Astro 1450 13ft Plusnut and Extra-Long Rivet Nut Setter Kit

In this review the Astro 1450 13' Plusnut and Extra-Long Rivet Nut Setter Kit is evaluated for mechanics, fabricators and serious DIYers who need a single tool to set bulbed plusnuts, extra-long rivet nuts and standard rivet nuts. The bottom line: it is useful because it adapts the trusted 1442 rivet nut setter into a quick-change 13' tool that covers nine common SAE and metric sizes, so technicians who work with mixed fasteners will find it a practical kit that reduces trips to the toolbox.

Key Features

• PlusNut and long rivet nut compatibility: Designed to handle bulbed plusnuts and longer-than-standard rivet nuts so one tool works for specialty fasteners as well as regular rivet nuts.
• Nine mandrel sizes: Includes common SAE and metric sizes including 10-32, 10-24, 1/4-20, 5/16-18, 3/8-16, M5, M6, M8 and M10 so users can tackle a wide range of fastening tasks without buying extra mandrels.
• Adapted 1442 mechanism: Uses the market-popular 1442 setter mechanism adapted for plusnut and long rivet nut use, offering familiar operation and reliability for users of Astro tools.
• Quick-change 13' setter: The extra-long 13' shaft provides reach and leverage for stubborn or recessed fasteners, making installations easier in tight or deep cavities.
• Storage case included: Comes with a storage case for organized transport and mandrel protection, reducing the chance of losing small parts between jobs.

Who It's For

The kit is aimed at automotive technicians, metal fabricators and advanced DIY users who regularly fit specialty plusnuts or long rivet nuts and need a tool that covers both SAE and metric sizes. Shops that service a variety of vehicles or build custom panels will benefit from having one adaptable setter rather than several separate tools.

It is less suitable for casual users who only set a handful of standard rivet nuts occasionally and prefer a basic, lower-cost setter. Also, buyers who require an exhaustive set of mandrel sizes beyond the nine included should look for larger kits or add missing sizes separately.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Works well with bulbed plusnuts and extra-long rivet nuts, reducing the need for multiple tools.
• Includes nine common SAE and metric sizes, covering the majority of workshop needs.
• Quick-change 13' design offers added reach and better leverage for recessed fasteners.
• Storage case keeps components organized for transport and jobsite use.

Cons

• Some users report mixed build quality, so heavy daily shop use may reveal durability differences.
• There are occasional reports of missing mandrels, so buyers should verify kit contents on receipt.

Specifications

Product name	Astro 1450 13' Plusnut and Extra-Long Rivet Nut Setter Kit
Tool type	PlusNut and long rivet nut setter (13' quick-change)
Included sizes	10-32, 10-24, 1/4-20, 5/16-18, 3/8-16, M5, M6, M8, M10
Base mechanism	Adapted Astro 1442 rivet nut setting tool
Case	Storage case included
Primary uses	Bulbed plusnuts, extra-long rivet nuts, standard rivet nuts

Our Verdict

The Astro 1450 kit is a practical, value-oriented choice for technicians and fabricators who need to set plusnuts and longer rivet nuts without juggling multiple tools. It combines the familiar 1442 setter design with a 13' quick-change shaft and nine common mandrel sizes, making it a good investment for mixed fastener work; verify kit contents on arrival and expect variable long-term durability based on workload.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the kit include both SAE and metric mandrels?
Yes, the kit includes nine sizes covering common SAE and metric threads: 10-32, 10-24, 1/4-20, 5/16-18, 3/8-16, M5, M6, M8 and M10.

Can it set standard rivet nuts as well as plusnuts?
Yes, the adapted 1442 mechanism is intended to handle bulbed plusnuts, extra-long rivet nuts and standard rivet nuts.

Is a storage case provided?
Yes, the kit ships with a storage case to keep the setter and mandrels organized.