RV Designer H217 Barrel Catch Nylon Clip Review

Let’s Dive into RV Designer H217 Barrel Catch Nylon Clip

The RV Designer H217 Barrel Catch Nylon Clip – it’s a seemingly small part, but one that can make a huge difference in the overall livability and safety of your RV. We’ve all experienced the frustration, and sometimes downright danger, of opening our RV after a long drive to find cupboard doors flung open and drawers spilling their contents across the floor. These little catches aim to eliminate that chaos.

What brought me to these particular catches? Years of frustration with flimsy latches in my own camper. They either broke quickly or were never strong enough to withstand bumpy roads. I was tired of the post-travel clean-up and the constant worry of something breaking or becoming a projectile while driving. I needed a reliable, affordable solution.

Upon receiving the package, my first thought was, “These look sturdier than what I’ve been using.” The nylon clip felt robust, not brittle like some of the cheaper plastic versions I’ve seen. The barrel catch itself, while simple, appeared well-made. The provided screws are a welcome addition.

I considered magnetic catches, but magnetic catches can sometimes be affected by nearby metal objects causing them to release or be difficult to open if aligned poorly. I also looked at roller catches, but their installation is more complex, and they can be noisier. I chose the RV Designer H217 Barrel Catch Nylon Clip for its simplicity, positive engagement, and perceived durability.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. I was excited to finally have a solution that felt substantial, but the proof, as always, would be in the pudding – or rather, the bumpy road.


Real-World Testing: Putting RV Designer H217 Barrel Catch Nylon Clip to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the RV Designer H217 Barrel Catch Nylon Clip during a week-long camping trip through the backroads of Utah, a region notorious for its washboard roads. I installed the catches on several kitchen cabinets and a bathroom drawer, all notorious for popping open. Installation was straightforward, using the provided screws.

The catches performed admirably even on the roughest stretches of road. Nothing flew open! The nylon clips held securely, even when I intentionally tried to jostle the doors and drawers. The only minor issue was that one catch, after a particularly jarring bump, required a slightly firmer push to re-engage.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and over 3,000 miles of travel, the RV Designer H217 Barrel Catch Nylon Clip continues to hold up well. I haven’t experienced any failures or breakages. There are no signs of wear and tear on the nylon clips or the barrel catches themselves.

Maintenance is non-existent; there’s nothing to clean or lubricate. Compared to the previous catches I used, which would loosen and break within a season, the RV Designer H217 Barrel Catch Nylon Clip is a clear winner in terms of durability and reliability. It’s a simple, effective solution that has significantly reduced the chaos during travel.

Breaking Down the Features of RV Designer H217 Barrel Catch Nylon Clip

Specifications

  • Catch Dimension: 1-1/16″ L x 1/2″ W x 5/8″ H. This compact size allows for installation in a variety of locations without being obtrusive.
  • Screw Dimensions: 1″ x 3/4″. The included screws are appropriately sized for the catch, providing a secure mounting point.
  • Mounting Hole Spacing: 9/16″. This standard spacing simplifies installation and ensures compatibility with existing holes in some cases.
  • Material: Nylon clip and barrel catch (material unspecified). The nylon clip is crucial for secure engagement and long-term durability, while the catch, hopefully durable as well, handles the locking mechanism.
  • Quantity: Each package includes six barrel catches, six nylon clips, and 18 mounting screws. This is a great value, allowing you to secure multiple doors and drawers with a single purchase.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the catch’s performance. The dimensions dictate where the catch can be installed, the screw size affects mounting security, and the nylon clip material determines its longevity.

Performance & Functionality

The RV Designer H217 Barrel Catch Nylon Clip performs its primary job – keeping doors and drawers securely closed – very well. The positive engagement of the nylon clip ensures that once the door or drawer is closed, it stays closed, even on bumpy roads.

The main strength is its simplicity and reliability. The only minor weakness is that the fit can sometimes be a bit tight, requiring a slightly firmer push to engage. It meets expectations and exceeds the performance of cheaper, flimsier alternatives.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is decent for the price. The nylon clip feels sturdy and the overall design is simple and functional. It’s easy to install and use.

The design is straightforward. There is no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on several months of use, the RV Designer H217 Barrel Catch Nylon Clip appears to be quite durable. The nylon clip shows no signs of wear and tear.

Maintenance is minimal. Just inspect occasionally to ensure screws are tight.

Accessories and Customization Options

The RV Designer H217 Barrel Catch Nylon Clip doesn’t offer any accessories or customization options. It is a simple, self-contained solution.

It is designed to be universally compatible with any RV cabinet or drawer.

Pros and Cons of RV Designer H217 Barrel Catch Nylon Clip

Pros

  • Simple and effective design. Easy to install and provides a secure hold for doors and drawers.
  • Durable nylon clip. Holds up well to repeated use and bumpy roads.
  • Affordable price. A cost-effective solution for preventing RV chaos.
  • Complete kit. Includes everything needed for installation (catches, clips, and screws).
  • Peace of mind. Eliminates the worry of doors and drawers flying open during travel.

Cons

  • Fit can be tight at times requiring extra force to close.
  • The barrel catch material not specified, long term durability is uncertain.


Who Should Buy RV Designer H217 Barrel Catch Nylon Clip?

The RV Designer H217 Barrel Catch Nylon Clip is perfect for RV owners, DIY camper builders, and anyone looking for a simple, reliable way to secure cabinet doors and drawers in a mobile environment. If you’re tired of the mess and potential damage caused by unsecured items during travel, this product is for you.

Those looking for a more aesthetically pleasing or high-end solution might want to explore alternatives. However, for most practical applications, the RV Designer H217 Barrel Catch Nylon Clip is an excellent choice.

I would recommend purchasing a small tube of wood glue to use on the screws. This will help them hold tighter and prevent them from backing out over time.

Conclusion on RV Designer H217 Barrel Catch Nylon Clip

Overall, the RV Designer H217 Barrel Catch Nylon Clip is a solid, reliable, and affordable solution for securing cabinet doors and drawers in your RV. It may not be the flashiest product on the market, but it does its job effectively and without breaking the bank.

The price is definitely justified. For under $12, you get six complete sets of catches that can save you a significant amount of hassle and potential damage.

I would personally recommend the RV Designer H217 Barrel Catch Nylon Clip to any RV owner looking for a practical and affordable way to improve their travel experience. Stop the chaos and start enjoying the journey. Go ahead and buy them – you will not regret it!

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