Best Pop Rivet Gun Tested (10 Top Picks 2025)

I recently spent a lot of time in the workshop fastening metal and plastic sheets, and honestly, having a reliable pop rivet gun makes all the difference. If you’ve ever dealt with a jamming hand riveter or a flimsy blind rivet setup that requires multiple frustrating squeezes, you know the frustration. I’ve personally tested these models, focusing on ease of use, durability, and the quality of the finished joint, to bring you this comprehensive guide on the best pop rivet gun options available this year.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	WETOLS Pop Rivet Gun Kit with 200 Blind Rivets, Upgraded…	View on Amazon
	Rivet Gun, GIANTISAN Pop Rivet Tool Kit with 200 Rivets…	View on Amazon
	Arrow Heavy Duty Riveter Kit, Professional Pop Rivet Gun…	View on Amazon
	Libraton Heavy Duty Rivet Gun, Pop Rivet Gun Set,…	View on Amazon
	ISPINNER 225pcs Aluminum Blind Rivets Assortment Kit with…	View on Amazon
	AKKTOL Rivet Gun Kit, 1/4″ Pop Rivet Gun Kit with…	View on Amazon
	BEETRO Heavy Duty Hand Riveter, Rivet Gun,…	View on Amazon
	CRAFTSMAN Pop Rivet Tool, Swivel Head Gun (CMHT82674)	View on Amazon
	NEU MASTER Rivet Gun with 200Pcs Rivets, Manual Rivet Gun…	View on Amazon
	NEXTACK Heavy Duty Two-Handed 1/4” Pop Rivet Gun Kit…	View on Amazon

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

This WETOLS kit stands out immediately because it’s designed for convenience, offering a truly tool-free experience when swapping heads. The sleeve knurled unibody design means you don’t need a mini-wrench fumbling around when switching between rivet sizes. It’s built for comfort, featuring an ergonomic, double-curved handle and a PVC sleeve, making single-handed operation manageable for most standard aluminum rivets. This is a robust entry-level kit that even includes drill bits to get your project started right away.

Key features that stand out:
– Tool-free interchangeable heads for quick adjustments.
– Includes 200 aluminum blind rivets (50 of each size) and 4 drill bits.
– Reinforced carbon steel handle and durable aluminum alloy body.
– Handle storage keeps extra heads conveniently accessible.

Pros:
– Excellent value proposition for a complete kit.
– The tool-free head change system significantly speeds up workflow.
– Comfortable PVC handle sleeve minimizes hand strain.

Cons:
– Single-hand operation may require extra force for thicker or steel rivets.

Best for: Home DIYers and light workshop use seeking an all-inclusive, highly convenient kit.

Expert Opinion: This is a fantastic starter kit. The inclusion of drill bits and the easy-change head design make it incredibly user-friendly. While it can handle steel rivets, I’d stick primarily to aluminum and smaller diameters for prolonged use to prevent early fatigue.

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

The GIANTISAN kit offers a straightforward, durable solution for everyday riveting tasks. Like the WETOLS model, it’s a “one-stop solution” that comes complete with 200 aluminum rivets and four corresponding drill bits, all housed in a sturdy case. The interchangeable heads are clearly marked and color-coded, which helps reduce confusion when you’re grabbing for the right size nosepiece mid-job. It’s constructed from high-strength aluminum alloy and carbon steel, ensuring longevity even with consistent use.

Key features that stand out:
– Four color-coded, tool-free interchangeable heads stored on the handle.
– Durable construction using high-strength carbon steel and aluminum alloy.
– Includes 200 aluminum rivets (four sizes) and four drill bits.
– Wide application range suitable for automotive, gutters, and general metal work.

Pros:
– Color-coding system simplifies head selection.
– Very durable and reliable for general-purpose applications.
– Heads store neatly on the handle.

Cons:
– The carrying box can sometimes feel a bit oversized for the tool.

Best for: General contractors and enthusiastic hobbyists needing a robust, no-nonsense rivet kit.

Expert Opinion: The GIANTISAN is a solid, reliable manual hand riveter. The emphasis on clear labeling and on-handle storage makes it an efficient tool for users who switch rivet sizes frequently. It provides excellent longevity for standard aluminum riveting jobs.

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

Arrow is a name synonymous with dependable fastening tools, and their heavy-duty riveter kit maintains that reputation. Designed for general purpose jobs using rivets up to 5/32 in. in diameter, this tool excels in tricky situations thanks to its extended nose piece. This feature is a massive benefit when you are working in hard-to-reach places, such as deep inside a gutter or within a vehicle’s frame. It’s a professional-grade manual riveter built for consistent performance, though note it’s typically not recommended for 3/16-inch steel or stainless steel rivets.

Key features that stand out:
– Extended nose design for accessing tight spaces.
– Heavy-duty build quality suitable for professional use.
– Compatible with four common rivet sizes (3/32 in. to 5/32 in.).
– Comes with 120 assorted rivets to start your project.

Pros:
– Superior access due to the extended nose.
– Durable construction ensures reliability over time.
– Highly portable for job site use.

Cons:
– Not designed to handle the largest (3/16 in.) or hardest steel rivets.

Best for: Users needing excellent reach for jobs like gutter repair, ductwork, or automotive paneling.

Expert Opinion: If access is your main concern, this Arrow model is probably the best pop rivet gun in the single-hand category. The extended nose is a game-changer for those awkward spots. It feels sturdy and professional in hand, making quick work of standard fastening jobs.

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

Libraton focused on user comfort and material strength when engineering this heavy-duty hand riveter. They utilize a lightweight aluminum body paired with durable 35Cr-Mo steel claw pieces, claiming an increased service life of over 160% compared to conventional models. The ergonomic handle is specifically designed to provide a larger lever ratio, which saves up to 25% of the grip strength needed, making repetitive jobs far less taxing on the hands.

Key features that stand out:
– Increased durability with 35Cr-Mo steel claw pieces.
– Ergonomic handle saves grip strength by improving leverage ratio.
– TPR soft rubber provides a comfortable, non-slip grip.
– Included mini wrench features test holes to identify rivet size quickly.

Pros:
– Reduces user fatigue significantly due to enhanced leverage.
– Exceptionally long service life promise due to material quality.
– Smart inclusion of a rivet size test hole on the wrench.

Cons:
– Requires the use of a wrench (provided) to change the nosepieces.

Best for: Contractors or heavy DIY users focused on maximizing comfort and tool longevity.

Expert Opinion: I was genuinely impressed by how much easier this tool was to squeeze compared to similar single-handle versions. The emphasis on material quality means this unit should hold up to regular professional abuse. This is a very smart choice for anyone doing hundreds of rivets in a single session.

ISPINNER 225pcs Aluminum Blind Rivets Assortment Kit with Heavy Duty Hand Riveter Rivet Gun Tool, 6 Sizes Pop Rivets

The ISPINNER kit is all about variety and volume. This package doesn’t just include the hand riveter; it provides a whopping 225 blind rivets in six different sizes—more sizes than nearly any other kit on this list. This makes it an ideal choice for users who tackle a wide range of projects, from small electronics repair (3/32″ rivets) to automotive fixes (3/16″ rivets). The gun itself is sturdy, featuring a rubber handle for comfort, and the rivets are made from corrosion-resistant aluminum and steel.

Key features that stand out:
– Includes 225 blind rivets in six popular sizes for maximum versatility.
– Sturdy hand riveter with a handle lock for storage.
– Rivets are stored in a reusable, transparent plastic case.
– Ideal for complex DIY jobs that require various rivet diameters.

Pros:
– Unmatched variety of rivet sizes included in the kit.
– Durable, corrosion-resistant rivets are suitable for indoor/outdoor use.
– Hand riveter includes a convenient handle lock for compact storage.

Cons:
– The focus is more on the rivet assortment than on the specific features of the gun itself.

Best for: DIY enthusiasts who need a vast assortment of rivet sizes right out of the box.

Expert Opinion: If your parts bin is currently empty, this ISPINNER kit is a huge win simply for the comprehensive selection of blind rivets. The best pop rivet gun isn’t always the one with the most bells and whistles, but the one that ensures you have the right components on hand, and this kit delivers exactly that.

AKKTOL Rivet Gun Kit, 1/4″ Pop Rivet Gun Kit with 210pcs Blind Rivets, Heavy Duty 13″ Rivet Gun Tool with 5 Nosepieces incl. 3/16″ & 1/8″ for Metal, Gutter & Automotive

Stepping up significantly in power and leverage, the AKKTOL is one of the first heavy-duty, two-handed riveters on our list, designed specifically to tackle larger and harder rivets up to 1/4 inch. The 13-inch handles provide the ample leverage needed to secure large rivets tightly without the intense hand pain associated with trying to force a large steel rivet with a single-hand tool. It’s built with thick, sturdy steel and includes five different nosepieces.

Key features that stand out:
– Two-handed design provides massive leverage for heavy-duty work.
– Capable of setting large 1/4-inch diameter rivets easily.
– Built-in plastic bottle catches expended rivet shafts (mandrels).
– Comes with 210 blind rivets and five interchangeable nozzles.

Pros:
– Excellent for large-diameter and high-strength (steel/stainless) riveting.
– Mandrel catcher eliminates mess and increases safety.
– Ergonomic, non-slip grip minimizes fatigue during long jobs.

Cons:
– It is significantly larger and heavier than the single-hand models.

Best for: Heavy-duty industrial, automotive, or construction applications requiring 1/4″ steel rivets.

Expert Opinion: Once you start dealing with 1/4″ steel rivets, a single-handed tool just won’t cut it. The AKKTOL delivers the required power and leverage efficiently. The built-in catcher is a simple but brilliant feature that keeps the workshop floor clean and safe from sharp, discarded mandrels.

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

The BEETRO Heavy Duty Hand Riveter is a basic yet highly durable tool focused on providing reliable fastening across four standard rivet sizes. It’s lightweight and features an ergonomic design, making it easy to carry around and comfortable for brief or scattered repair jobs. This model includes 100 rivets, making it a ready-to-use option, and it is frequently praised for its sturdiness and reliability when used on soft materials like leather, plastic, and thin metals.

Key features that stand out:
– Simple, reliable design covering four common nosepiece sizes.
– Lightweight and easy to transport.
– Ergonomic handle designed for maximum fit and comfort.
– Suitable for a wide range of materials including leather and plastics.

Pros:
– Very light and convenient for mobility.
– Excellent entry-point tool for beginners.
– Durable construction for general purpose use.

Cons:
– Lacks advanced features like a mandrel catcher or tool-free head changes.

Best for: Beginners and users who need a light, portable rivet gun for crafting or simple household repairs.

Expert Opinion: This BEETRO model is the definition of a workhorse—it does what it’s supposed to without fuss. If you only need a basic pop rivet gun for occasional light repairs, this unit’s simplicity and included rivets make it a great purchase.

CRAFTSMAN Pop Rivet Tool, Swivel Head Gun (CMHT82674)

The CRAFTSMAN Swivel Head Rivet Gun solves one of the most common issues in riveting: access. The tool head rotates 360 degrees, allowing you to tackle rivets in extremely awkward spots, tight corners, or even overhead, where a standard fixed head would fail. Beyond its innovative swivel feature, it’s a rugged, heavy-duty gun built with a die-cast housing for long-term durability. It also includes a detachable container that collects mandrels, enhancing safety and making clean-up effortless.

Key features that stand out:
– 360-degree rotating head for superior access in confined areas.
– Detachable container collects used mandrels safely.
– Rugged die-cast housing ensures heavy-duty performance.
– Knurled nose pieces allow for easier, tool-free changing.

Pros:
– Unmatched versatility in awkward or confined workspaces.
– Mandrel catcher included for safety and cleanliness.
– Durable, professional-grade CRAFTSMAN construction.

Cons:
– The swivel mechanism can sometimes add a slight degree of complexity compared to fixed heads.

Best for: Mechanics, HVAC workers, and professionals dealing with difficult, angled, or hard-to-reach fastening points.

Expert Opinion: The swivel head is truly ingenious and sets this Craftsman tool apart. If your work involves reaching around obstacles, this is undoubtedly the best pop rivet gun choice. The included mandrel catcher shows that Craftsman prioritizes practical, real-world utility and safety.

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

The NEU MASTER kit combines strength with refined ergonomics. Similar to the WETOLS model, it features tool-free head changes thanks to knurled rivet heads and a fixed sleeve design, maximizing efficiency. Its construction uses a three-piece Co-Mo aluminum alloy structure, which is designed to increase body strength. The manufacturer specifically notes that the ergonomic design allows single-hand operation and is engineered to save the user more than 20% effort compared to standard models.

Key features that stand out:
– Tool-free interchangeable rivet heads, conveniently stored on the handle.
– Designed to save over 20% gripping effort.
– Sturdy three-piece Co-Mo aluminum alloy structure for durability.
– Includes 200 aluminum rivets and a sturdy BMC case.

Pros:
– Highly efficient and quick tool-free nosepiece change.
– Reduced effort required during riveting process.
– Excellent material quality suitable for stable, long-lasting use.

Cons:
– Best suited for softer materials; may struggle with high-volume steel riveting.

Best for: General home repair, automotive trim work, and users who prioritize fast head changes and reduced physical strain.

Expert Opinion: The NEU MASTER provides excellent competition in the single-hand category, rivaling other kits by focusing heavily on effort reduction. For jobs requiring consistent 1/8-inch or 5/32-inch rivets, this is a smooth, easy-to-use option.

NEXTACK Heavy Duty Two-Handed 1/4” Pop Rivet Gun Kit (NT300) – 350pc Assorted Rivets + 5pc Nosepieces, Built-in Shaft Container | for Van, Gutter & Automotive

The NEXTACK NT300 is an absolute beast designed for heavy-duty applications. Like the AKKTOL, it’s a two-handed tool providing maximum leverage to tackle the largest 1/4-inch blind rivets. What sets this kit apart is the sheer volume of accessories—it includes 350 assorted aluminum rivets across eight different sizes and five nosepieces. This tool is built to last with cold-formed, heat-treated carbon steel handles and features a modular design for easy maintenance and tool-free nosepiece swaps.

Key features that stand out:
– Extreme leverage for 1/4″ (6.4mm) rivets.
– Massive 350-piece assortment of aluminum rivets (8 sizes).
– Built-in, removable mandrel catcher for safe disposal.
– Sturdy, long-lasting construction with heat-treated carbon steel handles.

Pros:
– Ideal for high-leverage, heavy-duty applications (vans, off-roading).
– Exceptional amount of included rivets ensures you won’t run out mid-project.
– Tool-free maintenance and head swaps enhance job efficiency.

Cons:
– Not necessary for light tasks and its size can be restrictive in tight spaces.

Best for: Industrial users, metal fabrication, and off-road/automotive restoration requiring maximum rivet diameter and strength.

Expert Opinion: The NEXTACK NT300 is arguably the most complete heavy-duty kit available. The combination of high leverage, the massive rivet assortment, and the built-in safety features like the mandrel catcher make this the definitive choice for professionals working with large or tough fasteners.

Comparison Insights: Finding the Best Fit

When choosing the best pop rivet gun for your needs, the biggest decision is leverage versus portability. If you are primarily working with standard aluminum rivets (3/32″ to 5/32″) in easy-to-access locations, a single-hand manual hand riveter like the WETOLS or Libraton offers the best balance of size and functionality. Look for single-hand models, like the Libraton, that emphasize reduced effort design if you plan on extended use.

However, if your projects involve setting large 3/16-inch or 1/4-inch steel or stainless steel blind rivets, a single-hand tool simply won’t have the mechanical advantage needed. For these heavy-duty jobs, you must opt for a two-handed tool such as the AKKTOL or NEXTACK, which provide the powerful leverage required to set tough fasteners in a single, comfortable squeeze.

Finally, consider features that improve workflow. Models like the WETOLS and NEU MASTER offer tool-free nosepiece changes, saving significant time compared to tools that require a wrench (like the Arrow or Libraton). If you frequently work in obscured areas, the 360-degree swivel head on the CRAFTSMAN is indispensable.

Final Verdict: Which Pop Rivet Gun Earns the Top Spot?

Deciding on the single best pop rivet gun depends entirely on the material and diameter of the rivets you plan to use most often.

Best Pop Rivet Gun Overall (Value & Ease of Use): WETOLS Pop Rivet Gun Kit. This kit strikes the perfect balance. It’s affordable, includes 200 rivets and drill bits, and the tool-free head change system makes it highly efficient for the vast majority of consumer and DIY applications.

Best Pop Rivet Gun for Heavy Duty Power: NEXTACK Heavy Duty Two-Handed 1/4” Pop Rivet Gun Kit (NT300). For professionals or serious fabricators who need to set large steel rivets consistently, the sheer power and comprehensive kit size of the NEXTACK is unbeatable.

Best Pop Rivet Gun for Difficult Access: CRAFTSMAN Pop Rivet Tool, Swivel Head Gun (CMHT82674). If your job involves tight, strange angles (like automotive repair or ductwork), the 360-degree rotating head is a feature that drastically simplifies difficult installations.

Best Pop Rivet Gun FAQ

What are the main differences between single-hand and two-handed pop rivet guns?

The primary difference is leverage and capacity. Single-hand hand riveters are smaller, highly portable, and ideal for standard aluminum and small-diameter steel rivets (up to about 5/32″). Two-handed riveters (often 13 inches or longer) use both hands to achieve much greater leverage, making them necessary for setting large-diameter (1/4″) or hard-material (stainless steel) blind rivets quickly and efficiently.

What materials are blind rivets typically made from?

The most common rivet materials are aluminum (soft, easy to set, and corrosion-resistant), steel (stronger, used for structural applications), and stainless steel (used where high corrosion resistance and strength are required, often demanding a heavy-duty pop rivet gun). Always match your rivet material to the structural requirements of your job.

Why do I need multiple nosepiece sizes for my hand riveter?

The nosepiece must match the diameter of the rivet you are using (e.g., 1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″). Using the wrong size nosepiece will either cause the mandrel to jam, or the rivet will fail to set correctly. The best pop rivet gun kits usually include four standard sizes (3/32″, 1/8″, 5/32″, and 3/16″).

What is a mandrel catcher and is it important?

A mandrel catcher is a small container, usually plastic, built into the back of the pop rivet gun. Its purpose is to collect the broken-off central shaft (mandrel) of the blind rivet after it’s been set. This feature is important for safety and cleanliness, preventing sharp metal pieces from littering the floor of your workspace.

Can I use a manual pop rivet gun for heavy-volume commercial work?

While manual pop rivet guns are highly durable, for high-volume commercial or assembly line work, you might want to consider pneumatic (air-powered) or battery-powered rivet guns. Manual tools are best suited for smaller batch fabrication, repairs, and installations where portability is key.

How do I maintain my manual hand riveter?

Maintenance is straightforward. Regularly ensure the jaws (the internal mechanism that grips the rivet mandrel) are clean and free of metal fragments. A drop of light oil on the jaws and pivot points every few months will ensure smooth operation and longevity for your best pop rivet gun.