Ethyl benzimidate hydrochloride is primarily utilized as a reagent in organic synthesis for the preparation of amidines via reaction with primary amines, following a variant of the Pinner reaction. It is essential for synthesizing benzamidine derivatives, which serve as key pharmacophores in medicinal chemistry and pharmaceutical intermediates. Additionally, it is employed in the modification of peptides and proteins, as well as in the synthesis of guanidines and heterocyclic compounds. The hydrochloride salt enhances solubility, stability, and handling properties, making it suitable for both solution-phase and solid-phase reactions in research laboratories.