[Paul Copioli]

Since I was quoted in this thread from a post I made years ago, my challenge still stands regarding speed of rivets vs. bolts.

My challenge was only intended to be for people that claimed screws were faster.

As far as the challenge goes, it included cleanup and both "competitors" could use any power tool they wanted. However, the people using screws either had to (1) use a locking nut or (2) use loctite. I know I will bring a drill and a pneumatic riveter from Harbor Freight and will take on all challengers that think screws are faster.

Now, challenge aside, we use a combination of both depending on the job. I will never, ever use rivets in a tension (loads trying to pull "up" on the rivet) heavy applications.

When attaching sheet metal, we will only use rivets. PEM nuts (or the equivalent) are great if you know how to install them.

Again, it is really up to preference, but if you are asking for advice, then I would use rivets as the default and bolts should be reserved to where there are large pull out loading.