Yes, this is an improvement which is saying a lot due to the quality and effectiveness of the earlier version. This has more rounded corners, not a lot rounder, but enough to make it a more comfortable fit. It is also slightly, very slightly, shorter around which does not detract from the effectiveness of blocking a person's sight. And the steel is more formidable. It is thicker and a bit heavier. It is a good weight and very impressive. Also, the book you get has a volume of blindfold routines and suggestions! Yes, this is my second Osterlind Steel Blindfold and I'm glad I bought it!