Kimble/Kontes Jar Ss Clr 4OZ CS24 5410458V 24 Review

Does the Kimble/Kontes Jar Ss Clr 4OZ CS24 5410458V 24 Live Up to Its Name?

The Kimble/Kontes Jar Ss Clr 4OZ CS24 5410458V 24, from Kimble/Kontes, is a seemingly simple piece of laboratory equipment. However, its quality and utility speak volumes about its intended purpose: reliable sample containment. I’ve spent years in the field and in various labs, and while it might seem odd to dedicate a review to a jar, sometimes the simplest tools are the most crucial.

I needed a reliable and inert container for long-term storage of sensitive field samples during a particularly challenging archaeological dig in the Mojave Desert. Contamination was a constant threat, and the containers I had been using were showing signs of leaching after prolonged exposure to high temperatures. The Kimble/Kontes Jar Ss Clr 4OZ CS24 5410458V 24 offered a potential solution with its promise of quality and inertness.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the clarity of the glass and the robust feel of the phenolic cap. It felt like a laboratory-grade product, and the 4oz size was perfect for the sample volumes I typically collected. The attached black phenolic closure with a 14B white rubber liner suggested an airtight seal, crucial for preventing degradation of organic materials.

I considered cheaper alternatives from generic lab supply companies, but the Kimble/Kontes name carries weight in scientific circles. I also looked at amber glass jars for UV protection, but decided clear glass was essential for easy visual inspection of the samples without opening the jar. Ultimately, the Kimble/Kontes Jar Ss Clr 4OZ CS24 5410458V 24’s reputation for quality and inert materials won me over.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. It certainly looked the part of a high-quality sample container. Whether it could withstand the rigors of a desert dig and long-term storage remained to be seen.

Real-World Testing: Putting Kimble/Kontes Jar Ss Clr 4OZ CS24 5410458V 24 to the Test

First Use Experience

The initial test was straightforward: packing the jars with soil samples directly at the dig site in the Mojave. Temperatures soared above 110°F (43°C) during the day, and dust permeated everything. The jars were filled, sealed tightly with the attached closure, and then stored in insulated boxes for transport back to the lab.

The jars performed admirably in these harsh conditions. The closures maintained a tight seal, preventing any visible dust or moisture from entering. The clear glass allowed for quick visual checks of the sample integrity – no discoloration or signs of degradation were immediately apparent.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of storage in both controlled laboratory environments and less stable storage sheds, the Kimble/Kontes Jar Ss Clr 4OZ CS24 5410458V 24 continued to impress. There were no signs of leaching or material breakdown within the jars themselves. The samples remained visually consistent with their initial state.

The jars exhibited no signs of wear and tear despite repeated handling and temperature fluctuations. Cleaning was simple: a quick wash with laboratory-grade detergent and distilled water. The smooth glass surface made it easy to remove any residual dirt or grime.

Compared to the previous plastic containers I used, the Kimble/Kontes Jar Ss Clr 4OZ CS24 5410458V 24 far outperformed them in terms of sample preservation and long-term durability. It provided a tangible improvement in data integrity, which is paramount in scientific research.

Breaking Down the Features of Kimble/Kontes Jar Ss Clr 4OZ CS24 5410458V 24

Specifications

• Clear Glass Construction: Offers excellent visibility of contents for easy identification and assessment. This is crucial for applications where visual inspection is necessary without opening the container.
• 4 oz (118 mL) Capacity: Provides a standard volume for storing and transporting liquid or solid samples. This is a common size for laboratory and field sampling.
• 58-400 Black Phenolic Closure: Secures contents with a tight, leak-proof seal. The phenolic material is chemically resistant.
• 14B White Rubber Liner: Ensures an airtight seal to prevent evaporation, contamination, and degradation of samples. The rubber liner provides a flexible barrier against the glass.
• Straight-Sided Design: Maximizes usable space and simplifies pouring and cleaning. The straight sides make it easier to label the jar accurately.
• Case of 24: Allows for efficient purchasing and stocking for lab or field use. Buying in bulk saves time and money.

These specifications are critical for maintaining sample integrity. The inert materials and tight seal prevent contamination and degradation, ensuring reliable experimental results.

Performance & Functionality

The Kimble/Kontes Jar Ss Clr 4OZ CS24 5410458V 24 excels in its primary function: securely containing samples. The seal is tight and reliable, even with volatile liquids.

The primary strength is its inertness and reliability. The weakness, arguably, is the clear glass, which doesn’t offer UV protection for light-sensitive samples, though this is a known trade-off for visual inspection. It largely meets expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent. The glass is thick and durable, and the phenolic cap is well-made.

The jar is exceptionally user-friendly. The straight-sided design and wide mouth make it easy to fill, pour from, and clean.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the glass construction, the jar is susceptible to breakage if dropped, but overall, the jar is very durable under normal laboratory conditions. With proper handling, the jar can last indefinitely.

Maintenance is straightforward. A simple cleaning with soap and water, or laboratory-grade detergent, is all that is required to keep the jar in pristine condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

No accessories are included beyond the attached cap. No real customization options exist for this basic piece of lab equipment, although labels can, of course, be added.

The Kimble/Kontes Jar Ss Clr 4OZ CS24 5410458V 24 is compatible with standard laboratory labeling systems. Parafilm can be used to further seal the closure if needed.

Pros and Cons of Kimble/Kontes Jar Ss Clr 4OZ CS24 5410458V 24

Who Should Buy Kimble/Kontes Jar Ss Clr 4OZ CS24 5410458V 24?

Perfect for: Researchers, lab technicians, field scientists, pharmacists, and anyone needing reliable, inert sample containers. Ideal for archaeology, environmental science, chemistry, and other disciplines requiring secure sample storage.

Who should skip this product? Those needing UV protection for their samples, or those seeking unbreakable containers (in which case, consider specialized plastic options, but be mindful of potential leaching).

Must-have accessories or modifications? Appropriate labeling system, Parafilm for added sealing (if necessary), and proper storage containers for transport.

Conclusion on Kimble/Kontes Jar Ss Clr 4OZ CS24 5410458V 24

The Kimble/Kontes Jar Ss Clr 4OZ CS24 5410458V 24 is a reliable and essential tool for any lab or field scientist. While it might seem like a basic product, its quality and performance justify the price.

The price of $159.99 for a case of 24 is reasonable given the quality and reliability offered. It’s an investment in data integrity and sample preservation.

I would absolutely recommend the Kimble/Kontes Jar Ss Clr 4OZ CS24 5410458V 24 to anyone needing reliable and inert sample storage. It is a small but crucial component in the pursuit of accurate and dependable scientific results. Invest in quality; your research depends on it.