Choosing the right rivet setting tool can be confusing, especially because there are so many options. But it's important to choose the matched tool. When choosing the best rivet setting tool, you have three basic types of tools to choose from:

Manual tools are good for small jobs and repair work because it takes manual pressure to properly set the rivet. You only want to use manual tools for jobs in which there are only a few rivets to set because manual riveters are slower and can be tiring to use.

Pneumatic and hydraulic tools are high-powered and typically used in factories, for assembly work, and on heavy-duty rivets. These types of rivet setting tools are versatile and can handle a variety of rivet types, so long as you have the right settings and the right nosepiece. They can be fatiguing to use for long periods, but they tend to create solid, consistent joints.

Portable tools are ideal for job sites and tight locations where you want a power tool without the encumbrance of a pneumatic hose. Battery-operated rivet tools are gaining in popularity as battery technology continues to improve. They can deliver almost as much power as pneumatic tools and can be used anywhere.