Screaming O My Secret Vibrating Mascara: Discretion is a Must

Screaming O My Secret Vibrating Mascara

Discretion is a Must

When it comes to certain adult toys, secrecy is an important and at times necessary requirement, a selling point so commonplace that you hear it thrown out and about like last week’s leftovers: “Discreet design! Silent vibrations!” But at the end of the day, does this "miracle" toy actually hold up to these claims? What is true discretion anyway? I decided to crack this mystery by hunting down a pocket-sized companion that could pack a punch despite its size limitations. I wanted a vibrator I could conceal in my bag, a toy so subtle it would never expose my dirty hobbies. And when the doors are locked and the lights are out, I’d have on hand a spicy little number to keep my fingers clean.

Vibrators hidden beneath everyday makeup tools have a certain charm about them that always appealed, so my search began there. While lipstick designs are in abundance, the effect is akin to just using a bullet vibrator, and I desired a more unique experience. While browsing Spice2Nite’s website for ideas, I stumbled across a faux-mascara vibrator from a company promisingly named Screaming O. I attempted to buy it in-person first to get an idea of its size and potential durability through the packaging, but after waiting two months for the item arrive at to the store, I lost my patience and committed to an online purchase elsewhere instead.

The Screaming O Mascara normally retails for $15.99. I received a slight discount at my time of purchase (some $3-4 off), and shipping and tax calculations brought the final total to approximately $20. All in all, I consider it a good buy despite the endless difficulties I still suffer trying to replace the batteries. At the time, it wasn’t available on Amazon, but now the marketplace offers it for around $10.50 with free shipping if you have Amazon Prime. If my quest to locate the correct size of replacement batteries is unsuccessful, I’ll most likely order a brand new model from Amazon.

The dimensions of the Screaming O Mascara are mostly irrelevant since its vibration function defines its primary use and not its length or girth. However, it is comparatively larger than an off-the-shelf brand of mascara, but not unreasonably so, and no surface markings would communicate its true purpose anyway. 8.5 in (21.6 cm) long in total with a 1.2 in (3 cm) diameter/3.8 in (7.7 cm) circumference, you can insert the entire thing if you wish, but the vibrations hardly penetrate through the plastic and the surface is too smooth to provide much pleasure. The actual “mascara applicator” clocks in around 3 in (7.6 cm) long.

The exterior of the toy is made from a TPR/TPE plastic with some metallic elements and a switch located on the bottom that controls both the on/off function and vibrations. A single press will cycle through the patterns while a long hold turns the toy on and off. The interior wand is made from a silicone that Screaming O claims is latex and pthalate free, and I’m inclined to believe this because it imparts no smell even when first removed from the packaging. The “applicator” is tipped with super soft flexible spikes that initially appear intimidating but feel amazing against your skin with a gentle and easy give yet still firm enough to impart significant stimulation even before turning on the vibrations. Although the wand appears dainty, the Screaming O Mascara feels solidly built and can take a beating whether in a purse or inside you. The cap of mine has a scuff on it from when it fell out of my bag onto the concrete, but overall it still remains intact. My major concern as with most battery-powered toys is with the awkward AG13 batteries required to power it. Thankfully, it already comes with a set to start you out but locating replacements is becoming a frustrating endeavor, but more on that later.

There are four distinct vibration options: three continuous ones with varying intensities and an extensive tease phase. For the first time ever, I actually fell in the love with the unpredictable pattern option. The pattern repeats after a good 3-5 minutes which keeps you on your toes and always guessing. This proved to be a favorite while driving if I want an effective way to fire up my sex drive for my arrival home. I either clamp it between my legs or stuff it into my jeans at just the right angle for a dreamy and exciting hands-free experience. Although the vibration strength isn’t enough to actually make me climax, the pattern hiccups are enough to drive me up the wall and bring me to the edge.

And this toy makes for the best coworker to close with. After all is cleaned and counted and ready for the next day, it’s only a matter of hiking up my skirt and going to town at my leisure and at my whim. I’ve enjoyed it while sequestered in the bathroom while seated on the toilet, nestled on the stairs leading to the basement, on the computer chair with my legs thrown up on the desk, and huddled in a dark corner illuminated only by the light of my phone. What a thrill! The Screaming O Mascara is so relaxing and tantalizing, providing just enough tickle to stimulate without overexerting my nerves. When aiming for the finish line, I prefer the first and second flat-drone intensities especially when dealing with fresh batteries. I save the third and final strength for either the final lap or when I have less battery juice to work with. I generally avoid using the toy with the cap still on because it only provides a slight pressure, not enough to make any sort of difference even with the vibration at maximum. I sometimes use it separate from the body and in conjunction with the vibrating tip as a form of foreplay, but it usually sits to the side as I go about my business.

True to my goals and standards, the Screaming O Mascara is virtually silent and authentically pocket-sized, the perfect discreet toy to add to your arsenal. Although not fully waterproof, the cleanup is straightforward enough that there is no risk of drowning the battery housing. Its compact quality makes it an invaluable asset for spur of the moment arousal especially if on the road and away from home. However, as I’ve alluded to already, the battery situation is a nightmare. I still need to address errors and solve this problem because the AG13 replacement batteries I purchased fail to sit correctly in the housing and provide a weak charge, if at all. These batteries may be faulty or perhaps I’m putting them in wrong or damaged the circuits somehow, but I’m at a point where I’m prepared to fork over additional money for a new model. I miss having it at my disposal that much. Thankfully, the original batteries lasted quite a long time so I certainly got a fair amount of use from it before this fiasco started. As long as you’re aware of the potential battery situation, I highly recommend giving the Screaming O Mascara a try and keeping it handy for those moments when your dirty mind takes over. It’ll be our little secret.

Summary

Size: ★★★★★

Cost: ★★★★★

Texture: ★★★★☆

Material: ★★★★☆

Ease of use: ★★★☆☆

Effectiveness: ★★★★★

Final rating: ★★★★☆

For more info:

Screaming O Website
                          Shop
Spice2Nite
Amazon

Want to help contribute to the cause? Check out the blog wish list on Amazon!

Gift givers will receive a free hi-res file of the illustration promoting the item they purchased as well as a special shout-out as that month's patron.

Want to be a guest reviewer on the blog?
Send an email to missannabellehawkins !at gmail.com and we can set up an interview! Guests also receive a hi-res file of their toy illustration.

Pipedream Icicle No. 8: Thaw Me to the Core

Pipedream Icicle No. 8

Thaw Me to the Core

In my previous reviews, I mentioned on many an occasion my limited personal knowledge with glass toys, possibly to the point my readers roll their eyes in annoyance and say, "Yeah, yeah, we know." That one unsavory experience deterred me from seeking out another glass wand, and my hesitation persisted for several years. That is, until now! At long last, I feel ready to dabble in the realm of crystalline pleasure again. However, armed with more appropriate knowledge, I believe it best to avoid going big or going home in this instance and select a more realistic toy, at least until I can accurately determine my physical limits. While searching for the best toy to start my endeavor with, I stumbled across Pipedream's gorgeous and extensive collection of Icicle dildos and was immediately smitten with the detail and quality. Although I'm usually all about heavy textures, I opted for something small yet reasonable with enough size and surface variation to provide noticeable stimulation without pushing my limits too far off the charts. And I especially wanted to locate the perfect anal toy since my last experience with anal beads left much to be desired and borderlined on sheer misery.

I originally discovered Pipedream's Icicle No. 8 while browsing for art references on Google Images. Unsurprisingly, the official product images are usually doctored to seem more appealing with enhanced color variations in the core, so I stopped in to Spice 2 Nite to view it in-person first. While the inner spiral looks less like an aurora burst or multi-colored crystal and more of a solid singular color, the delicate blue swirls within the glass are still very arresting and beautiful enough to overlook the false advertising. I ordered mine from Amazon because of the drastic price difference. However, the trade-off was waiting three weeks for it to ship from China, but like Isyld's experience ordering her glass dildo online, mine too arrived in a lovely red box with a gold silk inlay that I still use to safely store it.

No matter how deep I delve, I simply cannot find the original MSRP of this toy, but it retailed in Spice 2 Nite for roughly $30 (ridiculously more than it needs to cost, in my opinion) and I paid $16.99 for mine with free shipping though I recall it available for as low as $10-11 a few months prior. Although one of the safest and most hypoallergenic materials available for sex toys, borosilicate/Pyrex glass costs very little to manufacture and therefore should not retail for much unless you find a massive dildo the size of your arm made out of it. Dish sets at Walmart are made from Pyrex and are reasonably priced, so there is no reason for you to break the bank for a glass toy. For $30, you essentially pay for the brand, so be kind to your wallet and search elsewhere if you decide to purchase one for yourself. I made it a general rule of thumb never to pay more than $20 for a glass dildo.

The Icicle No. 8 is one of the smallest/most slender toys I've ever owned with an overall length of 7 in (18 cm) and an insertable length of 5.5 in (14 cm), and it looks even smaller in person when held in your hand. The width at the widest point is 1.5 in (4 cm) with a 2.75 in (7 cm) diameter/8.6 in (22 cm) circumference. The profile is not something I normally gravitate towards, but I thought it the best and most reasonable option for testing the waters. The surface is utterly smooth except for three bulges in the shaft and a large bulb at the base that acts as a handhold or stopper. The tapered tip lends for easy insertion, and each corresponding bulge is slightly thicker than the last.

As previously mentioned, the Icicle No. 8 is made of Pyrex or borosilicate glass, one of the safest materials next to medical-grade silicone and stainless steel. Since I ultimately intended to use this anally, I need something comprised of the absolute best material available, and glass hands-down offers the easiest clean-up. Borosilicate glass is also surprisingly sturdy so you could drop a glass dildo on the floor without fearing it might shatter, but because the Icicle No. 8 has pinched areas between the bulges, I worry the structure could be compromised compared to a solid shaft and might snap at these weaker points if dropped. So while glass toys don't necessarily require additional care, I treat mine delicately just in case.

I first tried the Icicle No. 8 vaginally before any cross-contamination occurred just to satiate my curiosity, and in all honesty, it absolutely blew my mind! I expected the slim and short profile compared to my other toys to only offer a so-so experience, but I felt every knob sliding in and out and almost climaxed right away without any clitoral stimulation, and once I did throw that in the mix, I exploded immediately. I made such a wonderful gooey mess everywhere, but the simple clean-up took a grand total of two minutes, and my toy was like new again. This initial experiment made me exceptionally optimistic to test it anally. Unfortunately, that experience was sub-par in comparison. The bulbs felt nice but did not provide nearly enough to stimulate me fully, and I ended up abandoning the act, thoroughly cleaning the toy and resuming with it in my vagina instead. Because of the awkward spacing and number of bulbs, the Icicle No. 8 makes serious anal play lackluster. The tapered tip fails to truly stimulate unless you continuously pull it out and perfectly angle it to plunge it back inside you. Move it just off center, and it only causes discomfort or frustration. The last bulb might be a viable option for someone else, but for me, it was spaced just far enough that it felt too painful to press it far inside and put forceful pistoning out of the picture. That leaves only the middle bulge which on its own is simply not enough to bring me even remotely close to climax.

Despite the anal setbacks, the toy provides relatively easy use. The tapered tip makes insertion a breeze, and the pinched areas between the bulges prevents you from taking on more than you can handle at once, like a stopper. Like previous experiences with glass toys (both mine and others), this performs best when used in specific positions because of the rigidity, but its thinner profile offers more wiggle room. I find it the most manageable when sitting up perfectly straight or lying all the way back with my legs up. Any angles such as reclining or on my knees causes too much discomfort from pinching and pressing on the inside, though comparatively not as drastically to the point you lose your momentum.

Overall, the Icicle No. 8 exceeded my expectations and is quite effective although I argue it works best as a foreplay tool instead. It functions amazingly well at bringing me right up to the edge in a short amount of time but then fails at tipping me those last few steps over. That being said, as soon as I switch to some form of clitoral stimulation such as my hand or "Magic Mic," I generally climax immediately. In the anal department, it slides in rather easily and provides a pleasant massage but no more. I'm still disappointed in its performance as an anal tool since that was my entire intent, but I can't deny its ease of use and the fact I can spirit it away in my bag to use during those lonely late night hours at my job. The Icicle No. 8 is not a ground-breaking innovation, but for an inexpensive price it's a nice toy to have on hand if you so desire. It has no major downsides, and I have no regrets purchasing it. To some, it may not be worth the trouble if it doesn't offer what it appears to advertise, but if you have some cash to spare and think it can do you some good, I recommend it. It does encourage me to experiment with some of the other glass items in Pipedream's Icicle collection to see if another model offers what the No. 8 lacks.

Summary

Size: ★★★★☆

Cost: ★★★★★

Texture: ★★★★☆

Material: ★★★★★

Ease of use: ★★★★☆

Effectiveness: ★★★☆☆

Final rating: ★★★★☆

For more info:

Pipedream Website

                       Shop

Amazon

Want to help contribute to the cause? Check out the blog wish list on Amazon!

Gift givers will receive a free hi-res file of the illustration promoting the item they purchased as well as a special shout-out as that month's patron.

Want to be a guest reviewer on the blog?
Send an email to missannabellehawkins !at gmail.com and we can set up an interview! Guests also receive a hi-res file of their toy illustration.

Shibari Halo Wand: Epilogue

Shibari Halo Wand

Epilogue

Today I mourn the loss of a beloved friend, dear readers. My dear old and faithful friend, Magic Mic, departed from this world late last night. I cradled it in my hands as the motor became weaker and weaker until it ceased altogether and lay still and silent, its red power indicator still winking at me amidst death. Please join me in a moment of silence...

...

...but not for too long, because now I have Magic Mic 2.0! An improvement over the original model while still following the blueprints of what started it all. You know what they say, if it ain't broke, don't fix it! So while I pour one out for that which has fallen, I consider this a great opportunity to compare the two wands and provide insight into what to expect from general wear and tear and the inevitable passage of time.

At a first glance, these Shibari wands appear identical, but you should notice the subtle differences the longer you scrutinize. Exhibit A at the top is my original wand first purchased approximately four years ago. Exhibit B on the bottom arrived in the mail this morning from Amazon, freshly unboxed and cleaned. The major improvement I immediately picked up on is not visually apparent but becomes so when you weigh them in both hands. The new Shibari Halo feels more dense and compact with a more evenly distributed weight while the older model has most of its weight trending towards the head only. This causes the new wand to convey a sense of security and stability. The former wand could tumble out of your hand if balanced improperly, but the improved version settles squarely in your palm.

As you can see, continuous use and subsequent cleaning caused the silicone to eventually wear down and develop a patchy shine. However, the material never deteriorated, and the surface and structure is still very safe and hygienic. It merely lost the lovely silky matte texture of a freshly unboxed toy. I'm grateful that my wand never developed any holes or tears throughout the years and could still hold up well today if the internal components still worked.

The surface wear is more apparent in this image. Shibari also included DC (Direct Current) above the charging port, although I'm not sure why it was necessary as the charging cable and adapter are identical to my old ones.

This is where the improvements in the new model really start to shine. One of my biggest gripes with my old wand involved the buttons. Although there are two distinct areas for on/off and power/pattern, if you press down in the middle of the teardrop shape, you activate the on/off portion of the toy. This proved immensely frustrating when in the throws of passion, I accidentally turned off the wand entirely while trying to increase the vibration strength. But now, thank my lucky stars! Shibari added a plastic divider between the two buttons so there are now distinct pressure points and not an ambiguous region. Now I'll know definitively which switch needs to be pressed. However, on the flip side, the old model provided raised buttons while the new one's are flush. Because of the divider, I don't expect this to be a serious issue, but it is unfortunate that I now lack a sensory indicator when I'm groping at it blindly.

Lastly, I provide you with a graphic depiction of Magic Mic's broken neck. This happened well before the motor gave out, but what started as a peculiar crinkling noise developed into a distracting vibrating crackle. I still don't know what caused it in the first place, but a plastic piece snapped inside around the flexible neck and caused more pieces to follow over time. You can see a sharp shard of plastic protruding from beneath the silicone. Thankfully, the neck in the newer model feels much sturdier while still retaining its flexibility.

As I bring this memorial service to a close, I want you to leave knowing that a well cared for toy can last you for many happy years to come. I certainly didn't expect mine to persist for four years, and I might have kept it longer if I was a little more gentle with it. But near daily use this past year certainly made it a worthwhile purchase in the end, and I look forward to the future with Magic Mic's successor.

For more info:

Shibari Website
                Shop
Amazon

Want to help contribute to the cause? Check out the blog wish list on Amazon!

Gift givers will receive a free hi-res file of the illustration promoting the item they purchased as well as a special shout-out as that month's patron.

Want to be a guest reviewer on the blog?
Send an email to missannabellehawkins !at gmail.com and we can set up an interview! Guests also receive a hi-res file of their toy illustration.

Double Dong: Twice the Fun for One!

Double Dong

Twice the Fun for One!

Before I launch into the review, I want to share a humorous story involving this month's toy (simply called the Double Dong) and how I acquired it. If you prefer to dive right into the meat and potatoes, scroll down to the next paragraph to skip the fluff. But if you'd like to learn about one of my most embarrassing memories, continue reading:
I ordered this dildo on Amazon like most of my toys. However, unlike my other additions, this Double Dong was not affiliated with any major brand or company, and the original seller does not even exist on the website anymore. I opted to purchase from them anyway because they offered fast and free shipping, and the quality and cost of the product passed my requirements. So, I ordered one up and waited patiently for my toy to arrive.
Now, at the apartment I lived in at the time, the post office in charge of my zone was notorious for providing some of the worst service in the entire city. The lazy deliverers never bothered to leave notice slips in my mailbox to alert me that I had a package waiting, and the office workers hardly lifted a finger to help when my mail went missing. A week or so after ordering the Double Dong, I noticed Amazon marked my toy as delivered a few days ago and, of course, the postman left no slip to inform me of this. I drove to the post office in a sour mood and approached the clerk behind the desk. When I explained that I had yet again another package missing and provided my name and address, the woman's eyes suddenly lit up in an unpleasant way, and she said, "Oh, so that's your package!" I had no clue what she meant by that until she retrieved it from the back room.
Never again will I take the "discreet shipping" feature for granted. Accompanied by snickering from her coworkers, the woman returned with my "package" in her hands. I flushed all the way to my ears when I saw it. You didn't need much of an imagination to know exactly what was wrapped in that thin brown paper. No box, no tube, just a thick eighteen-inch sausage wrapped in packing paper and tape with my address slapped on the outside. You could very clearly discern the shape of the toy from the two bulbous heads on each end to the thick veins on the surface, and it wobbled when you shook it slightly. I wordlessly took the quivering package and left the post office as quickly as my feet could carry me. I refrained from making any further online purchases until I could comfortably show my face at that branch again.

As I mentioned in my little narrative, I ordered this toy from Amazon like most of my early additions. Unfortunately, like the Trinity Deluxe Rabbit, the company (whoever they are) no longer circulates this specific model. Similar models exist elsewhere such as on Adam & Eve, but they generally cost a little more than the $15 I paid. For example, the replica on Adam & Eve retails for $24.95, a smidgen of a price jump but not unreasonably so. I also don't believe this toy is strictly affiliated with any definite company as it seems to be a generic template that anyone can use, so it's readily available if you know where and what to look for. Unlike my previously reviewed toys, the Double Dong is substantially larger in size, no longer falling on the "average" scale. The length is 18 in (45.7 cm) giving you and/or your partner a gratuitous 9 in (22.9 cm) to work with on each end. The diameter, a girthy 1.75 in (4.4 cm)/5.5 in (13.9 cm) circumference, is not for beginners or those with tight entrances. With a little coaxing and copious amounts of lube, I can work it inside me, but unfortunately my lady stands no chance against it whatsoever.

The texture of this toy drives me absolutely wild, and the girth means I feel every inch of it pressing against me. The top half of the Double Dong offers a heavily ribbed surface resembling a fishbone pattern. It runs the entire length of the dildo and tapers to an utterly smooth underside. Although the toy provides flexibility around the middle, the solid body allows the ends to retain most of their shape giving these ridges a lovely stiffness. They feel exactly the way you expect and hope a ribbed texture ought to feel inside you, and it never fails to throw me into helpless states of ecstasy. As an added bonus, although the heads are thick, their slick surface makes insertion easier than expected from a toy of this size. Once you work the head all the way in, you're golden for the rest of the ride.

Little detail is given on the material type of this toy. While confirmed that the Double Dong is made from silicone, it is most likely from a low-grade quality as the exterior lacks that subtle silky-smooth sensation of medical-grade silicone. The toy initially emits a slight rubbery smell that takes several washes to remove. And, obnoxiously, this toy adores sticking to surfaces and having scraps stick to it. It latches onto hair and fuzz like a magnet so if you accidentally drop it on your carpet, you'll be spending the next five minutes attempting to rinse off every last fiber. Given its large size, general storage is already an issue, but if stored for long periods of time with the slightest kink or bend in it, this will permanently cause the toy to retain a crooked shape. I accidentally stored mine in a small box with my other toys, and almost a year later, I'm still trying to completely straighten the U-bend out of the middle. Just be conscious of how and where you store yours.

I originally purchased this toy with the intent of sharing it with my lady, but in hindsight, this was an ambitious undertaking. Unlike me (the size queen), her physical limits exist on the opposite side of the spectrum as mine, and she can't even fit half of the head inside her, so this toy is reduced to my solo use only. If you and your partner can manage the girth, it makes for an excellent dual experience. For solo use, it's a fun double-penetrative tool due to its flexibility. I chiefly use it vaginally but have tried both ends at the same time on a few occasions.

As mentioned, the Double Dong boasts a substantial girth, but I have an easy enough time sliding it in vaginally when properly lubricated. As enjoyable as it is, the major gripe I have involves the unused portion shimmying above me and all over the place. Thrusting causes waves to vibrate through the whole length like an eel out of water and takes you out of the moment when it continuously bangs against your leg. I find it much more manageable when my lady holds the opposite end and provides the piston force for me. Anal, on the other hand, requires much more patience, coaxing, and copious amounts of lube. While I find the sensation appealing, the head is too large for it ever to feel comfortable no matter how much I relax. The shape and structure is too unyielding for such a sensitive area. I can manage to fit both ends inside me at once, but one part must always remain stationery because there is simply not enough room inside my body to maneuver both at once. It causes both heads to crush the thin wall of tissue separating them in a very painful manner. For me at least, the Double Dong is too thick for proper double-penetration so I prefer using it for vaginal stimulation only.

The Double Dong is certainly not a toy I recommend for everyone. It provides the best experience for those looking for a manageable "casual" girth or a toy to gradually push their limits. Size kings and queens will probably enjoy the experience it provides, but your average John and Jane Doe may think otherwise. Unfortunately, I can't give an accurate opinion when it comes to sharing it, but at least from my experiences, it makes for a stimulating and exciting solo play (and quite an impressive show too for anyone watching). Keep your limits in mind when considering whether or not to buy this, and if you don't plan on double penetrative play, you may be better off selecting a different toy altogether.

Summary

Size: ★★★★☆

Cost: ★★★★★ 

Texture: ★★★★★

Material: ★★★★☆

Ease of use: ★★★☆☆

Effectiveness: ★★★★☆

Final rating: ★★★★☆

For more info:

Adam & Eve (Similar model)

Want to help contribute to the cause? Check out the blog wish list on Amazon!

Gift givers will receive a free hi-res file of the illustration promoting the item they purchased as well as a special shout-out as that month's patron.

Want to be a guest reviewer on the blog?
Send an email to missannabellehawkins !at gmail.com and we can set up an interview! Guests also receive a hi-res file of their toy illustration.

Shibari Halo Wand: A Match Made in Heaven

Shibari Halo Wand

A Match Made in Heaven

As much as I enjoyed sex in my slightly younger years, it ultimately became something of a chore. Because I required clitoral stimulation to achieve orgasm, it made the act cumbersome and borderline frustrating. No matter what position I tried, arms had to twist under bodies, hands had to wedge between stomachs, and muscles screamed at me to just give up already. Countless heated endeavors ended in lackluster release or tears of discouragement. When my relationship with my lady became serious in the bedroom, I knew I finally needed to do something to address this predicament. I always wanted to own a wand massager ever since I first learned of their existence and heard nothing but rave reviews about them, but the universally high price tag made me shy away from purchasing one. But as my birthday approached, I decided it was time to treat myself to change the dynamic of my sex life for the better and ease my bedroom troubles for good.

While I still lived in Ohio, I occasionally visited a local adult store called The Garden, a clean and pleasant shop with some of the cutest and friendliest staff around. I explained to the girl staffed downstairs that I was looking for something powerful yet easy to use without breaking the bank, and she recommended the Shibari Halo Wand. She patiently unboxed one for me to handle, and I knew as soon as I pressed the power button that this was the solution to my bedroom griefs. I paid approximately $80 for the wand in-store, and while I think it a fair price for the quality of toy, I can't help but wish I purchased it online instead. You can find the same toy now for only $20-$30 on various marketplace sites. But I understand that when you buy a product in a store versus online, you are essentially paying for the customer service and hands-on experience. You have the opportunity to ask questions from knowledgeable and helpful staff while also testing the product before committing to it. I was also on the road frequently at the time so having it shipped to me wasn't feasible.

The Shibari Halo Wand is 12 in (30.5 cm) long, and the bulb has a diameter of 1.9 in (4.8 cm)/6.25 in (15.9 cm) circumference. It has a pleasantly light weight of 8.75 oz (248 g) most of which is centered into the "business end" making it very easy to handle, and because the head makes up the bulk of the toy, it allows more surface area coverage and provides a greater range of stimulation without being obscenely huge. The tapered handle also offers a solid area to grasp and makes it suitable for all hand sizes.

I love the overall aesthetic of the wand, a sleek and streamlined design with one clear purpose that it performs amazingly well. The straightforward two-tone coloration also appeals to me as I tend to favor modern, "sterile" and crisp appearances in my toys. The handle is consistently white between models but the tip comes in either black, purple or pink (I opted for black for contrast). The head is made from a high-quality silky silicone and a durable and smooth ABS plastic body, both of which are non-porous, phthalate and latex free and easy to clean. Because the handle is made from plastic rather than silicone, it allows gripping it with sweaty hands a breeze despite the dramatic taper. However, especially in my lady's case, rings and other hand jewelry can cause a loud rattle against the plastic which erases any subtlety.

The Shibari Halo Wand definitely saved and enhanced my sex life. Very rarely do I ever masturbate or have intercourse without it. It provides me the hands-free, easy-to-achieve orgasm I desperately crave. Solo play becomes a walk in the park, and sex is now intense and dirty. It delivers both relaxing releases and earth-shattering climaxes depending on my preference for the evening, and I adore pairing it with non-vibrating toys for an amplified experience. Not only does it feel amazing for me, but incorporating it during sex feels great for both parties (my lady and I have since dubbed it our "Magic Mic"). My position of choice has me with panties off lying flat on my stomach or with my hips slightly raised to supply me with maximum surface contact and pressure. My lady prefers to use it one-handed on her back to browse porn with her free hand and massage herself at her leisure. We love that in both circumstances it gets the job done quickly and efficiently.

Nothing in my experience thus far works as easily as the Halo Wand. Simply turn it on and go! It features two buttons, one that cycles through the two vibration strengths and eight patterns and one that turns it on and off entirely. And, best of all, this wand is USB rechargeable and cordless. A nearly invisible hole in the back hides the charging port, and the cord is compatible with any standard USB charger or charging station. The head is also slightly bendable so it contorts with your body under pressure and allows you to grind against it without worrying that it may break or snap.

The biggest issue I have involves the buttons. The layout is in a teardrop shape but both buttons are the same size. Because there is no indicator for which side turns the toy on or off except through memorization, I have a fifty-fifty chance of accidentally turning the wand off in the middle of a heated session, especially if I have it upside-down. The button press is also much too delicate, an issue many other reviewers have also expressed. This sensitivity prevents the Halo Wand from being travel friendly. Every time I've packed it in a duffel bag, at some point during the trip something bumps against it and causes the bag to vibrate very loudly to my horror. While the vibration on its own is not necessarily loud, it is noticeable. This is not a stealthy toy and is best kept exclusively at home. Both my lady and I also agree that the patterns are rather disappointing. Advertising numerous patterns in a toy never appealed to me because both she and I prefer a strong steady vibration. She exclusively uses the very first setting while I use the first two, both of which are simply a flat drone with no rhythm change-up. Neither of us have ever used the teasing patterns which are much too varied and alternate too quickly to be stimulating. At this point, they only pose a distraction. She especially desires a constant pulse, something resembling a consistent machine-gun or rapid fire pattern which the Halo Wand fails to offer. Many of the settings start off feeling great but then change immediately so we stick to the first two.

Unfortunately, after about three years of frequent use, Magic Mic finally reached the end of his life cycle. When I rotate the bulb, the neck emits a crackling noise most likely indicating a snapped connector or chipped plastic, and pressing your fingers into said area reveals a few broken pieces from the handle. The wand still works as well as it did when I first took it out of the box, but because of the loose fragments, the vibrations are much louder and have a distinct rattle that was not present before. Thankfully, because this toy is so affordable online, I don't need to distress about replacing it.

Despite these drawbacks, the wand is extremely effective. Unlike many vibrators, the Halo Wand offers powerful stimulation without tickling or numbing the area, a slow and deep vibration rather than fast and weak. The head encompasses and disperses the sensation so I no longer have to worry about proper clitoral stimulation anymore. It also helps during awkward sexual positions where only using my hand would cause fatigue or simply get in the way. I cannot recommend this toy highly enough, and is an absolute must for any lady experiencing difficulty achieving orgasm. The potent and penetrating vibrations cut my stimulation time in half, and I can't imagine having sex today without it!

Summary

Size: ★★★★★

Cost: ★★★★☆

Texture: ★★★★★ 

Material: ★★★★★

Ease of use: ★★★★★

Effectiveness: ★★★★★

Final rating: ★★★★★

For more info:

Shibari Website
                Shop
Amazon

Want to help contribute to the cause? Check out the blog wish list on Amazon!

Gift givers will receive a free hi-res file of the illustration promoting the item they purchased as well as a special shout-out as that month's patron.

Want to be a guest reviewer on the blog?
Send an email to missannabellehawkins !at gmail.com and we can set up an interview! Guests also receive a hi-res file of their toy illustration.

The Tentacle: When Fantasies Become Reality

The Tentacle

When Fantasies Become Reality

My best friend from college introduced me to Bad Dragon a few years back, an online adult toy company that caters to an audience of "special" tastes, and I remember the first time I browsed through their website, it completely blew my mind. I had no idea a company out there actually created these dream toys! Fantasies I believed only existed in the imagination teased me from behind the screen, only a click away from being delivered to my doorstep. Their toys ranged from borderline bizarre to tantalizingly tasteful, and I instantly made it a goal to save up for one of these works of art. Daily, I visited the adoptions section (pre-made toys ready to ship out the next day versus a custom toy that takes 2-3 weeks to manufacture) hoping to find the perfect addition to my growing collection, and finally one day in class, I found it: The Tentacle.

I admit I have a raging love for tentacles, and when it comes time to stroke the kitty, it's my default search term. Bad Dragon's Tentacle immediately caught my eye, but I hesitated to create my own right away because I had no idea what I wanted out of it yet, and I refused to commit to something I might regret buying later on. I had no clue what firmness worked best, what size I could afford and what color scheme I preferred. But then that day during study hall, I found a lovely Tentacle that I realized offered all of the features I needed as a newbie customer: medium size, medium firmness, and, as a cherry on top, the color scheme reminded me of a Creamsicle with a white underside and bright citrus-orange body. It was perfect. And a week later, I tore open the box and welcomed my toy to the family.

Bad Dragon's merchandise tends to hit the wallet fairly hard, but at least you have the peace of mind knowing every cent of your purchase goes towards a high-quality and long-lasting product. I hesitate to call it an investment, but purchasing one on a whim too often may cause a hole in your finances. All of their toys come in such a wide variety of firmness levels, sizes and colors that I will concentrate on just the features my Tentacle has rather than break down an entire list. A medium-sized Tentacle costs a base price of $85, which is how much I paid for mine as an adoption, but a Tentacle with the same customized color scheme created from scratch costs $105 instead. Custom colors outside their available palettes and some design combinations increase the final price by $10-$20. A medium Tentacle provides a total length of 8.25 in (21 cm) with a usable length of 5.75 in (14.6 cm) though depending on the firmness of the toy and your determination, more can fit inside you, as I discovered. The shaft ranges from a diameter of 1.3 in (3.3 cm)/3.5 in (8.9 cm) circumference at the head to 2.6 in (6.6 cm)/8.1 in (20.6 cm) circumference at the base. If you need more detailed size descriptions, Bad Dragon has a thorough list of dimensions for each product allowing you to compare sizes (mini to x-large) so you can decide which works best for your purposes.

But the texture is more important than the size in this case, the crown jewel of this toy! Although first impressions may assume the suckers will stick to your skin, they only function on an aesthetic and textural level and are not biologically accurate. Regardless of the firmness you select, these suckers always remain stiff and hold their shape allowing for excellent sensations going in. I feel every ridge move in and out of me, and the G-spot stimulation it provides is phenomenal! I can never climax without some form of clitoral stimulation, but I experienced an orgasm with G-spot stimulation alone using this toy. And the wide distribution of the suckers means that as long as you have it facing the right direction, you will always feel those little helpers bringing you closer to the edge.

I really appreciate the quality Bad Dragon puts into their materials, one of the reasons I don't mind forking out a little extra money to purchase one. Each toy contains 100% platinum-cured silicone, a type of molding rubber known for having one of the longest life spans and the least amount of shrinkage from temperature fluctuation. However, I noticed with this type of silicone that it tends to leave grease marks on surfaces. No amount of washing removes it so it may be a side-effect of the bonds in the rubber, but Bad Dragon promises this material is non-toxic and hypoallergenic. Still, beware when storing your toy. My Tentacle ruined a few boxes when I left it in one place for too long allowing the grease to soak into the surface. I recommend a durable non-toxic plastic, cloth-lined or glass container and to avoid porous surfaces such as wood or laminated cardboard. And whatever you do, do not leave it on your IKEA nightstand for more than a few days unless you want a permanent mark from your friend.

The Tentacle has a weighty base so it stands up on its own with zero difficulty, though the softer the body is, the more it may flop around from gravity. The medium firmness I have lets it keep its shape fairly well with only minor tipping from the weight of the head. It also provides a nice balance when intimately used because while it holds its shape, it is also very flexible permitting me to cram most of the length inside me. I love plopping it down on my computer chair and hanging onto the chair back while I ride it into the ground. The weight of the base starts to wear on the wrist if you hold it up for too long, so riding it cowgirl style is a match made in heaven. Depending on your preferred firmness, the Tentacle may behave differently than what I described. A softer shaft might have more trouble fitting through tight entrances, and a firm form might not yield as easily to the natural movements of your body. Thankfully, Bad Dragon offers an inexpensive sample set that you can purchase and fiddle with at your leisure to determine which firmness works best for your needs before ordering.

The only major gripe I have with the Tentacle is not through any fault of its own. From its design and from its manner of advertisement, this toy is clearly intended for anal use, but my selected firmness makes it too soft for me to attempt it. I use it solely as a vaginal dildo, and while it certainly gets the job done, the head creates some cumbersome issues inside, and I wish the overall shaft had a thicker diameter or at least tapered less dramatically. I really have to wriggle my body down to the base to receive the most out of the toy. But it manages to work wonders for me, and I acknowledge I fail to use it for its intended purpose. Still, no regrets!

So, do I recommend this little fella? Absolutely! I only caution that you thoroughly research the types of features you want yours to have before ordering because unfortunately, Bad Dragon accepts returns only if the toy has a defect, so choose wisely. Grab a tape measure and calculate the size or compare it to a toy you already own for scale. Bad Dragon dildos are each unique in their own way so you want to know the one you finally order is the right match for you. Sadly, consentacles don't exist in real life, and no matter how hard you wish, they won't. But that doesn't mean this can't be a close second. I know it's mine!

Summary

Size: ★★★★☆

Cost: ★★★☆☆

Texture: ★★★★★

Material: ★★★★☆

Ease of use: ★★★★☆

Effectiveness: ★★★★☆

Final rating: ★★★★☆

For more info:

Bad Dragon Website

                        Shop
                        Adoptions

Want to help contribute to the cause? Check out the blog wish list on Amazon!

Gift givers will receive a free hi-res file of the illustration promoting the item they purchased as well as a special shout-out as that month's patron.

Want to be a guest reviewer on the blog?
Send an email to missannabellehawkins !at gmail.com and we can set up an interview! Guests also receive a hi-res file of their toy illustration.

Trinity Deluxe Rabbit: Hoppily Ever After

 

Trinity Deluxe Rabbit

Hoppily Ever After

Purchasing your first sex toy is a right of passage, that first step on the soil of sexual exploration, a declaration of, "Look at me! I'm confident enough in myself that I want to learn more about my body!" That first toy forever holds a special place in your heart the minute it touches your skin. At least, I experience that effect whenever I see a Rabbit dildo. Recently, I felt an ache of nostalgia when I remembered the moments I shared with mine years ago. I wish I could pull the old shoe box out from under my bed, open the lid and find it nestled inside, waiting patiently for me to plunge it home again. So as spring peeks around the corner and chocolate bunnies populate the grocery shelves, I will be looking back at the very first toy I ever purchased: Trinity Vibe's Deluxe Rabbit Vibrator.

In high school, I existed in a bubble that encompassed only my room with limited exposure to the outside world. So when I finally pulled on my big girl panties and decided I wanted to buy myself a dildo, I had no idea where to start. The thought of walking down to the local sex shop and bombarding the employees with questions made me cripplingly embarrassed, and asking my close friends was out of the question because no one else was sexually active yet. Thus, I turned to the wide open web for help, as I'm sure many of you can relate to too.

I conducted some feeble research into the best adult toy companies at the time and relied on the reviews of Amazon buyers for guidance. The terms "Trinity Vibes" and "rabbit" consistently surfaced with each search, so I settled on the most affordable and most intriguingly designed toy from their inventory. In December of 2009, my secret Christmas present to me arrived in the mail, and to this day, I still like to think my sex life changed for the better because of it.

At the time of purchase, the Deluxe Rabbit retailed for a reasonable $17.95 on Amazon, one of the factors that influenced my decision to order one. Even today, $20 for that quality of toy is a very affordable price for what you get. The company has since discontinued the model I used to own for an updated and considerably improved version. Unfortunately, with this newer model, the price increased dramatically to $66.99 on their official website. However, a quick search on Amazon reveals that you can own one for around $30. If you consider purchasing any of Trinity Vibe's products, please do so through Amazon or a similar marketplace site as you will save at least half the amount the company asks.

Although it sounds contradictory, I value the all-around average approach this toy provides especially when it comes to size. With a total length of 9 in (22.9 cm) and an insertable length of 5 in (12.7 cm), it offers a great all-purpose guide that I still use today to compare toys I want to add to my collection. The shaft has a 1.25 in (3.2 cm) diameter/3.9 in (9.9 cm) circumference and the head, a 1.5 in (3.8 cm) diameter/4.7 in (11.9) circumference, still an excellent average. If I need a longer, thicker toy, I base my decisions off of these dimensions, and even though I'm now a size queen, I still judge the length of my toys with the Deluxe Rabbit because it fit inside me so perfectly. The easy-to-use power switches also provide an intuitive interface that surpasses my expectations. Instead of fumbling with a dial or cycling through a dozen patterns, it has four on-off buttons: one to turn on the rotation, one to change the direction of rotation (clockwise or counterclockwise), one to turn on the vibration, and one to increase the vibration power. Simple yet effective, no additional bells and whistles needed.

The toy is smooth and slick with no surface variation aside from the beaded core, and while not necessarily a bad feature, when the fountain is flowing so to speak, sensations diminish dramatically, and I have to rely heavily on the vibrations. When this occurs, the pearls are a saving grace. When stationary, they create a pleasant bulge that pops in and out of the body but otherwise make little impact until you turn the rotation on, then enjoy the ride as those beads click and shift against one another to create a peculiar but delicious sensation at your entrance or G/P-spot. It definitely helped give me just the right push over the edge on more than one occasion.

But now I must deduct points. I don't know how Trinity Vibes constructed the original Deluxe Rabbit nor can I find the information anywhere online, but it appears they used a cheap latex and/or rubber blend as the material is less than ideal and potentially harmful. I had positive initial impressions of the toy, but after repeated use, the dildo's body degraded over time. The clear portions turned yellow, and a pervasive rubbery smell always lingered no matter how often or thoroughly I washed it. After about four years, I had no choice but to finally retire my old friend. The inner mechanics still worked like a dream as if fresh out of the box, but the rubber/latex coating deteriorated so much I felt concerned about putting it inside my body anymore. Thankfully, the updated models are phthalate and latex free and of much higher quality.

Aside from the worrisome materials, the Deluxe Rabbit possesses nearly everything I desire in an adult toy. Its sturdy yet lightweight build makes it great for any position without much discomfort, and it grew into my best friend for a between classes quickie. The ideal way I used it involved lying on my stomach against my mattress with the dildo sandwiched in between, the shaft inside me and the rotation and vibration switched to full blast. In this position, it transformed into a hands-free assistant for my naughty online escapades, and I freely used my laptop to browse while grinding against it. This did unfortunately cause me to orgasm faster than I planned because the rabbit ears are a little too on-point, but I can't hold a grudge against its efficiency. The package deal it provides is top-notch. You receive a phallus for vaginal or anal play, a powerful rotator to pleasure said areas, and an excellent clitoral stimulator for the ladies. All of this variety wrapped up into a single compact unit.

Another small but significant brownie point involves the batteries. While many small vibrators today favor obscure battery types such as the discs found in hearing aids, the Deluxe Rabbit requires just 3 AA batteries. I owned a set of rechargeable ones that I constantly swapped out of the toy so it was always charged and ready to use without requiring me to spend extra money on batteries every few weeks.

In closing, I highly recommend the Deluxe Rabbit as an essential toy box staple. Though most beneficial for the ladies, couples and possibly some fellas may also find it convenient to have one on hand. Because of its versatility, it provides a cost-effective way to stimulate several erogenous zones at once rather than acquiring different toys to achieve the same effect. I hate to throw around the phrase, "great for beginners," but I authentically believe it is. It provides a great introduction to the primary pleasure areas: penetrative (vaginal or anal), clitoral and G/P-spot, which gives you the opportunity to discover which points you prefer to have stimulated most. In my case, I learned clitoral focus is a must with vaginal as a secondary. Because of its low cost, it makes a fabulous addition for newbies and seasoned veterans alike. Given the opportunity, I wouldn't hesitate to buy myself another Rabbit and relive my high school years again.

Summary

Size: ★★★★★

Cost: ★★★★★

Texture: ★★★★☆

Material: ★★☆☆☆

Ease of use: ★★★★★

Effectiveness: ★★★★★

Final rating: ★★★★☆

For more info:

Trinity Vibes Website

                           Shop

Amazon (Discontinued)
                  Updated model

Want to help contribute to the cause? Check out the blog wish list on Amazon!

Gift givers will receive a free hi-res file of the illustration promoting the item they purchased as well as a special shout-out as that month's patron.

Want to be a guest reviewer on the blog?
Send an email to missannabellehawkins !at gmail.com and we can set up an interview! Guests also receive a hi-res file of their toy illustration.