I purchased this to replace a 30-year old Ross Feeder that I had borrowed from a neighbor. The old one was all metal and I really did not expect this part plastic one to be as good. To my surprise -- and my neighbor's --  they have made significant design improvements and provided more strength in the metal rod which bent easily in the old one. I especially like the easy flow adjustment lever. Can't testify to its durability yet, but It comes with a complete list of low cost replacement parts and looks solid to me.