How to Use a Rivet Gun

  1. Drill a hole that matches the rivet diameter โ€” a 1/8 in rivet takes a #30 drill.
  2. Clamp the parts together so the holes stay aligned while you work.
  3. Push the rivet body fully into the hole with the flange flat against the material.
  4. Slide the rivet tool over the mandrel and squeeze the handles firmly to draw the parts tight.
  5. Squeeze again until the mandrel snaps; the stem should break cleanly at the rivet head.
  6. Check that the set rivet is tight and the head is seated; drill out and redo any loose or crooked rivets.

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