I have had this chuck it for four years, and today it is pretty cold and I threw the chuck it on the porch with no ball (that should tell you how well I take care of this thing).  The part the holds the ball cracked because of the cold and the impact of throwing it.  Looks like I'm out six dollars for not being slightly careful.  I have used this thing almost every day for the last four years.  I got it when my lab was a puppy, and it made such a difference when he was really young and full of energy.  Now when I let him out, he runs straight to where the chuck it hangs and stares at it.  My brothers dogs do the same thing.