We Tested 7 Best Nut Rivet Tool Picks of 2025

When I first started working on vehicle restoration projects, I quickly learned that traditional sheet metal screws just wouldn’t cut it for mounting accessories or adding anchor points. I needed a reliable way to create strong, internal threading in thin material—that’s where the nut rivet tool, or nutsert setter, comes in. After countless hours struggling with cheap tools that stripped mandrels or failed to set properly, I decided to test the market’s leading options. If you’re looking for a dependable, heavy-duty solution for metal fabrication or automotive work, this hands-on guide will break down the best nut rivet tool options available this year, covering everything from compact designs to high-leverage kits.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	WETOLS Rivet Nut Tool Kit, 14-Inch Rivnut Tool with 7…	View on Amazon
	NEXTACK Rivet Nut Tool Kit with a Step Drill Bit…	View on Amazon
	AOBEN 14″ Rivet Nut Tool, Professional Hand Rivet Nut…	View on Amazon
	GIANTISAN Rivet Nut Tool Kit,16-Inch Rivnut Tool Kit with…	View on Amazon
	GIANTISAN Rivet Nut Tool, 16-inch Rivnut Tool Kit with 15…	View on Amazon
	AKKTOL Rivet Nut Tool kit, 16″ Rivnut Tool Kit with…	View on Amazon
	IMQUALI Rivet Nut Tool Rivet Nut Kit, 16″ Rivnut Tool…	View on Amazon

WETOLS Rivet Nut Tool Kit, 14-Inch Rivnut Tool with 7 Metric and SAE Mandrels, Professional Hand Riveter with 70Pcs Rivnuts Assortment Kit, Manual Rivet Nut Gun with Rugged BMC Case

The WETOLS 14-inch kit is a fantastic starting point for DIYers and professionals who need a reliable mid-range tool. Its 14-inch length provides significant leverage, making smaller and medium rivnuts easy to install without excessive strain. I appreciated the quality of the materials; the mandrels are made from heat-treated Chrome steel, which offers great resistance to stripping. Changing mandrels is straightforward and can be done by hand, speeding up the workflow considerably. This kit feels sturdy and is clearly designed for frequent, robust use.

Key features that stand out:
– Mandrel Material: Heat-treated 40℃ Chrome steel for enhanced durability.
– Arm Construction: Made from 45 carbon steel to resist deformation.
– Mandrel Change: Toolless, hand-removable mandrel system.
– Comprehensive Kit: Includes 7 mandrels (M6, M8, M10, 1/4-20, 5/16-18, 3/8-16) and 70 rivnuts.

Pros:
– Excellent build quality for the price point.
– 14-inch arms provide good leverage for common sizes (up to M10/3/8″).
– Mandrel changes are quick and intuitive.
– Comes in a solid, organized blow-molded case.

Cons:
– While durable, the 14-inch size might require more effort on the largest M10 or 3/8″ steel nutserts.

Best for: General fabrication and professional users needing a durable, mid-leverage tool.

Expert Opinion: This is a workhorse tool. It balances necessary leverage with manageable size, making it one of the best nut rivet tool options for those who frequently use mid-range metric and SAE fasteners.

NEXTACK Rivet Nut Tool Kit with a Step Drill Bit & 80 Nutserts for Tight Space, 8″ Rivnut Tool Set Riveter with 8 Mandrels 6-32 8-32 10-24 1/4-20 M3 M4 M5 M6 in Organized Rugged Carrying Case NT600

Sometimes a standard 14 or 16-inch tool is simply too long to maneuver, especially when working inside vehicle pillars or other confined spaces. The NEXTACK NT600 solves this problem with its compact 8-inch design. While it requires more grip strength than its larger counterparts, its right-angle style and small size are invaluable for tough-to-reach projects. This kit is specifically optimized for smaller fasteners, including M3 and 6-32, and even includes a step drill bit to get you started immediately.

Key features that stand out:
– Design: Compact 8-inch, right-angle style for confined narrow spots.
– Included Accessories: Step drill bit and 8 mandrels (M3-M6, 6-32 to 1/4-20).
– Construction: Quality steel arm with blackening treatment and thick PVC grips.
– Operation: Features a rotary knob structure for easy nut loading and releasing.

Pros:
– Essential tool for riveting in small or tight enclosures.
– Includes the seldom-seen M3 mandrel.
– PVC grips provide comfort despite the required grip effort.
– Modular, detachable design aids maintenance.

Cons:
– Installing larger rivnuts (like M6 or 1/4-20) requires significant hand strength due to limited leverage.

Best for: Automotive bodywork, electrical enclosures, and projects requiring access into extremely tight spaces.

Expert Opinion: If access is your primary concern, this is the best nut rivet tool, hands down. It’s ideal for setting aluminum nutserts where massive leverage isn’t needed, providing precision in spots where larger tools fail.

AOBEN 14″ Rivet Nut Tool, Professional Hand Rivet Nut Setter Kit Labor-Saving and Compact Design Including 6 Interchangeable Mandrels 90pcs Rivnuts and 2 Mandrel Lock Pins

The AOBEN 14-inch model focuses heavily on efficiency and ease of use. What immediately sets it apart is the Quick-change head design. This unique feature utilizes a spring-loaded mechanism that automatically locks the mandrel, making changes faster than almost any other manual tool I tested. The ergonomic handles and double compound hinges maximize the leverage provided by the 14-inch arms, allowing you to set nutserts with less physical strain than traditional riveters of similar size.

Key features that stand out:
– Efficiency: New Quick-change head design with spring-loaded mandrel lock pin.
– Ergonomics: 14-inch steel arms with double compound hinges for labor-saving operation.
– Durability: Constructed from thick, heat-treated steel to prevent corrosion.
– Accessories: Includes 6 mandrels (M6, M8, M10, 1/4-20, 5/16-18, 3/8-16) and 90 rivnuts.

Pros:
– Mandrel swapping is exceptionally fast and toolless.
– Excellent leverage for a 14-inch model, reducing fatigue.
– Compact design is easy to store and handle.
– Includes extra mandrel lock pins as backups.

Cons:
– The six-mandrel selection is slightly less versatile than kits offering M5 or smaller sizes.

Best for: High-volume work using common mid-to-large fasteners where speed and reduced fatigue are priorities.

Expert Opinion: The AOBEN is built tough, and its quick-change system genuinely improves productivity. This is one of the more refined 14-inch nutsert tools on the market, offering substantial mechanical advantage.

GIANTISAN Rivet Nut Tool Kit,16-Inch Rivnut Tool Kit with 12 Metric and SAE Mandrels, 176Pcs Rivet nut Assortment Kit, Designed for Labour Saving

Stepping up in size, the GIANTISAN 16-inch tool delivers serious leverage. This kit is designed for the user who needs the ability to set large nutserts frequently, including M12 fasteners. This version of the Giantisan kit comes loaded with 12 mandrels and 176 pieces of assorted rivnuts, making it an excellent all-in-one solution for diverse projects. The longer arms minimize the input effort required, particularly when working with tougher materials like steel.

Key features that stand out:
– Size and Power: 16-inch length provides superior labor-saving performance.
– Toolless Mandrel Change: Simple operation allows quick head changes.
– Variety: Includes 12 mandrels (ranging from M3 to 3/8-16).
– Construction: Made from thickened carbon steel and high-strength aluminum alloy.

Pros:
– Great leverage for larger fasteners.
– Extensive range of included mandrels covering common sizes.
– Durable construction promises long life performance.
– Very well-organized storage case.

Cons:
– The bulkier 16-inch handles can be cumbersome in restricted spaces.

Best for: Heavy-duty applications and users requiring large-diameter fasteners (M10 and up).

Expert Opinion: This GIANTISAN kit provides maximum bang for your buck regarding sheer mandrel variety and leverage. It’s an essential tool for setting larger sizes where lesser tools would strain or fail.

GIANTISAN Rivet Nut Tool, 16-inch Rivnut Tool Kit with 15 SAE & Metric Mandrels, 236pcs Rivnut Assortment Kit and Rugged Carrying Case

This is the even more comprehensive version of the Giantisan platform, maximizing versatility for professionals. By offering a whopping 15 different mandrels, this kit ensures you are covered from the smallest M3 fastener right up to the largest 1/2-13. The 16-inch handle length remains the key feature, ensuring that even setting the largest nutsert size is a manageable task, reducing operator fatigue substantially. The inclusion of 236 assorted rivnuts means you won’t run out of supplies quickly.

Key features that stand out:
– Mandrel Quantity: The largest selection tested, featuring 15 Metric and SAE sizes (up to M12 and 1/2-13).
– Capacity: Designed to easily handle large fasteners due to 16-inch leverage.
– Convenience: Toolless mandrel changes simplify setup time.
– Kit Contents: Includes 236 assorted rivnuts, perfect for varied applications.

Pros:
– Unmatched variety in mandrel and rivnut count.
– Exceptional power and labor-saving performance.
– High-quality, durable materials.

Cons:
– A significant initial investment compared to smaller kits.

Best for: Professional workshops, marine, and industrial applications that encounter a vast range of fastener sizes.

Expert Opinion: If your job demands the widest possible range of setting capacities, this is arguably the best nut rivet tool kit available. The 15-mandrel count is difficult to beat.

AKKTOL Rivet Nut Tool kit, 16″ Rivnut Tool Kit with 15 Metric and SAE Mandrels, 125-PCS Rivet Nut Assortment Kit, Rugged Carrying Case, Ideal for Sheet Metal & Automotive Work

The AKKTOL 16-inch kit is positioned as a heavy-duty alternative, specifically engineered for reduced effort. Featuring the same generous 15-mandrel selection as the premium Giantisan, the AKKTOL boasts a design that claims to deliver up to 50% less effort than standard 14-inch tools, making it superb for repetitive tasks involving M12 or 1/2″-13 in materials like stainless steel. The knurled head design allows for rapid, toolless changes of mandrels and nosepieces, enhancing operational flow.

Key features that stand out:
– Leverage Claim: 16″ double-compound design maximizes leverage for 50% less effort.
– Construction: 1.2-inch thick high-strength carbon steel with black phosphating for corrosion resistance.
– Mandrel Swap: Quick-change knurled head for toolless swaps.
– Warranty: Includes a 2-year protection card, indicating manufacturer confidence.

Pros:
– Superior leverage for large and tough steel nutserts.
– Comprehensive 15-mandrel kit.
– Highly corrosion-resistant finish.
– Ideal for beginners thanks to the straightforward manual and easy operation.

Cons:
– The sheer size makes it challenging for interior vehicle work.

Best for: Heavy fabrication, structural repairs, and users frequently installing large, steel nutserts.

Expert Opinion: If M12 nutserts are a routine part of your workday, the AKKTOL’s claim of reduced effort holds true. This is a very strong, reliable, and user-friendly nutsert tool.

IMQUALI Rivet Nut Tool Rivet Nut Kit, 16″ Rivnut Tool Kit with 13 Metric & SAE Mandrels Rivet Nut Assortment Kit with 130 Rivet Nuts, Hand Riveters Nutsert Tool Kit with Durable Blow Molded Case

The IMQUALI 16-inch kit aims to blend high leverage with comfort and versatility. Its high-quality carbon steel handles are ergonomically designed to minimize hand fatigue, allowing for prolonged work periods. With 13 interchangeable mandrels, the IMQUALI covers all the essential sizes needed across major industries, from automotive to refrigeration and furniture. Like others in this size category, it benefits from toolless mandrel changes, making it highly portable and efficient on job sites.

Key features that stand out:
– Ergonomics: 16-inch long handle optimized for comfort and reduced hand fatigue.
– Mandrel Set: Includes 13 essential Metric and SAE sizes (M4 to 1/2-13).
– Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of materials and industries (aviation, railway, furniture).
– Portability: Comes with a durable, blow-molded case for organized transport.

Pros:
– Excellent handle comfort for long work sessions.
– Strong, high-leverage 16-inch design.
– Wide range of mandrels included for diverse projects.
– Robust carbon steel construction.

Cons:
– The 130-rivnut assortment is slightly less generous than comparable 16-inch kits.

Best for: Commercial repair technicians and users who require maximum leverage and exceptional comfort.

Expert Opinion: The IMQUALI is a great all-around heavy-duty option. It’s slightly more focused on user comfort than some competing 16-inch models while retaining the power needed for M12 rivnut installation.

Comparison and Buying Insights

Choosing the best nut rivet tool depends primarily on your application: leverage versus access.

For maximum setting capacity and reduced physical effort, the 16-inch models—like the AKKTOL, IMQUALI, and GIANTISAN—are the clear winners. These models are ideal when working with M10, M12, or 1/2-inch steel fasteners. The double compound hinges on 16-inch tools provide the highest mechanical advantage.

The 14-inch tools (WETOLS and AOBEN) strike the best balance between power and portability. They handle up to M10/3/8″ steel rivnuts very effectively, and they are easier to swing open than the larger 16-inch units. If you are mainly working with M8 and smaller fasteners, a 14-inch tool is often sufficient.

If your work involves tight, confined spaces—such as installing attachments in vehicle doors or interior panels—the compact 8-inch NEXTACK is indispensable. While demanding more hand strength, no high-leverage tool can match its maneuverability.

For efficiency, look for features like the AOBEN’s spring-loaded quick-change head or the toolless knurled heads found on the AKKTOL and GIANTISAN models. These features drastically cut down on time spent swapping mandrels.

Final Verdict

After extensive testing, here are our picks for specific needs:

🥇 Best Overall Value (Balance of Power and Price): WETOLS Rivet Nut Tool Kit. This 14-inch tool delivers excellent durability and high-quality mandrels for the most common DIY and light professional sizes, making it a stellar entry point into high-quality nutsert setting.

🏆 Best for Heavy-Duty and Large Fasteners: AKKTOL Rivet Nut Tool kit. The 16-inch leverage combined with the impressive 15-mandrel assortment and robust construction makes setting M12 steel nutserts surprisingly straightforward.

🛠️ Best for Specialized Access: NEXTACK Rivet Nut Tool Kit. This compact, 8-inch design is essential for professionals who frequently encounter limited clearance, proving that the best nut rivet tool isn’t always the biggest.

Best Nut Rivet Tool FAQ

Q1: What is the difference between a rivet gun and a nut rivet tool (nutsert setter)?

A nut rivet tool, or nutsert setter, installs threaded inserts (rivnuts) into thin material, creating permanent, internal threads that allow you to attach components using standard bolts. A traditional rivet gun installs blind rivets, which create a structural joint but do not leave a threaded hole for subsequent attachment. If you need a reusable anchor point, you need a nutsert tool.

Q2: Why is the length of the handle important for nutsert installation?

Handle length directly relates to leverage. Longer handles (like the 16-inch models from GIANTISAN or AKKTOL) require significantly less physical force to compress and set larger fasteners, especially those made of steel or stainless steel. Shorter handles (like the 8-inch NEXTACK) require much more grip strength but offer superior maneuverability.

Q3: Can I install steel nutserts with a manual hand riveter?

Yes, but the setting capacity depends on the tool’s leverage. Most high-leverage 14-inch tools can easily handle steel nutserts up to M10 or 3/8″. For larger steel fasteners, M12 or 1/2″, you should definitely opt for a 16-inch, double-compound hinge model to prevent excessive hand strain or potential tool failure.

Q4: What are the most common mandrel sizes included in a quality kit?

A comprehensive nutsert tool kit should include common metric sizes (M6, M8, M10) and common SAE sizes (1/4-20, 5/16-18, 3/8-16). Premium kits often extend this range to include smaller sizes (M3, M4, M5, 6-32) and larger sizes (M12, 1/2-13) for maximum versatility in automotive and fabrication work.

Q5: How do I know if the nutsert is set correctly?

A properly set rivnut should be firmly compressed against the back side of the material, making the sheet metal sandwich tight. When you remove the tool, the rivnut flange should be flush against the hole, and the installed threads should be securely anchored and able to accept the appropriate bolt without spinning or pulling out.

Q6: What is a “toolless” mandrel change system?

A toolless system means you don’t need a wrench or spanner to swap out the mandrel sizes. Systems like those found on the AOBEN or AKKTOL allow the user to simply unscrew the mandrel by hand or use a quick-release mechanism. This feature significantly improves the speed and convenience of the rivnut installation process when switching between sizes.