I admit, I was hesitant when I read reviews on this item. I can say that the “ marketing” does kind of make you think at first that the product is iron, not plastic. HOWEVER; one should always read, and I wanted a first birdbath for my daughter’s yard and this turned out to be perfect. She has children, and neighbor children come by. If a heavy one would too, it would cause harm . If you fill the stand w/ sand or pebbles, it is plenty sturdy, has a nice look, and mist importsntly, it was reasonably priced, and BITDS SHIWED UP FIRST DAY! BINGO!