I was a building inspector too, but after the late 80's it became environmental. This little machine was just great for field work where I had to map out areas where there hazards or were covered with asbestos ceiling covering. I was often asked to draw diagrams of schools and businesses. I bought this in 1988 and I still have it. So it will hold up if you take halfway decent care of it. I drew a blueprint of a home addition and figured out to the last 2x4 how much matl. I needed. The one I have has a plastic corrugated case that has a pocket to hold templates and papers. The movement of the bar was and still is a bit herky jerky, just don't get in a hurry and it'll be fine. I can't believe I've owned this for 28 years, but I have and still use it occasionally when a friend needs a print of something. My son came to me to figure out how much material he needed for an addition he was building and saved a bunch of money when he told the contractor he would have all the materials needed in the print I gave him. The contractor loved him for it as it saved him time too. He was a good one so he was busy. I don't know what happened to it as I couldn't find it after my last move. I suspect my other son the carpenter has it.

The drafting board is light weight and easy to carry. I am a Kitchen and Bath Designer. I use it to measure the existing space in a client's home. The board is a bit more flexible than I anticipated when I have the feet hooked on. The ruler can be locked in place and slides well. I really like that the board can hold paper, so tape is not needed. The carrying case is a disappointment. That is the reason for the lower stars on the quality category. I expected it to be a hard plastic/vinyl. It is a corrugated cheap plastic material with hard plastic ends and handle. If this product is something you use at home for drawing, drafting, crafts, etc, the case is sufficient. If it is something you plan to bring places and move a lot, the case is not great quality. I have a bag large enough to hold the drafting board to carry around.

Luv..the table is light and not clumsy heavy like some others I used. The slide is spot on with neat protractor built in. Was delighted to see it arrived neatly packed. The table is perfect for drawing, drafting, cartooning. The case it comes with is modern looking with handle and extra room to fit other drafting medium. Recommend highly.