I have had one of these for years, and consider it the best training aid ever. It gets used most days and shows no sign of wear. I am holding back one star as this new one I bought is made from a softer rubber than my old one. It is too early to say how it will last, but a couple of people I know have found theirs to split around the neck. So they seem to be less robust than they were. Will have to see how long it lasts as it is going to get some rigorous use.
Bob XL, what can I say? Scared the living daylights out of my wife when she came face to face with him for the first time on the day he was delivered! Ok, he was by the living room door and wearing my jacket! :-) Seriously though: first saw him at my child's Dojo and determined to get one for my own Xing Yi practice. Very excellent choice: feels right; helps deliver blows more accurately; brilliant for all-round workout; love the fact that he can be made much taller - important when you're a little squirt like me and need to practice those upward moves. Worth every penny.