I had this bright orange plastic version for a few years and couldn't have done without it in a project. However, the plastic is a lot more brittle than I thought and both my small and large orange ones broke in multiple places hence this purchase. It's solid and well designed, but I have to admit that I find it difficult to read. I don't know if it's the color, the finish, or the depth and sharpness of the engraved figures, but it's not a pleasure to read, especially in low light. However, it is sturdy, well built and will do a lot of good.