Let’s Dive into Microflex Glove Pf Vinyl Md PK100 DF-850-M
The Microflex Glove Pf Vinyl Md PK100 DF-850-M is a medium-sized, powder-free vinyl glove offered by Microflex, packaged in quantities of 100. These disposable gloves are designed for a variety of applications, ranging from medical examinations to food service, offering a barrier of protection for the wearer. The promise of a reliable, readily available barrier against contaminants is compelling, especially in environments where hygiene is paramount.
My search for a dependable, cost-effective hand protection solution for various tasks led me to consider these gloves. I needed a product that offered decent tactile sensitivity without sacrificing protection. The Microflex brand has a reputation for quality in the disposable glove market, so it seemed like a logical place to start.
Upon unboxing, the gloves appeared clean and consistently sized. The vinyl material felt adequately thick, though not as supple as nitrile options I’ve used in the past. The absence of powder was a welcome change, reducing the risk of allergic reactions and contamination.
Compared to similar vinyl gloves from other brands like Ambitex or Halyard, the Microflex Glove Pf Vinyl Md PK100 DF-850-M seemed to offer a slightly better balance of durability and tactile sensitivity at a competitive price point. Nitrile gloves offer superior performance, but at a higher price point, making these vinyl gloves a potentially more economical option for tasks where high dexterity isn’t critical. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; they seemed like a practical choice for general-purpose use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Microflex Glove Pf Vinyl Md PK100 DF-850-M to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Microflex Glove Pf Vinyl Md PK100 DF-850-M while processing game meat after a recent hunting trip. This involved handling raw meat, knives, and cleaning surfaces. The gloves were used both indoors and outdoors under relatively cool and dry conditions.
The gloves performed reasonably well in providing a barrier against contamination during meat processing. I was able to maintain a decent grip, even when handling slightly wet surfaces. One immediate observation was that the lack of elasticity in the vinyl made them feel a bit loose compared to nitrile gloves, particularly around the wrist.
There were no immediate failures or tears during the initial use. However, I did notice that prolonged use caused my hands to sweat inside the gloves, reducing tactile sensitivity. This is a common issue with vinyl gloves and something to consider.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of intermittent use in various scenarios, including cleaning firearms and general maintenance tasks, the Microflex Glove Pf Vinyl Md PK100 DF-850-M held up reasonably well. The gloves didn’t show significant signs of wear and tear with regular use, and I didn’t experience any unexpected failures. The durability seemed consistent with my expectations for vinyl gloves.
Cleaning these gloves isn’t really an option, as they are designed for single-use applications. After each task, the gloves were disposed of, ensuring hygiene and preventing cross-contamination. Compared to my previous experiences with similar vinyl gloves, these Microflex gloves were slightly more resistant to tearing, suggesting a slightly higher material quality.
Breaking Down the Features of Microflex Glove Pf Vinyl Md PK100 DF-850-M
Specifications
- Material: 100% Synthetic Vinyl – Provides a barrier against contaminants.
- Size: Medium – Fits average-sized hands.
- Quantity: 100 gloves per pack – Ensures an ample supply for various tasks.
- Powder-Free: Reduces the risk of allergic reactions and contamination.
- Thickness: 3.9mil (finger), 4.3mil (palm), 3.9mil (cuff) – Offers a balance between protection and tactile sensitivity.
- Length: 23cm (9″) – Provides adequate coverage of the wrist.
- Color: Clear – Allows for easy visibility of any contamination.
- Cuff: Beaded – Prevents tearing and makes donning easier.
- The Microflex vinyl material provides a decent barrier against many common chemicals and fluids, though not as robust as nitrile or latex. The lack of powder reduces the risk of contamination in sensitive environments, like food processing or laboratory settings.
Performance & Functionality
The Microflex Glove Pf Vinyl Md PK100 DF-850-M performs its intended function of providing a protective barrier adequately. While not as dexterous as thinner nitrile gloves, they offer reasonable tactile sensitivity for general tasks. The gloves are easy to don and doff, thanks to the beaded cuff.
The main weakness is the limited elasticity of the vinyl material, which can make them feel loose and less secure than latex or nitrile gloves. They meet expectations for basic protection, but are not ideal for tasks requiring fine motor skills or prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent for disposable vinyl gloves; the material feels consistently thick throughout. The medium size fits comfortably on average-sized hands, but those with larger hands might find them too snug. There is virtually no learning curve; these gloves are straightforward and simple to use.
Durability & Maintenance
Given their single-use design, the longevity is limited to the duration of a single task. The gloves are reasonably durable for light to medium-duty tasks, but can tear if subjected to excessive stretching or abrasion. Maintenance is non-existent, as they are designed to be disposed of after use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Microflex Glove Pf Vinyl Md PK100 DF-850-M does not come with any accessories, nor are there any customization options available. They are designed to be used as-is, providing a simple and straightforward hand protection solution. They are compatible with standard glove dispensers for convenient access.
Pros and Cons of Microflex Glove Pf Vinyl Md PK100 DF-850-M
Pros
- Cost-effective: Provides an economical hand protection solution.
- Powder-Free: Reduces the risk of allergic reactions and contamination.
- Decent Durability: Holds up reasonably well for light to medium-duty tasks.
- Easy to Don/Doff: Beaded cuff simplifies the process.
- Suitable for General-Purpose Use: Versatile enough for a variety of applications.
Cons
- Limited Elasticity: Vinyl material feels less secure than latex or nitrile.
- Reduced Tactile Sensitivity: Not ideal for tasks requiring fine motor skills.
- Can Cause Sweating: Prolonged use can lead to sweaty hands.
Who Should Buy Microflex Glove Pf Vinyl Md PK100 DF-850-M?
The Microflex Glove Pf Vinyl Md PK100 DF-850-M is perfect for individuals or businesses needing a cost-effective, general-purpose hand protection solution for tasks such as food service, light cleaning, and basic maintenance. They’re also suitable for environments where powder-free gloves are a necessity, such as laboratories or food processing plants.
Those requiring high dexterity, superior chemical resistance, or a snug, secure fit should skip this product and opt for nitrile or latex gloves. A must-have accessory is a glove dispenser for convenient and hygienic access.
Conclusion on Microflex Glove Pf Vinyl Md PK100 DF-850-M
The Microflex Glove Pf Vinyl Md PK100 DF-850-M provides a practical and affordable hand protection solution for various applications. While not offering the same level of performance as more expensive nitrile or latex options, they deliver reasonable durability and barrier protection at a competitive price point. At a price of $177.99 for 1000 gloves (10 packs), the value is considerable.
I would recommend these gloves for individuals and businesses seeking a reliable, general-purpose glove for light to medium-duty tasks. Consider these Microflex vinyl gloves if you need a budget-friendly option without sacrificing basic hand protection. It’s a worthwhile investment for safeguarding your hands.