A proper rivet joint is superior to bolts. When a rivet is driven, it "fills" the hole, preventing shifting and chafing in the joint. A tightened bolt only provides clamping force. A bolted joint is still free to move a little with the bolt clearance.
I would be surprised if the sandblaster can do a thorough job in an hour. There are a lot of nooks and crannies to get into.
After I sandblasted my frame, I basted the joints with por-15 paint in all the joints and let it wick in.
Dave Evans
52_3100