How to Use a Rivet Gun: A Complete Guide for Beginners

Understanding Rivet Tools and How to Use Them.

Riveting is a popular form of fastening because they are easy to set and extremely strong. Rivets can be used in numerous applications including the joining of metal to metal, as well as to other materials such as timber, fibreglass and many types of plastics. Their installation is quick and simple with the assistance of a rivet gun. In this blog we will review how to install a rivet and look into the three different types of rivet guns: air rivet guns, cordless riveters and manual rivet tools. 

Blind rivets, or sometimes known as pop rivets, are designed to be installed from one side of the workpiece. The rivet itself consists of a metal sleeve which we term the body, and a mandrel which we call a pin, that is inserted through the body. When the rivet is placed in a pre-drilled hole, the rivet gun pulls on the mandrel, collapsing the rivet body to form a tight and long-lasting joint that combines the two workpieces together. Once the installation is complete, the rivet tool snaps the mandrel off for a clean finish. The name “pop rivet” comes from the sound the rivet makes when it is set and the mandrel is removed.

To install a pop rivet, you need a tool that can install a rivet securely in the hole and then apply the correct amount of pressure to set the rivet. Too much pressure and you could deform or crush the material as riveting is normally associated with thin steel sheeting,  plastics, fibreglass etc. Alternatively if the rivet gun applies too little pressure, then the rivet won’t set correctly and in all likelyhood - fail. That is why it is important to understand how to choose the right rivet tool and to know how to use a pop rivet gun correctly. Today we will review the three different rivet gun options and a simple to follow step-by-step guide to use a rivet gun. 

What type of rivet guns?  

There are three main rivet tool power categories: air, cordless and manual. Selecting the right power category depends on how often you install rivets, your specific application and installation volume.

Air rivet tools.

For frequent rivet installations in workshops, an air-powered rivet gun is an easy choice. Air powered riveters offer quick and continuous rivet installations with consistent results. They are the fast hassle-free option with a well maintained air compressor. Sometimes referred to as pneumatic rivet tools or hydro-pneumatic rivet guns. To keep things simple we term them "air rivet guns". 

Pros: They are easier to use and require less effort than both cordless & manual rivet gun options, and often cheaper than cordless rivet-tools. Professional air guns feature rivet vacuum & holding capacity, this means the gun vacuums up the rivet and holds it in place as you align it with the hole. After you install the rivet they automatically extract the waste pin to the collection bottle. This means you don't have to tilt the gun backwards to push through the waste pin.   

Cons: These guns require an air compressor which may limit mobility. 

Manual rivet tools.  

The occasional installation of rivets, or where power is not available, manual rivet-tools are cost-effective and easy to use. Fundamentally they work by adding the rivet to the end of the tool, squeezing the handles, and retract. There are numerous different types of hand rivet-tools, including the popular Pop® T55 Rivet-Tool, (pic. on the right), this is a plier type. That means you hold one handle whilst pushing the other handle. There is also a long handle lever type option this is where you apply equal pressure on both handles and push them together. This option assists in providing the extra leverage required with larger diameter rivets or when installing stainless-steel rivets.

Pros. an inexpensive option, easy to use and ideal for the DIY gurus.

Cons: They require muscle force.

Cordless rivet guns. 

Cordless rivet guns means they run on battery power and provide versatility that  allows you to install rivets from practically anywhere. This makes the cordless rivet gun option ideal for building sites. Easy to use and similar to air rivet gun, simply point-and-shoot.

Pros: Mobility. 

Cons: Expensive & not as powerful or fast as an air rivet guns, also batteries have a limited charge. These guns don't have the convenience of rivet suction & holding capacity prior to installation or the automatic pin (mandrel) extraction feature after installation. This means they are not as easy to use compared to a professional air rivet gun that has these functions.

Step-by-Step Guide To Operate a Rivet Tool

Using a riveter is a straightforward process once you understand the steps and safety considerations. Here’s a simple guide for using a rivet gun. These tools are commonly used in automotive, construction, and metalworking industries for installing blind rivets efficiently. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you use one safely and effectively:

🔧 Tools & Materials Needed:

• Air or Cordless Rivet Gun or Manual rivet tool

• Air riveter will require a compressor (rated to match your rivet gun’s PSI/CFM)

• Cordless rivet gun will need fully charged batteries

• Rivets (make sure they match the thickness of your materials)

• Drill and drill bits

• Clamps (optional)

• Safety glasses

🛠️ Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Choose the Right Rivet

• Pick a rivet of the correct diameter and length for your materials. Check the Ultimate Guide to Rivets article for rivet selection.  

• The rivet should be long enough to go through both pieces and allow for expansion.

2. Drill a Hole

• Clamp the materials together.

• Drill a hole through materials ensuring the same diameter as the rivet body.

• Clean out any metal shavings.

3. Insert the Rivet

• Push the rivet through the hole. The mandrel (pin) should be sticking out on the side where you'll use the rivet gun.

4. Load the Rivet Tool 

Hand Held Riveter

• Insert the rivet's mandrel into the nosepiece of the rivet tool ensuing the correct nose piece diameter. The fit should be snug.

• Squeeze the handles together. You may need to do this multiple times until the mandrel snaps off.

Air or Cordless Rivet Gun (air or cordless) 

• Insert the rivet's mandrel into the nosepiece of the rivet gun ensuing the correct nose piece diameter. The fit should be snug.

• Hold the gun squarely against the surface.

• Squeeze the trigger gently to activate the gun.

• The tool will pull the mandrel and crush the rivet body to clamp the materials.

• When fully set, the gun will snap the mandrel, leaving the rivet head flush and secure.

• Most air rivet guns automatically eject the broken mandrel.

• If not, manually remove it and dispose of it safely.

5. Inspect the Rivet

• Make sure the rivet head is tight against the surface and the mandrel is snapped flush or slightly recessed.

• If it's loose, you may need a larger rivet.

🧼 After Use:

• Clear broken mandrel pieces from the tool.

• Lubricate moving parts occasionally.

⚠️ Safety Tips:

• Always wear eye protection.

• Hold the tool steady when squeezing.

• Do not use on materials too thick for the rivet size.

Frequently Asked Rivet Gun Questions.

What's the difference between air rivet gun and pneumatic rivet tool? 

Both these terms 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 is the difference between a cordless rivet tool and battery rivet-gun?

These are different terms for the same tool, cordless rivet tools are also known as battery tools. 

Does an air rivet-tool need servicing?

Maintenance is important with all tools and a rivet gun is no different. Checking moving parts like the jaws, piston and its oil is important because it ensures the correct installation of your rivets.

Where can I get my rivet-tool serviced?

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

Do you hire rivet tools?

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

Can you assist me in my rivets tool selection?

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

Do you deliver rivet 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 or 2 days deliveries.

Do your rivet guns come with a 12-month warranty?

Yes, all of our power rivet guns come with a 12-month warranty. We import numerous tools from around the world and when there is an issue, we aim to resolve the matter quickly here in Australia.

Do you hire rivet guns?

We are Australia's #1 rivet gun hire company with over 30 years experience in supplying to a wide range of customers. Aerobolt offer flexibility with hire and provide daily, weekly, and monthly options. 

Can you assist me in my rivet gun selection?

Sure; call 02 9755 3747 or contact us to organise an appointment at our premises. 

How to Use a Rivet Gun Wrap

Rivet guns are used in numerous manufacturing and construction sectors. Rivets are a versatile fastener and come with a wide range of types for an endless list of applications. Today we covered the how-to install these fasteners because all the benefits associated with rivets mean very little if you are not using the right rivet gun correctly. Often the best rivet gun is the one that can easily handle your rivet installation volume. The Huck Aerobolt site has extensive information on rivet guns. To discuss your requirements, simply call on 9755 3747 or contact our friendly team who are 100% technically minded and can assist with selecting the right rivet gun at a price to suit you.