YoYoFactory - Czech Point B Grade
This is the new signature model of Vashek Kroutil, lovingly known as "VK." Famous for his performance as a YoYoFactory contest team player, he has claimed the Czech national championships five times running, and claimed the top spot in Europe at the 2010 EYYC. His signature model, the CZM8 (CzechMate) has been redesigned and refined by Turning Point's Kentaro Kimura. The shape is almost untouched, but the shape of the side faces is much different. The result makes the yo-yo's weight and power more noticeable during play, with an emphasis on stability. Definitely not a yo-yo to miss!
"What is B-Grade?"
In 2009, YoYoFactory started selling a selection of "outlet" items at events. Calling them "B-Grades," that name has spread throughout the yo-yo world, and is now a common term.
At B-Grade sales, you can pick up excellent yo-yos with mild imperfections, discolorations, marks or scratches. These make them less desirable as finished products, but they're still great yo-yos and totally playable, meaning you can get a high quality throw for a bargain price. As a result, B-Grade sales have become very popular.
"What kinds of B-Grades are there?"
The majority of B-Grades have small discolorations or cosmetic blemishes from the anodization process. These are known as "C-Types," whereas yo-yos that are not perfectly balanced and have some vibes are called "V-Types." Some may have both types of imperfection; it's always good to double check
Important Points:
B-Grades are outlet products because for one reason or another they haven't met the maker's standards for their products, things to look out for include:
-color imperfections, finish may look dull or scratched
-bearing or response pads aren't well installed or working properly. Often, switching out these parts will address these issues.
-Bearings or pads may differ from the standard product model.
-Artwork or logos may differ from the standard model.
-Other issues may exist, but nothing so bad as to make the yo-yo unplayable.