I use syringes for every test. It is faster, more accurate and more consistent than filling the vial to the meniscus, at least for me.
The calcium checker is fantastic, if you use it properly. I've compared its results to ICPOES results many times and always been impressed with how close they are. You must use 0 TDS RODI water or distilled water. You must measure the 0.1 ml sample exactly with an appropriate syringe. Also a good idea to add the dry reagent to the vial with a small funnel to avoid losing any of the crystals. I use a funnel for all the dry Hanna reagents;
perfume funnels work great.