What are Rivet Tools?
Rivet tools pull a mandrel to expand a blind rivet and clamp materials from one side. Tools range from compact hand riveters to high-output pneumatic and battery rivet guns. Most include multiple nosepieces for common mandrel sizes.
Which rivet gun do I need?
- Hand riveter: light jobs, occasional use, low cost, portable
- Lever riveter: longer handles reduce effort for frequent 1/8 to 3/16 in installs
- Battery rivet gun: fast, mobile production without air lines, good for varied work
- Pneumatic rivet gun: highest speed and consistency for bench or line work
Can one tool set 1/8 and 3/16 rivets?
Yes, if the tool supports both diameters and you install the matching nosepiece. Many tools include 3/32, 1/8, 5/32, 3/16, and 1/4 in nosepieces. Check the pull capacity before setting larger or structural rivets.
What nosepiece size should I use?
Use the nosepiece that matches the rivet’s mandrel size. These are the most common pairings:
- 3/32 in rivet, 3/32 in nosepiece
- 1/8 in rivet, 1/8 in nosepiece
- 5/32 in rivet, 5/32 in nosepiece
- 3/16 in rivet, 3/16 in nosepiece
- 1/4 in rivet, 1/4 in nosepiece
If the mandrel will not pass through the nose, move up to the next size or inspect for debris in the jaws.
Manual vs pneumatic vs battery, which is best?
- Manual: lowest cost, no power source, best for small batches
- Battery: fast cycle times with mobility, good for job sites and mixed work
- Pneumatic: fastest and most consistent for high volume when air is available
How much pull capacity do I need?
Match the tool’s rated pull force to your largest rivet and material combination. Larger diameters and structural rivets need higher pull force and stronger jaws. If the tool stalls or requires multiple pulls, step up to a higher-capacity model.
Setup and best practices
- Install the correct nosepiece, verify jaw set and collet are clean
- Measure the stack and choose a rivet whose grip range covers it
- Drill a snug, clean hole, then deburr both sides
- Seat the head flat, hold the tool square, pull until the mandrel snaps
- For production, use a mandrel collector to keep work areas clean
Troubleshooting and quick fixes
- Mandrel stuck in jaws: release pressure, back out the nose, clean jaws and apply light oil
- Rivet will not set: wrong nosepiece or the tool lacks pull capacity for that rivet size
- Head rocks after setting: hole oversized or outside grip range, re-drill to spec or step up diameter
- Nose will not accept mandrel: blocked jaws or wrong nosepiece size, clean or change nosepiece
Why buy Rivet Tools from AlbanyCountyFasteners.com
- Hand, lever, battery, and pneumatic options for common diameters
- Nosepiece assortments for 3/32 to 1/4 in rivets
- Fast shipping with contractor-friendly pack sizes
- USA-based support for tool selection, pull force, and setup
FAQs
A quick guide to selecting, sizing, and maintaining rivet tools.
Will one tool handle every rivet size?
No. Most hand and lever tools cover 3/32 to 3/16 in, some support 1/4 in. Battery and pneumatic tools cover a wider range. Always check the pull capacity and included nosepieces.
Do I need air for a rivet gun?
Only for pneumatic models. Battery tools provide similar speed without an air line, manual and lever tools require no power.
How often should I service my rivet tool?
Clean jaws and nosepieces regularly, empty the mandrel collector, and add light oil per the manufacturer’s schedule. Service more often in production use.
Can these tools set structural rivets?
Only if the tool is rated for the diameter and style. Structural rivets need higher pull force and the correct nose and jaw set.
What if my mandrel keeps jamming?
Check for worn jaws, debris in the nose, or a mismatched nosepiece. Replace worn parts and verify the rivet size against the tool’s range.