I bought this metal spear because I'd neglected to put the red cap on last winter when I took in the washing line and couldn't find the hole in the lawn when I went to put it up again this spring. Easily done. Anyway, the Brabantia model is perfectly designed for the job and superior to other makes in its ease of placement, solidity and rust proof qualities. Even when the lawn was waterlogged the washing line stood straight and solid. This winter I'll remember to put on the red cap so I don't lose it again!R