I have owned the SB2 for one year now, and the product has been 100% effective fending off squirrels and raccoons. The black finish has performed as stated in the product description. I simply wash off bird droppings with a water hose and there is "NO" deterioration of the black finish. It mounted easily to the 1" diameter pole, and has had "NO" problems with coming loose or slipping down the pole. An AWESOME product. I have witnessed both squirrels and raccoons trying to outwit the SB2, with neither succeeding and providing me with the amusement of their efforts.