The GBC CombBind C500 Plastic Comb binder was once known as the ibico ibimaster 500, but no matter what the name, this versatile binding system has features not often found in binders of a similar class. The C500 has both a plastic comb binder and a 3:1 pitch twin loop wire binder, giving you the flexibility to use Plastic Combs, Double loop wire, Proclick and Zipbind. This is an excellent array of choices for one binding system. In addition, the C500 also provides easy-to-fold storage capability for the unit, giving it function in addition to a highly-attractive form. This all works in concert to make up one great binder and an excellent choice for your binding needs.

The C500 has a plethora of great features such as dual punching slots, allowing the user to punch a 3:1 pitch round hole pattern for wire, as well as 19 hole rectangular holes for a plastic comb bind. The GBC 500 can bind projects that are up to 9/16" with wire, and up to 2" thick with combs. Additionally, the round hole 3:1 pitch puncher is compatible with 3:1 pitch spiral coils. This all works together to make the C500 extremely versatile and one of the few binding systems anywhere that can utilize twin loop wire, plastic combs and spiral coil binding - all in the same machine.

The C500 is also proficient at punching both standard sized and oversized covers. This gives you a great deal of flexibility with project sizes. Additionally, the CombBind C500 comes with a standard plastic comb opener and twin-loop wire closer, allowing you to quickly and easily finish documents with a comb bind or a wire bind.

This binder is also extremely comfortable to use, including the ergonomic design of the designed punch handle. This punch handle is perfect for right or left-handed binder operators, giving you the versatility to have more than one person working on the machine at one time. With the CombBind C500's compact design, it can fold-up easily and quickly for storage, creating the idea scenario for any company short on storage options.

The CombBind C500 is flexible and useful in man ways, but is probably not the right option if you often have the need to bind any documents in odd sizes. This is because the binder doesn't' have disengageable dies or a depth of punch margin control. Without these features, it is difficult to efficiently complete large volume projects. The manual nature of the C500 can cause issues with larger volume projects as well, as it can be a tedious process.

Additionally, the CombBind C500 is lacking a coil inserter, making it necessary to insert the popular 3:1 pitch spiral coil by hand, adding time and effort to the process. If you plan on doing this type of spiral coil binding often, then the C500 is probably not the right binding system for you.

As for construction of the CombBind C500, it is not an incredibly heavy-duty binder. Due to its plastic handle and body, it is not the most suitable option for higher volume applications or for long-term usage. The plastic construction should not be an issue, however, for moderate or occasional usage. As a matter of fact, the C500 will hold up very well in a long-term or short-term scenario.

The CombBind C500 has a wire closer with a plastic adjustor to set the closing gap. This plastic adjustor will have to be properly cared for or it could wear-out over a period of time, leading to other issues later - so maintenance should also be considered when you go to make your binding equipment choice.

The C500 is an excellent choice for any medium sized company that may not be sure of their ultimate binding needs. This binder's 5 binding style choices really cover most options (i.e.: Wire, Combs, Coil, Proclick and Zipbind) , Coil, Zipbind and Proclick) making it one of the most functional binders available today. If you are looking for a versatile, convenient to fold and easy-to store binder, and your volume needs are moderate, the GBC CombBind C500 may just be the system for you.