The Good, the Bad & the Real of the JR Products 70395 Pull To Open Cabinet Catch
My workshop, lab, and even the mobile service van often present a persistent challenge: cabinet doors that refuse to stay closed or slam open unexpectedly. It’s a minor annoyance, but one that can lead to lost tools, spilled chemicals, or simply a frustrating experience when you’re focused on a critical task. I was looking for a simple, reliable solution to secure various cabinet doors without being overly complex or aesthetically jarring. This led me to the JR Products 70395 Pull To Open Cabinet Catch, a small but potentially mighty hardware component.
First impressions upon receiving the two-pack were practical. The catches felt solid enough for their intended purpose, constructed from what appears to be a durable plastic. They’re not going to win any design awards, but for functional hardware, that’s acceptable. I briefly considered magnetic catches, but my experience with those is that they can sometimes fail in vibration-prone environments or lose their magnetism over time. These mechanical catches seemed like a more robust alternative. My initial reaction was one of pragmatic optimism; this seemed like a straightforward fix for a common problem.
Real-World Testing: Putting JR Products 70395 Pull To Open Cabinet Catch to the Test
I decided to deploy these catches in a few distinct scenarios to gauge their performance across different demands. One set was installed on a set of upper cabinets in my home workshop, housing an assortment of frequently used hand tools and small power tool accessories. The second set was designated for a smaller, more specialized cabinet in my home lab, used for storing reagents and delicate measuring equipment, where accidental opening could be particularly problematic.
First Use Experience
Installation was straightforward, as the package includes mounting screws. For the workshop cabinets, I attached one to a solid oak door and the frame. The operation was immediately intuitive: a gentle pull on the door disengaged the catch, allowing it to swing open. Pushing it shut resulted in a satisfying, firm click as the catch engaged. The lab cabinet application was equally seamless, securing a lighter particleboard door with ease.
Performance in these environments was largely as expected. The catches provided a secure closure, preventing the doors from vibrating open. They handled repeated use throughout the day without any noticeable degradation in function. There was no exposure to extreme moisture or temperature, but they performed reliably under typical indoor workshop and lab conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily use in both the workshop and the lab, the JR Products 70395 Pull To Open Cabinet Catch units have held up admirably. The workshop cabinets, which are opened and closed many times daily, show no signs of wear on the catch mechanism. The lab cabinet, though used less frequently, remains securely fastened, providing peace of mind that no sensitive items will be accidentally exposed.
Durability has been a strong point. There are no cracks, no stiffness in the engagement mechanism, and no loss of holding power. Maintenance is virtually nonexistent; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s ever been needed. Compared to previous spring-loaded plastic catches I’ve used that eventually sagged or broke, these seem considerably more robust for their intended application.
Breaking Down the Features of JR Products 70395 Pull To Open Cabinet Catch
Specifications
The JR Products 70395 Pull To Open Cabinet Catch comes sold as two per package, which is a practical detail for most common cabinet setups. The package includes mounting screws, simplifying the installation process significantly. A key selling point is the Lifetime Warranty, which offers considerable peace of mind regarding the product’s longevity and the manufacturer’s confidence in its durability.
The core functionality of this catch is its “Pull-To-Open” design, meaning it requires a deliberate pull to release. This mechanism is inherently more secure than simple friction catches. The plastic construction is lightweight yet appears sufficiently strong for typical cabinet door loads, and it resists corrosion.
Performance & Functionality
In its primary role, the pull-to-open catch performs exceptionally well. It provides a firm hold, preventing doors from popping open unexpectedly due to vibration or slight inclines. The mechanism is smooth, requiring just enough force to disengage without being difficult to operate.
Its main strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. It does its job without fuss. A minor point for consideration, however, is that the click when it engages is audible; this might be a factor in very quiet environments, though it’s generally a reassuring sound. It consistently meets expectations for securing cabinet doors in workshops and similar settings.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of these catches is purely functional, emphasizing utility over aesthetics. They are unobtrusive and blend into most cabinet interiors without drawing undue attention. The plastic construction is smooth and free of sharp edges, making them safe to handle during installation and operation.
Ergonomically, they are straightforward. The mechanism is designed to be pulled directly, and it offers a good grip point for the fingers. There’s no real learning curve; you simply pull the door to open it and push it to close. The included screws are standard wood screws, suitable for most common cabinet materials.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, these catches are built for longevity in their intended environment. They feel like they will last for many years under normal household or workshop use. As mentioned, maintenance is minimal, primarily just keeping them free of dust and debris.
A potential point of concern, though not yet realized in my testing, could be the long-term resilience of the plastic to extreme temperature fluctuations or exposure to harsh chemicals. However, for standard cabinet use, they appear to be a very durable solution. There have been no noticeable failure points or signs of stress.
Accessories and Customization Options
The JR Products 70395 Pull To Open Cabinet Catch comes with its essential accessories: mounting screws. There are no inherent customization options for the catch itself, as it’s a fixed mechanism. However, its straightforward design means it’s compatible with most standard cabinet door installations.
The primary “accessory” in this case is the second catch included in the package. This allows for immediate deployment on a second door or cabinet, offering immediate value. It’s a complete solution for securing two doors with a single purchase.
Pros and Cons of JR Products 70395 Pull To Open Cabinet Catch
Pros
- Reliable Pull-To-Open Mechanism: Effectively secures cabinet doors, preventing accidental opening.
- Includes Mounting Screws: Simplifies installation and removes the need for an immediate trip to the hardware store.
- Lifetime Warranty: Offers significant peace of mind regarding product longevity and manufacturer support.
- Sold as Two Per Package: Provides good value and covers most basic cabinet needs.
- Simple and Intuitive Operation: Easy for anyone to use without explanation.
Cons
- Basic Aesthetic: Primarily functional, not designed for high-end cabinetry where visual appeal is paramount.
- Plastic Construction: While durable, may not withstand extreme force or very harsh environments as well as metal alternatives.
- Audible Click: The sound of engagement might be a minor detractor in extremely quiet settings.
Who Should Buy JR Products 70395 Pull To Open Cabinet Catch?
These catches are an excellent choice for anyone needing to secure cabinet doors in workshops, garages, utility rooms, or even RVs and boats. They are ideal for DIY enthusiasts, home mechanics, and anyone who wants a no-nonsense solution to keep cabinets shut. If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to prevent tools from spilling, reagents from being exposed, or simply want to stop doors from banging open, this is a solid option.
Individuals seeking high-end cabinetry hardware with a focus on premium aesthetics might want to look elsewhere. Those working in environments with extreme temperature variations or heavy chemical exposure might also consider metal alternatives. However, for general use, these catches are highly practical. A good screwdriver is the only essential tool needed for installation.
Conclusion on JR Products 70395 Pull To Open Cabinet Catch
The JR Products 70395 Pull To Open Cabinet Catch delivers precisely what it promises: reliable and straightforward cabinet door security. For its modest price of $10.99 for a two-pack, the value is exceptional, especially when factoring in the included hardware and the reassuring Lifetime Warranty. It’s not a flashy product, but its performance in real-world applications in my workshop and lab has been consistently positive.
I would absolutely recommend this product to anyone facing the common problem of unsecured cabinet doors. It’s a practical, durable, and economical solution that simply works. If you need a dependable way to keep your cabinets shut, this two-pack from JR Products is a purchase you’re unlikely to regret.