Best 5/16 Rivet Gun Options for Rivet and Rivet Nut Projects
If you need a hand riveter for 5/16-inch rivets, the Arrow RT187M is the closest match in this selection because its listing names that size. Check the rivet type and manufacturer’s sizing information before buying: 5/16-inch blind rivets and 5/16-18 rivet nuts are different fasteners. For common blind-rivet sizes, the WETOLS Pop Rivet Gun Kit covers sizes through 3/16 inch; for 5/16-18 rivet nuts, consider a rivnut kit with that mandrel.
| Tool | Best for | Relevant size information |
|---|---|---|
| Arrow RT187M | One-handed general riveting | Listing names 5/16-inch rivets |
| WETOLS Rivet Nut Tool | Rivet nuts and threaded inserts | Includes 5/16-18 mandrel |
| HARDELL Rivet Nut Kit | Rivet nuts with quick mandrel changes | Includes 5/16-18 mandrel |
| WETOLS Pop Rivet Kit | Common blind rivets and starter supplies | Up to 3/16 inch |
| Arrow RHT300 | Blind riveting in awkward locations | Up to 3/16-inch aluminum rivets |
Arrow RT187M One-Handed Rivet Tool
Best for: Buyers seeking a one-handed manual riveter whose listing specifically mentions 5/16-inch rivets. The tool is also presented for sheet metal, gutters, storm doors, and automotive repairs, making it a general-purpose option for those types of projects.
Features include an adjustable stroke distance, spring-loaded comfort-grip handles, a handle lock, and four nose pieces with thumb-screw changes. These details make it a practical choice if ease of handling and storage matter.
Limitation: The listed rivet sizes are 1/8, 3/16, and 5/16 inch, an unusual combination. Confirm the exact rivet type and size supported before purchase, especially if your project requires a specific 5/16-inch blind rivet.
WETOLS 14-Inch Rivet Nut Tool Kit
Best for: Projects that need threaded rivet nuts rather than ordinary blind rivets. This kit includes a 5/16-18 mandrel, along with M6, M8, M10, 1/4-20, and 3/8-16 sizes, so it is relevant when “5/16” refers to the rivet nut’s thread size.
The listing describes a 14-inch hand tool with removable mandrels and a 70-piece rivnut assortment. It also identifies chrome-steel mandrels and a 45-carbon-steel arm. The removable design is useful when changing thread sizes or performing maintenance.
Limitation: This is a rivet nut tool, not a standard pop-rivet gun. Choose it only if the job calls for a threaded insert and the included mandrel matches your fastener.
HARDELL Fast-Change Rivet Nut Kit
Best for: DIY users or mechanics who need several rivet nut thread sizes and want a tool-free mandrel change system. Its six mandrels include 5/16-18, as well as M6, M8, M10, 1/4-20, and 3/8-16. The kit also lists 80 rivet nuts.
The force-arm control is designed to limit handle opening and help prevent overpressing, according to the product details. HARDELL also describes balanced leverage and soft-grip handles. These features may suit users who expect to install multiple inserts or switch between thread sizes.
Limitation: The 5/16-18 size is a thread specification for rivet nuts, not a 5/16-inch blind-rivet diameter. This tool is not the right choice for standard pop rivets.
WETOLS Pop Rivet Gun Kit
Best for: Buyers who want a standard manual blind-rivet tool with included consumables. The four interchangeable heads cover 3/32, 1/8, 5/32, and 3/16-inch rivets, and the kit lists 50 rivets for each size plus four drill bits and a carrying case.
The heads are designed to change without additional tools, and the listing describes an aluminum-alloy body, heat-treated carbon-steel handle, curved grips, and PVC handle sleeves. It is a better match than a rivet nut kit for common pop-rivet work, but it does not list 5/16-inch blind-rivet capacity.
Limitation: Avoid this option if your project specifically requires a 5/16-inch blind rivet. The largest listed head is 3/16 inch.
Arrow RHT300 Swivel-Head Riveter
Best for: Blind-rivet jobs in tight corners or awkward positions. Its swivel head rotates to help reach difficult angles, and the listing identifies use for HVAC, gutters, furniture, and canvas work.
The RHT300 accepts 3/32-, 1/8-, and 5/32-inch aluminum or steel rivets, plus 3/16-inch aluminum rivets. It includes four nose pieces, a nose-changing wrench, spring-loaded handles, vinyl grips, and a handle lock. Those features make it a useful alternative when access matters more than working with a 5/16-inch fastener.
Limitation: It is not listed for 5/16-inch rivets. Its largest stated capacity is 3/16-inch aluminum rivets.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a 5/16 Rivet Gun
Does 5/16 mean rivet diameter or thread size?
Check the fastener specification first. A 5/16-inch blind rivet refers to the rivet’s stated size, while 5/16-18 is a threaded rivet nut specification. A standard pop-rivet tool and a rivet nut tool perform different jobs and are not interchangeable.
What should you check before buying?
- Fastener type: Decide whether you need a blind rivet or a threaded rivet nut.
- Size range: Match the tool’s listed nosepiece or mandrel to the fastener specification.
- Access and handling: A swivel head can help with angled work; one-handed designs can suit general tasks.
- Included supplies: Kits may include rivets, rivet nuts, drill bits, mandrels, or a case. Verify the included items against your project needs.
- Material and operation: Consider listed handle, grip, and head-change features, particularly if you expect frequent use or size changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which product lists 5/16-inch rivets?
The Arrow RT187M listing names 5/16-inch rivets. Confirm the exact fastener type and size with the product details before ordering.
Which tools include a 5/16-18 mandrel?
The WETOLS Rivet Nut Tool Kit and HARDELL Rivet Nut Kit both list a 5/16-18 mandrel. They are for installing rivet nuts, not ordinary blind rivets.
Can a pop-rivet gun install rivet nuts?
These are different tool types. Use a rivet nut tool for threaded inserts and a blind-rivet tool for pop rivets.
What is the largest blind-rivet size listed for the WETOLS Pop Rivet Kit?
The kit lists interchangeable heads up to 3/16 inch. It does not list 5/16-inch blind-rivet capacity.