Snapped my second tong rivet in a month today

Third heat of a blade in my shop in Cleveland and the rivet gave out, sending the work piece flying into the scrap bin. Had to stop and weld a new joint instead of finishing the blade, but at least the weld held on the next try. Anyone else have luck with rivets over welded joints for holding heavy stock?

2 comments

2 Comments

nora_campbell6624d agoTop Commenter

You and me both, friend. Last time I lost a rivet mid-swing I nearly took out my own coffee mug. Told myself it was a sign to upgrade. Thing is, I've been messing with both rivets and welds on my tongs and I'm still not sure which holds up better for real heavy work. Rivets let you swap out the joint quick if you keep spares around, but when one gives out it's a mess. Welds feel solid once they're set, but one bad heat and you're grinding and redoing the whole thing. What kind of steel are you using for the rivets? I've had better luck with mild steel ones, but I'd love to hear if there's a trick I'm missing.

finleythomas24d ago

Blew a rivet last week myself... pulled a muscle trying to catch my falling hammer mid-air.