The IBC is also a first run razor. Part of the original first 100 razors made. I understand that there were some improvements made in later releases, but I couldn't say what they are. Manuel avoided some mistakes that were made with the original IBC, namely, avoiding a nice shiny surface. The first run IBC's, while pretty, have a strong stiction factor that can range from 'mildly annoying' to 'this razor made me cut myself.'
I can see some differences, but yeah, it's a pretty blatant copy. The handle is cut out on both sides, so I wonder if they put thumb wheels on both sides? As an aside, the razors shipped out today. Tom should get them Tuesday, and he will get the razor for up to two weeks before it gets shipped to the next person. I used the original box the Essence was shipped in. If you can figure out a cheaper way to mail it, you are more than welcome to change packaging. Enjoy!
One last thing. The IBC gets loose if it's over-tightened. The pressure causes the zinc to flex allowing the blade to move. It's counter-intuitive, but loosen the thumb wheel a quarter to half turn until the 'blade' doesn't shift around. Then you're ready to use it. Or not. I threw it in for visual comparison only. Don't feel obligated to try it.
I Giggled out loud! I will get to that part in a moment. Let’s start from the beginning. Build quality at first glance. This is on fine piece of functional art. Workmanship is top notch. The machining on the inside where the blades fit are very precise. I went with a Gillette Platinum. As most will know when snapping a DE blade in half. It is never a clean flat break. As where you bend it that area deforms. I immediately noticed that on the razor there are small machined areas to have the deform fit into. Sorry for no pictures right now. My iPhone does not like pictures posted from the actual forum. I need to go to tapatalk to post. My add some after posting. Back to the small pockets. Great thinking. As for loading. The 2 magnets hold everything VERY secure loading is a breeze. Outside finish and scales are really nice. Before shaving I was playing with how it feels in hand. I of late have only been using my straights once a month. So my skills are a bit lacking. On to the shave. I chose my AOS cream as that gives me great cushion and I can get a nice thin lather that I like for straights. First stroke down on my cheek. I had to stop because I actually started to giggle. Wow this was a superbly smooth first stroke. I felt the reduction on that small area. I instantly knew this was going to be a pleasure. I finished my first pass then gave my face a good rub to see how things went. Way better than expected. Did my second pass and felt around. Super nice as I only needed a few touchups. No full 3rd pass needed. I have 2 Kamisori type razors that use AC blades. They never performed like this for me. I was going to try the AC blades on my second shave. Not going to now. I will stick with the DE setup all week. Then I might give an AC a go. I find I much prefer the narrower width of a DE blade. I feel I have more control. Shave 1 in the book and I am hooked. Let’s see if the following shaves are as good. Next shave will be Wednesday.
Talk about thought, forethought and more thought! That's actually a pretty awesome design inclusion, something obviously most half-blade razor designers have totally overlooked.
