Best Rivet Tool Guide: 5 Models Reviewed for 2025

Whenever I tackle a metal fabrication project, having a reliable best rivet tool is non-negotiable. I recently spent time testing several top-rated manual hand riveters, focusing on comfort, ease of head swapping, and sheer pulling power. This guide breaks down the performance of five popular models, helping you decide which hand riveter kit offers the most value for your workshop or heavy-duty repair needs.

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
	Arrow Heavy Duty Riveter Kit, Professional Pop Rivet Gun…	View on Amazon
	Rivet Gun, Rivet Gun Kit, Pop Rivet Gun, 80PCs Metal…	View on Amazon
	BEETRO Heavy Duty Hand Riveter, 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 stands out immediately for its comprehensive inclusions and thoughtful design innovations. It offers a premium feel thanks to its high-quality aluminum alloy body and heat-treated carbon steel handle, designed for both comfort and longevity. What truly elevates this model is the tool-free mechanism for changing the four included rivet heads, saving significant time during complex jobs. The kit generously includes 200 aluminum rivets and four corresponding drill bits, making this a true “ready-to-go” solution right out of the sturdy carrying case.

Key features that stand out:
– Tool-free interchangeable rivet heads: Quick and easy size swapping (3/32″ up to 3/16″).
– Durable construction: Reinforced carbon steel handle paired with an aluminum alloy body.
– Ergonomic design: Double-curved handle and PVC sleeve reduces strain.
– Wide material compatibility: Handles aluminum, steel, and stainless steel rivets (with caution on 4.8mm steel).

Pros:
– Includes 200 rivets and 4 drill bits, offering excellent value.
– Tool-free guide mouth allows for fast maintenance and head changing.
– Robust carrying case keeps everything organized.
– Excellent ergonomic handles reduce hand fatigue.

Cons:
– Larger 3/16″ size is not recommended for heavy-duty steel rivets.

Best for:
DIYers and professionals needing a complete, high-quality starting kit with superior convenience features.

Expert Opinion: The quick-change mechanism sets this model apart. For users who switch between rivet sizes often, this feature alone justifies the investment, making it arguably the most efficient best rivet tool on this list.

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 fantastic “one-stop solution” for general riveting needs, arriving complete with the gun, 200 aluminum rivets, four drill bits, and a rugged case. Its four interchangeable heads (ranging from 3/32″ to 3/16″) are conveniently marked and color-coded, and they store securely right on the handle. Constructed from high-strength aluminum alloy and carbon steel, this model is built for durability across a wide range of common projects, from automotive work to household furniture repairs.

Key features that stand out:
– Comprehensive kit: Includes 200 rivets and 4 drill bits, ready for immediate use.
– Color-coded heads: Simplifies identification and replacement.
– Handle storage: Heads are stored directly on the tool, reducing loss.
– Strong materials: Designed for long life performance in demanding environments.

Pros:
– Very easy head replacement without needing extra tools.
– Excellent component count for the price point.
– Suitable for a wide variety of metalwork and common assembly tasks.
– Highly portable due to the secure carrying box.

Cons:
– The handle storage, while convenient, can sometimes rattle slightly.

Best for:
General household maintenance, automotive enthusiasts, and quick assembly tasks.

Expert Opinion: If simplicity and component volume are your priority, the GIANTISAN delivers. It’s a straightforward, strong, and highly accessible hand riveter kit that performs reliably across medium-duty applications.

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

Arrow is a widely recognized name in fastening tools, and their Heavy Duty Riveter Kit maintains that reputation for quality and reliability. This model is engineered primarily for general-purpose jobs requiring rivets up to 5/32″ diameter. The standout feature here is the extended nosepiece, which is incredibly valuable for reaching fasteners in hard-to-access areas—think deep inside gutters, HVAC ducts, or cabinet interiors. While it comes with fewer rivets than some competitors (120 assorted rivets), it offers the classic, dependable performance Arrow users expect.

Key features that stand out:
– Extended nose: Facilitates work in tight and hard-to-reach locations.
– Versatile capacity: Works with common rivet diameters from 3/32 in. to 5/32 in.
– Portable fastening: Ideal manual tool for jobs requiring mobility.
– Trusted brand: Known for quality construction.

Pros:
– Excellent access capabilities for restricted spaces.
– Robust build quality consistent with the Arrow brand.
– Includes four interchangeable heads for varying tasks.
– Ideal for sheet metal work like gutter repair.

Cons:
– Capacity limits: Not recommended for 3/16″ steel or any stainless steel rivets.

Best for:
HVAC professionals, gutter installation, and repairs in confined spaces.

Expert Opinion: This is the workhorse of the group for anyone whose primary difficulty is access. If your project involves reaching deep into an assembly, the extended nose of the Arrow makes it the best rivet tool option.

Rivet Gun, Rivet Gun Kit, Pop Rivet Gun, 80PCs Metal Rivets and 4 Drill Bits, Heavy Duty Hand Riveter, Rivet Gun Tool for Metal, Automotive, Blind Rivets 3/32″ 1/8″ 5/32″ 3/16″

For users who prioritize raw durability and strength, this heavy-duty hand riveter from Libraton is a compelling choice. It features an all-steel construction, with a reinforced carbon steel heat treatment handle designed to maximize service life and increase body strength. The ergonomic design includes thick PVC grips that offer comfort and crucial non-slip security, especially when handling larger rivets that require more force. This kit is supplied with four interchangeable heads and 80 aluminum rivets, suitable for secure fastening in demanding environments like automotive or construction.

Key features that stand out:
– All-steel construction: Provides maximum tool longevity and pulling strength.
– Ergonomic PVC grips: Thick, non-slip grips improve comfort and efficiency.
– Heavy-duty: Built specifically for securely fastening metal and heavy fabric.
– Handle storage: Four heads are conveniently stored on the handle.

Pros:
– Superior tool durability due to the all-steel body.
– Handles are designed to facilitate single-hand operation for smaller sizes.
– Strong grip ensures control during heavy pulls.
– Suitable for 3/16″ rivets across softer metals.

Cons:
– The kit includes fewer rivets (80 pcs) compared to the WETOLS or GIANTISAN models.

Best for:
Industrial use, heavy fabrication, and users who demand the longest tool lifespan.

Expert Opinion: The Libraton is built like a tank. While it’s slightly heavier than the alloy-bodied tools, that weight translates directly into stability and longevity, making it a reliable choice for consistent, demanding work.

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 designed with portability and versatility in mind. It is significantly lighter than some heavy-duty competitors, thanks to its ergonomic build, making it easy to carry and maneuver, even during extended use periods. While capable of handling metal fastening, it shines in applications involving softer or mixed materials like plastic, leather, and thin piping. It includes 100 assorted rivets and a convenient head wrench for easy nozzle changes.

Key features that stand out:
– Lightweight ergonomic design: Maximizes comfort and portability.
– Wide material range: Excels at joining plastic, leather, and metal.
– Four rivet sizes: Covers 3/32″ to 3/16″ needs.
– Convenience: Includes a head wrench for quick adjustments.

Pros:
– Very light and easy to handle for less strenuous tasks.
– Highly versatile across different material types.
– Comfortable grip for prolonged use.
– Simple mechanism for quick operation.

Cons:
– May require extra effort when pulling larger steel or stainless rivets.

Best for:
Crafting, light repairs, and users prioritizing portability and comfort over brute force.

Expert Opinion: This is the ideal best rivet tool for users whose primary job isn’t heavy metal fabrication. Its easy handling and versatility with mixed materials make it a great addition to any general repair toolkit.

Comparison and Buying Insights

When deciding which best rivet tool to purchase, consider your material needs, not just the sheer number of rivets included. The WETOLS and GIANTISAN kits offer the most comprehensive starting packages with 200 rivets and drill bits, perfect for the new user. For pure strength and maximum mechanical leverage, the all-steel build of the Libraton is hard to beat, making it the superior long-term investment for frequent heavy use.

If you frequently encounter tight spaces, the Arrow’s extended nose provides an unmatched reach advantage, often essential for specific applications like automotive trim or ductwork. When considering comfort, models like the BEETRO and WETOLS, with their PVC grips and advanced ergonomic handles, are ideal for minimizing hand fatigue during prolonged projects. Remember that while all manual riveters require effort, opting for a tool with a comfortable grip is key to efficiency.

Final Verdict: Which Best Rivet Tool Should You Choose?

Choosing the right tool depends entirely on your primary application. If you need a reliable, feature-rich kit that speeds up workflow, the WETOLS Pop Rivet Gun Kit provides the best balance of accessories and innovation, particularly with its tool-free head swapping.

However, if your work involves repeated, heavy fastening of thick materials where durability is paramount, the Libraton Heavy Duty Hand Riveter’s all-steel design earns the top spot for sheer longevity and robustness. For those needing to reach into tricky spots like HVAC vents or deep enclosures, the specialized Arrow Heavy Duty Riveter is the clear winner.

Best Rivet Tool FAQ

What is a blind rivet and how does a pop rivet gun work?

A blind rivet (often called a pop rivet) is a mechanical fastener used when you can only access the joint from one side. The rivet has a shaft (called a mandrel) inserted through the center. When you squeeze the handles of the hand riveter, the tool pulls the mandrel, causing the blind end of the rivet to expand and grip the materials securely, eventually snapping off the mandrel head.

Can a manual hand riveter handle stainless steel rivets?

Most standard manual hand riveters are built primarily for aluminum and light steel rivets. Stainless steel rivets require significantly more force to set due to the material hardness. While some high-capacity, heavy-duty manual tools can handle smaller stainless rivets, manufacturers like Arrow often specifically advise against using 3/16” stainless rivets with manually operated equipment, as it can strain or even damage the tool mechanism.

When should I choose a manual hand riveter over a pneumatic riveter?

A manual hand riveter is best for lower volume work, portability, affordability, and situations where you don’t have access to air compression (HVAC work or field repairs). A pneumatic riveter is reserved for high-volume manufacturing or assembly lines where speed and minimizing user fatigue are critical.

How do I select the correct rivet diameter and grip length?

The rivet diameter must match the size of the pre-drilled hole (e.g., a 1/8″ rivet requires a 1/8″ hole). The grip length is the length of the rivet body needed to join the materials. You must measure the total thickness of the materials being joined and choose a rivet whose grip range covers that measurement to ensure a secure set.

What maintenance does a best rivet tool require?

Manual riveters require minimal maintenance. Regularly clean the jaw mechanism inside the nosepiece to prevent sticky residue build-up from snapped mandrels. A drop of light oil on the jaws and pivot points every few months, depending on use, will ensure smooth operation and prevent wear.

Are the interchangeable nosepieces universal among different rivet guns?

No, nosepieces are generally not universal. While the standard sizes (3/32”, 1/8”, 5/32”, 3/16”) are common, the threading and seating mechanism that holds the nosepiece onto the tool body vary by manufacturer (like WETOLS vs. Libraton), so you must use the specific nosepieces provided with your chosen best rivet tool kit.