Knock-out Blackjack question

Hi,
I am interested in learning KO PREFERRED and am puzzled at something.
On pg 86 the Strategy Matrix Category C lists five exceptions to BS. Why is the column listed as (IRC) when 6 & 8 decks are "Omit"? Also, are the five exceptions to BS meant to be used right off the top of the deck when you are starting the IRC, and thereby changing BS?? The text preceding the chart mentions nothing about what each IRC is.

Sorry if these are stupid questions, but I truely can't figure it out.

The plays listed under "C" are not intended for 6 and 8 deck play, so simply use basic strategy for the "C" plays if you are in a 6 or 8 deck game. The IRC is simply the "initial running count." For example, if you are in a 2 deck game, the book recommends an IRC of -4. Whenever the count is at -4 or below, you would use the category C plays. It doesn't matter if it is the first round or the last round of play. I hope this clears it up for you.

Bootlegger,
Just thought the book should've made a note on changing BS for the hands in column C. I mean, right off the top, why do you think BS would suddenly be different for those hands? And not a word of explanation. That's what I could'nt figure out. Thanks for you reply.
Good cards,
duhguy

I think you're confusing the IRC with "off the top." The fact is, once you have reached the point of making a decision on the first hand "off the top," you are no longer playing an "off the top" game. You now have information you didn't have "off the top." You know the cards in your hand, the dealer's upcard, and perhaps the cards of the other players. The IRC, or intitial running count, is simply the starting point for your count. You can reach that number at any other point in the shoe. It's still called the IRC number.

Ok. Finally got it. Guess I was trying to make something that's simple more complicated. Thanks for your help.