Rivet Guns

About Rivet Guns

Rivet guns are essential fastening tools that quickly and securely join materials using blind rivets (pop rivets). These versatile tools work by pulling a mandrel through a hollow rivet body, causing it to deform and create a permanent mechanical fastening on the blind side of a workpiece—invaluable when you only have access to one side of the material. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range from leading brands including DeWalt, Milwaukee, Gesipa, Makita and Bosch Professional, covering everything from compact 12V models to powerful 18V cordless rivet guns capable of handling structural fasteners up to 6.4mm diameter.

Modern cordless rivet guns feature brushless motor technology delivering impressive pulling force whilst maintaining ergonomic designs. Battery-powered models offer unbeatable portability for site work, with 18V platforms providing professional-grade performance for steel and stainless steel rivets. For lighter fabrication, 12V compact tools like the Milwaukee M12 deliver surprising capability in a smaller package. MyToolShed also stocks essential accessories including replacement jaw sets, nosepiece sets for different rivet sizes, and specialist nosepieces for bulb-tite and mega grip structural rivets.

Applications

Rivet guns are used across numerous trades and industries by professional tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts:

• Metal Fabricators and Sheet Metal Workers: Assembling ducting, metal panels, enclosures and bespoke metalwork
• Automotive Technicians: Repairing vehicle panels, fitting replacement parts and restoration work
• HVAC Engineers: Joining ductwork sections, fixing grilles and assembling air conditioning units
• Shopfitters and Signage Installers: Mounting retail displays, fixing signage panels and exhibition stands
• Roofing Contractors: Installing guttering, downpipes, flashing and cladding systems
• Aircraft Engineers and Marine Fitters: Working with aluminium structures where access to both sides isn't possible
• General Builders: Site fabrication work, temporary structures and general repairs
• DIY Enthusiasts: Garden projects, shed repairs, household maintenance and hobby metalwork

Choosing The Right Rivet Guns

Power Source: Cordless 18V models from DeWalt, Milwaukee and Gesipa offer excellent portability and power for professional site work, with compatibility to existing battery systems. Compact 12V tools suit lighter applications, whilst manual hand riveters remain cost-effective for occasional DIY use.

Rivet Capacity: Consider maximum rivet diameter requirements. Entry-level tools typically handle up to 4.8mm rivets in aluminium, whilst professional models manage 6.4mm rivets in steel and stainless steel. Check pulling force specifications (measured in kilonewtons) to ensure adequate capability for your materials.

Build Quality: Professional tradespeople should prioritise robust construction with metal gear housings and reinforced nosepieces from established brands. These withstand daily site use and deliver consistent performance over thousands of rivets.

Ergonomics: Look for inline designs with rubber overmoulded grips to reduce fatigue during extended use. Consider tool weight for overhead work, and features like LED work lights and easy-access nosepiece changes.

Included Accessories: Quality kits from MyToolShed.co.uk include multiple nosepieces for different rivet sizes, spare jaw sets and storage cases. Check that replacement consumables are readily available.

Safety Information

• Eye Protection: Always wear safety glasses when operating rivet guns. Mandrels snap off at high speed and can cause eye injuries
• Hand Safety: Never place fingers behind the workpiece when setting rivets. The rivet body expands with considerable force and can cause crush injuries
• Work Area: Ensure adequate lighting and secure workpieces properly before riveting to prevent movement
• Battery Safety: Use only genuine manufacturer batteries and chargers. Remove batteries before changing accessories or performing maintenance
• Sharp Edges: Wear appropriate work gloves when handling sheet metal as freshly set rivets can have sharp edges

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a rivet gun and a rivet nut tool?

A rivet gun installs blind rivets that create permanent mechanical fastenings between materials. A rivet nut tool installs threaded inserts (rivet nuts) into thin materials, providing strong threaded holes for bolting components. Whilst both use similar pulling mechanisms, rivets are for permanent joining whilst rivet nuts create removable threaded fixings.

Can I use an 18V cordless rivet gun for stainless steel rivets?

Quality 18V rivet guns with high pulling force specifications (typically 16kN or higher) can successfully set stainless steel rivets, though this demands more from the tool than aluminium rivets. Ensure batteries are fully charged for demanding materials, as performance depends on adequate power delivery.

How often should I replace the jaw set on my rivet gun?

Jaw set lifespan varies depending on usage intensity. Signs replacement is needed include difficulty gripping mandrels, incomplete rivet setting, or visible wear on jaw teeth. Professional users setting hundreds of rivets daily may need replacement every few months, whilst occasional DIY use might see jaw sets lasting years.