The original Level Lock was far better. My old tape finally broke after may years of use. Without question, I went back to Stanley for a new Level Lock. My new lever lock is always sticking in locked position and the last four feet of tape rarely zips back in without help. The old lock system never failed me but this one... I even tried to repair the old one but of course Stanley changed the tape and spring system....Off to find an old stock of these or a new tape...