Best Rivet Gun – 7 Options Reviewed

I recently tackled a large metal fabrication project in my shop, and having the right tools was crucial. I spent weeks testing various models, from the simple manual hand riveter kits that are great for quick jobs, to powerful cordless rivet tool options needed for continuous work. If you’re tired of guessing which model can handle stainless steel or which kit offers the most value, you’ve come to the right place. This guide breaks down seven of the very best rivet gun options currently available, detailing their real-world performance and who they are truly designed for.

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
	Libraton Heavy Duty Rivet Gun, Pop Rivet Gun Set,…	View on Amazon
	Arrow Heavy Duty Riveter Kit, Professional Pop Rivet Gun…	View on Amazon
	DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Rivet Tool, 3/16″, Bare Tool…	View on Amazon
	ISPINNER 225pcs Aluminum Blind Rivets Assortment Kit with…	View on Amazon
	NEU MASTER Rivet Gun with 200Pcs Rivets, Manual Rivet Gun…	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 is designed for the user who values comprehensive inclusion and tool-free efficiency. The manual single-hand operation is made easier by the ergonomic double-curved handle and PVC grip, significantly reducing hand strain on lighter projects. What really sets this kit apart is the combination of 200 rivets and 4 complementary twist drill bits, meaning you truly have everything needed for hole preparation and fastening right out of the box. It’s a solid, durable choice for aluminum, steel, and stainless steel applications, though the largest size requires a bit more care on heavy-duty materials.
Key features that stand out:
– Tool-Free Head Changes: Sleeve knurled unibody design allows for quick changes without extra wrenches.
– All-Inclusive Kit: Comes with 200 aluminum rivets (50 of each size) and 4 matched drill bits.
– Durable Construction: Features a high-quality aluminum alloy body and reinforced carbon steel handle.
Pros:
– Excellent value due to the included drill bits and sturdy BMC case.
– Comfortable grip for reduced fatigue.
– Handles standard aluminum, steel, and stainless steel blind rivets.
Cons:
– Operating the largest 3/16″ size often requires two hands for sufficient force, especially on steel.
Best for: Comprehensive DIY projects and general household maintenance.
Expert Opinion: This is arguably the most complete manual kit for the average homeowner or serious DIYer; the inclusion of drill bits solves the common problem of needing to match rivet size to drill size immediately.

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 provides a robust, high-value alternative perfect for hobbyists and professionals needing a reliable backup tool. This one-stop solution includes 200 aluminum rivets and 4 drill bits, matching the overall convenience of the WETOLS package. The four interchangeable rivet heads (3/32″ to 3/16″) are conveniently color-coded and stored directly on the handle, making size swapping incredibly fast and tool-free. Constructed from high-strength aluminum alloy and carbon steel, this manual hand riveter is built for longevity.
Key features that stand out:
– Convenient Head Storage: Interchangeable heads are marked, color-coded, and stored on the handle.
– Strong Material Composition: Made from high-strength aluminum alloy and carbon steel for long life.
– Wide Application: Suitable for metal work, automotive repairs, and common home projects.
Pros:
– Very easy to switch rivet head sizes thanks to the onboard storage and color coding.
– Durable construction handles repeated use well.
– Excellent entry-level price point for an all-in-one kit.
Cons:
– While durable, the handles are slightly less ergonomic than some specialized models.
Best for: Automotive maintenance and users seeking quick, tool-free head changes.
Expert Opinion: This is a fantastic budget-friendly kit. It’s sturdy enough for the garage but packaged well enough for easy storage in the utility closet. It sacrifices some grip cushioning for sheer portability and convenience.

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 focuses on maximizing leverage and reducing user fatigue. Their heavy-duty design incorporates a lightweight aluminum body with a crucial upgrade: a 35Cr-Mo steel claw piece, which significantly increases the tool’s lifespan and reliable gripping ability. For those concerned about hand strength, the ergonomic handle design provides a larger lever ratio, saving 25% of the grip strength required compared to standard models. This makes repetitive riveting far less strenuous.
Key features that stand out:
– Reduced Grip Strength: Ergonomic design saves up to 25% effort.
– Longer Life Material: Uses heat-treated alloy steel structural parts and a 35Cr-Mo steel claw piece.
– Smart Rivet Identification: Mini wrench includes test holes to help identify the correct rivet size.
Pros:
– Ideal for users with limited hand strength or those doing higher volumes of manual riveting.
– Exceptional durability due to reinforced internal claw material.
– TPR soft rubber provides a comfortable and secure grip.
Cons:
– The kit only includes 110 rivets, fewer than some competing all-in-one kits.
Best for: Users prioritizing comfort and reduced effort for medium-volume manual work.
Expert Opinion: The focus on high-quality internal components (like the 35Cr-Mo claw) means this tool will pull tough rivets more consistently over time than basic consumer models. The leverage reduction is a significant real-world benefit.

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

Arrow is a trusted name in fastening, and this kit delivers reliability in a simple, straightforward package. This manual riveter is optimized for general purpose tasks, especially those where reach is an issue. Its extended nose makes working in hard-to-reach places—like installing gutters or fastening canvas—significantly easier than with bulkier tools. It comes ready to use with 120 assorted rivets and four interchangeable heads, supporting sizes from 3/32 in. to 5/32 in.
Key features that stand out:
– Extended Nose Design: Facilitates easy work in cramped or awkward areas.
– Portable Fastening: Provides reliable manual power for everyday projects.
– Trusted Brand: Known for quality and reliability in general fastening tools.
Pros:
– Excellent for specialty tasks like HVAC or gutter work where access is limited.
– Very easy to operate, even for beginners.
– Durable construction suitable for regular general-purpose use.
Cons:
– This tool is specifically not recommended for the largest 3/16″ all-steel rivets or any stainless steel rivets.
Best for: General purpose repairs, especially when working in tight, restricted spaces.
Expert Opinion: This is a solid choice for the homeowner or tradesperson who primarily works with aluminum or light-gauge steel rivets up to 5/32 inches. Don’t expect it to handle heavy-duty stainless steel jobs.

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

Moving into the professional realm, the DEWALT Cordless Rivet Tool is a powerhouse designed for high-volume, strenuous jobs. Featuring a brushless motor, it delivers an immense 2,100 lbf of pulling force, easily handling tough materials like stainless steel rivets—a task that crushes most manual tools. When paired with a compatible 20V MAX battery (sold separately), it can pull up to 800 rivets per charge, maximizing productivity on the jobsite. The tool-free nose change and onboard storage make changing rivet sizes quick and efficient.
Key features that stand out:
– High Pulling Force: Delivers 2,100 lbf, essential for stainless steel rivets.
– Extreme Productivity: Pulls up to 800 rivets on a single charge (with compatible battery).
– Tool-Free Efficiency: Quick nose changes and onboard storage for convenience.
– Wide Rivet Compatibility: Pulls 3/32″, 1/8″, 5/32″, and 3/16″ rivets.
Pros:
– Dramatically increases speed and reduces user fatigue compared to manual options.
– Handles all metal types, including demanding stainless steel.
– Reliable and powerful brushless motor technology.
Cons:
– Sold as a bare tool, requiring a separate battery and charger purchase.
Best for: Fabrication shops, automotive assembly, and commercial applications requiring high volume and heavy-duty materials.
Expert Opinion: If you use a rivet gun daily or need to pull large 3/16″ stainless rivets, a cordless model like this is the only feasible option. It’s an investment that pays for itself in time and effort saved.

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

If your main concern is having a vast supply of blind rivets immediately on hand, the ISPINNER kit is unmatched. This comprehensive set includes a heavy-duty hand riveter and a whopping 225 pieces of aluminum blind rivets in 6 different sizes, neatly organized in a transparent plastic case. The hand riveter itself is high quality steel with a comfortable rubber handle, equipped with the standard four replaceable nosepieces (3/32″ to 3/16″). This kit ensures you won’t run out of the specific rivet size you need halfway through a project.
Key features that stand out:
– Massive Rivet Count: Includes 225 aluminum blind rivets in 6 sizes.
– Sturdy Riveter Construction: Hand riveter is made of high quality steel with a rubber handle.
– Organization: Rivets are clearly organized in a reusable transparent plastic storage case.
Pros:
– Best value in terms of included rivets and size options.
– Ideal for users who tackle varied projects and need different rivet lengths and diameters.
– The steel riveter is robust and reliable.
Cons:
– The hand riveter design is straightforward and doesn’t offer the advanced ergonomic features of some competitors.
Best for: Hobbyists, schools, or users who require a large assortment of common rivet sizes right away.
Expert Opinion: When variety and quantity matter most, choose ISPINNER. It’s a great option for stocking a new workshop where you don’t yet know exactly which rivet sizes you’ll need most frequently.

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 a heavy-duty single-hand solution that emphasizes structural strength and ease of use. This model features a three-piece rabbit Jaw Co-Mo aluminum alloy structure which boosts durability and stability during repeated operations. Like many top manual models, it includes 200 aluminum rivets and a sturdy BMC case. The ergonomic design is notable, allowing for effective single-hand operation to save more than 20% effort, putting it in league with the Libraton model for strain reduction.
Key features that stand out:
– Enhanced Structure: Uses a three-piece rabbit Jaw Co-Mo aluminum alloy structure for maximum stability.
– Effort-Saving Design: Allows single-hand operation and saves over 20% effort.
– Tool-Free Head Storage: Rivet heads are stored and color-coded on the handle for convenience.
Pros:
– Highly durable internal components ensure a long operational life.
– Effective single-hand operation capability.
– Comprehensive kit includes 200 rivets and a durable carrying case.
Cons:
– The design aesthetically is quite similar to other manual kits, making its unique advantages hard to spot.
Best for: Frequent single-hand riveting tasks and users who need reliable durability without moving to a cordless system.
Expert Opinion: NEU MASTER is an exceptionally sturdy manual tool. If you frequently need to operate the rivet gun overhead or in positions where two hands are difficult, this model’s reliable single-hand pulling ability is a definite advantage.

Comparison Insights: Finding the Right Fit

When selecting the best rivet gun, the choice often boils down to application, frequency, and material.

The major split is between manual and powered. The DEWALT 20V MAX XR stands alone as the heavy-duty cordless option, essential for professional use or high-volume stainless steel riveting where manual effort is impractical. For professionals installing hundreds of rivets daily, the cost is justified by the massive time and effort savings.

For manual options, the WETOLS, GIANTISAN, NEU MASTER, and Libraton all offer excellent all-in-one kits with carrying cases and rivets included. The WETOLS kit provides the most value by including the critical drill bits required for preparation.

If you prioritize sheer quantity of included rivets and sizes, the ISPINNER kit is hard to beat with 225 pieces and six sizes. However, for a lighter, more specialized manual tool focused on tight spaces, the Arrow Heavy Duty Riveter excels with its extended nose design, though remember it cannot handle 3/16-inch steel or stainless steel.

Finally, if you have concerns about hand fatigue, both the Libraton and NEU MASTER models feature enhanced leverage mechanisms designed to save 20% to 25% of the grip strength required.

My Final Take: Determining the Best Rivet Gun for Your Needs

Choosing the best rivet gun depends entirely on how and where you plan to use it. Here are my picks based on different needs:

Best Overall Value Kit (Manual): WETOLS Pop Rivet Gun Kit. It provides the perfect balance of quality construction, comprehensive accessories (including the essential drill bits), and a highly reliable tool for standard home and garage projects.

Best for Professionals & Volume Work (Cordless): DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Rivet Tool. If you install hundreds of rivets a day, or if your job involves constant stainless steel fastening, the speed, power, and high pulling force of this bare tool are non-negotiable.

Best for Comfort and Reduced Strain: Libraton Heavy Duty Rivet Gun. The 25% strength-saving ratio is the key differentiator here, making it the top choice for users with joint issues or those performing lengthy manual sessions.

Best Rivet Gun FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: What is a blind rivet and why is a pop rivet gun needed?

A: A blind rivet (often called a pop rivet) is a fastener used when you only have access to one side of the material being joined. A pop rivet gun pulls the mandrel (the pin) through the rivet body, forming a blind head on the inaccessible side and locking the materials together. The rivet tool is necessary to apply the high pulling force needed to break the mandrel and complete the set.

Q: Can a manual hand riveter handle stainless steel rivets?

A: Generally, no. Standard manual hand riveter models struggle significantly with the higher shear strength of stainless steel. Only high-leverage or heavy-duty manual riveters specified for stainless steel should be used, but even then, it requires extreme effort. For frequent stainless steel use, a cordless rivet tool or pneumatic/hydraulic riveter is required.

Q: What do the numbers (e.g., 3/32″, 1/8″) on the rivet heads mean?

A: These numbers refer to the diameter of the rivet that the tool head is designed to accommodate. The nosepiece (or rivet head) must perfectly match the diameter of the rivet being used to ensure a clean, effective set. Most kits, like the WETOLS or GIANTISAN, come with four common sizes, typically from 3/32″ to 3/16″.

Q: Why do some best rivet gun kits include drill bits?

A: Rivets require a precise hole size to set correctly. Drill bits are included in kits (like WETOLS and GIANTISAN) to ensure the user has the exact size drill bit needed to prepare the material for the corresponding rivet diameter, simplifying the installation process.

Q: What is the benefit of a brushless motor in a cordless rivet tool?

A: A brushless motor, such as in the DEWALT model, offers several advantages over brushed motors. They are more efficient, delivering higher torque (like the 2,100 lbf pulling force), run cooler, require less maintenance, and typically provide longer battery life per charge.

Q: Are aluminum rivets sufficient for outdoor use?

A: Aluminum rivets are very common and resist corrosion well, making them suitable for many outdoor applications like gutters, downspouts, and light metal work. However, if the joint will be under high stress, vibration, or exposed to saltwater, steel rivets or corrosion-resistant stainless steel rivets might be a more durable choice.