The 5 Best Rivet Gun For Airstream Tested 2025

When I started my Airstream restoration project, I quickly realized that selecting the right tools was just as critical as the aluminum sheet metal itself. Whether you’re dealing with classic buck rivets for a factory look or modern blind rivets for quick sheet metal repair, having the best rivet gun for Airstream work is essential. We put five top options—from specialized pneumatic bucking kits to heavy-duty manual riveters—to the test, focusing on ease of use, durability, and the specific requirements of aluminum trailer maintenance. This guide will help you choose the ideal tool for your restoration or repair needs.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Wicks Aircraft Airstream Buck Riveting Kit with 3X Rivet…	View on Amazon
	Arrow Heavy Duty Riveter Kit, Professional Pop Rivet Gun…	View on Amazon
	Rivet Gun, GIANTISAN Pop Rivet Tool Kit with 200 Rivets…	View on Amazon
	Rivet Gun, 1/4 Pop Rivet Gun Kit with 200 Blind…	View on Amazon
	WETOLS Pop Rivet Gun Kit with 200 Blind Rivets, Upgraded…	View on Amazon

Wicks Aircraft Airstream Buck Riveting Kit with 3X Rivet Gun, Rivets, Rivet Cutter, Cleco’s, Cleco Pliers, and Drill Bits

For those seeking the authentic look and structural integrity of original Airstream construction, traditional buck riveting is the gold standard. This comprehensive kit from Wicks Aircraft is essentially a one-stop shop designed specifically for sheet metal repair and restoration projects. It includes a powerful 3X pneumatic rivet gun, which offers the necessary force and control required to properly set solid aluminum rivets. This kit stands out because it provides all the necessary auxiliary tools, like clecos and a precision rivet cutter, saving you the hassle of buying essential components separately.

Key features that stand out:
– Full Airstream Repair Kit: Comes with all necessary tooling including a pneumatic gun, bucking bars, and Cleco fasteners.
– Pneumatic Power: The included 3X Rivet Gun provides the required power for properly bucking solid rivets (the strongest type for structural work).
– Cleco System Included: Features 25 each of 1/8″ and 5/32″ Clecos and Pliers for temporary alignment and securing of panels prior to riveting.

Pros:
– Provides true factory-standard buck riveting capability.
– Extremely high strength results ideal for structural repairs.
– A comprehensive kit that ensures project readiness right out of the box.

Cons:
– Requires an air compressor and specialized training to operate correctly.

Best for:
Professional restorers and dedicated enthusiasts aiming for authentic, structural, solid-rivet installation.

Expert Opinion: This is the tool of choice if you are replacing large sections of skin or doing major structural repairs where traditional solid rivets are necessary. The 3X gun provides excellent power control, a must-have when working with soft aluminum skin.

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

Sometimes, you just need a straightforward, dependable hand riveter for quick patches or non-structural repairs on your Airstream, like replacing trim or securing minor fixtures. The Arrow Heavy Duty Riveter Kit is a reliable manual option that is easy to use and highly portable. This general-purpose riveter is designed to handle common aluminum blind rivets up to 5/32 inches, making it suitable for many minor Airstream tasks. We especially appreciated the extended nose design, which makes it much easier to reach those tight corners commonly found under the belly pan or around window frames.

Key features that stand out:
– Extended Nosepiece: Facilitates working in tight, hard-to-reach areas often encountered in vehicle and trailer repair.
– Portable Fastening: A lightweight, manually operated tool requiring no power source, providing great portability.
– Wide Application Range: Works with 3/32 in. to 5/32 in. diameter rivets (ideal sizes for many Airstream patch jobs).

Pros:
– Highly affordable and excellent value for general repairs.
– Easy to operate, making it great for beginners.
– Includes four interchangeable heads for versatility.

Cons:
– Not recommended for structural steel rivets or heavy-duty 3/16″ or 1/4″ sizes.

Best for:
Small, non-structural maintenance, general DIY patch jobs, and beginners needing a simple, reliable solution.

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

The GIANTISAN Pop Rivet Tool Kit offers an incredibly robust “one-stop solution” for those tackling multiple small to medium-sized pop-rivet projects on their Airstream or other sheet metal applications. What sets this apart is the sheer completeness of the package; it includes 200 pieces of aluminum rivets and the necessary drill bits, meaning you can start working immediately. Built from high-strength aluminum alloy and carbon steel, this hand riveter is designed for durability while remaining easy enough for a hobbyist to operate.

Key features that stand out:
– Comprehensive ONE-STOP SOLUTION: Includes the rivet gun, 200 aluminum rivets (in four common sizes), 4 drill bits, and a sturdy carrying case.
– Simple Tool-Free Use: The four color-coded, interchangeable heads (up to 3/16″) are conveniently stored on the handle for quick swapping.
– Durable Construction: Made from high-strength aluminum alloy and carbon steel for guaranteed longevity.

Pros:
– Excellent value for the sheer amount of accessories included.
– Color coding simplifies head selection and setup.
– Strong enough for repetitive aluminum riveting tasks.

Cons:
– The included case, while rugged, can be bulky for simple tool storage.

Best for:
Hobbyists and DIYers who need a high-value, comprehensive kit for medium-duty aluminum skin and fixture repairs.

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

When dealing with thicker sheet metal or needing to install larger blind rivets (up to 1/4 inch), standard single-hand riveters often fall short. This heavy-duty, two-handed model is one of the best rivet gun for Airstream maintenance when high leverage is required. Its 10-inch length provides superior leverage, making the installation of larger 1/4″ aluminum pop rivets surprisingly effortless compared to standard manual tools. The construction features a heat-treated carbon steel handle and an ergonomic non-slip grip, ensuring this tool is built to handle the toughest blind riveting jobs.

Key features that stand out:
– 1/4 Inch Heavy Duty Capacity: Capable of installing large 1/4″ rivets, providing greater fastening power for heavy-gauge aluminum panels.
– Superior Leverage: The 10″ long, two-handed design significantly reduces user fatigue when setting large rivets.
– Tool-Free Head Changes: Features a modular, detachable design with a knurled sleeve for quick, easy nosepiece swaps.

Pros:
– Ideal for high-leverage and larger diameter rivet needs.
– Built to last with corrosion-resistant carbon steel.
– Comes with 200 aluminum rivets across five common sizes.

Cons:
– It’s larger and heavier than single-handed models, making it less ideal for tight spaces.

Best for:
Users performing heavy-duty blind riveting, installing large patch plates, or working with thicker aluminum sections.

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

The WETOLS Pop Rivet Gun Kit is an excellent option for users prioritizing ergonomics and versatile material handling. This upgraded manual single-hand riveter focuses on making the installation process as smooth and comfortable as possible. The ergonomic double-curved handle is specifically designed for labor-saving operation, and the ability to change the four interchangeable heads without tools is a major convenience when cycling through different rivet sizes on an Airstream project. Furthermore, this gun can handle aluminum, steel, and stainless steel rivets, offering excellent flexibility for various restoration scenarios.

Key features that stand out:
– Ergonomic Design: Features a durable aluminum alloy body and an ergonomic double-curved handle for reduced hand strain.
– Tool-Free Head Swaps: Quick-change system for the four common rivet heads, saving significant time during project execution.
– High Material Versatility: Capable of handling aluminum, steel, and stainless steel rivets, suitable for specialized repairs.

Pros:
– Very comfortable for repetitive single-handed operation.
– Highly efficient and quick head changing system.
– Includes 200 rivets and 4 drill bits in a sturdy case.

Cons:
– The 3/16″ head is not recommended for use with heavier steel or stainless steel rivets.

Best for:
Anyone needing a comfortable, single-handed tool for general maintenance, prioritizing ease of use and tool versatility.

Comparison Insights: Manual vs. Pneumatic Power

When selecting the best rivet gun for Airstream work, you must first decide between manual and pneumatic.

The Wicks Aircraft Buck Riveting Kit (pneumatic) is non-negotiable for structural work using solid rivets. These rivets create a stronger, more load-bearing joint crucial for chassis-to-shell integrity. If your Airstream needs major structural restoration, pneumatic bucking is required.

For general repairs, patch plates, or replacing interior fixtures, a manual pop riveter is highly effective and far more convenient. The choice then comes down to size and leverage:
* The Arrow and WETOLS models are great for single-hand, quick, small-to-medium-sized blind rivets (up to 5/32″). They excel in tight spots and prioritize ease of use.
* The 1/4 Pop Rivet Gun is essential if you plan on using 3/16″ or 1/4″ blind rivets, which require significantly more leverage and two hands to set properly.

Remember to only use aluminum rivets on the Airstream skin to prevent galvanic corrosion between dissimilar metals.

Final Verdict: Choosing Your Airstream Riveter

Selecting the right tool hinges entirely on the type of repair you’re undertaking.

For Structural and Authentic Restoration:
If your goal is to replicate the original factory joints and ensure maximum structural strength, the clear winner is the Wicks Aircraft Airstream Buck Riveting Kit. This comprehensive pneumatic system provides the power and tooling required for solid rivet installation.

For General Repairs and Maintenance (Blind Rivets):
If you need a reliable hand tool for quick patches, trim work, or interior fixes, we offer two top choices depending on your leverage needs:
* Best All-Around Value Kit: The Rivet Gun, GIANTISAN Pop Rivet Tool Kit offers incredible value, including the rivets and drill bits needed to start immediately, making it a fantastic entry-level choice.
* Best for Heavy-Duty Blind Rivets (Max Leverage): If you anticipate using larger 3/16″ or 1/4″ rivets on thick patch plates, the Rivet Gun, 1/4 Pop Rivet Gun Kit provides the crucial leverage to make those installations manageable.

Best Rivet Gun For Airstream FAQ

Q1: What types of rivets are used on Airstreams?
Airstreams primarily use two types: solid aluminum rivets (buck rivets) for major structural sections, historically set with a pneumatic rivet gun; and blind aluminum rivets (pop rivets) for minor repairs, interior elements, and patches. Most DIY repairs utilize blind rivets due to their simplicity, but structural restoration requires buck rivets.

Q2: What size aluminum rivets are most commonly used in Airstream repair?
The most common sizes for general blind riveting on Airstream skin are 1/8″ (3.2mm) and 5/32″ (4mm). Structural buck rivets often use 5/32″ or 3/16″. Having a tool, like the best rivet gun for Airstream repairs, that can handle 3/32″ up to 5/32″ covers the vast majority of non-structural jobs.

Q3: Can I use steel or stainless steel rivets on my Airstream?
No, you should strictly use aluminum rivets, especially on the exterior skin. Mixing dissimilar metals like steel and aluminum can cause galvanic corrosion, which will rapidly degrade the aluminum sheet metal around the rivet over time, leading to leaks and failures.

Q4: What are Cleco fasteners and why are they included in the buck riveting kit?
Clecos are temporary fasteners used to precisely hold aluminum panels together while the rivet holes are being drilled, finalized, and prepared for riveting. They maintain panel alignment and prevent slipping before the permanent rivets are installed, which is critical for complex Airstream sheet metal repair.

Q5: Is a manual pop rivet gun strong enough for Airstream repairs?
Yes, a heavy-duty manual pop rivet gun is strong enough for almost all general, non-structural repairs, such as patching holes, securing trim, or reattaching interior walls. For thicker metal or larger blind rivets (1/4″), you should opt for a manual gun with high leverage, like a two-handed model.

Q6: What should I look for in an ergonomic design for repetitive riveting?
For repetitive blind riveting, look for features like a double-curved handle (as seen in the WETOLS kit) or non-slip PVC grips. These designs distribute pressure better across the hand, greatly reducing the fatigue often associated with setting dozens of blind rivets manually.