The ASTs are the Anti Servo Tabs. Completely different than what I thought they were. When originally looking at the plans, I thought they were trim tabs, i.e. for trimming pitch.

The RV-12 uses a sensitive horizontal “stabiliator” – the entire surface moves rather than a more traditional horizontal stabilizer + elevator design. So these ASTs actually increase the control forces required to move the stabilator, so that the aircraft is not too sensitive to pitch inputs.

I decided to splurge and buy a Milwaukee 2550-20 cordless riveter. Not cheap but I love it.

I also hooked up my computer to the big screen so I can glance at the plans while working.

Total time ~7h.