Best Pop Rivet Gun For Stainless Steel

When I first started tackling stainless steel projects, I quickly realized my old aluminum-focused riveter wasn’t up to the task. Working with stainless steel demands a massive amount of pulling force—it requires a tool with exceptional leverage or raw power, and reinforced, heavy-duty construction to avoid snapping. We need true workhorses, and this guide walks you through the tools I’ve personally tested to find the best pop rivet gun for stainless steel that can handle the sheer strength and corrosion resistance of these demanding fasteners.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Rivet Gun, GIANTISAN Pop Rivet Tool Kit with 200 Rivets…	View on Amazon
	FOREVTL Rivet Gun Kit, 1/4 Pop Rivet Gun Kit with…	View on Amazon
	Libraton Heavy Duty Rivet Gun, Pop Rivet Gun Set,…	View on Amazon
	smseace 600Pcs Stainless Steel Pop Rivets with Washer…	View on Amazon
	YEARTOP Cordless Rivet Tool for De-Walt 20V Max Battery,…	View on Amazon
	NEXTACK Heavy Duty Two-Handed 1/4” Pop Rivet Gun Kit…	View on Amazon
	Rivet Gun, 1/4 Pop Rivet Gun Kit with 200 Blind…	View on Amazon

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

This GIANTISAN kit is a fantastic entry point for anyone needing a comprehensive setup right out of the box. While it’s a single-handed operation, the high-strength aluminum alloy and carbon steel construction give it a sturdy feel suitable for smaller stainless steel rivets (up to 3/16 inch). The included rivets and drill bits mean you can start your project immediately, making it a great option for the home DIYer who encounters stainless steel occasionally.

Key features that stand out:
– ONE-STOP SOLUTION: Includes the gun, 200 aluminum rivets, and 4 drill bits.
– SIMPLE TO USE: Interchangeable heads are conveniently stored on the handle and color-coded.
– STRONG AND DURABLE: Built from high strength aluminum alloy and carbon steel.

Pros:
– Complete kit provides immediate utility.
– Compact design is easy to store and operate one-handed.
– Good value for money, perfect for occasional use.

Cons:
– Limited leverage makes pulling large stainless steel rivets tiring.

Best for: DIY enthusiasts and small-scale projects using smaller stainless steel rivets.

Expert Opinion: This is a solid manual tool, but users should stick to 1/8″ or 5/32″ stainless steel rivets to maintain comfortable operation, as 3/16″ stainless can fatigue the hand quickly with this model.

FOREVTL Rivet Gun Kit, 1/4 Pop Rivet Gun Kit with 210Pcs Blind Rivets and 5 Tool-Free Interchangeable Rivet Heads, 13″ Heavy Duty Manual Hand Riveter Tool for Metal, Plastic & Automotive

When you move into serious stainless steel work, you need leverage, and the FOREVTL delivers. This 13-inch heavy-duty model is designed to handle tough fasteners, featuring an impressive 1/4-inch (6.4mm) rivet capacity, which is crucial for structural stainless work. The longer, reinforced handles significantly increase the leverage ratio, meaning you exert less effort to set high-strength blind rivets. The inclusion of a collection bottle for used mandrels is a great safety and convenience feature.

Key features that stand out:
– 1/4 Inch Heavy Duty Rivet Gun: Maximum leverage for efficient installation of large rivets.
– Durable & Solid: Features a 2.5mm thick carbon steel handle, heat-treated for superior strength.
– Tool-Free Interchangeable Heads: Quick and easy nozzle changes, supporting 5 sizes up to 1/4″.

Pros:
– Excellent leverage minimizes user fatigue when setting stainless steel.
– High durability with thick, heat-treated carbon steel construction.
– Capability to handle the largest standard pop rivet size (1/4″).

Cons:
– The 13-inch size might be cumbersome in tight spaces.

Best for: Heavy-duty repairs, automotive fabrication, and frequent use of larger stainless steel rivets.

Expert Opinion: The 1/4-inch capacity and reinforced handle make this a top-tier manual choice for frequent stainless steel use. The sheer strength of the tool matches the required pulling force for 304 stainless rivets.

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 riveter focuses intensely on ergonomic efficiency and long-term durability. By using a lightweight aluminum body paired with a 35Cr-Mo steel claw piece and heat-treated alloy steel, the manufacturer claims to increase service life significantly. Crucially for stainless steel, the design of the ergonomic handle is engineered to provide a larger lever ratio, saving up to 25% of the required grip strength. This is vital when you’re setting dozens of stainless rivets in one sitting.

Key features that stand out:
– Sturdy Material: 35Cr-Mo steel claw piece and heat-treated alloy steel structural parts.
– Working Efficiency: Ergonomic handle design saves 25% of grip strength.
– Smart Design: Includes a mini wrench with test holes for quick rivet sizing identification.

Pros:
– Reduced hand fatigue due to efficient leverage design.
– Superior claw strength handles the demanding breakage force of SS mandrels.
– High-quality alloy steel construction ensures extended service life.

Cons:
– Does not support the largest 1/4″ rivet size.

Best for: Users seeking comfort and high efficiency when setting 3/16″ and smaller stainless steel rivets frequently.

Expert Opinion: This tool excels in material science. The internal claw strength is paramount when pulling stainless steel, which breaks the mandrel much later than aluminum; the 35Cr-Mo steel ensures those repeated stresses won’t cause premature failure.

smseace 600Pcs Stainless Steel Pop Rivets with Washer Assortment Kit 8-Sizes Stainless Rivets(1/8Inch 5/32Inch 3/16Inch) for Metal,Furniture,Automotive,Instruments

While this is not a rivet gun, no discussion of the best pop rivet gun for stainless steel is complete without the proper fasteners. Using standard aluminum rivets on a stainless steel project defeats the purpose of choosing SS. This smseace kit provides a comprehensive assortment of 304 stainless steel rivets, ensuring maximum corrosion resistance and structural integrity. The inclusion of washers is particularly valuable for stabilizing rivets in softer or oversized material.

Key features that stand out:
– Endurance 304 Stainless Steel: Engineered for exceptional rust and corrosion protection.
– Enhanced Stability with Washers: Prevents rivet pull-out in softer materials or oversized holes.
– Complete and Organized Kit: 600 pieces across 8 sizes, conveniently labeled.

Pros:
– Essential companion kit for any stainless steel riveting project.
– Superior corrosion resistance, ideal for marine or exterior applications.
– Washers increase the bearing surface, improving security.

Cons:
– Requires a separate purchase of a heavy-duty rivet gun.

Best for: Ensuring any stainless steel project uses fasteners that match the strength and corrosion resistance of the material.

Expert Opinion: Always use 304 stainless steel blind rivets when riveting stainless steel sheet metal. The added cost is negligible compared to the failure rate of using weaker aluminum or standard steel rivets in demanding environments.

YEARTOP Cordless Rivet Tool for De-Walt 20V Max Battery, Electric Rivet Tool Kit for 3 Size (1/8”, 5/32”, 3/16″) Rivets, Blind Pop Rivet Gun with 100PCS 5/32” Rivets for Metal, Plastic(No Battery)

For professional fabricators or those dealing with high-volume production, going cordless is the only way to go. This YEARTOP tool, compatible with DeWalt 20V batteries, eliminates all manual effort, which is critical when setting tough stainless steel fasteners. The high-efficiency brushless motor delivers up to 2000 lbs of strong pulling force—far exceeding what most manual guns can achieve comfortably. This power ensures the stainless steel mandrel breaks perfectly every time, without user fatigue.

Key features that stand out:
– Brushless Rivet Tool: Provides 2000 lbs pulling force, long life, and low maintenance.
– Compatible with DE-WALT 20V Batteries: Ideal for users already invested in the DeWalt platform.
– Fast & Wide Application: Capable of 3-second fast pulling, boosting productivity significantly.

Pros:
– Eliminates all manual strain, mandatory for high-volume stainless steel work.
– Brushless motor technology ensures maximum power and longevity.
– Excellent pulling force handles even the stiffest stainless steel rivets easily.

Cons:
– High initial cost and requires a separate compatible battery pack.

Best for: Commercial production, auto body shops, and professionals who frequently set large quantities of stainless steel rivets.

Expert Opinion: This is the tool you reach for when time is money and your hands are tired. While it only supports up to 3/16″, the consistency and speed when riveting corrosion-resistant stainless steel is unmatched by manual alternatives.

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 built for maximum brute force leverage. As a two-handed operation tool, it allows the user to harness greater body strength to set full-range pop blind rivets up to 1/4″ (6.4mm). This massive capacity, combined with the two-handed design, makes pulling high-tensile stainless steel fasteners remarkably easier than with a standard one-handed riveter. The inclusion of a large assortment of rivets and a convenient built-in mandrel catcher adds to its practical appeal on the job site.

Key features that stand out:
– 1/4 Rivet Gun (Two-Handed): Maximum leverage designed for the largest pop rivets.
– One-Stop Kit: Comes complete with 350 aluminum rivets and 5 nosepieces.
– Sturdy & Long Lasting: Cold-formed, heat-treated carbon steel handles provide excellent durability.

Pros:
– Highest leverage potential among manual tools.
– Excellent construction strength for repeated heavy use.
– Simple, modular design is easy to disassemble and maintain.

Cons:
– Requires two hands, limiting precision or access in confined spaces.

Best for: Tradesmen, gutter installation, van conversions, and structural projects requiring maximum manual force for 1/4″ stainless steel rivets.

Expert Opinion: When looking for a heavy-duty manual riveter, always prioritize a two-handed model for stainless steel. The mechanical advantage provided by the longer handles is essential to reliably break the stainless steel mandrel without straining your hands or shoulders.

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

This heavy-duty hand riveter is another excellent choice for those needing 1/4-inch capacity and a robust build. The tool’s 10-inch long construction is designed for superior leverage compared to smaller models. Like other top contenders, it features a heavy-duty, heat-treated, black-phosphate coated carbon steel handle that maximizes corrosion resistance and ensures longevity. The modular, detachable design makes maintenance simple, ensuring the tool remains reliable even after pulling numerous tough stainless steel mandrels.

Key features that stand out:
– 1/4 Inch Heavy Duty Rivet Gun: Provides superior leverage for effortless large rivet installation.
– Built to Last: Features a 0.8″ thick heat-treated carbon steel handle.
– User-Friendly Design: Modular, detachable design allows for toolless nosepiece changes.

Pros:
– Strong carbon steel handle resists wear and corrosion.
– Tool-free nozzle changes speed up workflow.
– Reliable construction for frequent, heavy-duty applications.

Cons:
– Leverage is slightly less than the longer 13-inch models.

Best for: Durable, all-around use on metalworking and automotive projects requiring up to 1/4″ rivets.

Expert Opinion: This model sits perfectly between the compact one-handed tools and the maximum-leverage two-handed options. It offers enough mechanical advantage for most 3/16″ stainless steel jobs while still retaining the ability to set 1/4″ rivets when necessary.

Comparison Short Insights

When evaluating the best pop rivet gun for stainless steel, your main decision revolves around pulling power.

For manual operation, leverage is king. Tools like the NEXTACK and FOREVTL, which feature two-handed operation and 1/4-inch capacity, provide the crucial mechanical advantage needed to set stiff stainless steel rivets without undue strain. If you plan to use 1/4″ stainless steel rivets, only a heavy-duty two-handed tool will provide reliable results.

If volume is your concern, the initial investment in a cordless tool like the YEARTOP is quickly justified. The 2000 lbs of pulling force provided by the electric motor eliminates all physical effort and significantly speeds up production, especially on high-volume bodywork or manufacturing.

Finally, always look closely at the construction materials. Because stainless steel requires so much force to break the mandrel, guns with heat-treated carbon steel or alloy steel jaws (like the Libraton and FOREVTL) will last much longer than those made primarily of aluminum.

Final Verdict

Choosing the right tool depends on your intended frequency and volume of use when setting stainless steel rivets.

For the professional or high-volume user: The YEARTOP Cordless Rivet Tool is the clear winner. Its sheer power and speed save time and eliminate hand fatigue, making it the most efficient way to deal with dozens of tough stainless fasteners.

For the serious DIYer or tradesman needing maximum manual power: The NEXTACK Heavy Duty Two-Handed 1/4” Pop Rivet Gun Kit offers the best manual capability. The two-handed design and 1/4-inch capacity ensure you can reliably tackle any size of stainless steel blind rivet.

The Best Value Option: The FOREVTL Rivet Gun Kit, 1/4 Pop Rivet Gun Kit provides exceptional durability, strong leverage, and 1/4″ capacity in a heavy-duty single-handed format, making it a powerful and accessible choice for those needing a robust manual gun for stainless steel.

Best Pop Rivet Gun For Stainless Steel FAQ

What makes riveting stainless steel so much harder than riveting aluminum?

Stainless steel (especially 304 stainless steel) has a much higher tensile strength than aluminum. This means the internal mandrel (the stem that breaks off) requires significantly more pulling force to fracture and set the rivet head correctly. Standard, light-duty rivet guns designed for aluminum often lack the necessary leverage or jaw strength to consistently break the stainless steel mandrel.

Can I use a standard, single-handed pop rivet gun to install stainless steel rivets?

You can use a standard single-handed gun for very small stainless steel rivets (e.g., 1/8″ or 3/32″). However, attempting to set larger sizes like 3/16″ or 1/4″ with a standard gun will cause extreme hand strain and is likely to lead to incomplete setting, tool failure, or early user fatigue. For larger stainless blind rivets, a heavy-duty two-handed or powered gun is essential.

What size pop rivet gun do I need for stainless steel?

For stainless steel, you should prioritize a gun with a minimum rivet capacity of 3/16″ (4.8mm). If you are doing structural work, selecting a heavy-duty gun that can handle up to 1/4″ (6.4mm), such as the NEXTACK or FOREVTL, provides the most versatility and necessary leverage.

What is the advantage of a brushless electric rivet gun for stainless steel?

A brushless electric rivet gun (like the YEARTOP) offers two major benefits: high, consistent pulling force (often over 2,000 lbs) and speed. This consistency ensures the stainless steel mandrel breaks cleanly every time, eliminating the physical strain and inconsistent setting often associated with manual operation on tough materials.

Why do some stainless steel rivet guns emphasize carbon steel or alloy steel construction?

Stainless steel riveting puts intense stress on the moving parts, especially the jaws or claw piece inside the gun, which grips the mandrel. Tools made with reinforced, heat-treated carbon steel or alloy steel are far more resistant to wear, stretching, and failure than tools made with softer metals, ensuring the long-term reliability required for working with high-strength fasteners.

Do I need special stainless steel rivets for a stainless steel project?

Yes. You must use stainless steel fasteners, typically 304 stainless steel rivets, to ensure the finished joint matches the base material’s strength and corrosion resistance. Using aluminum or standard steel rivets in a stainless steel application will introduce weaker failure points and negate the corrosion-resistant properties of the stainless structure.