What Are the 10 Items in a Dissecting Kit?

Last updated: January 2026

A dissecting kit is an essential tool for medical students and professionals. It allows for precise and careful dissection of specimens in a biology / medical lab. In this blog post, we will explore the ten key instruments that are typically found in a dissecting kit.

There are many different dissecting kits available, but they typically contain the same basic 10 items:

Scalpel
Scalpel blades
Scissors
Forceps
Probe
Ruler
Grooved director
Pipette
T-Pins
Storage Case

1. Scalpel

The scalpel is a small sharp-bladed tool used for making precise incisions during dissections. It is designed to provide maximum control and minimal tissue damage. Scalpels come in a variety of sizes and shapes, each with its specific purpose. To explore products about scalpels, please visit this website here.

2. Scalpel Blades

Scalpel blades are the replaceable part of the scalpel. They come in various shapes and sizes, each suited for different types of incisions and dissections in the lab. It comes in different types of scalpel blades including No. 10, No. 11, No. 12, No. 15, and Lancet.

Blades for Scalpel Handle No. 3

~~$10.00~~$5.00

B10B11B12B15

Blades for Scalpel Handle No. 4

~~$10.00~~$5.00

B20B21B22B23B24

Retractable Safety Scalpels #15

~~$34.00~~$24.00

Retractable Safety Scalpels #11, 5PCS / PK

~~$34.00~~$24.00

Retractable Safety Scalpels #10, 5PCS / PK

~~$34.00~~$24.00

DR Microdissection Scalpel - #52

~~$11.00~~$7.00

Scalpel - Narrow Blade 1.5", Stainless steel.

~~$25.00~~$6.00

Scalpel - Premium Grade

~~$25.00~~$6.00

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3. Scissors

Scissors in a dissecting kit are designed for cutting and trimming tissues. They have fine, sharp tips and curved or straight blades, depending on the intended use. A diverse selection of dissecting scissors is offered, including surgical, mayo, Iris, bandage, and operating scissors. Find the ideal tool for your specific requirements here.

Mayo Scissors - 5.5" Stainless Steel.

~~$13.00~~$11.00

Mayo Scissors - 6.75" - Stainless Steel - Super Sharp Blades

~~$19.00~~$13.00

Mayo Scissors - 5.5" or 6.75" - 6A

~~$19.00~~From $7.00

5.5"6.75"

Dissection Scissors - Student Grade - #8

~~$10.00~~$7.00

Iris Scissors - Stainless Steel - Fine Point - #9

~~$10.00~~$7.00

Iris Scissors - Curved - #10

~~$10.00~~$6.00

Surgical Scissors - Sharp Blunt 4.5", Stainless Steel

~~$10.00~~$6.00

Operating Scissors - Sharp Points 4.5", Stainless Steel

~~$10.00~~$8.00

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4. Forceps

Forceps are essential for holding and manipulating small objects during dissections. With a Tweezer-like design and fine tips for precise handling, they are available in a wide variety, including hemostatic forceps, Kelly Forceps, Tissue Forceps, Curved Dissecting Forceps, and biopsy forceps.

Entomology Forceps set

~~$47.00~~$36.00

Curved Dissecting Forceps - Heavy Duty 5.5", Stainless Steel

~~$7.00~~$4.00

Entomology Forceps, Set of 2, Flexible Stainless-Steel - Bend & Re-Bend , Titanium Coated.

~~$39.00~~$30.00

Dissecting Forceps - Microdissection 4.5", Stainless Steel

$8.00

Dissection Forceps - Curved Fine Point - #16

~~$7.00~~$4.00

Hemostatic Forceps 5.0", Stainless Steel

~~$19.00~~$6.00

Specimen Dissecting Forceps - 6'' - Stainless Steel - #19

~~$6.00~~$3.00

Insect Pinning Forceps

~~$8.00~~$5.00

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5. Dissecting Probe

Dissection probes pointed, thin devices, typically metal or polymer, used to manipulate tissues during dissection, soft tissue removal, shaping cavity preps, and more.

Hubber Probe

~~$7.00~~$4.00

Wartenburg Sensibility Pinwheel - 7.5''

~~$20.00~~$14.00

Archeology Probe Kit

~~$34.00~~$31.00

Hubber Precision Dissection Probe 6'', Stainless Steel, 8mm Wide

~~$13.00~~$6.00

Best Hubber Probe 6'' - Wide - DR Instruments

Hubber Precision Dissection Probe 6'' with Wide Tip, Stainless Steel

~~$11.00~~$6.00

Combination Probe Set

~~$27.00~~$24.00

Dissecting T-Pins

~~$4.00~~From $2.00

Dissecting Insect Pins

~~$4.00~~From $2.00

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6. Ruler

A ruler is a simple yet essential tool in a dissecting kit. It provides accurate measurements of specimens and aids in documenting findings.

7. Grooved Director

A grooved director is a surgical tool for elevating tissue, securing structures, and directing other instruments. It has a grooved surface that helps in accurately placing and positioning the sutures.

8. Pipette

A pipette is a precise liquid handling tool used for transferring small volumes of liquids. They are different in variety including serological pipettes, transfer pipettes, and micropipettes. Pipettes are created using top-notch materials and are crafted for exactness and precision.

Plastic Pipettes 100/Bag

~~$13.00~~From $9.00

Sterile Specimen Container 25ml

~~$8.00~~From $7.00

Student Plastic Labware Assortment w/ Storage Box

~~$70.00~~$48.00

Glass Dropper - 2ML - Rubber Bulb

~~$8.00~~$7.00

9. T-Pins

Dissecting T-Pins, meticulously nickel-plated, are designed to secure the specimen during dissection gracefully. These versatile pins serve the purpose of delicately fastening both the specimen and its subsequent skin onto the dissecting pan, providing a stable and efficient platform for thorough examination.

10. Storage Case

The storage case is used to keep the dissecting tools organized and protected. They are made of vinyl leatherette or washable semi-hard plastic to keep the tools safe.

Conclusion

A dissecting kit is a tool for students and professionals getting training in the medical and scientific fields. The 10 items discussed in this blog post are essential components of a dissecting kit, enabling precise and careful dissection and examination of preserved specimens. Whether it's for research, education, or anatomy study, a well-equipped dissecting kit is a must-have for any professional in these fields.

Instead of buying tools individually, most students use a pre-assembled dissection kit that includes all required instruments for lab coursework.

👉 View complete student dissection kits here → (Complete Dissection Kit)

Do students need all 10 tools?
Most biology and anatomy programs require students to have a complete dissection kit that includes all basic tools. While some dissections may only use a few instruments, having a full kit ensures students are prepared for any lab assignment and course requirement.

What is the best dissecting kit for students?
The best dissecting kit for students is one that includes high-quality stainless steel instruments, a durable case, and all required tools for their specific course level. Beginner kits are suitable for high school and general biology, while advanced kits are recommended for medical, nursing, and veterinary students.

Can I buy a complete dissection kit instead of individual tools?
Yes. Most students and schools prefer pre-assembled dissection kits because they are more affordable, convenient, and aligned with course requirements.

👉 Browse our complete student dissection kits here → Lab Ready Dissection Kits

Are dissecting kits reusable?
Dissecting kits are reusable if properly cleaned and stored. Stainless steel instruments can be disinfected after each use and reused for multiple lab sessions.

What specimens are commonly dissected?
Students typically use dissecting kits for:
• Frog dissection
• Fish dissection
• Fetal pig dissection
• Preserved organ specimens
• Plant dissections

Frequently Asked Questions

What tools should beginners have in a dissecting kit?
Beginners should have at least a scalpel, scissors, forceps, probe, and pins for basic biology labs.

Can I use the same kit for multiple classes?
Yes. A quality dissection kit can be used across biology, anatomy, and physiology courses.

Do medical and nursing students need different kits?
Advanced students often require kits with additional tools such as hemostats and finer forceps.

Ready to get a complete dissection kit?
Shop our student dissection kits for biology, anatomy, medical, and veterinary programs.

👉 Shop student dissection kits here → https://drinstruments.com/collections/dissection-kits-and-tools-for-students