Maintaining manual blind rivet tools correctly:
How to keep your tools durable and reliable
Published on 26 September 2025
Keeping blind rivet tools reliable in use
A manual blind rivet tool can be found in many workshops. However, like all tools, it needs regular care to ensure it lasts a long time. Many tradespeople underestimate this point. They continue to work until the pliers become sluggish or the blind rivets can no longer be processed correctly. At this point, replacement is often necessary.
With the right care, you can avoid unnecessary wear and tear. You can prevent functional problems and significantly extend the service life of your tool. In addition, you can work more safely and achieve better results when your blind rivet tool is working reliably.
In this article, you will learn step by step how to properly maintain your blind rivet tool. You will receive a clear checklist for cleaning, lubrication, visual inspection and storage. You will also read about when repairs are necessary and how to keep accessories such as bits or nosepieces in good condition.
The most important reasons for regular maintenance
Many tradespeople use their blind rivet tool regularly, but rarely think about maintenance. Yet even a small amount of maintenance can have a big impact.
Preventing blockages and jammed rivets
If dirt or metal shavings get stuck in the mechanism, the pliers will quickly become blocked. The blind rivets will jam in the nosepiece and you will have to interrupt your work. You can prevent these problems with a simple cleaning routine.
Maintaining tension and spring function
The jaws and springs of your blind rivet tool are constantly under stress. Without maintenance, they lose their strength and the pliers no longer pull the blind rivets completely. Light lubrication keeps the mechanism moving and prolongs the tension.
Protection against rust, dirt and mechanical abrasion
Moisture, dust and abrasion attack metal. Rust can form, which weakens the structure and impairs functionality. Well-maintained pliers resist these influences.
Safety at work
The pliers may have been dropped, several people may be working with them, or they may not have been used for a long time; a defective tool is a safety hazard. If a blind rivet tool suddenly jams or a lever breaks, there is a risk of injury. With regular maintenance, you can identify weak points in good time and take action before anything happens.
Maintenance checklist: How to maintain your blind rivet tool correctly
To maintain your manual blind rivet tool in the best possible condition, you need a clear routine. The following checklist shows you what you should do after each use and at regular intervals.
✔️ Cleaning
Remove dirt and metal residues after each use. Small metal chips quickly become lodged between the jaws or in the nosepiece. Use a small brush to remove them. Compressed air can also be used to blow out fine particles. Additionally, wipe the pliers with a clean cloth.
For stubborn dirt, more thorough cleaning is recommended. To do this, remove the nosepiece and carefully clean the jaw housing and jaws. Make sure to remove all residues. The cleaner the mechanism remains, the more reliably the pliers will work.
✔️ Lubrication
A blind rivet tool consists of several moving parts. Joints, jaws and return springs work together with every bit. To prevent these parts from running dry, they need to be lightly lubricated.
Apply a thin layer of suitable machine oil or multi-purpose oil. One drop is sufficient at the crucial points. Joints and sliding surfaces in particular benefit from this. The oil reduces friction and protects against wear.
Do not overdo it. Too thick a layer of oil attracts dust and dirt. This would have the opposite effect: instead of protection, you would have additional deposits. Stick to the rule of thumb: it is better to lubricate sparingly but regularly.
✔️ Visual inspection for wear
A visual inspection should be a regular part of your maintenance routine. Concentrate on the most important components:
Jaws (clamping jaws): These grip the blind rivets. Worn or damaged jaws lose their clamping force. Check for chipping or deformation.
Springs: Check that the compression spring is still taut. A slack spring weakens the function.
Nosepiece (blind rivet holder): This is where the blind rivets enter and exit. Check for cracks or deformations. A worn nosepiece leads to jammed mandrels.
Also take a close look at the levers and handles. Even small cracks can be a warning sign.
✔️ Storage
Proper storage is almost as important as cleaning and lubrication. Always store your blind rivet tool in a dry and clean place. A toolbox offers the best protection. There, the tool is protected from dust, moisture and impact.
If you use your workshop in damp or unheated conditions, pay particular attention to rust protection. A silica gel bag in the toolbox helps to bind residual moisture.
Avoid contact with aggressive substances. Acids, solvents or certain oils attack metal. Keep the pliers away from such substances. It is better to hang them on a tool wall or store them separately.
When is maintenance or repair necessary?
Even with good care, there comes a time when a blind rivet tool no longer works optimally. Then you should check whether maintenance or repair is advisable.
Signs that maintenance is required:
➡️ The pliers jam when pulling
➡️The rivets are no longer set completely
➡️You feel unusual resistance when working
➡️The return spring no longer works evenly
These signs indicate that components are worn or that a thorough overhaul is necessary.
Replacement of wearing parts
Some parts naturally wear out more quickly. These include, in particular, the jaws. They grip the blind rivets and are subject to heavy loads. Replace them as soon as they lose strength or appear damaged. Nosepieces are also easy to replace.
Some manufacturers, such as GESIPA®, offer suitable replacement parts. This means you don't have to replace the entire pliers.
When is professional repair worthwhile?
If simple parts such as insertion tools or nosepieces are no longer sufficient, repair by the manufacturer is often the best solution. This is especially true if you own a high-quality model.
GESIPA® offers a comprehensive service for this. You can send in your pliers and have them repaired. There is a cost limit, and some types of tools are not repaired but replaced with a new tool at a fixed price. This means you know in advance the maximum amount that a repair is worth. If the costs exceed this limit, you can decide for yourself whether to agree or invest in new pliers. The service is currently only available to commercial customers. As a private individual, please contact a specialist dealer you trust.
Bonus tip: Care of accessories and spare parts
Keep nosepieces & bits clean
Clean nosepieces, bits and the jaws as thoroughly as the pliers themselves. Small residues quickly accumulate inside and make it difficult to insert new blind rivets. A brush or a fine cloth is often sufficient.
Pay attention to compatibility and condition
Be sure to use only suitable fasteners. Incorrect sizes put unnecessary strain on the mechanism and lead to malfunctions. Check the condition of the spare parts regularly. A damaged bit can damage the pliers or even the workpiece. An incorrect fastener size can damage the pliers or even the workpiece.
Keeping your toolbox tidy promotes longevity.
An often underestimated point: tidiness. If your blind rivet tool is stored loose in your toolbox together with screws, nails or other metal parts, there is an increased risk of scratches and damage. Store the tool separately or in a compartment. This will keep it functional for longer and ensure it looks well cared for even after years of use.
Conclusion
Maintaining a blind rivet tool is not rocket science. You don't need expensive special tools or a lot of time. With just a few simple steps, you can ensure that your tool works reliably and safely.
● Remove dirt and chips after each use
● Lubricate the moving parts regularly
● Check wearing parts such as jaws, springs and nosepieces
● Store the pliers in a dry and protected place
● Maintain accessories and keep them tidy
If you follow these points, you will significantly extend the service life of your blind rivet tool. You will save money on unnecessary replacement purchases and avoid the hassle of blocked or incorrectly set blind rivets. Above all, you will work more safely and efficiently. Well-maintained blind rivet tools are a reliable partner in your workshop. So take a few minutes after each bit to maintain them.
