The Best Rivet Guns (Review & Buying Guide) in 2023

Rivets were first invented in the egypt and since then they have become one of the most important components in carpentry, mechanics, and other similar trades. And since then, many companies have come up with numerous designs and forms. So, choosing the best rivet gun is like picking a needle in a haystack.

However, with our article, you can get the rivet gun of your dreams with less complication. Also, our buying guide shall provide you with the required information to know how to choose the finest rivet gun.

So, if you are a novice and you want to up your game, our article should be of big help.

Even if you are pro, it is always a wise decision to go through the basics once in a while.

What Is A Rivet Gun Exactly? 

Before we start discussing which rivet gun you should opt for or the things you should be looking in your rivet gun, you need to be well aware of what a rivet gun is in the first place.

And that is the main purpose of this section. So, if the concept of a rivet gun is new to you or you need a little brain-jogging on the topic, then let us begin?

Rivet guns are also known as pneumatic hammers. They are generally used for pulling or pushing nails, bolts, or such items from a structure. By pushing or pulling, we mean that these guns are used to force rivets inside a structure.

These guns are generally pneumatic, meaning that they use the power from the air or gas in a cylinder to drive the rivets. Do not confuse a pneumatic riveter with an air hammer. They are completely different in functionalities, usages as well as designs.

Best Rivet Gun Reviews 

The market contains numerous Rivet guns claiming to be the best and to narrow your options down, here are 10 products. Each of these products is worthy of the title of the "finest rivet gun", and we are quite sure that one of them would catch your eye instantly.

1. Astor Pneumatic Tool 1442 13-inch Hand Rivet

Specification

• Brand: Astro Pneumatic Tool
• Model: 1442
• Weight: 5 pounds

If you are into the mechanic profession or something similar, you should be quite familiar with Astor’s products. And their pneumatic tool is one of their best works as of yet! Its high-performance, smooth functionalities, and affordable price range makes it a must-have item.

And if you need to make adjustments to your bicycle's fixtures or want to upgrade your off-road vehicles, this Rivet guarantees to do these work with minimum complications. Also, it is capable of effortlessly working on supplementary firewall additions, body panels, etc.

Plus, if you need to make adjustments, the innovative design of the gun allows you to do that with zero or minimum effort. The quick-change toothless head mandrel system not only allows the mandrels to be changed but also enables you to swiftly change the nose piece.

Thus, it enables you to do more intricate and complex forms of work. And when it comes to intricate works, this one has 6-mandrels or nose pieces. This comes in a variety of sizes, such as Metric M5, M6, M8, and Sae 10-24, 5/16-8, 1/4-20.

Hence, it provides you with a vast range of working options and lets you do all kinds of projects. Plus, the vast kind of working options is made less complicated and more efficient by its shorter hand that assures to raise the leverage even further.

In addition to all that, the item is lightweight, compact, can be stored easily and is quite affordable. This makes it arguably the greatest rivet gun in the market.

2. ORFELD Hand Rivet Gun 11-Inch

Specification

• Brand: ORFELD
• Model: ‎HR810X
• Weight: 1.76 pounds

Are you looking for a superior rivet gun that comes with exceptional ergonomics and superb functionality coupled with a durable and portable design? Then Orfeld has the perfect item for you! Its 11-inch size makes it exceptionally convenient and enables you to get to those tight spots that conventional rivet guns are incapable of.

Along with its super small size, the product weighs only 1.76-pounds (around 0.8-kilograms). Meaning, in addition to compact dimensions, the lightweight feature of the gun makes moving it much more effortless. Also, storing the item is quite an uncomplicated task due to these two factors.

Plus, it comes with 5-interchangeable nose pieces of 3/32-inches, 1/8-inches, 5/32-inches, 3/16-inches, and 1/4-inches. Hence, you can effortlessly do all kinds of work with this item, including off-road vehicle upgrades, bike fixture adjustments, supplementary adjustment, etc.

In addition to all of these, the design of the Rivet is unique and stylish. It has an eye-catching color of blue-black. However, the stylish look comes with superb ergonomics. This means it was designed to let you effortlessly do all kinds of hefty works, including the simpler projects.

And lastly, all these amazing attributes, which include efficient performance, comfortable design, superior pulling force, exceptional mobility and storage, and the durable and reliable build, can be purchased at the most affordable prices. Hence, you can easily attain the best riveter for such an affordable price.

3. Astro Pneumatic Tool PR14 Air Riveter

Specification

• Brand: Astro Pneumatic Tool
• Model: ‎APT-PR14
• Weight: 4.15 pounds

Looking for a riveter that ensures exceptional pulling strength? Also, looking for a riveter that is highly durable and guaranteed to be on your side for a very long time? The Astro’s pneumatic PR14 is the one for you! Furthermore, it is a great choice if you are looking for one of the best Pneumatic tools.

The first thing that we shall be talking about is the pulling force of the item. It has a staggering 2,423lbs of pulling force. Such a high pulling force should be more than enough to pull any type of nut, bolts. Thus it enables you to do all kinds of works like off-road modifications, bicycle adjustments, and numerous other works.

And its quick-release option allows you to do swift-assembly as well as gives shorter wait time. Thus, it makes the whole process more efficient and less time-consuming. In addition to that, the quick-release air-valves reduces the chances of overloading of the item and enhances longevity.

Plus, apart from superb pulling strength and efficient performance, the riveter comes with various mandrels. These are 4.8mms, 4mms, 2.4mms, 3.2mms, 6.4mms, and 3 attached mandrels. Thus, it provides you a wide range of options as well as lets you do all kinds of works.

In addition to that, the item is quite lightweight and compact. Therefore, giving it superior mobility and lets you get those tight spots. Also, the compact dimensions allow you to effortlessly stash the item in your workshop or garage.

4. Dorman 743-100 Rivet Gun

Specification

• Brand: Dorman
• Model: 743-100
• Weight: 3.2 pounds

Dorman has been in the carpentry and mechanic accessory business since 1918. They are one of the oldest in the business (they have been in the business for over a decade) and have made around 80,000-plus products. So, we can be quite confident that they are going to provide us the best!

The 743-100 rivet gun has a simple design. And in their case, simple is the best. The rivet gun’s simple and efficient design allows you to quickly pull out the most stubborn nuts with minimum effort. Furthermore, the design also allows you a better grip from a smoother and efficient riveting experience.

And the materials used to make the item are all top-notch. Meaning the item is highly durable and reliable. And therefore, it ensures that it will last for a long time and will keep on providing you with optimum service. Hence, it makes it a good long-lasting investment.

Plus, the size of the item quite compact, and it weighs only 3.2 pounds (which is around 1.45 kilograms). Thus, you can effortlessly maneuver the item in any way you want.

Along with exceptional mobility, the lightweight and the compact features of the item lets you stash it anywhere in your garage or workshop without complication. Plus, on the day of purchase, you would have to buy all the nose pieces at affordable pricing.

Therefore, it comes with various-sized mandrels and allows you to do all kinds of complicated works. However, if you already have all the required parts, you would not need to separately purchase mandrels, and thus, reduces the price of the item exponentially.

5. MILWAUKEE Electic Corp M12 Cordless Rivet

Specification

• Brand: ‎MILWAUKEE ELECTRIC TOOLS CORP
• Model: ‎2550-22
• Weight: 3.35 pounds

If you are looking for something that costs less but assures superb performance, then Milwaukee M12 is the product for you. The item comes with all the necessary accessories, including a carrying bag and so much more. Thus, making it a superb replacement for pneumatic riveters.

The cordless rivet gun is electrically powered. And by electric power, we mean that it is powered by a battery. Hence, it is an exceptional item that conserves energy as well as saves up cash by preventing the need to buy expensive cylinders of gas or air.

Numerous people have a misconception that cordless rivet guns have less power compared to its other siblings. Well, this one can output pressure of 2000 pounds. Such immense pulling force is more than enough to break the most stubborn nuts or bolts with minimum or zero effort.

And following its exceptional pulling force and power-efficient performance, the item comes with 4-mandrels. These mandrels are 3/2-inches, 1/8-inches, 5/32-inches, and 3/16-inches that allows you to do all kinds of delicate and complex works such as off-road upgradations, bicycle modification, etc.

Plus, it is highly durable and long lasting. This is attributed to its stainless steel and aluminum construction. Thus, this gives it a sturdy and durable exterior and also makes the whole item dent-resistant, rustproof, corrosion-proof.

Finally, it is featherweight and compact. These allow you to effortlessly place the item inside the satchel and place it anywhere you want with zero effort.

You May also Read:  Best Pex Crimp Tool Ultimate Reviews and Buying Guide

6. Tacklife 14-Inch Auto Pumping Rod Rivet 

Specification

• Brand: TACKLIFE
• Model: HHNP1A
• Weight: 2.4 pounds

Rivet guns are quite expensive! And if you throw in nose pieces and numerous other accessories, the whole combination can set you back for a good amount of bucks. Luckily, Tacklife has come up with the perfect solution for this!

The 14-Inch auto pumping-rod Rivet provides high-efficiency and performance and provides all the necessary tools to get your job done. It comes with 7-interchangeable mandrels or nose pieces. These 7 pieces are Metric M5, M6, M8, M10, and SAE 5/16-18, 1/4-20, 10-24 provide you with a wide variety of working options.

Also, it comes with 35 pieces of rivet nuts (5-for each mandrel). So, we assure you that you will be able to do numerous complex works with minimum work. If that isn't enough, the item comes with 14-inch thick carbon steel nuts and is made in a way that enhances the efficiency.

Therefore, when all these are combined, you end up with an item that reduces 40% of your work as well as the energy used by the item. And its chromium-molybdenum steel nose pieces, including the whole exterior being made from steel, gives it exceptional durability and longevity.

7. Sherman Marson 390000 HP-2 Professional Hand Rivet

Specification

• Brand:  Sherman
• Model: 39000
• Weight: 1 pounds

A difficult phase that any novice would face is the transition to the next level, and to make this transition a much easier process, Sherman has come up with this item.

It guarantees superior performance, durability, and functionality that those high-end professional rivets have to offer at an affordable price. And therefore, it is an exceptional choice for novices.

First of all, the rivet comes with a long-arm. This feature provides superior leverage as well as a better range. Also, the longer-arm makes the whole riveting process an easier task and thus making the whole process more efficient and novice-friendly.

And it comes with a steel 5/32-inch rivet, aluminum 3/16-inch up to 3/32-inch rivets. These allow you a wide range of working options and enables you to work with two different kinds of materials, steel as well as aluminum. Hence, it enables you to do all kinds of work, including off-road vehicle modifications, bicycle upgrades, etc.

Another thing that rivet guns must have is mobility as, without it, you won't be able to do your work. And the mobility of this one is off the charts. It weighs only a pound, which enables you to effortlessly maneuver the item and easily reach those tough spots that most rivet guns cannot.

In addition to that, its compact size allows easy storage in your workshop.

8. Arrow Heavy-Duty Professional Pop Rivet Gun kit

Specification

• Brand:  ‎Arrow Fastener CO.,LLC
• Model: ‎RH200SKITAM
• Weight:  2.2 pounds

Riveters are already an expensive deal and if you have to buy the rivets, then the whole combo becomes more expensive. Luckily, Arrows' heavy-duty professional riveter comes with 120 rivets.

These rivets include 25 pieces of aluminum (diameter-3mm and grip-3mm), 20 pieces of 3mm diameter and 6mm grip rivets, 15 pieces of 3mm diameter, and 12mm grips. Thus enabling you to do various riveting jobs on an aluminum surface.

If that is not enough, it comes with the same dimensions for stainless steel, and thus, lets you do various works on stainless steel as well. Furthermore, it comes with 4 different types of nose pieces and hence, allows you to do all kinds of work like modifications, pannel works, etc.

It comes with a very simple design, which consists of an easy-loading and easy-ejection. Along with that, the design also contains a simple spring system. This makes the whole riveting process even more effortless.

Thus, its simple ergonomics allow you to finish the most complex of jobs with minimum effort and record-breaking time.

Lastly, it's lightweight and has compact dimensions. These allow you to effortlessly carry as well as maneuver the item to get the job done. Also, its compact size allows you to stash it anywhere in your garage or workshop. In addition to all that, all the necessary items will be provided on the day of purchase.

Additionally, its all-metal exterior gives it enhanced durability and longevity and allows it to withstand extreme temperature and pressure. Plus, its extended nozzle allows you to reach all those hard spots that general riveters are incapable of reaching.

9. TACKLIFE 13-Inch Heavy-Duty Riveter

Specification

• Brand:  ‎Tackle Life
• Model: ‎
• Weight:  

Tacklife has been in the accessory business for a very long time, and they are well known for making exceptionally durable and long-lasting products.

And their 13-inch heavy-duty riveter assures to uphold their moto. It is made of thick carbon steel exterior, stainless steel rivet, or chromium steel mandrels that guarantee superior longevity and performance.

In addition to that, it comes with 5 nose pieces 1/10-inch, 1/8-inch, 5/32-inch, 3/16-inch, and 1/4-inch mandrels, which allow you to make all kinds of riveting works, including working on those heavy-duty ones.

Plus, the design of the piece is exceptional. It contains shorter 13-inch arms that allow you to apply pressure better, and it also allows you to effortlessly reach those tight spots. Also, its easy-mount and easy-removal feature allows you quick-change and let you get on with your work with minimum wait-time.

And its feathery and meager dimensions allows you effortless mobility as well as enables you to stash the item anywhere you want.

10. WORKPRO 10-Inch Heavy-Duty Rivet Gun

Specification

• Brand:  ‎‎HANZGHOU GREATSTAR INDUSTRIAL CO.LTD
• Model: ‎‎W023022A
• Weight:  2.29 pounds

If you are looking for a rivet gun that comes with all the necessary accessories and more, then this is the right one for you. First of all, it comes with 5-changeable mandrels. The mandrels are 6.4-mm, 4.8-mm, 4-mm, 3.2-mm, and 2.4-mm and thus, enable you to do all kinds of riveting jobs.

In addition to the wide mandrel options, the riveter comes with 100 different rivet pieces. Therefore, it lets you work on all kinds of projects and all kinds of materials. Plus, it has a thick (2-mm) carbon steel exterior that gives it superb durability, heat-resistance as well as resistance to corrosion and rust.

Ergo allowing the item to last for a very long time. It contains an infinite transmission range along with long-arms that makes the whole riveting job an easy task. Along with this, it is compact and lightweight.

Thus, it enables you to effortlessly stash it anywhere you want as well as allow you to effortlessly move and reach all those tough-spots.

Different Types of Rivet Guns

From the first introduction of rivet guns to this date, there are numerous types of rivet guns. However, all these can be broken down into 4 types.

Standard Riveters

These are the ones most available in the market and contain two handles and a nozzle. You place the rivet on the nozzle and do the work at hand. Standard riveters are the father of all riveters that we are going to mention as they all have been derived from the same concept.

Long Arm/Two-Handed Rivet Guns

Long arm riveters have a simple form like standard ones, with the only difference is the long-arm. And the longarm is liable for superior leverage as well as exceptional reach. Thus, enabling you to work those tight spots with fewer complications. Plus, the long-arm makes the whole riveting process simpler.

Long Nose Riveter

If you are planning to work on slightly suspended areas, these are the best option. They also provide superior reach and allow you to work with tighter spots than conventional riveters are incapable of reaching. Also, the long-nose riveter has a longer arm that increases leverage as well as makes the riveting easier.

Lazy Tong Riveter

These have an interesting feature. They have an extended body like a metal lattice and contracting and expanding the tongs, you drive the rivet through the structure. It can provide superior strength, but you would have to work extra to get the optimum results. Besides, placing it can be a difficult task at times.

However, again, there are different designs and types of rivet guns made for different uses. Below is a table with the different types of rivet guns from the using purpose. Let's jump to the use:

Things to Consider When Buying a Best Rivet Gun

Choosing the best pop rivet gun can be a difficult business, especially after the market has so many options to choose from. So, let’s make that easier.

Type

The first thing that you need to keep in mind before choosing a riveter is the type of rivet gun. The market contains so many options such as standard riveters, the long arm ones, the long-nose rivet gun, lazy-tong riveter, and the special riveter. And you must pick the one that suits your comfort.

Hence, when picking the riveter, just test it out and pick the one you think has a more comfortable mechanism.

Build

After, the type of riveter you must pick on that was made of a material compatible with the type of work you are doing. For example, if you are working on steel, then the best option for riveting steel is a steel rivet gun. So, it is quite impossible to have a rivet gun for each kind of element.

Therefore, pick one that is convenient and compatible with the kinds of projects you are most likely to take.

Mandrels or Nosepieces

The number of mandrels or nosepieces can be a crucial aspect when picking a rivet gun. Ergo, go for a rivet gun that assures a much higher range of nosepieces. One other thing that you must keep in mind is the type of material the mandrels are made of. So, carefully choose the ones that are durable and long-lasting.

You don’t want to change your mandrels frequently after using it for a short time. Hence, the durability of the mandrels is an important part of rivet hunting.

Design

When choosing a rivet gun, you would want one that reduces your effort quite exponentially. That is why lean for a rivet gun that has longer arms. This increases the reach as well as give you superior leverage. Also, the longer arms provide you the ability to work those tight spots that shorter one cannot.

Size and Weight

A rivet that is too heavy to hold or too big to be stored is pretty much useless. Rivet guns need to be portable and compact. Therefore, go for the ones that are smaller in size as well as weigh less.

Price

Lastly, avoid overshooting your budget. Riveters are a one-time investment, and it would be a waste to go for the more expensive ones.

How to Use a Pop Riveter

Pop riveters are of two types, pneumatic or manual. Though both of them use a different method to power the rivet guns, they both have similar functionality and are used for a similar purpose.

First, you should load the rivet, and the next step should be driving the metal through the metal. You do this by pushing the handle, which will drive the mandrel into the pin and let go when you feel resistance. Keep doing this until you feel a pop noise as the pop sound means that the pin has been broken, and the rivet is in position.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below we have some of the most commonly asked queries regarding the best rivet guns:

How do I remove a bad or undersized rivet?

If you need to remove an undersized rivet or a bad one, the process is quite simple. Use a screwdriver behind the rivet head and provide it with some good pressure (or leverage). After, that just use your drill to remove the rivet.

Should I use protective equipment to operate a rivet gun?

We recommend that you should. Rivets use power and are quite fast. So, it is a good idea to wear protective gloves as well as google when using these types of machines.

How does a blind rivet gun works?

Blind rivets pass through a tight hole. When the mandrel from a blind rivet is pulled back, it deforms the rivet and pushes on the sides until you hear a snap.

How do I take out a rivet if I make a mistake?

Removing a rivet is possible but time-consuming, so take care when installing one. Just use a power drill to remove it. 

How do I choose the right size rivet?

It depends entirely on the type of work you are doing. So, the best way is to take cautious and careful measurements of the work in hand. And after you have done the measurements thoroughly, pick the rivet that suits your measured dimensions.

What is the difference between 2X and 3x rivet guns?

The main difference between a 2X and 3x rivet gun is the size of the rivets they can drive. The 2x has a relatively short stroke for the reciprocating hammer. The 3x has a longer stroke and the 4x longer yet. Of course there are variations between manufacturers in diameter of the bore to some degree. The shorter stroke rivet hammers have a faster cadence than the larger ones.

How much do a rivet gun cost?

The cost of a rivet gun can range from $20-$100, depending on what type of gun you want to buy, and the durability of the material you want it made out of.

Final Words

Rivets have reduced human efforts exponentially over the hundred years. The device makes the tough issue an easy one, and all the items mentioned here are the best. And we hope that you find the best rivet gun. Good luck!