What Is a Rivet Gun?
A rivet gun (also called a pop rivet gun or riveter) is a tool used to install blind rivets — fasteners that permanently join two or more materials from one side only. Unlike bolts or screws, rivets create a permanent, vibration-resistant joint without requiring access to the back of the workpiece. Widely used in automotive, aerospace, HVAC, and sheet metal fabrication.
Types of Rivet Guns
1. Manual Hand Rivet Gun
The manual rivet gun is the most common and affordable type. A squeeze-action handle pulls the rivet mandrel, setting the rivet and breaking off the stem. Available in standard and heavy-duty versions for different rivet sizes. Ideal for occasional use and light-to-medium applications.
2. Lazy Tong Rivet Gun
The lazy tong (accordion) rivet gun uses a scissor-action mechanism that multiplies hand force, reducing fatigue during high-volume riveting. Better ergonomics than a standard hand riveter for extended use.
3. Pneumatic Rivet Gun
Air-powered rivet guns set rivets with a single trigger pull, dramatically increasing speed and reducing hand fatigue. Essential for production environments and high-volume sheet metal work. Requires an air compressor.
4. Battery-Powered Rivet Gun
Cordless electric rivet guns combine the speed of pneumatic tools with the portability of battery power. Ideal for job sites and applications where compressed air isn't available. Modern models handle a wide range of rivet sizes.
5. Structural Rivet Gun
Structural rivet guns are heavy-duty tools for setting large-diameter structural rivets in steel construction, trailer manufacturing, and heavy equipment fabrication. They require significantly more force than standard pop rivet guns.
Understanding Blind Rivets
Blind rivets (pop rivets) consist of a hollow rivet body and a mandrel stem. The rivet gun pulls the mandrel through the rivet body, expanding the tail on the blind side to clamp the materials together. The mandrel then breaks off at a pre-set load. Available in aluminum, steel, stainless steel, and copper in various diameters and grip ranges.
Choosing the Right Rivet Gun
For occasional DIY use, a manual hand riveter handles most tasks. For production work or large rivets, choose pneumatic or battery-powered. Match the rivet gun's capacity to the rivet diameter you'll use most — most hand riveters handle 3/32" to 3/16" rivets.
Care and Maintenance
Keep the nose piece clean and free of broken mandrels. Lubricate the mechanism periodically with light oil. Replace worn nose pieces when rivets slip or don't set cleanly. Store in a dry location to prevent corrosion.
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