OK, the BIG Day is here - my Black Tiger delivered today. Immediately after unpacking it, I ran over to the fridge to check it with a magnet. The handle and bottom plate are steel, but the cap isn't magnetic - not even the screw - just more Chinese BS and deception.The original was steel. The magnet does not lie.
That's why I stated that my comments apply only to the original Black Tiger. I do not know how the revised version shaves.
YMMV.....
It looks to be finished with a dark tinted lacquer. I wonder if it's chrome underneath?
The Shave:
Left Side: 1st pass with brand new Astra SP was the most audible I've ever used. 2nd pass was enough for an acceptable shave, but I had a bowl full of suds to use, so did a 3rd. Got 2 weepers along the way, something never experienced with a real Tech.
Right Side: YingJili with same Astra SP & used a Baili handle to simulate heavier weight of the Black Tiger handle. JingJili was quieter, smoother and closer shave after 2 passes. 3rd pass got me an honest 12 hour shave.
Lucky Tiger Soap for both sides.
The YingJili was the hands down better razor, with the smoother and closer shave without weepers or irritation. If the Black Tiger disappeared tomorrow, I'd not miss it, but I will try it again later with different blades & maybe a lighter handle (shortened YingJili handle).
For the price of the Black Tiger, I could get several YingJilis. For handouts to friends not certain if they want to get into double edge wet shaving, the YingJili would give them a positive performance; the Black Tiger would be a deterrant.