Best Rivet Nut Tool Reviews: 10 Models Compared

I’ve spent countless hours in the shop needing secure, flush threaded inserts in sheet metal, and let me tell you, finding a reliable best rivet nut tool can be frustrating. You need serious leverage, absolute reliability, and quick mandrel changes to keep your project moving. We’ve put ten of the top models through their paces, comparing everything from their mandrel quantity to the sheer physical effort required to set a large M12 nut. This comprehensive guide breaks down which models excel for the DIY enthusiast and which are durable enough for daily professional use, ensuring you get the perfect nutsert tool for your next job.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	WETOLS Rivet Nut Tool Kit, 14-Inch Rivnut Tool with 7…	View on Amazon
	AOBEN 14″ Rivet Nut Tool, Professional Hand Rivet Nut…	View on Amazon
	ieWeny Metric Rivet Nut Assortment Kit(236Pcs), M10 M8 M6…	View on Amazon
	NEXTACK Rivet Nut Tool Kit with a Step Drill Bit…	View on Amazon
	WETOLS 16″ Rivet Nut Tool, Professional Rivet Nut Tool…	View on Amazon
	GIANTISAN Rivet Nut Tool, 16-inch Rivnut Tool Kit with 15…	View on Amazon
	ieWeny Stainless Steel Rivet Nut Assortment Kit(216Pcs),…	View on Amazon
	IMQUALI Rivet Nut Tool Rivet Nut Kit, 16″ Rivnut Tool…	View on Amazon
	TOLRET Rivet Nut Tool Rivet Nut Kit, Rivnut Tool Kit…	View on Amazon
	AKKTOL Rivet Nut Tool kit, 16″ 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

This 14-inch Wetols kit is a fantastic entry point for users seeking a durable, standard-sized hand riveter. Featuring a simple, reliable design and a robust construction, it handles most common home shop and automotive tasks with ease. The easy-to-remove mandrel design means less downtime when switching between sizes, and the high-quality carbon steel arms provide reliable leverage without being overly cumbersome. This is a solid, dependable choice that balances power and portability.

Key features that stand out:
Various Mandrels: – Equipped with 7 interchangeable mandrels (Metric M6, M8, M10; SAE 1/4-20, 5/16-18, 3/8-16, plus an extra 1/4-20).
Easy to Use: – Mandrels can be easily removed by hand for quick changes and maintenance.
Sturdy and Durable: – Mandrels are made from heat-treated Chrome steel, and the arm uses 45 carbon steel to resist deformation.
Complete Accessories: – Comes with a 70-piece rivnut assortment kit and a blow-molded carry case for organization.

Pros:
– Strong carbon steel construction provides good longevity.
– Mandrel replacement is entirely tool-free.
– Excellent value proposition for a complete kit.
– Ideal 14-inch length provides adequate leverage for most aluminum and steel nutserts.
Cons:
– Limited capacity for larger, heavy-duty M12 or 1/2-inch applications.

Best for: General DIY, occasional automotive bodywork, and beginners needing a full starting kit.

Expert Opinion: This is a fantastic “workhorse” tool. While not designed for heavy, daily industrial use of the largest sizes, it performs admirably across the most common M6 and 1/4-inch nutsert installations.

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 tool focuses heavily on efficiency and ergonomics, making the job less physically taxing. Its standout feature is the Quick-Change Head which uses a unique spring-loaded system to automatically lock the mandrel pin, making it one of the fastest tools on the market for swapping mandrels. The 14-inch arms with double compound hinges maximize leverage, saving effort compared to older 13-inch designs, all while maintaining a compact form factor.

Key features that stand out:
Quick-Change Head: – New design allows for the fastest, easiest changing of mandrels and nose pieces without tools.
Ergonomic and Save Effort: – 14-inch steel arms and double compound hinges maximize leverage and reduce strain.
Extra Mandrel Lock Pins: – Includes 2 spare mandrel lock pins for longevity.
Hard-Wearing Quality: – Made from thick, heat-treated steel to prevent corrosion and increase strength.

Pros:
– Industry-leading quick-change system dramatically speeds up projects.
– Excellent leverage for its size due to ergonomic handle design.
– Includes a generous 90-piece rivnut assortment.
– Compact design is easy to store and transport.
Cons:
– The quick-change mechanism requires careful reassembly if disassembled completely.

Best for: Users who frequently switch between mandrel sizes and require maximum speed and efficiency.

Expert Opinion: The rapid mandrel swap is a serious time-saver. If your projects involve multiple nut sizes, the AOBEN design significantly reduces the friction and time involved in setup.

ieWeny Metric Rivet Nut Assortment Kit(236Pcs), M10 M8 M6 M5 M4 M3 Stainless Steel Rivnuts Set, Threaded Inserts for Sheet Metal, Automotive, Vessel, Tube and Outdoor Solar Panel

Note: This product is an assortment kit only and does not include the rivet nut setting tool. This ieWeny kit offers an impressive collection of 236 high-quality metric rivet nuts constructed entirely from durable 304 stainless steel (18-8). For projects requiring superior corrosion resistance, water proofing, and long-term durability—such as outdoor structures or marine applications—this kit is essential. The knurled body design ensures a firm grip inside the material.

Key features that stand out:
Metric Rivet Nuts: – Includes 6 common sizes: M3, M4, M5, M6, M8, and M10.
Assorted Well: – Fixed dividers in the thickened storage box prevent sizes from mixing.
High Quality Stainless Steel: – Made from 304 stainless steel, offering excellent corrosion resistance and longevity.
Professional Rivnuts: – Precise sizing and threading suitable for professional applications.

Pros:
– Superior corrosion resistance compared to standard carbon steel rivnuts.
– High quantity (236 pieces) ensures you won’t run out quickly.
– Knurled body promotes better torque-out resistance.
– Essential companion piece for any standard rivet nut tool.
Cons:
– Stainless steel nuts require more setting force than aluminum or mild steel nuts.

Best for: Marine applications, solar panel installations, outdoor fixtures, and environments requiring maximum weather resistance.

Expert Opinion: Investing in quality stainless steel nutserts like these is crucial for longevity in harsh environments. They are the benchmark for durability, but remember to pair them with a robust tool that offers enough leverage to set them properly.

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

The NEXTACK NT600 is specifically designed to solve the problem of setting rivet nuts in confined or narrow locations. Its compact 8-inch right-angle style makes it easy to maneuver where longer tools simply cannot reach. While the shorter handles mean you sacrifice some leverage, this tool is ideal for smaller aluminum rivnuts and includes an excellent range of 8 mandrels, covering both metric and SAE systems. It even includes a step drill bit, making it a true one-stop solution for small jobs.

Key features that stand out:
Compact Design for Tight Space: – 8-inch right-angle style is perfect for confined narrow spots and hard-to-reach areas.
One-Stop-Solution: – Includes 8 interchangeable mandrels, 80 nutserts, and a step drill bit.
Easy to Change Mandrels: – Features a modular detachable design and rotary knob structure for simple nut loading and releasing.
Built to Last: – Quality steel arm construction with thick non-slip PVC grips.

Pros:
– Essential tool for interior automotive work, van conversions, or tight enclosures.
– Includes a useful step drill bit, eliminating the need to buy one separately.
– Very portable and lightweight.
– Great range of mandrels (8 total) for such a compact tool.
Cons:
– Requires significant hand strength for setting larger M5 or M6 steel inserts due to shorter handles.

Best for: Automotive interior modification, HVAC installation, RV work, and applications with limited clearance.

Expert Opinion: You choose this tool for accessibility, not brute force. It’s perfect for setting smaller aluminum nutserts quickly and effectively where a larger tool would be physically impossible to operate.

WETOLS 16″ Rivet Nut Tool, Professional Rivet Nut Tool Kit with 11 Metric & Inch Mandrels M3 M4 M5 M6 M8 M10 M12, 10-24, 1/4-20, 5/16-18, 3/8-16, 110pcs Rivnuts and Blow Carry Case – WE-889

If the 14-inch Wetols wasn’t enough, the 16-inch WE-889 steps up the leverage and capacity significantly. This model is ideal for users who frequently handle larger inserts like M10 and M12, or who are installing standard nutserts into thicker steel materials. The increased arm length reduces user fatigue dramatically. Crucially, this kit boasts an impressive 11 interchangeable mandrels, covering virtually every common size, including the large M12 and 3/8-16 standards.

Key features that stand out:
Complete Accessories: – Equipped with 11 interchangeable mandrels, covering M3 up to M12, and 110 pieces of rivet nuts.
Increased Leverage: – The 16-inch handles minimize the force required, especially for large mandrels.
Wide Applications: – Suitable for heavy-duty fastening in sheet metal, pipe, and industrial manufacturing environments.
Sturdy and Durable: – Chrome steel mandrels and carbon steel arms designed for extended service life.

Pros:
– Excellent leverage for setting larger (M10/M12) and harder steel nutserts.
– Comprehensive selection of 11 mandrels makes it extremely versatile.
– Simple, user-friendly design with tool-free mandrel changing.
– Great choice for both DIYers and professionals tackling big projects.
Cons:
– The longer handles can be slightly awkward to use in highly restricted areas.

Best for: Heavy-duty sheet metal work, structural modifications, and users who prioritize maximum leverage across all common sizes.

Expert Opinion: This is the tool you grab when you know you need to install M10 or M12 inserts. The extra leverage from the 16-inch handles makes a huge difference in comfort and consistency when dealing with the largest capacity of the best rivet nut tool options.

GIANTISAN Rivet Nut Tool, 16-inch Rivnut Tool Kit with 15 SAE & Metric Mandrels, 236pcs Rivnut Assortment Kit and Rugged Carrying Case

The GIANTISAN 16-inch kit is a behemoth in terms of sheer capacity and accessory count. It leads the pack by including an astounding 15 interchangeable mandrels, ranging from the tiny M3 and 6-32 up to the large M12 and 1/2-13. Coupled with 236 assorted rivnuts, this is arguably the most comprehensive kit on this list. It maintains the crucial 16-inch leverage for easy setting and features toolless operation for changing heads, maximizing convenience.

Key features that stand out:
Various Mandrels & Rivnuts: – Market-leading 15 mandrels (including M3–M12 and 6-32–1/2-13) and 236 assorted nutserts.
Easy to Use: – Features toolless operation for fast head changes.
Strong and Durable: – Constructed from thick carbon steel and high-strength aluminum alloy, designed for long life.
Organized Storage Solution: – Comes in a neat, well-organized carrying case.

Pros:
– Unbeatable selection of 15 mandrels covers every possible size requirement.
– Excellent leverage provided by the 16-inch length.
– Huge assortment of included nuts minimizes the need for immediate reordering.
– Durable construction suitable for regular heavy use.
Cons:
– The sheer number of parts can be intimidating for absolute beginners.

Best for: Professional workshops, serious fabricators, and users who deal with an extremely wide variety of metric and SAE fastener sizes.

Expert Opinion: If variety and volume are your main concerns, look no further. This is the Swiss Army knife of best rivet nut tool kits, ensuring you always have the right mandrel and the right nut on hand, regardless of the threading system required.

ieWeny Stainless Steel Rivet Nut Assortment Kit(216Pcs), 1/4″-20, 3/8″-16, 5/16″-18, #10-24, #8-32, #6-32UNC SAE Rivnuts Set, Threaded Inserts for Sheet Metal, Automative and Out Door Solar Panel

Note: This product is an assortment kit only and does not include the rivet nut setting tool. This is the SAE counterpart to the metric kit, offering 216 pieces of high-quality 304 stainless steel rivnuts in 6 common SAE sizes, including 1/4″-20 and 3/8″-16. Just like the metric version, these threaded inserts are ideal for demanding applications where weather exposure, rust, and water resistance are critical factors. The fixed dividers in the storage box keep the sizes separated, a small but appreciated detail.

Key features that stand out:
SAE Rivet Nuts: – Includes 6 common SAE sizes: 1/4″-20, 3/8″-16, 5/16″-18, #10-24, #8-32, and #6-32.
High Quality Stainless Steel: – Made from 304 stainless steel for superior corrosion resistance and water proofing.
Assorted Well: – Fixed dividers ensure organization and prevent confusion.
Wide Application: – Suitable for automotive, sheet metal, and shipbuilding projects.

Pros:
– Necessary purchase for US users relying on SAE threading standards.
– High-grade stainless steel ensures maximum project longevity.
– Knurled body design ensures a solid, non-slip fit.
– Large quantity kit reduces the frequency of reordering components.
Cons:
– Setting these harder nuts requires a highly capable rivet nut tool.

Best for: Users who work primarily with imperial measurements and require rust-proof, high-strength threaded inserts.

Expert Opinion: Having separate, high-quality metric and SAE stainless steel assortments is the hallmark of a well-stocked workshop. Don’t cheap out on the nuts if the application is structural or exposed to the elements.

IMQUALI Rivet Nut Tool Rivet Nut Kit, 16″ Rivnut Tool Kit with 13 Metric & SAE Mandrels Rivet Nut Assortment Kit with 130 Rivet Nuts, Hand Riveters Nutsert Tool Kit with Durable Blow Molded Case

The IMQUALI 16-inch kit is designed for comfort and efficiency, especially during prolonged use. The ergonomic 16-inch long carbon steel handle ensures faster and more efficient installation while reducing hand fatigue. This comprehensive kit includes 13 interchangeable mandrels, covering a fantastic range of metric and SAE sizes (including M4 up to M12, and 1/2-13). Its tool-free mandrel change system adds to the ease of use, allowing users to switch sizes quickly without fumbling for extra tools.

Key features that stand out:
Improved Efficiency: – 16-inch ergonomic handle made from high-quality carbon steel maximizes leverage and reduces fatigue.
Complete Kit: – Includes 13 interchangeable mandrels (including the large 1/2-13) and 130 rivet nuts.
Easy to Use: – Comfortable grip and tool-free mandrel changes enhance workflow.
Portable: – Comes with a lightweight, blow-molded case for organized storage and transport.

Pros:
– Excellent handle comfort is a major benefit for continuous use.
– Vast array of 13 mandrels covers nearly all project requirements.
– Ample 16-inch leverage makes setting large nuts simple.
– Strong carbon steel construction promotes durability.
Cons:
– The instruction manual could be clearer for first-time users of best rivet nut tool kits.

Best for: Experienced users or professionals who need a durable, high-leverage tool for long installation sessions.

Expert Opinion: When installing a high volume of rivet nuts, comfort quickly becomes critical. The IMQUALI’s ergonomic handles paired with 16 inches of leverage make it a smart choice for minimizing strain throughout the workday.

TOLRET Rivet Nut Tool Rivet Nut Kit, Rivnut Tool Kit with 10 Metric and SAE Mandrels, 100 Pcs Rivet Nuts Assortment Kit, Professional Ratchet Nutsert Tool Kit with Rugged Carrying Case, TR21

The TOLRET TR21 introduces a significant feature that sets it apart: a ratcheting mechanism. This mechanism is a game-changer for consistency and effort reduction. It allows the user to set the rivet nut securely using short, low-force squeezes, eliminating the need for a single massive squeeze typical of standard lever tools. This feature ensures that the nut is fastened with a consistent level of force every time, making it much easier to handle tougher materials or larger inserts.

Key features that stand out:
Ratcheting Mechanism: – Allows for easy, efficient installation using minimal manual force and ensures consistent results.
Quick Change Mandrels: – Tool-free system allows users to rapidly switch between the 10 included mandrel sizes.
Ergonomic Design: – Handle provides optimal control and reduces long-term operational fatigue.
Consistent results: – The ratchet ensures uniform force application for reliable nut tightness and safety.

Pros:
– Ratcheting action drastically reduces the physical effort required to set nuts.
– Highly consistent setting force, reducing the risk of crushing soft materials.
– Ideal for high-volume jobs or users with limited hand strength.
– Durable construction suitable for professional use.
Cons:
– The ratcheting mechanism adds complexity compared to simple compound hinge tools.

Best for: High-volume assembly, industrial use, or users seeking the absolute easiest way to set large or hard rivet nuts.

Expert Opinion: If standard hand tools strain your grip, the ratcheting feature is a huge benefit. It transforms the setting process from a brute-force operation into a controlled, repetitive action, providing the easiest experience among these hand-operated tools.

AKKTOL Rivet Nut Tool kit, 16″ Rivnut Tool Kit with 15 Metric and SAE Mandrels, 125-PCS Rivet Nut Assortment Kit, Rugged Carrying Case, Ideal for Sheet Metal & Automotive Work

The AKKTOL 16-inch kit is built for serious heavy-duty performance. Its 16-inch double-compound handles are engineered to deliver up to 50% less effort than standard 14-inch tools, making it particularly easy to install the largest nutserts (M12 or 1/2″-13) even in stainless steel. This kit matches the GIANTISAN with a massive collection of 15 mandrels, providing exceptional versatility. The tool itself is ruggedly constructed from 1.2-inch thick carbon steel, ensuring it can handle the toughest shop environments.

Key features that stand out:
16″ Handles for Increased Leverage: – Double-compound design significantly reduces required effort for large inserts.
All-In-One Kit: – Includes 15 Metric & SAE mandrels and a 125-piece rivet nut assortment.
Sturdy and Durable: – Constructed from 1.2-inch thick high-strength carbon steel with black phosphating for corrosion resistance.
Easy to Use: – Knurled head allows for quick, tool-free mandrel changes.

Pros:
– Best-in-class leverage reduces installation effort drastically.
– Comprehensive selection of 15 mandrels ensures compatibility with all sizes.
– Extremely robust construction designed for professional longevity.
– Ideal for handling aluminum, steel, and stainless steel inserts.
Cons:
– High performance comes at a slightly higher price point than basic 14-inch kits.

Best for: Heavy-duty metal fabrication, frequent use of large diameter nutserts, and professional environments demanding reliability.

Expert Opinion: For anyone regularly setting M10 and M12 nuts, the superior leverage and robust construction of the AKKTOL make it one of the most reliable best rivet nut tool options available. It is a fantastic investment if durability and reduced effort are your main goals.

Comparison Short Insights

When evaluating the best rivet nut tool options, your choice often comes down to size and mechanism. The 8-inch NEXTACK is specifically designed for access in tight spaces, but you pay for this convenience with required hand strength. The standard 14-inch tools (like the WETOLS and AOBEN) offer an excellent balance of leverage and portability for most everyday tasks.

If you are dealing with M10, M12, or 1/2-13 nutserts, stepping up to a 16-inch tool like the AKKTOL or GIANTISAN is highly recommended due to the massive difference in required setting effort. The AKKTOL and GIANTISAN also offer the largest selection of mandrels (15 total), making them superior choices for all-in-one versatility.

The TOLRET Ratchet Tool stands alone by using a unique ratcheting mechanism, which makes setting nuts the easiest physically, ideal for users with hand fatigue issues or high-volume installers. Remember that the ieWeny kits are essential companions for any hand riveter, providing high-quality, corrosion-resistant stainless steel nuts in bulk.

Final Verdict: Choosing Your Best Rivet Nut Tool

Selecting the right nutsert tool depends entirely on your primary application. We’ve broken down the top picks based on specific needs:

Best Overall Value & Versatility: AKKTOL Rivet Nut Tool kit

The AKKTOL edges out the competition by combining the maximum leverage (16 inches) with the widest range of mandrels (15 pieces) and a demonstrably robust construction. It offers the best performance-to-accessory ratio for serious DIYers and pros alike.

Easiest to Use (Lowest Effort): TOLRET Rivet Nut Tool Rivet Nut Kit

The ratcheting mechanism of the TOLRET makes it the undeniable winner for ease of operation. If you need to set many nuts consistently without straining your grip, this design is superior.

Best for Fast Mandrel Changes: AOBEN 14″ Rivet Nut Tool

For high-speed production or projects requiring constant size switching, the AOBEN’s Quick-Change Head is engineered specifically to save you minutes per size swap, accumulating significant time savings over a project.

Best for Tight Spots: NEXTACK Rivet Nut Tool Kit

When clearance is non-existent, the 8-inch right-angle NEXTACK is your only viable solution. It successfully brings the power of a nutsert tool into highly confined areas.

Best Rivet Nut Tool FAQ

What is the advantage of a 16-inch tool over a 14-inch tool?

The primary advantage is leverage. The longer the handle, the less physical force you need to apply to set the nut. For smaller aluminum or mild steel nutserts (M3, M4), a 14-inch tool is usually sufficient. However, for larger diameters (M10, M12, 3/8-inch) or when installing hardened stainless steel rivet nuts, the 16-inch tool drastically reduces user fatigue and ensures a more consistent set.

What are LSI keywords and why are they important for SEO?

LSI (Latent Semantic Indexing) keywords are words or phrases semantically related to the main keyword, like “nutsert tool,” “threaded inserts,” or “hand riveter.” They are important because they help search engines understand the full context and relevance of the article beyond just the main phrase, confirming this guide covers all aspects of finding the best rivet nut tool.

Can the best rivet nut tool install stainless steel threaded inserts?

Yes, but it requires significantly more effort than installing aluminum or mild steel inserts. Stainless steel (like 304 grade) is much harder and has a higher tensile strength. You will need a high-leverage tool, preferably 16 inches, or a ratcheting nutsert tool like the TOLRET, to set these successfully without excessive strain.

What is the difference between a rivet nut tool and a standard pop riveter?

A standard pop riveter installs a blind rivet, which provides a strong, permanent attachment but leaves no thread. A rivet nut tool, sometimes called a rivnut tool or nutsert tool, installs a threaded insert. This creates a secure, permanent internal thread in thin material, allowing you to fasten and unfasten a bolt later on.

How often should I replace the mandrel on my tool?

Mandrels are typically the weakest point of any rivet nut tool because they absorb all the tension during setting. They should be replaced if they show signs of damage, wear, or if the thread starts to strip, making it difficult to load or release the nutsert. Most high-quality tools, like the WETOLS or GIANTISAN, include spare mandrels or lock pins.

Do I need a hydraulic or pneumatic rivet nut tool for professional use?

While hand-operated tools are perfect for most fabrication and installation tasks, professionals installing hundreds or thousands of threaded inserts daily may benefit from a pneumatic or hydraulic tool. These tools eliminate manual effort entirely, offering the highest speed and consistency, but they come at a much higher price point than the best rivet nut tool hand options reviewed here.