would wear out lesser tools. I found the tool-free nose change a huge time-saver when switching between rivet sizes on the fly.

Key features that stand out:
– Pulls up to 800 RIVETS PER CHARGE (using a 2.0Ah battery).
– BRUSHLESS MOTOR delivers up to 2,100 lbf of pulling force.
– COMPATIBLE WITH MULTIPLE SIZE RIVETS including 3/32″, 1/8″, 5/32″, and 3/16″ rivets.
– DESIGNED FOR EASE OF USE with tool-free nose change and on-board nose piece storage.

Pros:
– Industry-leading durability and performance consistency.
– Excellent runtime for high-volume work.
– Handles stainless steel rivets effortlessly due to high pulling force.

Cons:
– Being a bare tool, the initial cost is higher if you don’t already own DEWALT 20V batteries.

Best for: High-volume commercial construction and heavy-duty automotive repair.

Expert Opinion: This is the benchmark for professional-grade battery-powered riveting. If your work involves setting hundreds of rivets daily, the speed and reliability of this DEWALT model are unmatched among the best cordless rivet gun options.

Milwaukee Electric Tools 2550-20 M12 Rivet Tool (Bare Tool)

The Milwaukee 2550-20 is proof that powerful performance doesn’t require a bulky 18V system. This M12 tool is incredibly lightweight and compact, making it a dream for overhead work or reaching into tight spots—think engine bays or HVAC ductwork. It manages to pull up to 450 1/8″ steel rivets per charge, demonstrating remarkable efficiency for its size. It’s fast, reliable, and significantly reduces the hand strain associated with manual tools.

Key features that stand out:
– Pulls 3/32″, 1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″ rivets.
– Pulls 450 1/8″ steel rivets per charge (using a 1.5Ah battery).
– Exceptional compactness typical of the M12 platform.

Pros:
– Extremely lightweight and portable for all-day use.
– Excellent runtime for a compact 12V tool.
– Ideal for accessing confined spaces.

Cons:
– It might struggle slightly with maximum capacity stainless steel rivets compared to 20V alternatives.

Best for: HVAC installation, automotive bodywork, and general maintenance where portability is key.

Expert Opinion: The M12 line focuses on power-to-size ratio, and this rivet tool is a perfect example. For users already invested in the M12 platform, this is arguably the best cordless rivet gun for mobility and comfort.

Cordless Rivet Gun Tool for Dewalt 20V Max Battery(No Battery), Brushless Electric Automatic Rivet Gun,Brushless Motor for Rivets 1/8”, 5/32”, 3/16″, for Metal, Plastic and Leather

This Cerycose compatible model offers the convenience of cordless operation while utilizing your existing DeWalt 20V MAX batteries. If you want high power without buying a dedicated, expensive tool kit, this is a fantastic workaround. It features a powerful brushless motor delivering up to 2000 lbs of pulling force, ensuring longevity and low maintenance. The automatic operation makes setting rivets fast and reliable.

Key features that stand out:
– Compatible with Dewalt 20V Max Battery (battery not included).
– Brushless Motor offers up to 10 years of service life and delivers 2000 lbs of pulling force.
– Efficiency Boost via quick, tool-free nose piece changes.
– Comes with 3 size (1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″) nose pieces.

Pros:
– Exceptional value proposition by leveraging existing battery platforms.
– Brushless design ensures durability and efficiency.
– High pulling force handles demanding materials.

Cons:
– Warranty support and long-term durability may not match the primary OEM brands.

Best for: DIY enthusiasts and budget-conscious professionals who already own a DeWalt 20V kit.

Expert Opinion: This tool hits a sweet spot: professional-level power combined with consumer-friendly price point, provided you have the compatible battery ready to go.

Cordless Rivet Gun Compatible with Dewalt 20V MAX Battery(Tool Only), 2248Lbf Electric Brushless Blind Riveter Tool, Pop Rivet Tool, Heavy Duty Automatic Riveter for 3/32″, 1/8″, 5/32″,1/5″ Rivets

This heavy-duty alternative raises the power stakes in the compatible category. Delivering an impressive 2248 lbf of pulling force, this tool can securely set tough rivets in a single stroke, making it suitable for serious construction work. Crucially, it handles rivets up to 1/5″ (5mm), offering a slight edge in capacity over most standard 3/16″ tools. Its powerful motor combined with simple automatic functions ensures efficiency and ease of use.

Key features that stand out:
– Powerful Brushless Motor delivering up to 2248 lbf of pulling force.
– Applicability across multiple sizes, including 3/32″, 1/8″, 5/32″, and a larger 1/5″ (5 mm).
– Easy to Use with automatic riveting and reverse functions.
– Built-in LED Light illuminates dark workspaces.

Pros:
– Highest pulling force among compatible models reviewed.
– Expanded rivet size capacity up to 5mm.
– Low-voltage protection safeguards the battery life.

Cons:
– The sheer power might be overkill for light-duty projects.

Best for: Heavy-duty sheet metal work requiring maximum setting force and slightly larger rivets.

Expert Opinion: If you need the biggest punch possible while staying on the DeWalt 20V platform, the 2248 Lbf pulling force makes this one of the most powerful and best cordless rivet gun alternatives available.

Yutesiri Cordless Rivet Gun Compatible with Dewalt 20V Max Battery, with a kitbox, Brushless Electric Automatic Rivet Gun for Rivets 1/8”, 5/32”, 3/16″, for Metal Plastic and Leather

This Yutesiri model delivers robust performance and excellent packaging, arriving in a handy kitbox for storage and transport. Like its competitors, it uses a high-performance brushless motor with 2000 lbs of pulling force, making it highly versatile for various projects from HVAC to RV repairs. The focus here is on usability, featuring an efficient heat dissipation system and simple, one-button forward/reverse switching for effortless use.

Key features that stand out:
– BATTERY COMPATIBLE with DEWALT 20V LITHIUM-ION batteries.
– High-Performance Brushless Motor boasts 2000lbs of pulling force.
– Versatile Rivet Compatibility handles 3/16″, 5/32″, and 1/8″ stainless steel, steel, and aluminum core rivets.
– Includes an efficient heat dissipation system for sustained use.

Pros:
– Comes with a durable kitbox, adding value and convenience.
– Excellent versatility for multiple application types.
– Effortless one-button switching for nail withdrawal.

Cons:
– While powerful, 2000 lbs is standard for this class, not exceptional.

Best for: Tradesmen seeking a comprehensive kit for varied applications (HVAC, light fabrication).

Expert Opinion: The Yutesiri provides a reliable balance of power, durability, and practical features, wrapped up neatly in a convenient kit. It’s a very user-friendly option for the general contractor.

Milwaukee M12BPRT-0 Pop Rivet Tool

This is the international bare tool version of the popular M12 rivet gun, offering the same core benefits of portability and efficiency that Milwaukee is known for. Weighing just 1.94 kgs, it greatly minimizes user fatigue, making it the ideal choice for long days on the job. It delivers high performance in a compact M12 package, proving that you don’t need heavyweight gear for heavy-duty results.

Key features that stand out:
– Lightweight construction at just 1.94 kgs.
– 12 Volts system for maximum portability.
– Proven reliable Milwaukee technology.

Pros:
– Exceptionally lightweight and easy to maneuver.
– Highly ergonomic design reduces strain.
– Quick setup and operation typical of Milwaukee’s quality engineering.

Cons:
– Requires the purchase of an M12 battery and charger if not already owned.

Best for: Mobile technicians and professionals prioritizing lightweight tooling and tight-space access.

Expert Opinion: If the M12 platform is your standard, this tool is indispensable. It’s one of the best cordless rivet gun options available purely based on portability and user comfort.

Cerycose Rivet Gun Compatible with Dewalt 20V Battery, Cordless Rivet Tool with 3 Size (1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″) Aluminum Rivets, Brushless Motor Rivet Gun Kit Nose Piece, Led Light, Tool Only

This Cerycose offering provides excellent entry-level value, especially since it includes a sample pack of aluminum rivets, allowing immediate use right out of the box (assuming you have a DeWalt battery). It features a powerful brushless motor for high torque and dependable pulling force. The auto-fastening and pulling mechanism streamlines the riveting process, perfect for speeding up repetitive tasks in the workshop.

Key features that stand out:
– Includes 3 size (1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″) each 20 pcs aluminum rivets.
– High-Torque Motor capable of high pulling force.
– Tool-free nose piece change function for quick setup.
– Built-in LED work light for visibility.

Pros:
– Comes with sample rivets, providing excellent immediate value.
– Easy to use auto-fastening and spitting mechanism.
– Versatile, handling 1/8″ to 3/16″ diameters.

Cons:
– The focus on aluminum rivets suggests it might be best suited for lighter materials.

Best for: Hobbyists and small fabrication shops starting out with cordless riveting.

Expert Opinion: This is a superb starter kit for those using the DeWalt 20V system. The inclusion of the rivets means zero delay in starting your project, making it highly practical for first-time buyers seeking the convenience of a best cordless rivet gun.

Comparison and Buying Insights

When shopping for the best cordless rivet gun, the choice often comes down to power versus portability, and whether you want to stick with an established brand platform or use a compatible tool for cost savings.

The DEWALT 20V MAX XR stands out for sheer power (2,100 lbf) and is the clear winner for high-demand, industrial applications. If you are constantly setting 3/16″ stainless steel blind rivets, the XR line is essential for consistent breaks and long battery life.

In contrast, both Milwaukee M12 models (2550-20 and M12BPRT-0) are ideal for technicians focused on mobility. They are remarkably light, making them the best cordless rivet gun choice for tight spaces and overhead work, sacrificing only a bit of maximum pulling strength compared to their 20V counterparts.

If you already own DeWalt batteries but want to save significant money, the compatible tools—like the models from Cerycose and Yutesiri—offer exceptional value. The model with 2248 Lbf pulling force is noteworthy because it provides power exceeding the main brand tools, albeit with a trade-off in guaranteed brand reliability. This makes these tools an excellent budget-friendly path to professional power.

Key features like a brushless motor are standard across all top models, ensuring minimal maintenance and long tool life, regardless of brand.

Final Verdict

Choosing the right tool depends entirely on your application and existing battery ecosystem.

The Professional Powerhouse: For tradesmen requiring maximum power, speed, and proven durability, the DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Rivet Tool (DCF403B) remains the gold standard.

The Mobility Champion: If your work requires agility and low weight for accessing tight areas, the Milwaukee M12 Rivet Tool is the indisputable choice.

The Smart Value Pick: For those already using the DeWalt 20V platform who need serious power without the OEM price tag, the Cordless Rivet Gun Compatible with Dewalt 20V MAX Battery (2248Lbf model) offers the best combination of pulling strength and value.

Best Cordless Rivet Gun FAQ

What is the difference between a brushed and a brushless motor in a rivet gun?

Brushless motors are vastly superior for battery-powered tools. They are more efficient, drawing less power and resulting in longer battery life. They also produce less friction and heat, leading to a much longer service life and higher pulling force than older brushed motors. All the best cordless rivet gun models now utilize brushless technology.

How much pulling force (Lbf) do I need for stainless steel rivets?

Stainless steel requires substantially more force than aluminum. For standard 3/16″ stainless steel blind rivets, you should look for a tool offering at least 2,000 lbf (pounds of force). Tools like the DEWALT DCF403B (2,100 lbf) are designed specifically to handle these demanding materials consistently.

Can these battery-powered rivet guns handle all types of blind rivets?

Yes, most high-quality cordless rivet guns are compatible with aluminum, steel, and stainless steel blind rivets, provided the diameter is within the tool’s specified range (typically up to 3/16″ or 5mm). Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for maximum rivet size and material compatibility before purchasing.

Do I need a specific battery platform to use a cordless rivet tool?

Generally, yes. Professional tools like DEWALT and Milwaukee require batteries from their respective platforms (20V MAX or M12). However, several compatible options reviewed above are designed specifically to accept major brand batteries, offering flexibility and cost savings if you already own those packs.

Is the stroke length important when using a battery-powered riveter?

Yes. The stroke length determines how far the jaw mechanism travels. A longer stroke (like 0.79″ on some models) means the tool can often set the rivet completely in a single pull, improving efficiency, especially when dealing with long-style pop rivets.

What maintenance is required for a cordless rivet gun?

Maintenance is minimal for modern tools, especially those with brushless motors. The key is regular cleaning of the nose piece and jaws to remove spent mandrels and debris. Occasionally, cleaning and light lubrication of the jaw mechanism may be necessary to ensure optimal grip and reliable setting of the blind rivets.