It came with an "A style" retention knob, not the one pictured when I bought it, which was convenient because that's the style I wanted. It does have noticeable runout. I'm not sure how much of it was in the spindle so I won't tell my reading, but it was significant. I can run .020" diameter end mills with this spindle, no problem, so it's safe to say that the spindle runs pretty true. With a 3/8 diameter edge finder in the chuck and a good eye, you can see the runout. But for the price I didn't expect it to be close, and I bought it just to use for edge finders and indicators, so I'm happy with it (runout is practically irrelevant with the way edge gyroscopic edge finders work). The description said not to use it for small drills, so they are being upfront and honest about the product. Locking and unlocking is very smooth, especially after giving it a shot of lube. I'm amazed that they can produce a product of this quality for such a low price.