A rivet gun is a tool used to drive rivets, which are metal fasteners that join two or more pieces of material together. It operates by using compressed air or electricity to create a strong force that deforms the rivet, securing it in place. Rivet guns are commonly used in construction, manufacturing, and automotive industries for assembling metal structures and components. There are different types of rivet guns, including pneumatic rivet guns and electric rivet guns, each suited for specific applications. The choice of rivet gun depends on factors like the size of the rivet, the materials being joined, and the working environment.