Nutsert Guns: How to Choose a Nutsert Gun

Which Nutsert Tool Is Best For Me?

There is a wide range of of nutsert guns on the market and selecting “the correct rivnut setter” can be a little complex, especially when it comes to finding the right tool for your application. You want a hassle-free tool with the appropriate amount of power for speed and efficiency. In today's blog we will be providing a starters guide to purchasing the right nutsert tool. Aerobolt® has a wide range of professional nutsert tools that include popular brands such as Pop®, Far®, Masterfix® and Gesipa® plus a couple of alternative options that we have rivet nut lab tested for quality and value. In our test lab we apply vigorous testing standards on tools before we present them to market. Today, we are going to review a select range of air, manual and cordless nutsert guns.

Before we dive into nutsert guns, lets touch base with the basics. What is a nutsert? Nutserts are a tube shape fastener that provides an internal threaded anchor point for bolts. Nutserts are also known as rivnuts or rivet nuts and are ideal when the material is too thin or brittle to support a bolt on its own, a clever device that provides a permanent superior thread for the attachment of a bolt. Nutserts and nutsert tools form what is known in the fastening industry as a "fastening system". This term is applied when the fastener has a specific tool for its installation. Aerobolt® has a comprehensive range of both nutserts and nutsert tools, our selection of  nutserts commence with the popular knurled body Nutsert Xtralok® through to the specialised Plus Nut threaded inserts and so much more.

What are the different nutsert tool types?  

There are 3 nutsert tool types: air, cordless and manual. Selection depends on installation volume, application, nutsert type, material and size.

Air nutsert gun.

For high to medium volume nutsert installations, an air-powered nutsert tool is the easy choice. Air powered nutsert tools offer quick installation with consistent results. They are the fast & efficient option. Sometimes referred to as pneumatic or hydro-pneumatic nutserts tools.  

Pneumatic Nutsert Tool Pros.

Air nutsert tools are easy to use and often require less effort compared to the other options, plus they are cheaper than cordless! Offering continuous nutsert installations compared to a cordless nutsert gun with a wind-on and wind-off installations that you don't get with the manual option. Along with greater control of air pressure and stroke to ensure correct consistent nutsert installations.  

Air Nutsert Tool Cons.

These tools require an air compressor which may limit mobility.

Manual Nutsert Rivnut tools: 

For the occasional installation of nutserts a manual nutsert tools is cost-effective and easy to use. There are numerous different types of hand nutsert tools, including the popular ratchet nutsert tool - Aerobolt® 512  (pic on the right) which comes in a handy quality aluminium case and installs M5, M6, M8, M10 & M12 nutserts. Other manual rivnut tools that are popular with our customers include the lever type Masterfix® MFX510 and the Far® plier type rivnut tool. 

Manual Nutsert Tool Pros.

An inexpensive option, easy to use and ideal for the handy person.

Hand Nutsert Tool Cons.

They require muscle power.

Cordless nutsert rivnut tools.

Cordless nutsert tools run on battery power and provide incredible versatility, allowing you to install nutserts from practically anywhere. This makes the cordless nutsert tool option ideal for projects or worksites that require mobility.

Cordless Nutsert Gun Pros.

Mobility and speedy installations.

Battery Nutsert Gun Cons.

Expensive & not as powerful as an air powered nutsert gun, plus batteries have a limited charge & life.

Other Important Nutsert Gun Attributes To Consider.  

After reviewing the power options, you will need to look into and consider the following prior to selecting the right nutsert tool to suit your application; 

• Nutsert type; consider Nutsert 'Xtralok' or Plus Nuts etc.  
• Nutsert material, not all nutsert guns will support all metal types.
• Nutsert size: Ensure the tool is compatible with your nutsert sizes.  
• Setting force, a higher setting force will suit high volume installs because they have a quicker cycle. 
• Stroke, a longer stroke means single trigger installations for the bigger grip range nutserts or Plus Nuts.

Also consider weight, dimensions, cost, etc.  

Which are the best air nutsert tools?

There are several air nutsert tools that we recommend. For high to medium volume installation of nutserts the Far® Rivnut Tools  would be our first choice. Serious nutsert installations require a robust tool like the KJ45S or the KJ60 both of these tools are high quality rivnut guns that come in a convenient bright red carry case with all the applicable nutsert mandrel and nose pieces. For medium to low production workshops you will find Aerobolt's Nutsert Tool 742 is ideal at a price point that represents excellent value with the convenience of a tool that installs the complete range of nutsert sizes; M3, M4, M5, M6, M8, M10, & M12. This rivnut tool also comes in a handy carry case. 

AIR NUTSERT TOOLS
Nutsert Tool Model	Weight (Kg)	Dims. L x H (mm)	Force (kN)	Stroke (mm)	Capacity	Price Approx.
NT-KJ45S	2.8	296 x 312	27.4	7.6	M4, M5, M6, M8, M10, M12	$3700
NT-0742	2.2	250 x 280	19.1	7	M3, M4, M5, M6, M8, M10, M12	$1500
NT-EZM0312	1.7	270 x 260	18.5	7	M3, M4, M5, M6, M8, M10, M12*	$2300
NT-XTN20	1.6	275 x 270	17.6	7	M4, M5, M6, M8	$3000

Which are the best cordless nutsert tools?

We have a range of battery-powered nutsert tools  covering the popular  Gesipa® FireBird® range plus the Qonnect -Tool that we have lab tested for value and quality. These professional rivnut guns provide effortless installations. 

CORDLESS NUTSERT TOOLS
Nutsert Tool Model	Weight (Kg)	Dims. L x H (mm)	Force (kN)	Stroke (mm)	Capacity	Price Approx.
NT-GFBIRDPRO	2.3	285 x 287	18.5	10	M3, M4, M5, M6, M8, M10*	$2000
NT-GFBIRDPROG	2.3	285 x 287	25	10	M4, M5, M6, M8, M10, M12*	$3300
NT-QN12XL	2.1	250 x 280	25	10	M3, M4, M5, M6, M8, M10, M12*	$2400

What is the best manual nutsert rivnut tool?

Ratchet nutsert tools are easy to use, flexibility and robust. The NT-AERO512 is a popular ratchet rivnut tool that installs M5, M6, M8, M10 & M12 nutserts and comes in a durable aluminium carry case. 

MANUAL NUTSERT TOOLS
Rivet Gun Model	Weight (Kg)	Dims. L x H (mm)	Stroke (mm)	Capacity	Price Approx.
NT-AERO512	1.3	150 x 210	7	M5, M6, M8, M10, M12	$295
NT-MFX510 Also supports threaded studs.	2.2	L: 550	8	M5, M6, M8, M10*	$260
NT-KJ17	0.7	124 x 268	6	M3, M4, M5, M6*	$190
NT-KJ21	1.2	127 x 350	6	M3, M4, M5, M6, M8	$260
NT-MFX360 also supports threaded studs.	0.9	120 x 210	6	M3, M4, M5*, M6*	$130

Frequently Asked Nutsert Tool Questions

How do I use a nutsert tool?

This is a generic step-by-step process of how to install nutserts using an air nutsert tool.

1. Determine you have the right nutsert for the application. 
2. Ensure the nutsert tool has the correct size mandrel and associated anvil.
3. Next, align your material to be joined as desired and drill the hole for the nutsert. Note that recommended hole sizes vary for different nutserts, so be sure to check the data sheet for your selected nutsert.
4. Load the nutsert onto the end of the tool so that the mandrel is protruding. This wind-on process may be automatic for air or battery-powered tools depending on the model.
5. Insert the body of the nutsert all the way into the hole.
6. Press the trigger until the nutsert is installed. Many air tools have automatic one-trigger setting and spin-off, but some require a two trigger operation.
7. Now congratulate yourself. Job well done!

What's the difference between air nutsert tool and pneumatic nutsert tool? 

Both these labels refer to the same tool. Air tool, air powered tools or pneumatic tools are powered or operated by compressed air. Pneumatic comes from the Latin word "pneumaticus", which is from the Greek word "pneumatikos" meaning air, breath or spirt.  

What's the difference between a cordless nutsert guns and battery rivnut tools?

These are different terms for the same tool, cordless nutsert tools are also known as battery tools. The term rivnuts and nutserts are essentially different brand trademarks that refer to "rivet nut", which is the generic term for these components. Words can be trademarked for brand marketing purposes and sometimes these transcend to everyday language, popular brand words like Nutsert® by Stanley Engineered Fastening, or Rivnut® by Bollhoff are popular trademarks that are used in everyday language to describe the rivet nut fastener.    

What is the CAS cordless battery system?

This is the latest version of lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery technology. A CAS (Cordless Alliance System) battery represents a longer charge and value than previous Gesipa® Li-ion batteries. The CAS battery is a shared platform by a number of European cordless tool manufacturers with the benefit of a longer charge, and better battery life than before. The CAS battery also features shorter re-charge times and air cooled charging technology. All this without any idle power discharge whilst not in use. 

Does an air nutsert tool need servicing?

Maintenance is most important with all tools and a nutsert gun is no different. Checking moving parts like the mandrel and its oil is important because it ensures the correct installation of your nutserts.

Where can I get my nutsert tool serviced?

Repairing or servicing your nutsert tool is part of our 100% commitment in providing a total nutsert solution. Aerobolt’s professional team can service and or repair nutsert tools from Far®, Masterfix®, Pop®, Gesipa®, Avdel®,  Lobster® & more. Please go to the tool repair form page to commece the process.   

Do you hire nutsert tools?

Yes we do, we are Australia's #1 nutsert tool hire company with over 30 years experience in supplying to a wide range of markets. Aerobolt can offer flexibility with hire and provide daily, weekly, and monthly options. Please visit the tool hire page here.

Can you assist me in my nutsert tool selection?

Sure we can! The Aerobolt team can assist with the selection by calling 02 9755 3747 or by contacting us.  

Do you deliver tools throughout Australia?

Yes, we can deliver Australia wide through our network team of courier companies. In Sydney we offer same day delivery if you order before 10.00 am. Deliveries to major cities such as Melbourne, Brisbane including regional South-Eastern Australia are either next day delivery or 2 days turnaround.

Do your nutsert tools come with a 12-month warranty?

Yes, our nutsert tools come with a 12-month warranty. Note that some of our low-volume installation tools will have a different warranty period and this will be well denoted. We import tools from around the world and when there is an issue, we seek to resolve the matter quickly here in Australia.

Nutsert Gun Selection Wrap Up. 

Nutsert tools are used in numerous manufacturing and construction workplaces. Nutserts are a versatile fastener that comes with a wide range of options for an endless list of applications. Today we covered  some of the best nutsert tools on the market to install these fasteners because the benefits associated with these components means little if you are not using the right tool. Often the best nutsert tool is the one that can easily handle your nutsert installation volume. The nutsert tools we have outlined are a small sample of the extensive range available in Australia. There are many other very good nutsert tools from the likes of Pop®, Lobster®, Stanley® and so much more.

The Huck Aerobolt team have extensive information and expertise on nutsert tools. To discuss your requirements, contact our friendly team on 9755 3747 who are 100% technically minded and can assist with selecting the right nutsert tool (at the best price) to suit your application. 

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