Greetings,
Here is my $.02. I have the Iwata HP-CS, HP-C and Peak C-5. I originally bought the C then heard negative comments that it wasn't suited for modeling so I bought the CS. I then was looking for a pre-set handle and stumbled on the Peak C-5 which I bought. Here is the skinny on each.
HP-CS awesome all around brush.
HP-C also awesome. Recalling some of the negative comments I went and
tried it anway. As long as you thin your paints there are no problems
and it quicly became my favorite. According to Iwata, all the newer
ones, made within a year or so, have solvent resistant seals.
Peak C-5. Excellent value for the money and is basically a Iwata C with the
Peak name on the side. Same company makes both. I compared it
side by side with my C and the only difference is the name. the C is
well over a $100.00 where the Peak is $89.00 from Bearair. Best of
all for me is that the Peak parts are interchangable with both my
other Iwatas. I wanted a preset handle and I can take the one from
the Peak and it works on both my C and CS.
Bottom line is if you are looking for a C and are hesitant because of the $$$$ go for the Peak, you won't be sorry.
Hope this helps,
Chuck B.