I selected this chiefly for the cast-iron base. I wanted something good and heavy, like we used in school. The weight is perhaps a bit less than I'd like, but there's a second hole drilled in the middle of the stand, which I used bolt it to the workbench. Now it's rock-solid, and no way it's going to fall over.It came with three transverse connectors of quite good quality; three solidly made rings of assorted sizes; two flask clamps, which are just a bit wobbly due to the jaws being made of stamped metal, but nevertheless hold a flask securely and are quite serviceable; and a three-fingered burette clamp, again, a little wobbly, but perfectly serviceable. The clamps are solidly fastened to the steel arms with two thick metal pins, so there's no danger of them falling apart, and the connector that fastens it to the column is well-built. Despite the 'wobbly' impression of the clamps, the manufacturer has taken full care with the features that matter.You can't beat it for the price, and despite the mild shortcomings, I expect to be using it for years to come.