Best Rivet Nut Gun: 5 Best Choices

When I first started using threaded inserts, I quickly realized that a cheap rivet nut tool just wouldn’t cut it, especially when dealing with larger steel nutserts. A reliable, labor-saving best rivet nut gun is essential for adding solid threads to thin materials like sheet metal or plastics. This guide breaks down the top models I’ve personally evaluated, comparing everything from compact 8-inch hand setters to powerful pneumatic options, so you can pick the right tool for your specific garage or workshop needs.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	WETOLS Rivet Nut Tool Kit, 14-Inch Rivnut Tool with 7…	View on Amazon
	NEXTACK Rivet Nut Tool Kit with a Step Drill Bit…	View on Amazon
	KIARUO Pneumatic Rivet Nut Gun with Self-locking Head Gun…	View on Amazon
	AOBEN 14″ Rivet Nut Tool, Professional Hand Rivet Nut…	View on Amazon
	GIANTISAN Rivet Nut Tool Kit,16-Inch Rivnut Tool Kit with…	View on Amazon

WETOLS Rivet Nut Tool Kit, 14-Inch Rivnut Tool with 7 Metric and SAE Mandrels, Professional Hand Riveter with 70Pcs Rivnuts Assortment Kit, Manual Rivet Nut Gun with Rugged BMC Case

The WETOLS 14-inch tool is a fantastic starting point for anyone needing a robust, mid-sized hand setter. The 14-inch length strikes a great balance, offering sufficient leverage without being overly cumbersome, making it efficient for handling aluminum or light steel nutserts. This comprehensive kit includes everything you need to get started, all neatly organized in a durable blow-molded case, establishing it as a highly reliable manual rivet nut gun option.

Key features that stand out:
– Various Mandrels: Comes with 7 interchangeable mandrels (Metric M6, M8, M10; SAE 1/4-20, 5/16-18, 3/8-16).
– Sturdy and Durable: Mandrels are made from Chrome steel with heat treatment, and the arm is 45 carbon steel, ensuring longevity.
– Easy to Use: Mandrels can be removed quickly by hand, simplifying size changes.

Pros:
– Excellent balance of size and leverage for general use
– Highly durable construction resistant to deformation
– Mandrels are easily swapped without extra tools
– Comes with a comprehensive assortment of 70 nutserts

Cons:
– Might require significant effort for setting large M10 steel inserts

Best for: General DIY, automotive restoration, and hobbyists needing a dependable entry-level kit.

Expert Opinion: This is the benchmark for mid-sized hand setters. While it’s labor-intensive on the largest sizes, its ease of mandrel change and overall kit quality make it a superb value purchase for typical home shop projects.

NEXTACK Rivet Nut Tool Kit with a Step Drill Bit & 80 Nutserts for Tight Space, 8″ Rivnut Tool Set Riveter with 8 Mandrels 6-32 8-32 10-24 1/4-20 M3 M4 M5 M6 in Organized Rugged Carrying Case NT600

When you’re working in confined areas—think inside a van panel or a crowded engine bay—the 8-inch NEXTACK tool is indispensable. Its compact, right-angle style allows you to tackle out-of-reach projects where longer tools simply wouldn’t fit. While it requires more grip strength than 14-inch models, its design is a game-changer for small to medium aluminum or brass nutserts, and the inclusion of a step drill bit is a thoughtful bonus.

Key features that stand out:
– Compact Design for Tight Space: 8-inch length and right-angle style designed specifically for narrow spots.
– One-Stop-Solution: Includes 8 universal mandrels (4 SAE and 4 Metric) and a step drill bit.
– Easy to Change Mandrels: Features a rotary knob structure for quick nut loading and releasing.

Pros:
– Ideal size and shape for working in narrow and confined locations
– Modular design simplifies maintenance and mandrel changes
– Comes with smaller mandrels (like M3 and 6-32) often missed in larger kits
– PVC grips provide comfort during use

Cons:
– Requires higher grip strength, especially when setting larger 1/4-20 fasteners.

Best for: HVAC installations, small electronics enclosures, and confined automotive work (door panels, dashboards).

Expert Opinion: The NEXTACK isn’t designed for heavy-duty daily M10 setting, but as a specialized tool for accessibility, it excels. If space constraints are a frequent problem, this compact tool is a must-have addition to your tool chest.

KIARUO Pneumatic Rivet Nut Gun with Self-locking Head Gun 1/4 & 5/16 & 3/8 Mandrels, Industrial Grade Adjustable Speed Pull Rivnut Gun Model:LM07 Button Switch

For professionals or dedicated hobbyists tackling high-volume projects, switching from a manual hand tool to a pneumatic best rivet nut gun like the KIARUO model dramatically cuts down on installation time and fatigue. This industrial-grade tool uses compressed air to set fasteners quickly and consistently. Its major selling point is the self-locking gun head, which eliminates the need for extra wrenches when swapping mandrels.

Key features that stand out:
– Self-Locking Gun Head: Allows for quick, toolless assembly and disassembly of 1/4, 5/16, and 3/8 mandrels.
– Adjustable Speed: Features a knob to adjust air flow, controlling the intensity and speed of the pull.
– Embedded Noise Reduction: Operates at ≤65db, protecting the operator’s hearing, which is crucial in a workshop setting.

Pros:
– Extremely fast installation, eliminating manual fatigue
– Industrial quality components designed for long-lasting use
– Low noise operation compared to many pneumatic tools
– Consistent setting pressure across all fasteners

Cons:
– Requires a reliable air compressor setup to function.

Best for: Commercial workshops, production environments, and large-scale projects involving hundreds of fasteners.

Expert Opinion: While it requires a higher initial investment (and an air source), the speed and ease of the KIARUO are unmatched. If you consistently set dozens of large nutserts, the time and effort saved easily justifies the cost over a manual hand riveter.

AOBEN 14″ Rivet Nut Tool, Professional Hand Rivet Nut Setter Kit Labor-Saving and Compact Design Including 6 Interchangeable Mandrels 90pcs Rivnuts and 2 Mandrel Lock Pins

The AOBEN 14-inch tool focuses on maximizing efficiency and minimizing effort. It utilizes a double compound hinge design that, combined with the 14-inch arm length, maximizes leverage to save effort compared to standard single-hinge or shorter tools. Its standout feature is the Quick-Change Head design; the unique spring-loaded mandrel automatically locks the pin, offering the fastest mandrel swapping available among hand rivet nut setters.

Key features that stand out:
– Quick-Change Head: Spring-loaded mechanism locks the mandrel pin automatically for exceptionally fast changes.
– Ergonomic and Save Effort: 14-inch arms with double compound hinges maximize leverage.
– Hard-Wearing Quality: Made from thick, heat-treated steel to ensure high durability and resistance to wear.

Pros:
– Fastest mandrel changing capability on the market for manual tools
– Ergonomic handles and hinge design significantly reduce user effort
– Comprehensive kit includes 90 rivets and two extra mandrel lock pins
– Durable heat-treated steel construction

Cons:
– The quick-change system requires careful alignment during the first use to get the hang of it.

Best for: Enthusiasts who frequently change mandrel sizes and demand efficiency in a manual tool.

Expert Opinion: The AOBEN is a very strong contender in the manual setter category. If you find yourself swapping between M6 and 3/8-16 frequently, the quick-change head alone makes this tool worth considering over more traditional designs.

GIANTISAN Rivet Nut Tool Kit, 16-Inch Rivnut Tool Kit with 12 Metric and SAE Mandrels, 176Pcs Rivet nut Assortment Kit, Designed for Labour Saving

If your projects span the entire range of fastener sizes, from tiny M3 to robust 1/2-13, the GIANTISAN 16-inch kit is the most comprehensive choice available. Featuring a massive assortment of 15 mandrels and 236 pieces of nutserts, this kit is unmatched in sheer volume and versatility. The 16-inch handles provide maximum possible leverage for a manual tool, making it the top choice for setting the largest steel fasteners.

Key features that stand out:
– Largest Mandrel Variety: Includes 15 mandrels covering M3 through M12 and SAE sizes up to 1/2-13.
– Designed for Labour Saving: 16-inch arms provide maximum leverage, significantly easing the setting of large fasteners.
– Toolless Operation: Allows for changing heads in a few simple steps without additional wrenches.

Pros:
– Unprecedented versatility due to the huge range of included mandrels
– Maximum leverage for setting the largest possible nutserts by hand
– Comes with a massive assortment of over 230 nutserts
– Heavy-duty construction built for professional use

Cons:
– The sheer size of the 16-inch tool can make storage and portability challenging.

Best for: Workshops that handle custom fabrication, heavy machinery repair, or need the largest range of sizes possible.

Expert Opinion: When M12 or 1/2-13 nutserts are on the menu, you need all the leverage you can get, and this 16-inch tool delivers. It’s an overkill purchase for simple M5 jobs, but essential for heavy-duty applications.

Comparison Insights for Choosing the Best Rivet Nut Gun

When sifting through the options for a new rivet nut tool, consider your typical material and volume requirements.

For those tackling standard vehicle modifications or light sheet metal work, the 14-inch models like the WETOLS and AOBEN offer the best blend of portability and power. The AOBEN’s quick-change mechanism offers superior efficiency if you change sizes frequently, while the WETOLS provides excellent overall value in a starter kit.

If you handle high volumes of fasteners daily, pneumatic tools are unparalleled for high-volume work. The KIARUO eliminates operator fatigue entirely and offers a level of consistency manual setters cannot match.

If the largest sizes (M10, M12, 1/2-13) are common, the 16-inch GIANTISAN is mandatory due to its maximum leverage and sheer versatility. Conversely, for tight spaces, the 8-inch NEXTACK model is the only practical solution, though you must be prepared to use more force. Always ensure your chosen best rivet nut gun features high-quality mandrel material to prevent stripping and premature failure.

Final Verdict: Our Top Picks

Choosing the best rivet nut gun depends entirely on your application:

Best Overall Manual Setter: The AOBEN 14″ Rivet Nut Tool earns this spot for integrating maximum leverage with the fastest mandrel change system, balancing power and efficiency perfectly.

Best for Professionals (Volume Work): The KIARUO Pneumatic Rivet Nut Gun is the clear winner for any high-volume application where speed and zero fatigue are paramount.

Best Value Kit & Versatility: The GIANTISAN Rivet Nut Tool Kit is the superior choice for those who need coverage across every possible size, from M3 up to 1/2-13, offering the most comprehensive kit on this list.

Best Rivet Nut Gun FAQ

What are the main benefits of using a rivet nut gun over traditional methods?

Rivet nut tools, also known as rivnut setters, allow you to install a threaded insert (nutsert) into thin materials like fiberglass, plastic, or sheet metal without needing access to the back side. This creates a strong, permanent thread for subsequent bolting, offering a much stronger connection than tapping or using a self-tapping screw.

Should I choose a hand riveter or a pneumatic model?

This choice hinges on volume and size. Hand riveters (like the 14-inch or 16-inch options) are affordable, portable, and excellent for occasional or small to medium projects (under 50 inserts). Pneumatic models are essential for large-scale or production work. If you are setting large (M10/3/8″) steel inserts repeatedly, a pneumatic tool saves immense effort and improves setting consistency.

How does the length of the rivet nut tool affect performance?

The tool’s length directly correlates to leverage. A longer tool (16-inch) provides maximum leverage, making it easier to set large, tough fasteners (steel M10 and larger) with less operator effort. A shorter tool (8-inch) sacrifices leverage for maneuverability, which is vital when setting blind fasteners in cramped, inaccessible locations.

What causes a rivet nut mandrel to break or jam?

Mandrels often break due to over-tightening the rivet nut or using the tool on material that is too thick for the nutsert length. Jams usually occur when the operator attempts to back the mandrel out before the nutsert is fully set, or if the internal threads of the mandrel or nutsert are damaged. Always lubricate the mandrel threads before using a pneumatic best rivet nut gun to minimize wear.

Are all mandrels interchangeable between different rivet nut gun brands?

No. While the concept is similar, the connection mechanism (threading, lock pin location, overall length) varies significantly between manufacturers. You should only use the mandrels and nosepieces specifically designed for your model of rivet nut tool to ensure correct function and safety.

Can these tools set blind rivets (standard pop rivets)?

No, a threaded insert setter (rivet nut gun) is different from a standard pop rivet gun. A pop rivet gun pulls the head of a pin to flare a blind rivet. A rivet nut tool threads onto the insert and pulls the entire body to create a bulge that secures the threaded barrel. They are designed for different types of fasteners.