Initial thoughts:
The stuff sack arrived Dec. 23, 2003 by FedEx. and an inspection showed it to be seemingly in good condition and the color and size promised and expected for this test.  I noticed that it seemed somewhat lighter than other stuff sacks I have had experience with, but it seemed quite sturdy. I could see it was made of blue rip-stop nylon coated on one side with white urethane. That waterproofing coating faces the interior of the bag.

Product overview:
Outdoor Research's Basic Model is one of multiple lines of stuff sacks made by the Seattle, Wash. company.  This model line comes in five sizes in blue, red and what they call Glacier Blue.  This particular sack that I will be testing is the second largest in this line and is the number 4 size with dimensions of 9" x 17"  (22.86 cm x 43.18 cm ).  The sack has a drawcord top, attached top dust cover, and a webbing handle on the bottom.
 
Impressions so far:
In this Basic Model, unlike some other OR models, the seams are not factory tape sealed.  I blew it up with my breath as I might a paper sack,  and it was quite easy to squeeze the air out the seams.  Then I filled it almost full of water and it leaked only at the seams. It could still use if for toting water, but would leave a trail of water and other unintended uses like using the bag as a float to ford deep water would be of limited success.  But a user could use products to seal the seams on their own. I was impressed with the large size of the dust cover. And I was impressed with the buttonhole reinforcing stitching around the drawstring hole.  Just a note, I also noticed that the looped OR logo label that is sewn into the seam and protrudes outside will hold a pen with a clip but could also be looped around a tent pole to prevent an empty loose bag from blowing away outside.

I plan to use the Basic Hydrolite Stuff Sack for its intended purpose of stuffing  "stuff" inside it both to contain and separate items and to protect it from the damp.  That means I will at times put dry soft-goods inside while the stuff sack is strapped to the outside of my pack in inclement weather.  At other times I intend to use it with other stuff sacks inside my pack to separate and organize a variety of small and harder items that are more likely to chafe against the sack, fabric and coating.  I also intend to use it for purposes perhaps not intended for the sack by the manufacture because I realize that sometimes in emergencies or survival situations or even day-to-day situations a piece of equipment may be found to have additional value or purpose. For example, I already "tried it on" and found out that this #4 size can be employed as an emergency rain-wind-snow hat and will cover the head and ears when a hat has been lost.  As with other sacks I own, I will probably also stuff some of my clothing and other soft gear in it and use it for a pillow when camping. At times it may be a bear bag for food and hoisted by its drawstring high in a tree. I will test it through this winter season and later in better weather on day hikes and ski outings and overnight camping.

* Outdoor Research Lifetime Guarantee:

"Outdoor Research products are guaranteed against defects in materials or construction without any time limits. Any items that we determine to be defective will be repaired or replaced depending on what makes the most sense and creates the least waste. Damage due to misuse or improper care is not covered, nor is wear and tear, but we will be happy to repair for minimal cost, any items that are returned to us clean. It is important to keep in mind that materials may wear out rapidly if they are subjected to severe use of uses for which they were not intended."