Best Rivet Guns Featuring 10 Quality Options

I’ve spent countless hours in the shop, and I know how frustrating it is when a seemingly simple riveting job turns into a headache because of a flimsy tool. Whether you’re working on sheet metal, automotive repairs, or gutter installation, having a dependable hand riveter or a powerful cordless model makes all the difference. I’ve gone through and rigorously evaluated some of the best rivet guns on the market, from entry-level manual kits to industrial-grade pneumatic systems, to bring you a comprehensive guide focused on durability and ease of use.

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
	NEU MASTER Rivet Gun with 200Pcs Rivets, Manual Rivet Gun…	View on Amazon
	DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Rivet Tool, 3/16″, Bare Tool…	View on Amazon
	BEETRO Heavy Duty Hand Riveter, Rivet Gun,…	View on Amazon
	Milwaukee Electric Tools 2550-20 M12 Rivet Tool (Bare Tool)	View on Amazon
	ISPINNER 225pcs Aluminum Blind Rivets Assortment Kit with…	View on Amazon
	FICHFOYE Heavy Duty Pneumatic Rivet Gun, 3916lbf 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 a fantastic choice for the DIY enthusiast who needs a complete solution right out of the box. What sets this manual riveter apart is the thoughtful inclusion of not just 200 aluminum rivets, but also four drill bits, ensuring you have everything needed to prep your materials and start fastening immediately. The ergonomic double-curved handle design makes working less strenuous, and the tool-free interchangeability of the rivet heads makes size swapping incredibly quick and painless.

Key features that stand out:
– Comprehensive Kit: Includes 200 rivets and 4 matching drill bits.
– Tool-Free Head Changes: Knurled unibody design allows for easy maintenance and head swaps without needing extra wrenches.
– Durable Construction: High-quality aluminum alloy body and heat-treated carbon steel handle.
– Wide Material Compatibility: Handles aluminum, steel, and stainless steel rivets (though 4.8mm is not recommended for steel/stainless).

Pros:
– Complete kit reduces the need for immediate accessory purchases.
– Excellent ergonomic handles for comfort during prolonged use.
– Heads are conveniently stored directly on the handle.

Cons:
– Single-hand operation requires significant grip strength for thicker, larger rivets.

Best for: General DIY, home repairs, and beginners seeking an all-in-one starter kit.

Expert Opinion: This manual riveter offers exceptional value for money due to the extensive accessories included. The tool-free head changing mechanism is a major time-saver compared to models requiring a mini-wrench.

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 focuses on simplicity and durability. Made from high-strength aluminum alloy and carbon steel, this hand riveter is built to withstand rigorous use in automotive, gutter, and general metalworking projects. Like the WETOLS, it offers a one-stop solution with 200 aluminum rivets and 4 drill bits, neatly packaged in a rugged carrying case. The heads are clearly marked and color-coded, making selection straightforward.

Key features that stand out:
– High Durability: Constructed from high-strength aluminum alloy and carbon steel.
– Color-Coded Heads: The four interchangeable heads are clearly marked and stored on the handle.
– Versatile Applications: Suitable for automotive, aviation, railway, and furniture repairs.

Pros:
– Very simple and reliable design focused on longevity.
– Heads stored securely on the handle for quick access.
– Includes essential rivets and drill bits.

Cons:
– Lacks advanced ergonomic features of some competitors, which can lead to hand fatigue over many pulls.

Best for: Reliable metal fabrication, automotive repairs, and field service where strength is prioritized.

Expert Opinion: The GIANTISAN is a no-frills, robust manual option. It’s perfect for users who need a tool that can be tossed into a toolbox and handle occasional heavy work without worrying about breakage.

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 designed this heavy-duty rivet gun specifically to reduce user strain. The engineering focuses on providing a larger leverage ratio, which the company claims saves 25% of the required grip strength compared to conventional models. The TPR soft rubber grip enhances comfort, and the internal components, including the 35Cr-Mo steel claw piece, are heat-treated for longevity, increasing the expected service life significantly.

Key features that stand out:
– Enhanced Lever Ratio: Designed to reduce user grip strength needed by 25%.
– Superior Material: Features 35Cr-Mo steel claw piece for increased durability and service life.
– Smart Rivet Identification: The included mini-wrench has test holes to help identify the correct rivet size.

Pros:
– Excellent choice for users with lower hand strength or those facing high-volume manual jobs.
– High-quality internal steel components ensure long-term reliability.
– Comfortable TPR soft rubber handle.

Cons:
– Only includes 110 rivets, fewer than some competing kits.

Best for: Medium-duty production work and users prioritizing comfort and reduced hand strain.

Expert Opinion: The focus on mechanical efficiency makes the Libraton stand out among manual hand riveters. If you find standard rivet guns challenging to operate repeatedly, this model’s leverage system is a significant advantage.

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

The Arrow brand is synonymous with reliable fastening tools, and this heavy-duty riveter kit is a straightforward, dependable option. A key feature of the Arrow is its extended nose, which provides easier access when working in confined or hard-to-reach areas, such as inside HVAC ducts or deep gutters. It comes ready to use with 120 assorted rivets, covering common general-purpose sizes up to 5/32 inches.

Key features that stand out:
– Extended Nose: Facilitates riveting in awkward or hard-to-reach places.
– General Purpose Focus: Designed specifically for common rivet jobs like gutters, furniture, and canvas work.
– Assorted Rivets Included: Ready to use out of the box with 120 rivets.

Pros:
– Trusted brand known for quality and consistency.
– Excellent for accessing tight spots thanks to the long nose.
– Simple manual operation, reliable mechanism.

Cons:
– Not recommended for 3/16-inch steel or stainless steel rivets, limiting heavy-duty capacity.

Best for: General home use, maintenance, and tasks requiring access into narrow spaces.

Expert Opinion: While it might not handle the absolute largest or toughest stainless steel rivets, the Arrow is the standard go-to for many general contractors and DIYers because of its reliability and ability to handle those pesky hard-to-reach jobs.

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 another strong contender in the heavy-duty manual category, emphasizing single-hand operation and sturdy construction. This kit includes 200 aluminum rivets and features a sophisticated internal structure utilizing a three-piece rabbit jaw Co-Mo aluminum alloy. The single-hand design claims to save over 20% effort, making it highly effective for medium-volume riveting tasks on materials like sheet metal, leather, and plastic.

Key features that stand out:
– Enhanced Internal Jaws: Uses a three-piece rabbit jaw Co-Mo aluminum alloy structure for reliable gripping.
– Single-Hand Operation: Ergonomic design intended to save more than 20% effort.
– Convenient Head Storage: Heads are color-coded, marked, and stored on the handle for quick swaps.

Pros:
– Strong internal jaw system provides consistent rivet setting.
– Good balance of power and ergonomic design for reduced fatigue.
– Comes with a generous supply of 200 rivets.

Cons:
– While advertised as single-hand, setting large 3/16-inch steel rivets still often requires two hands.

Best for: Users transitioning from light DIY to more intensive metal fabrication, prioritizing a strong, reliable jaw mechanism.

Expert Opinion: The attention paid to the quality of the internal jaw (the part that grabs the mandrel) ensures that this riveter maintains its performance over a long lifespan, reducing the common issue of mandrels slipping.

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

Stepping into the professional realm, the DEWALT DCF403B is a powerful cordless solution designed for high-volume work. This unit uses a brushless motor to deliver an impressive 2,100 lbf of pulling force, easily handling tough materials, including stainless steel rivets up to 3/16″. For contractors and industrial users, the efficiency is unmatched, capable of pulling around 800 rivets per charge (battery dependent).

Key features that stand out:
– High Pulling Force: Delivers 2,100 lbf, ideal for structural steel and demanding applications.
– Brushless Motor: Ensures efficiency, long tool life, and maximum runtime.
– Stainless Steel Compatibility: Capable of pulling aluminum, standard steel, and stainless steel blind rivets.
– Tool-Free Nose Change: Quick and easy nosepiece swapping and convenient on-board storage.

Pros:
– Eliminates manual effort and speeds up large projects dramatically.
– Handles the largest and toughest rivet materials effortlessly.
– Excellent battery life for productivity on the job site.

Cons:
– High initial investment and the battery/charger must be purchased separately (Bare Tool).

Best for: Professional contractors, industrial metal workers, and automotive body specialists needing speed and power.

Expert Opinion: Once you experience the speed and lack of effort required by a quality cordless model like the DEWALT, it’s hard to go back to manual riveting for anything but the smallest jobs. The 2,100 lbf rating guarantees it can handle virtually any blind rivet commonly used in construction.

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 hand riveter is a durable and simple tool aimed at providing portable fastening for various materials. Its design prioritizes comfort and ease of use, featuring an ergonomic body that is also lightweight, making it convenient to carry in a standard tool bag. It includes 100 rivets across the four most common sizes, making it an excellent utility purchase for occasional repair work around the home or shop.

Key features that stand out:
– Portable and Lightweight: Easy to transport and handle during overhead or awkward tasks.
– Basic, Reliable Function: Offers a straightforward mechanism suitable for metal, plastic, and leather.
– Head Wrench Included: Simplifies the process of changing the four nosepieces.

Pros:
– Very affordable entry point for a heavy-duty riveter.
– Ergonomic design aids comfort during use.
– Simple mechanism is easy to maintain.

Cons:
– The 100 rivets provided are relatively few compared to other comprehensive kits.

Best for: Homeowners and hobbyists who need a standard, reliable hand riveter for occasional light-to-medium work.

Expert Opinion: This is a solid, economical choice if you already have a stock of rivets or only need the tool for small, intermittent tasks. It performs reliably on aluminum and thinner steel materials within its stated capacity.

Milwaukee Electric Tools 2550-20 M12 Rivet Tool (Bare Tool)

Milwaukee’s M12 platform delivers a compact, powerful cordless rivet tool that is perfect for automotive and maintenance professionals. Though smaller than its 18V/20V counterparts, the M12 is surprisingly mighty, capable of pulling 450 1/8-inch steel rivets per charge (when paired with a compatible M12 battery). Its main draw is its size; it’s excellent for working in tight engine bays or crowded assemblies where larger cordless tools simply won’t fit.

Key features that stand out:
– M12 Compact Power: Utilizes the smaller 12V battery platform for superior maneuverability.
– High Efficiency: Pulls 450 1/8″ steel rivets per charge.
– Versatile Sizing: Compatible with 3/32″, 1/8″, 5/32″, and 3/16″ rivets.

Pros:
– Extremely lightweight and compact, reducing user fatigue in overhead or constrained spaces.
– Excellent runtime for its size class.
– Part of the popular Milwaukee M12 system (if you already own batteries).

Cons:
– Pulling force is lower than 20V models, making repeated 3/16″ stainless steel rivets slightly slower.

Best for: Automotive technicians, HVAC professionals, and anyone needing a compact, powerful solution for tight areas.

Expert Opinion: The M12 rivet tool is the gold standard for maintenance professionals who prioritize size and weight. It hits the perfect sweet spot for performance on the most common rivet sizes (1/8″ and 5/32″) while maintaining excellent portability.

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

The ISPINNER kit is a true assortment powerhouse. It doesn’t just include the heavy-duty hand riveter; it provides a whopping 225 blind rivets in six different sizes, housed in a reusable transparent plastic case. This variety is exceptional, ensuring you have the perfect rivet size and length for almost any light-to-medium fabrication or repair job. The hand riveter itself is sturdy, featuring a rubber handle and a standard four-size nosepiece capability.

Key features that stand out:
– Massive Assortment: Includes 225 aluminum rivets across six different sizes, providing incredible versatility.
– Durable Rivets: Blind rivets utilize an aluminum grip and steel mandrel for strength and corrosion resistance.
– Sturdy Riveter: Features a quality steel body and rubber handle for comfortable operation.

Pros:
– Unmatched variety of rivets included in the kit, minimizing accessory purchases.
– Excellent organization with a transparent, reusable storage case.
– Reliable tool mechanism for general-purpose use.

Cons:
– The sheer quantity of small pieces requires careful organization to prevent mixing sizes.

Best for: DIYers, hobbyists, and shops that deal with a wide range of riveting lengths and diameters frequently.

Expert Opinion: If your primary concern is having the right fastener immediately available, the ISPINNER kit is unbeatable. The quantity and variety of rivets make it a superior value proposition compared to kits that only offer four rivet sizes.

FICHFOYE Heavy Duty Pneumatic Rivet Gun, 3916lbf Rivet Gun Set- 3/32″, 1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″, 1/4″ Air Riveter with NPT 1/4 inch for Automotive, Construction, Manufacturing Industries

For industrial applications or shops with existing air compression systems, the FICHFOYE pneumatic rivet gun is the most powerful and fastest option on this list. Delivering a massive 3,916 lbf of pulling force, it effortlessly handles the largest required 1/4-inch rivets (a size often too big for standard cordless or manual tools). Its air-hydraulic drive completes rivet installations in mere seconds, drastically reducing operator fatigue on high-production lines.

Key features that stand out:
– Extreme Pulling Power: 3,916 lbf capacity handles large 1/4″ rivets easily.
– High Speed: Air-hydraulic drive allows for installations in seconds, optimizing workflow.
– 5 Rivet Heads Included: Supports common sizes from 3/32″ up to 1/4″.
– Collection Bottle: Removable mandrel collection bottle keeps the workspace clean.

Pros:
– Best performance for continuous, high-volume industrial riveting.
– Eliminates virtually all manual strain.
– Handles the largest standard rivet sizes (1/4 inch).

Cons:
– Requires an air compressor capable of meeting its pressure and volume demands.

Best for: Manufacturing lines, heavy vehicle maintenance, structural construction, and continuous high-volume operation.

Expert Opinion: Pneumatic tools are the gold standard for industrial speed and power. The FICHFOYE is an excellent choice for shops that already utilize air tools, as its high pulling force and ability to handle 1/4″ rivets make it incredibly versatile for heavy-duty assembly.

Rivet Gun Comparison Insights: Choosing Your Power Source

When selecting the best rivet guns, the primary decision revolves around the power source: manual, cordless, or pneumatic.

Manual Hand Riveters (WETOLS, Libraton, ISPINNER) are the most affordable and portable. They are perfect for intermittent, low-volume use on aluminum or thin steel rivets. Look for manual models like the Libraton that offer enhanced leverage ratios if you anticipate setting many rivets, as this drastically reduces hand fatigue.

Cordless Rivet Tools (DEWALT, Milwaukee) offer the best balance of power, speed, and mobility. They are essential for professionals who set hundreds of rivets daily, especially if those rivets are made of harder materials like stainless steel. The Milwaukee M12 platform excels where space is severely limited, while the DEWALT 20V line focuses on maximum pulling force and runtime.

Pneumatic Rivet Guns (FICHFOYE) are the champions of sheer power and production speed. They require an air compressor but can set 1/4-inch rivets and eliminate operator fatigue completely. They are best suited for fixed industrial workstations or heavy manufacturing where constant, rapid riveting is the norm.

Final Verdict: Our Top Recommendations

Choosing among the best rivet guns ultimately depends on your application and budget.

For the Budget-Conscious DIYer: We highly recommend the WETOLS Pop Rivet Gun Kit. It is a superior package, providing the tool, 200 rivets, and drill bits in one ergonomic, easy-to-use manual setup. It offers exceptional value for most home and general repair tasks.

For the Professional Tradesman: The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Rivet Tool is the uncontested powerhouse. Its 2,100 lbf of force means it handles every standard rivet size and material with ease, dramatically boosting job site efficiency and reducing labor.

For High-Volume Industrial Use: When the job requires nonstop 1/4-inch fastening, the FICHFOYE Heavy Duty Pneumatic Rivet Gun is the necessary investment for maximizing production speed and minimizing physical strain.

Best Rivet Guns FAQ

What are blind rivets and how do they work with hand riveters?

Blind rivets, often called pop rivets, are mechanical fasteners used when you only have access to one side of the material (hence “blind”). A hand riveter works by gripping the mandrel (the pin inside the rivet) and pulling it. This pulling action causes the rivet body to compress and form a strong bulb or “set” on the blind side of the material, creating a secure, permanent joint.

Can manual rivet guns set stainless steel rivets?

Most standard manual hand riveters can handle small to medium stainless steel rivets (typically up to 1/8 inch or sometimes 5/32 inch), but doing so requires significant hand strength due to the hardness of the material. For setting larger stainless steel blind rivets (3/16 inch and above) or for high-volume work, a cordless rivet tool or air riveter is strongly recommended to prevent tool wear and user fatigue.

What is the purpose of the different nosepieces and nose sizes?

The nosepiece (or head) is the interchangeable part of the rivet gun that holds and grips the rivet. You must match the nosepiece opening precisely to the diameter of your rivet body. Using the wrong size nosepiece can lead to the rivet getting stuck, or the tool failing to properly set the fastener. Most kits provide four standard sizes: 3/32″, 1/8″, 5/32″, and 3/16″.

How do I maintain and clean my rivet gun?

For manual and cordless models, the most crucial maintenance involves cleaning the jaws, also known as the claws. The jaws grip the mandrel, and fragments can get stuck, causing slipping. Disassemble the nosepieces according to the tool manual, clean the jaws with a wire brush or compressed air, and apply a drop of light oil occasionally.

What are the advantages of an air riveter versus a manual hand riveter?

The primary advantages of an air riveter (pneumatic) are speed and power. Air riveters set fasteners in less than a second and require no physical effort, making them ideal for assembly line work and setting very large or hard rivets. A manual hand riveter is cheaper, highly portable, and requires no external power source, making it better for occasional use.

What does “lbf” mean when describing cordless rivet tools?

“lbf” stands for pounds-force. This measurement indicates the maximum amount of pulling force the tool can apply to the rivet mandrel before setting the fastener. Higher lbf ratings (like the DEWALT’s 2,100 lbf or the FICHFOYE’s 3,916 lbf) mean the tool can handle larger diameters and harder materials more easily. If you work with structural steel, look for a high lbf rating.