Choosing an industrial valve usually comes down to matching the valve to the pipe size, material, and connection type you already have. These two ball valves sit on opposite ends of that spectrum. The FNW Fig 321A is a compact 3/4" carbon steel valve with FPT ends and a manual lever. The Spears 1822-030 is a large 3" PVC valve with socket ends and an EPDM O-ring. With a $60.95 price gap between them, the decision is about much more than cost-you need to decide which system you're building.
Quick verdict: For smaller metal lines with threaded connections, the FNW 321A is the sensible pick at $39.00. For larger PVC piping that uses socket-end connections, the Spears at $99.95 is the one to choose.
| Feature | FNW Fig 321A | Spears 1822-030 |
|---|---|---|
| Listed price | $39.00 | $99.95 |
| Size | 3/4" | 3" |
| Body material | Carbon Steel | PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) |
| End type | FPT | Socket |
| Pressure marking | 150 WSP | 235 psi |
| Special features | 3-piece body, manual lever | EPDM O-ring |
Where the FNW wins: It costs $60.95 less and uses FPT (female pipe thread) ends for a direct screw-on connection. The 3/4" size suits tight, small-scale lines, and the carbon steel body plus 3-piece design gives it a sturdy feel for water-based systems.
Where the Spears wins: The 3" bore handles far larger flow, the PVC body pairs naturally with plastic piping, and the socket ends offer a permanent connection style. It carries a 235 psi pressure rating and is made in the United States.
FNW Fig 321A 3/4" Carbon Steel Ball Valve
The FNW Fig 321A is a 3/4" industrial ball valve with a carbon steel body and FPT ends. Listed at $39.00, it is the lower-priced option here. The 3-piece body uses a manual lever handle, and the pressure marking reads 150 WSP. One concrete reason to choose it is that the threaded FPT connections let you screw it directly onto metal pipe nipples without special tools. The main limitation is that the valve has not been pressure tested, so you'll need to confirm suitability for your specific pressure and media before installation. It also includes only the valve itself, so you'll have to source any fittings or accessories separately.
Spears Industrial Ball Valve Socket 3" PVC 1822-030
The Spears 1822-030 is a 3" PVC ball valve with socket ends and an EPDM O-ring, priced at $99.95. The extra cost buys a much larger flow path-useful for lines where a 3/4" valve would restrict the system. It also carries a 235 psi pressure rating, which is clearly marked in the product name. A concrete reason to choose it is that the socket ends are designed for connecting directly to matching PVC pipe without threads. The limitation is the price and size: at nearly $100, it's the more expensive valve, and the large 3" body needs enough room to fit in your piping layout. The listing includes only the valve, so additional pipe or cement is not included.
Final choice by use case: If your line is 3/4" with female threaded connections, and you want a metal valve with a lever handle, the FNW Fig 321A is the direct match and the lighter hit on your wallet. If your line is 3" PVC and you need a socket-end valve with a larger bore, the Spears 1822-030 is the one to buy for the size and pressure rating.
