What are the benefits of a "True Union" Ball Valve

[Kam]

I see these online, but can not figure out what is so special about them. I can see that they are smaller than using 2 Unions and a valve, but other than that, whats so special.

 

[skennelly]

That is exactly it. They are smaller than having 2 separate unions and then the ball valve. The size is pretty compact. Is it worth the price, well I guess that would depend on how much space you have to work with.

JIMO