Unless this pedal breaks, I'll probably be playing it for most of my life. I love the look, the feel, the simplicity of adjusting it, jsut everything. I had considered modifying it with some Pearl Eliminator parts but, after playing with it, I love it the way it is. The only chance that I'd buy another product is if I decide I want to go with a double kick pedal. In which case I'll be getting an Iron Cobra double. I've played my drum teacher's DW 5000 double and it's nice, although he has it set too light for my tastes. I tried out a DW 9000 and it was the smoothest pedal ever - too smooth. I need some resistance. And the Pearl Eliminator? Well I never did play one and I don't feel the need to, now. I can't imagine a better playing pedal.

Sound
The Iron Cobra makes no sounds - which is what it's supposed to do. No squeaking or any of that nonsense. As far as hitting a bass drum, well, it does exactly what one expects.

Features
Features is where the IC excels. All the settings are easy to change with a tool that's mounted on the pedal itself. Independent footboard adjustment, beater adjustment, easy to adjust springs..it's all there. And the ease which you can disengage the spring is a brilliant move. The beater and footboard adjusters have markings etched in so you can remember what adjustment you set it to. It's hard to explain but when you see it, you'll understand. Finally, there's a foot stop at the top… read more of the pedal board to keep your toe out of the chain. This is great since my foot tends to slide up the pedal board as I play. The hinge for the pedal is smooth and silent. Plus it comes with a case and some small allen wrenches and a weight for the beater. A great package overall and for less than other comparable pedals.

Ease of Use
The manual is only mildly helpful but it's easy enough to figure out how this pedal works. This is my first "real" pedal and it was pretty easy to figure out. Within an hour of getting it, I had it setup exactly where I wanted it.

Quality
Iron Cobras are well known for their reputation of being durable as hell. I have no reason to question this. However, I did buy one before at Guitar Center and the beater holder broke on me! I think it was a bad cast so I don't really hold it against Tama. The new pedal I ordered from Zzounds is top notch, built like a tank, and should last a lifetime.

Value
In my research, the other comparable pedals were the Pearl Eliminator and the DW 5000. This is, by far, the best deal. It's the cheapest pedal but has the most features and, from what I've read, the most durable.

Manufacturer Support
Never used it.

The Wow Factor
It has a rugged sexiness that really appeals to me but probably not everyone else. The polished highlights make this a very attractive pedal. Probably the most attractive thing is how smoothly it plays and how easy it is to adjust - I like things that work. And this works great.

Musical Background:
Hobbyist

Musical Style:
Sorta rock. read less