Let’s Dive into Kimble/Kontes Short Style Shell Vials, Borosilicate Glass, Kimble 60931 14, Pack of 144
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve handled everything from high-powered optics to specialized storage solutions. But sometimes, the smallest tools make the biggest difference. Today, we’re taking a close look at the Kimble/Kontes Short Style Shell Vials, Borosilicate Glass, Kimble 60931 14, Pack of 144, a seemingly simple product with surprising versatility in the field. These vials from Kimble/Kontes promise reliable storage for small, crucial items, and I’m here to find out if they live up to that promise.
My work often requires me to organize and protect small components: spare parts for equipment, medications, or collected samples. I needed a reliable and compact solution for these items that wouldn’t break easily or react with the contents.
Upon opening the pack, I was immediately impressed by the clarity of the glass and the uniform size of the vials. The borosilicate glass feels sturdy, and the straight-sided design is both simple and functional. Compared to plastic vials, these feel much more professional and reliable, less prone to damage from heat or chemicals. My initial excitement stems from their potential for organized storage in my tactical gear.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kimble/Kontes Short Style Shell Vials, Borosilicate Glass, Kimble 60931 14, Pack of 144 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested these vials on a multi-day backcountry hiking trip. I used them to store water purification tablets, emergency medication, and small fire-starting tinder. The vials easily fit into my first-aid kit and various pouches on my pack, taking up minimal space.
The vials performed admirably in the varied conditions. They remained intact despite being jostled around in my pack and exposed to both rain and sunshine. I appreciated how easy it was to identify the contents of each vial due to the clear glass. There were no unpleasant surprises, like leaks or broken vials, after the first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continued use, the Kimble/Kontes vials continue to impress. The glass has proven to be surprisingly durable, with no chips or cracks despite being handled frequently. They are easy to clean with soap and water, making them suitable for repeated use with different contents. Compared to using plastic bags or flimsy containers, these vials offer a far superior level of protection and organization.
Breaking Down the Features of Kimble/Kontes Short Style Shell Vials, Borosilicate Glass, Kimble 60931 14, Pack of 144
Specifications
The Kimble/Kontes Short Style Shell Vials, Borosilicate Glass, Kimble 60931 14, Pack of 144 are fabricated from clear N-51A borosilicate glass. Each vial has a volume of 0.25 drams, an outer diameter of 9mm, and a length of 30mm. These specifications are crucial for users needing small, chemically inert storage solutions.
The fact that these vials are made of borosilicate glass is paramount to their utility. This type of glass is known for its resistance to thermal shock and chemical reactions, making it ideal for storing sensitive materials. The small size and pack quantity of 144 vials provide a versatile and economical solution for various applications.
Performance & Functionality
These vials perform exactly as intended: reliably storing small quantities of dry materials. Their small size and clear construction allow for easy identification and access to the contents. While lacking caps, they are ideal for applications where the contents will be used quickly or transferred to a different container. The primary strength lies in their inert nature and resistance to breakage.
A minor drawback is the absence of caps, limiting their use for liquids or volatile substances. However, this is clearly stated in the product description and is part of the intended design. They are intended for the safe storage of dry products, which they perform exceptionally well.
Design & Ergonomics
The vials are simple and functional in design. The borosilicate glass feels solid and substantial, giving confidence in their durability. While they are small, their straight-sided design makes them easy to handle and label.
There’s no learning curve involved; their straightforward design makes them immediately accessible. Their size and shape allow for efficient storage in small spaces, like kits and pouches.
Durability & Maintenance
The borosilicate glass construction makes these vials incredibly durable. They are resistant to cracking and breaking under normal use conditions. Cleaning is straightforward: a quick wash with soap and water is usually sufficient.
The simple design minimizes potential failure points, ensuring a long lifespan. These vials are designed to be used and reused, offering a sustainable storage solution.
Accessories and Customization Options
These vials do not come with any specific accessories, as their primary function is simple storage. However, users can easily add their own labels for identification. While there are no direct customization options, the vials can be readily integrated into existing storage systems and kits.
Because they adhere to industry-standard dimensions, finding compatible caps from other sources is possible if needed. This makes them a versatile component within a larger organizational framework.
Pros and Cons of Kimble/Kontes Short Style Shell Vials, Borosilicate Glass, Kimble 60931 14, Pack of 144
Pros
- Durable borosilicate glass resists thermal shock and chemical reactions.
- Compact size allows for easy integration into kits and storage systems.
- Clear glass allows for quick and easy identification of contents.
- Cost-effective solution, providing 144 vials per pack.
- Simple design ensures ease of use and minimal maintenance.
Cons
- Lack of caps limits use to dry materials and non-volatile substances.
- Small size might be too restrictive for some applications.
Who Should Buy Kimble/Kontes Short Style Shell Vials, Borosilicate Glass, Kimble 60931 14, Pack of 144?
These vials are perfect for anyone needing to store small quantities of dry materials safely and efficiently: survivalists, field researchers, chemists, hobbyists, and technicians. They are ideal for organizing small parts, medications, seeds, and samples.
Those needing to store liquids or volatile substances should skip this product. Also, anyone requiring a sealed container for long-term storage should look for vials with appropriate caps.
A must-have accessory is a labeling system for quick and accurate identification of the contents. Additionally, consider a small carrying case or organizer to keep the vials securely in place.
Conclusion on Kimble/Kontes Short Style Shell Vials, Borosilicate Glass, Kimble 60931 14, Pack of 144
The Kimble/Kontes Short Style Shell Vials, Borosilicate Glass, Kimble 60931 14, Pack of 144 are a simple yet incredibly useful tool for anyone needing to store small, dry materials. Their borosilicate glass construction provides exceptional durability and chemical resistance, making them a reliable choice for various applications.
At $45.99 for a pack of 144, the price is certainly justified by the quality and versatility of these vials. I would absolutely recommend these vials to anyone seeking a practical and dependable small storage solution. If you value organization, durability, and chemical inertness, then grab a pack of these Kimble/Kontes vials – you won’t be disappointed!