What is Rivet Gun: How It Works, How to Use It, Types & Brands

Have you ever wondered how a reciprocating pump actually moves liquid? It sounds complicated, right? Many people don’t realize that this simple back-and-forth motion is behind many tools we use every day—including rivet guns. Let’s explore how this works and why it matters. In this blog, we’ll also cover what a rivet gun is, its types, uses, how it works, how to use it, popular brands, prices (in USD), and answer some common questions.

What is a Rivet Gun?

A rivet gun is a handy tool used to join two pieces of material together using a rivet—a small metal pin that holds materials together. Unlike screws or nails, rivets provide a permanent, secure hold. Rivet guns push the rivet through the materials and then squeeze or expand it to hold everything tight. These tools are widely used in construction, auto repair, and metalwork. Whether you’re working on a DIY project or a professional job, a rivet gun makes fastening easier and faster.

Types of Rivet Gun

Rivet guns come in different types based on how they generate their power. The main categories are manual, pneumatic, and battery-powered rivet guns.

Manual Rivet Guns

Simple to operate, manual rivet guns work without electricity or air power.

• Hand Rivet Gun: This basic tool looks like pliers. You squeeze the handles to set the rivet in place. It’s perfect for small jobs or light materials.

• Heavy-Duty Lever Riveter: This type offers more leverage, allowing for bigger or tougher rivets. It’s great for heavy-duty jobs that require more power.

Pneumatic Rivet Guns

Pneumatic rivet guns operate using compressed air. This means they work faster and with more strength, which is useful in factories or workshops.

• Pneumatic Rivet Gun: These tools connect to an air compressor to provide steady power. They save time and effort for large projects.

• Astro Pneumatic PR14 Air Riveter: Known for its strong performance, this model is popular among professionals.

• Astro Pneumatic Riveter: Another reliable air rivet gun known for speed and durability.

Battery-Powered Rivet Guns

Battery-powered or cordless rivet guns offer the freedom to work without cords or air hoses.

• Cordless Battery Riveting Tool: These tools are handy for outdoor or mobile jobs where power sources are limited.

• Dewalt Rivet Tool: A trusted brand in battery-powered rivet guns, Dewalt offers powerful, easy-to-use tools perfect for many applications.

Rivet Gun Uses

Rivet guns are used in many industries. Some common uses include:

• Joining metal sheets in cars and airplanes.

• Securing parts in appliances or electronics.

• Building fences, signs, or metal furniture.

• DIY projects that need strong, long-lasting fasteners.

Heavy-duty rivet guns are beneficial when working with thick or tough materials. Pneumatic and electric rivet guns speed up production and reduce hand fatigue.

How Does a Rivet Gun Work?

A rivet gun works by pulling on the tail of a rivet while pushing the head against the materials being joined. This action causes the rivet to expand inside the hole, locking the materials together.

With a manual rivet gun, you pull the rivet by squeezing the handles. Pneumatic guns use compressed air to pull the rivet automatically. For battery-operated or cordless rivet guns, an electric motor does the pulling work, making it easier and faster.

How to Use a Rivet Gun

Using a rivet gun is simple:

1. Drill a Hole: Ensure the hole diameter aligns perfectly with the rivet size.

2. Insert the Rivet: Insert the rivet into the materials.

3. Place the Gun: Put the rivet gun’s nosepiece over the rivet’s tail.

4. Squeeze or Activate: Squeeze the handles until the rivet holds. For pneumatic or electric guns, press the trigger to activate.

5. Remove the Tail: The tail breaks off, leaving a clean, strong joint.

Always wear safety glasses and follow the tool’s instructions for the best results.

Popular Brands for a Rivet Gun

Some well-known brands produce reliable rivet guns, trusted by both professionals and DIYers.

Dewalt 

DeWalt is famous for its powerful cordless rivet guns. Their tools combine long battery life with strong performance, making them perfect for jobs where mobility and ease matter most.

Milwaukee 

Milwaukee offers a range of heavy-duty and cordless rivet guns designed for tough materials. Built to last, they manage heavy work with ease.

Astro Pneumatic

Astro Pneumatic is a top choice for air-powered rivet guns. These tools offer speed and power, perfect for workshops and industrial tasks.

Stanley and Arrow: 

Stanley and Arrow specialize in manual and heavy-duty lever riveters. These brands provide simple, reliable tools that work well for smaller projects or when power sources aren't available.

Choosing the right brand depends on your specific needs—whether you want cordless freedom, pneumatic power, or a solid manual rivet gun for occasional use.

Rivet Gun Price (USD)

Here’s a quick price guide to help you choose the right rivet gun for your budget and needs:

Choosing the right rivet gun ensures better workflow and dependable results. Choose based on your specific needs and budget.

Conclusion

A rivet gun is an essential tool for anyone working with metal or other materials that need strong, lasting fasteners. Whether you choose a manual, pneumatic, or battery-powered model, understanding the types and uses will help you pick the right tool for your projects. With the right rivet gun, you can work faster, safer, and with better results. Consider your needs, budget, and the brands available to make the best choice. Selecting the proper rivet gun ensures efficient work and durable, high-quality joints.

FAQs

Q1. Why is it called a rivet?

A. It's called a rivet because it refers to the pin that holds materials together. The word originates from old French and Latin terms for “fasten firmly.”

Q2. How to operate a rivet gun?

A. Insert the rivet, place the rivet gun’s nose on the rivet’s tail, and squeeze or press the trigger until the tail breaks off and the materials are joined securely.

Q3. What is the difference between a pneumatic rivet gun and a manual rivet gun?

A. A pneumatic rivet gun uses compressed air for faster, stronger riveting, while a manual rivet gun relies on hand strength. Pneumatic guns are better for heavy or frequent use.

Q4. Can I use a cordless rivet gun for heavy-duty jobs?

 Yes! Many cordless rivet guns are designed for heavy-duty work, offering strong battery power and ease of use without cords.

Q5. What is a pop rivet gun?

A. A pop rivet gun is another name for a rivet gun that sets pop rivets—fasteners that expand inside the hole to create a strong hold.

Q6. Are electric rivet guns better than pneumatic ones?

A. Electric rivet guns offer cordless convenience and portability, while pneumatic guns provide consistent power for high-volume tasks. The best choice depends on your work needs.

Q7. How long does a battery-operated rivet gun last on a single charge?

A. Battery life varies by model, but most battery-operated rivet guns can complete dozens of rivets before needing a recharge.