Best Hand Riveter: 10 Best Choices

I’ve spent countless hours in the garage testing different tools, and nothing is more frustrating than a cheap riveting tool that jams every third pull. A reliable hand riveter is essential for everything from automotive repair to securing sheet metal, providing strong, permanent joints using blind rivets. In this comprehensive guide, we compare 10 top-rated models to help you find the absolute best hand riveter for your next project.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	BEETRO Heavy Duty Hand Riveter, Rivet Gun,…	View on Amazon
	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
	Rivet Gun, GIANTISAN Pop Rivet Tool Kit with 200 Rivets…	View on Amazon
	Astro Pneumatic Tool 1423 1/4″ Heavy Duty 13″ Hand Riveter	View on Amazon
	NEU MASTER Rivet Gun with 200Pcs Rivets, Manual Rivet Gun…	View on Amazon
	ValueMax 4-in-1 Hand Riveter/Rivet Gun, Pop Rivet Tool Kit…	View on Amazon
	Libraton One-Handed Rivet Gun, Pop Rivet Gun Set,…	View on Amazon
	Rivet Gun, Rivet Gun Kit, Pop Rivet Gun, 80PCs Metal…	View on Amazon

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

This BEETRO model provides solid fastening power wrapped in a heavy-duty design, making it an excellent starting point for general DIY use. It ships ready to work, including 100 rivets across four common sizes, which is fantastic value for users just building their tool collection. The ergonomic grip is designed for maximum fit and comfort, ensuring that even longer riveting sessions aren’t too fatiguing. This is a reliable, straightforward tool built to handle metal, plastic, and leather projects effectively.

Key features that stand out:
– Four-Sizes Rivet Heads
– 100 Pcs Rivets included in the kit
– Durable and Suitable for Metal, Plastic and Leather

Pros:
– Comes with a generous supply of rivets to start immediately
– Simple head wrench included for easy nosepiece changes
– Lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry around job sites

Cons:
– While called “Heavy Duty,” it may struggle with continuous use of the largest 3/16″ steel rivets.

Best for: Beginners and DIYers seeking a cost-effective, complete kit.

Expert Opinion: This is a fantastic entry-level hand riveter kit. The inclusion of 100 rivets across the most common sizes saves an extra trip to the hardware store, making it a highly practical choice for general home repairs.

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

The Arrow brand is synonymous with reliable fastening, and their heavy-duty riveter kit maintains that reputation. Designed for general-purpose tasks like gutters, furniture, and canvas work, this tool handles rivets up to 5/32 in. diameter with ease. A key benefit of this model is the extended nose, which is crucial for reaching those tricky, hard-to-access riveting locations often encountered in automotive or HVAC work.

Key features that stand out:
– Extended nose for reaching confined spaces
– 120 assorted rivets included in the kit
– Manual riveter provides portable fastening

Pros:
– Excellent for general purpose rivet tasks and household repairs
– Highly recognizable and trusted brand reliability
– Four interchangeable heads are included for versatility

Cons:
– Not recommended for use with 3/16 in. all-steel or stainless steel rivets.

Best for: Household repairs, gutter work, and projects requiring extended reach.

Expert Opinion: The Arrow kit excels in accessibility. If your projects involve tight corners or deep channels, the extended nosepiece will save you significant frustration compared to standard models.

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

WETOLS delivers an impressively complete kit focused on user convenience and durability. This upgraded manual single hand riveter features a tool-free interchangeable head system, allowing quick size swaps simply by unscrewing the sleeve knurled design. Built with high-quality aluminum alloy and reinforced carbon steel, this riveter is designed to last. The comprehensive carrying case includes 200 rivets and even four drill bits, ensuring you have the necessary tools for every step of the riveting process.

Key features that stand out:
– 4 Tool-Free Interchangeable Rivet Heads
– Durable & Solid construction using aluminum alloy body and heat-treated handle
– Includes 200 rivets and 4 drill bits
– Ergonomic double-curved handle

Pros:
– Exceptionally complete kit with essential accessories (rivets, bits, case)
– Tool-free head change dramatically speeds up workflow
– Can handle aluminum, steel, and stainless steel rivets (up to 5/32″)

Cons:
– The 4.8mm head capacity is not recommended for heavy steel or stainless rivets.

Best for: Serious DIY enthusiasts and professionals valuing speed and comprehensive kit contents.

Expert Opinion: The inclusion of drill bits and the quick-change head design makes this one of the most efficient riveting setups reviewed. For those who frequently switch rivet sizes, this is highly recommended.

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

The Libraton Heavy Duty model is engineered for high performance and longevity. Libraton emphasizes durability, using 35Cr-Mo steel claw pieces and heat-treated alloy steel structural parts, claiming an increased service life of over 160% compared to conventional guns. Beyond durability, this hand riveter is designed for efficiency; its ergonomic handle provides a larger lever ratio, saving up to 25% of the grip strength needed to set rivets.

Key features that stand out:
– 35Cr-Mo steel claw piece for enhanced longevity
– Ergonomic handle provides 25% strength saving
– TPR soft rubber grip for comfort
– Smart Design includes test holes in the wrench to identify rivet size

Pros:
– Exceptional durability and extended lifespan compared to standard models
– Reduced fatigue due to enhanced leverage ratio
– Useful size identification holes on the included wrench

Cons:
– The included 110-piece rivet count is slightly lower than some competing kits.

Best for: Users who value tool longevity and need reduced grip effort for repeated riveting tasks.

Expert Opinion: If you are tackling a project that requires hundreds of rivets, the ergonomic leverage of the Libraton Heavy Duty model will make a significant difference in preventing hand strain.

Rivet Gun, GIANTISAN Pop Rivet Tool Kit with 200 Rivets and 4 Drill Bits, Manual Hand Riveter Kit with Rugged Carrying Case

GIANTISAN offers a true one-stop solution for the blind riveting process. This comprehensive kit is built with high-strength aluminum alloy and carbon steel, promising a long life performance in demanding environments. The tool’s convenience factor is high: the four interchangeable heads are color-coded, marked, and stored directly on the handle, meaning no small parts get lost and changes are tool-free and quick. With 200 aluminum rivets and four drill bits, you can tackle almost any standard project immediately.

Key features that stand out:
– ONE-STOP SOLUTION includes gun, 200 rivets, 4 drill bits, and case
– Color-coded heads stored on the handle for tool-free replacement
– Strong and Durable aluminum alloy and carbon steel construction

Pros:
– Outstanding organizational design with heads stored right on the handle
– Excellent value proposition due to the large number of included accessories
– Simple and easy to use, even for novices

Cons:
– Leverage is standard, requiring two hands for the largest 3/16″ aluminum rivets.

Best for: Users needing a highly organized, comprehensive kit for diverse general-purpose applications.

Expert Opinion: The color-coding on the nosepieces is a small but valuable detail that speeds up the job, especially for users who frequently switch between 1/8″ and 5/32″ rivets.

Astro Pneumatic Tool 1423 1/4″ Heavy Duty 13″ Hand Riveter

When standard single-hand riveters just don’t offer enough muscle, you turn to a long-arm model like the Astro 1423. This is a powerful, patented structure designed specifically to increase power and leverage, especially when setting large diameter blind rivets. It’s one of the most versatile and powerful hand riveters on this list, capable of handling stainless steel rivets up to 1/4-Inch (6.4mm). The shorter handle, combined with double compound hinges, maximizes leverage while keeping the tool reasonably compact for a long-arm model.

Key features that stand out:
– Operates up to 1/4-Inch (6.4mm) stainless steel rivets
– Double compound hinges maximize leverage
– Patented structure increases power
– Shortest long arm riveter design

Pros:
– Necessary power for industrial-grade, large-diameter rivets
– Exceptional leverage removes the struggle from tough materials
– Durable construction designed for high-tension applications

Cons:
– Sold as tool-only; rivets must be purchased separately.

Best for: Industrial use, heavy fabrication, setting stainless steel or 1/4-inch diameter rivets.

Expert Opinion: This is not a casual DIY tool—this is the heavy lifter. If your riveting needs extend beyond aluminum or require 3/16″ or 1/4″ stainless steel, the extreme leverage of the Astro 1423 is non-negotiable.

NEU MASTER Rivet Gun with 200Pcs Rivets, Manual Rivet Gun Kit with 4 Tool-Free Interchangeable Rivet Heads, BMC Case, Heavy Duty Single Hand Riveter for Plastic, Metal, Leather

NEU MASTER provides an excellent combination of user-friendly features and robust construction. Designed as a heavy-duty single hand riveter, it includes a three-piece Co-Mo aluminum alloy structure for strength and stability. Similar to some other top models, the four interchangeable heads are color-coded and stored on the handle, allowing for quick, tool-free size changes. The ergonomic design saves over 20% of effort compared to older riveter styles, making demanding work significantly easier.

Key features that stand out:
– Tool-Free Interchangeable Rivet Heads stored on the handle
– Ergonomic design saves 20%+ effort
– Sturdy Material: Co-Mo aluminum alloy and reinforced carbon steel
– Worry-Free-2-Year-Warranty included

Pros:
– Strong material composition ensures a long working life
– Excellent balance of power and single-hand operation convenience
– Comes with a hard carrying case and 200 aluminum rivets

Cons:
– Not suitable for continuous industrial use of the largest sizes.

Best for: Dedicated DIYers who perform frequent home, automotive, and craft repairs.

Expert Opinion: The NEU MASTER is a great example of a modern, well-engineered single-hand riveter. The ergonomic improvements genuinely translate into less fatigue during repetitive tasks, making it one of the most comfortable to operate.

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 riveter is focused on durability and ease of maintenance. Its core strength lies in its 100% steel construction, offering high temperature and corrosion resistance for a long service life. The grips are plastic-covered, providing a safer insulation barrier and a good hand feel. Importantly for user convenience, the nosepieces can be replaced manually without the aid of tools, and the inclusion of a handle lock makes storage and transport exceptionally easy.

Key features that stand out:
– 100% Steel Construction for maximum durability
– Handle Lock for easy storage and portability
– 4 Interchangeable Nosepieces replaceable without tools
– Includes 200 rivets

Pros:
– Exceptional longevity due to all-steel build quality
– Ergonomic design helps reduce required effort
– Handle lock is a small feature that significantly aids in organization

Cons:
– The all-steel body makes the tool slightly heavier than aluminum alternatives.

Best for: Users prioritizing heavy-duty, all-steel construction and reliability over lightweight design.

Expert Opinion: For messy workshops or garages where tools take a beating, the 100% steel construction of the ValueMax is a major selling point. It’s built to withstand harsh conditions.

Libraton One-Handed Rivet Gun, Pop Rivet Gun Set, Professional Hand Riveter, Manual Riveting Tool with 200 Rivets for Metal, Includes 4 Drill Bits, 4 Tool-Free Interchangeable Heads, Storage Case

Libraton makes a second appearance with a specialized one-handed rivet gun designed for simplicity and comfort. This model focuses heavily on ergonomics, featuring a thickened TPR cover on the handle for a more comfortable hold and a higher leverage ratio despite its compact size. This professional remachadora manual set includes 200 aluminum rivets and four drill bits, ensuring you have the necessary components for metal work, automotive, or HVAC repairs.

Key features that stand out:
– Ergonomic thickened TPR cover one-handed handle
– Safety lock for easy storage and carry
– Tool-Free Interchangeable Nosepieces
– Lightweight aluminum alloy die-casting body

Pros:
– Specifically designed for comfortable, low-effort one-handed operation
– Very lightweight due to the aluminum alloy body
– Comprehensive kit including drill bits and case

Cons:
– Not powerful enough for heavy-gauge steel riveting.

Best for: Lightweight sheet metal work, users with limited grip strength, or jobs requiring true single-handed operation.

Expert Opinion: If you frequently need to hold components in place with one hand while riveting with the other, this lightweight, ergonomic single-hand design from Libraton is one of the top choices for efficiency.

Rivet Gun, Rivet Gun Kit, Pop Rivet Gun, 80PCs Metal Rivets and 4 Drill Bits, Heavy Duty Hand Riveter, Rivet Gun Tool for Metal, Automotive, Blind Rivets 3/32″ 1/8″ 5/32″ 3/16″

This heavy-duty hand riveter kit emphasizes ruggedness and utility in a compact package. Using an all-steel construction and a reinforced carbon steel heat-treatment handle, this tool is designed for long life and demanding use across automotive and construction applications. The ergonomically designed thick PVC grips ensure comfort and a non-slip experience, improving user work efficiency. While it only includes 80 rivets, the focus is clearly on the reliability of the tool itself.

Key features that stand out:
– All-steel construction and reinforced carbon steel handle
– Ergonomical design with thick PVC grips
– Includes 4 drill bits

Pros:
– Robust materials provide exceptional resistance to wear and tear
– Simple operation with enhanced grip comfort
– Nosepieces conveniently stored on the handle

Cons:
– Fewer included rivets compared to most competing kits (only 20 pcs per model).

Best for: Workshop use where the tool needs to withstand significant abuse and frequent use on metal components.

Expert Opinion: This is a solid, no-frills workhorse. Its heavy-duty steel construction ensures it holds up better than aluminum models when subjected to accidental drops or rough handling.

Comparison Insights

Choosing the best hand riveter involves balancing three factors: leverage, capacity, and kit value.

For users needing high-capacity riveting (3/16″ steel or 1/4″ aluminum/steel), models like the Astro Pneumatic Tool 1423 are mandatory. The long arm provides the leverage required, making difficult tasks feasible.

If your primary focus is ease of use and portability, the single-handed models from Libraton (One-Handed) and NEU MASTER are excellent. These are lighter and designed for minimal fatigue on smaller rivets (up to 5/32″).

When considering overall value, the kits offered by WETOLS, GIANTISAN, and NEU MASTER stand out. These include 200+ rivets, drill bits, and durable carrying cases, providing everything you need to start riveting right out of the box.

For those prioritizing sheer tool longevity, the 100% steel construction found in the ValueMax and the Libraton Heavy Duty models offers superior resistance to breaking and warping under stress compared to lighter aluminum alternatives.

Final Verdict: Which Hand Riveter is Right for You?

Selecting the best hand riveter depends entirely on your project scope.

The Best All-Around DIY Kit: WETOLS Pop Rivet Gun Kit

The WETOLS kit provides the best combination of quality tool construction, comprehensive accessories (200 rivets + 4 drill bits), and the invaluable feature of tool-free, quick-change heads. It handles all common sizes and materials for the average user.

The Best Choice for Maximum Power: Astro Pneumatic Tool 1423

If you are dealing with truck bodies, heavy construction, or require stainless steel 1/4″ blind rivets, you need the extreme leverage the Astro 1423 long-arm model provides. It’s the highest capacity and most powerful manual riveter on this list.

The Best Budget Starter Option: BEETRO Heavy Duty Hand Riveter

For the novice who only needs to set a few rivets occasionally, the BEETRO model offers a highly affordable entry point that includes the basic tool and 100 rivets, giving you everything necessary to learn the fundamentals of the riveting process.

Best Hand Riveter FAQ

What is the difference between a single-hand and a long-arm hand riveter?

A single-hand riveter is typically shorter, lighter, and easier to operate with one hand, usually best suited for smaller diameter rivets (up to 5/32″ aluminum). A long-arm riveter (like the Astro 1423) uses compound hinges and longer handles to create significantly more leverage, which is necessary to set large-diameter rivets (3/16″ or 1/4″) or rivets made from tough materials like steel and stainless steel.

How do I choose the correct rivet diameter?

The rivet diameter should match the size of the hole you are fastening and the size of the nosepiece (or head) on your riveting tool. Most versatile hand riveters come with four standard interchangeable heads: 3/32″, 1/8″, 5/32″, and 3/16″ (2.4mm to 4.8mm). Using the wrong diameter rivet can cause the tool to jam or result in a loose connection.

Can I use my best hand riveter for stainless steel blind rivets?

Yes, but carefully. Stainless steel rivets require much more force to set than aluminum or standard steel rivets because the mandrel (the pin that snaps off) is much tougher. For occasional small stainless steel rivets (1/8″), a high-quality heavy-duty single-hand riveter might suffice. However, for 3/16″ or 1/4″ stainless steel rivets, a specialized long-arm riveter designed for high leverage is highly recommended to avoid damaging your tool or straining your hands.

What causes a hand riveter to jam, and how do I prevent it?

Jams are usually caused by the broken mandrel getting stuck in the nosepiece or jaw mechanism. This is often due to using the wrong size rivet for the nosepiece, or attempting to set a rivet that is too tough for the tool’s maximum capacity. To prevent jamming, always ensure the rivet diameter matches the nosepiece size, keep the jaws clean, and use a riveter with sufficient leverage for the material thickness and rivet size.

How do I maintain my hand riveting tool for long-term performance?

Regular maintenance is key to prolonging the life of your best hand riveter. After use, particularly if the mandrel has jammed, remove the nosepiece and clear any stuck metal debris. Lubricate the internal jaw mechanism occasionally with light machine oil or lithium grease to ensure the jaws grip the mandrel effectively. Store the tool in its case (if provided) with the handles locked closed to protect the mechanism.

Are there hand riveters specifically designed for reduced effort?

Yes. Many modern hand riveter models, such as the NEU MASTER and Libraton heavy-duty options, feature high leverage ratios and ergonomic TPR or PVC grips. These designs reduce the amount of physical force required by the user by 20% or more, making repetitive tasks far less tiring.