Which of the following is not typically used for cutting or dissecting purposes?

The inoculating loop is primarily used in microbiology for transferring bacteria or other microorganisms from one medium to another. Its design is not meant for cutting or dissecting, but rather for sterile handling and inoculation purposes. The loop's purpose is to facilitate the careful manipulation of small amounts of microbial cultures, allowing for proper cultivation and analysis.

In contrast, items like scalpel handles and dissecting scissors are specifically crafted for cutting and dissection tasks, often employed in laboratory settings or during anatomical studies. The evaporating dish, while used in chemistry for evaporation of solutions, does not serve a cutting function either, but it is included in this context to illustrate a difference in utility. Thus, the inoculating loop stands out as the tool that is not intended for cutting or dissecting.