This contour gauge is everything I hoped it would be. It creates a near-perfect replica of the shape you need. We recently remodeled several rooms and this tool did a GREAT job of getting the duplicate outline we needed to cut tile "just right." The metal rods are tight but not too tight. In my opinion, that's good, because they hold their shape better when you're tracing your outline. The key to success for me seemed to be to work it slowly. You'll see videos promoting similar products in which the user is pressing it quickly onto the shape needed. I found it worked beautifully if I took it just a tad slower.Side note: Because these metal rods can get bent if the tool is tossed about or thrown in a tool bucket, I strongly recommend storing it safely. (Ours now has its own place in my tool drawers.)Bottom line, the pricepoint is excellent, and so is the tool. Definitely five stars.