Tactical Pens -- What do you like, and why?

[Drang]

Subject came up in another thread, and I got to wondering what other folks have.

I first used a Maxpedition Acantha (http://www.amazon.com/Maxpedition-Acantha-5-Inch-Tactical-Aluminum/dp/B00GG1XBZS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1459068387&sr=8-1&keywords=maxpedition+acantha+tactical+pen), which I liked because it was rather sleek, even artsy, in appearance, and certainly did not scream "Usable as a weapon!" It comes with two heads, one flat one and one "spear". I used the flat. One day I fumble fingered it and it hit the floor head first, and broke it off, with the threaded section inside the barrel. Not repairable that I could figure out.

I am currently using a Gerber Impromptu (http://www.amazon.com/Gerber-Impromptu-Tactical-Pen-31-001880/dp/B00B0BD3W0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1459068345&sr=8-1&keywords=gerber+impromptu+tactical+pen). It is rather industrial in appearance, with grooves which can provide a better grip. No DNA collector. Retractable, unlike most tactical pens. Has a rod which protrudes slightly by the hole for the pen tip, intended as a glass breaker.

I have fumbled this a few times, with the result that the "space pen" cartridges get messed up; they usually stop working for a day or three.

I have also done the Zebra F-701/402 "hack", described here (http://comfortableshoesstudio.com/review-zebra-f-701-stainless-steel-pen-hacked/) among other places.

I have flown with all three of these at one time or another. (Since the TSA was brought up in this context.)

I'm curious what others carry. What do you like about it? What not? I've noticed that many of these seem to be very bulky, and many of them are downright fugly. Would rpefer not to use something that looks like it should be a prop in the next Mad Max movie. :p
Plus, I'm a cheapskate.

[BJXDS]

I have looked at and tried several, but for me they are just to dam big, heavy/clunky to actually be used as a pen. I am not sure I want to try to figure out if they are really considered a weapon, if so was it concealed?... TSA... government building access, State, Federal, courts....???

Knife laws are confusing enough. Cross and Parker make some solid pens that may or may not hold up, but it's probably better than nothing, not as strong/durable as a "Tactical Pen for sure but they are 100% marketed and sold as writing instruments, what/how I end up using it for is my decision.

Bottom line, Tac Pens just don't work for me.

[Mr Pink]

I'm a big fan of the Zebra Pens and they're a lot cheaper than the other options. I also carry a few extras in my bag and when I fly with the family, I make sure the wife has one too.

I used to carry a Surefire pen, but lost it. A lot of my buddies asked about the pen which is an indicator; if they are in the know, so is the badguy.

No one asks about my Zebra pen and if I loose it...I'm not out $40-$120.

If price is not an option a search on Amazon will show several other great options:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=tactical+pen&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Atactical+pen

I like your Maxpedition, and the CRKT pen looks very slick too, but all of them also appear a bit bulky.

[Gray222]

I've used the Gerber Impromptu for some time on the job, posted about it on my site (http://www.vdmsr.com/search?q=gerber+impromptu&max-results=20&by-date=true). It's a pretty serious pen with a lot of good stuff associated with it. I've used the glass breaker on it a few times, the last time it broke the write in rain insert (jumped the spring) so i'll have to replace that. Good pen though.

[StraitR]

I too tried a Surefire pen at one time, the now discontinued EWP-01. I liked it, in the standard manly kind of way, but it was big and bulky, so much so that random people noticed and asked about it within the first week of ownership. I work in an office environment with mostly MS/PHD scientists who carry a $700 MonteBlanc or $3 Pilot, so I prefer a pen that can perform as "Mr. Screwdriver" in the play Monkey with a Screwdriver without drawing unwanted attention the other 99.9999% of the time. Anyway, I returned the SF pen and bought the Zebra set, 701 pen and M-701 mechanical pencil. They work well, never draw attention, and I've flown with them quite a bit without issue.

I shop pens about once a year just to look for something new but never see anything I think would work better than the 701 while remaining as unnoticeable as the 701. The Zebra 701 was not designed as a tactical pen, so nobody ever mistakes it for one, which is it's most redeeming quality IMO.

[pablo]

http://www.wired.com/2010/10/pilot-g2-mont-blanc-ink-refill-cheap-amazing-pen/

I like a Pilot G2 with a Monte Blanc refill. I like the regular G2 gel ink, but it tends to smear on a lot of the forms we have at work.

[SLG]

http://www.tuffwriter.com/PPPBlack-p/twp-ppp-al-blk.htm

[GyroF-16]

My favorites are from Surefire. The SF II is a great shape, and not too big to carry in a pants pocket or a shirt pocket. I love the flattened sides. The thing is, I have wide palms, so the point would only protrude maybe 1/2" if held in a fist as an ice pick-type impact weapon. So I moved to the SF III. It's bigger all around, making it easier to get out of a shirt pocket in a hurry, and easier to strike with. As a bonus, I found that I really enjoy writing with the triangular cross-section and finger grips. It's become my overall favorite pen. So much so wife got me a SF IV (same size/shape, different styling details) as a gift, and I use it at home and keep the III with my work stuff. I use all of them with Fisher Space Pen cartridges.
Oh, and I literally fly for a living. Never had an issue going through security with it. They give more attention to my TSA-approved Leatherman Style PS pocket tool.


SLG- I seriously considered the Tuffwriter. Very cool looking and looks like a great tool. I found it to be a little "too" big (long) to carry in a shirt chest pocket without looking too ungainly. But definately a good design for use as an improvised weapon.

Gyro

[Hot Sauce]

I shop pens about once a year just to look for something new but never see anything I think would work better than the 701 while remaining as unnoticeable as the 701. The Zebra 701 was not designed as a tactical pen, so nobody ever mistakes it for one, which is it's most redeeming quality IMO.

They truly are unnoticeable. Problem is, they aren't actually good at writing IMO. And the tube is way skinny, which makes it hard to get a solid grip around if you're gonna draw out of the pocket and use for combatitives.

I think these are a good compromise: http://www.amazon.com/Pentel-Energel-Retractable-Roller-Chrome/dp/B001PMHUSW/

They are not as strong as the Zebra because they unscrew in the middle. But they are still metal. And no one is expecting to fend off multiple opponents with a pen, I hope. So if it gets bent in a confrontation, so be it.

On the plus side, writes smoother than anything else I've tried.

[Mr Pink]

Problem is, they aren't actually good at writing IMO.Interesting as I actually started using the Zebra because it's so good at writing.

[orionz06]

Most of the pens out there use the Space Pen insert which I find to write like pointy dog shit. I spent a fair amount of time finding an insert I liked and that wound up being the Pilot Hi-Tec C. I then found a machined body that looked decent and that's where I've been for a few years now.

I have a pair of the stainless bodies from Big I Design (http://www.bigidesign.com/welcome/phx-pen-2/) and they're beastly but most importantly they are the pen I wanted for writing. It's not nearly as cool for pocket dump pics but fuck that noise, I write a ton and this serves that purpose well. Looking at the site the click pens (http://www.bigidesign.com/welcome/ti-click-classic/) are in stock now too, I'll grab a set and see how they work. The best part about them is they don't look like they're sold in the back of Soldier of Fortune.

[orionz06]

That one looks nice and clean too, I just hate the Space Pen inserts. I'm sure you can relate to scratching out equations and stuff all day long. The 0.25mm, 0.30mm, and 0.40mm Hi-Tec C pens work very well for the colors I use and the stuff I write down. Could never make a Space Pen insert do anything legible.

[Hambo]

I don't often carry a pen, but when I do it's one of my old Rotring 600s.

[ubervic]

I use the Rite in the Rain Tactical Clicker. Not so very 'tactical' in appearance or capabilities, but it's a decent, well-weighted writer and an acceptable pointy implement as well.

http://www.amazon.com/Rite-Rain-Weatherproof-Tactical-Clicker/dp/B000QBPZKS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1459101690&sr=8-2&keywords=rite+in+the+rain+bullet+pen

[Mr Pink]

I use the Rite in the Rain Tactical Clicker. Not so very 'tactical' in appearance or capabilities, but it's a decent, well-weighted writer and an acceptable pointy implement as well.

http://www.amazon.com/Rite-Rain-Weatherproof-Tactical-Clicker/dp/B000QBPZKS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1459101690&sr=8-2&keywords=rite+in+the+rain+bullet+pen
Now that's a nice looking "low-profile" tactical pen AND fairly inexpensive.

[ReverendMeat]

I've always liked the F-701.

As an aside, if you try to talk about pens with normal people they think you're a weirdo. I like this forum.

[808sheriff]

Second for tuff writer, I work in a correctional setting and have had the precision press for approx 2 years. I had initial issues with the click mechanism. I contacted tuff writer and they gave me the updated version and have no issues for the past few months. FWIW staff gets screened in and "tactical" pens aren't Allowed in the institution and I've never been questioned about the precision press model

[JTQ]

Now that's a nice looking "low-profile" tactical pen AND fairly inexpensive.
It's your basic Fisher Cap-o-Matic Space Pen. They have a lot of options. http://www.spacepen.com/cap-o-matics.aspx

As orionz06 mentioned about the Space Pen ink, it could either be a plus or minus for you. I've had several Cap-o-Matics over the years and one downside I've noticed is they tend to unscrew in my pocket, either when loose or clipped on. I don't know why, but they've all done this. They haven't completely come unscrewed, but I've developed the habit of twisting them when I take them out just to make sure they are screwed on.

[Drang]

I have a pair of the stainless bodies from Big I Design (http://www.bigidesign.com/welcome/phx-pen-2/) and they're beastly but most importantly they are the pen I wanted for writing.

Being a cheapskate, this intrigues me. How pricey are the refills? I keep destroying the "space pen" refills in my Gerber by dropping it, $7 a pop is getting ridiculous.

[orionz06]

Being a cheapskate, this intrigues me. How pricey are the refills? I keep destroying the "space pen" refills in my Gerber by dropping it, $7 a pop is getting ridiculous.

They're not sold as refills but the pens are $3 or so for most sizes and colors.

[vcdgrips]

Zebra 701 or the Parker Jotter are my go to tactical pens. They will do the work if I do the work and raise no eyebrows at all with TSA. They both can be had for under 10ish off of Amazon Prime making them valuable enough that I try and keep track of them yet no tears should they get lost, borrowed, broken or taken.

[JTQ]

I'm a long time Parker Jotter user. Probably my favorite ball pen of all time.

That class of pen seems to be disappearing though, the moderately priced, $10 -$20 pen (what used to be the $5 pen). You can find the cheap disposable pens and the Cross and above pens everywhere, but the market seems to be drying up for pens like the Parker Jotter (I like the plastic barreled version and not the stainless model - too slick), and I don't think the PaperMate equivalent, the Profile Pen (they still have the model name, but it is a different class of pen) is even available anymore. Fisher has a bunch of options in that range, and while I have several Fisher Space Pens, I do agree with orionz06 their ink is a little sloppy.

[DMF13]

Long before the marketing craze of tactical pens, I was bringing a Zebra F-402 ($6 on Amazon) whenever I went somewhere I couldn't have a gun or knife.

I will say the first time I heard the term tactical pen, I thought of this:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3GPrFZ33lo

[secondstoryguy]

Zebra F-701/402 "hack" here. I like the small size and the all stainless body makes it easy to remove from my pocket. I also like the ink and width of the line it writes. Another thing I really like about it is that I can remove and re-bend the pocket catch if it gets bent out of shape.

[Peally]

If I buy a "tactical" pen there better be a tiny little mace on a chain that pops out of one end.

The pen splitting into tiny nunchucks would also be acceptable.

[BillSWPA]

My current favorite tactical pen is the Inpax Response Pen.

http://www.livewithconfidence.com/responsepen.html

Most tactical pens are designed as half-hearted stabbing instruments. They are not only unlikely to cause an immediately debilitating injury, but depending on the circumstances in which they are employed, could cause an injury that could be tough to explain from a legal standpoint. the telltale spike on one end is also a dead giveaway to the function of the pen at security checkpoints. Thus, something that serves as a pure Yawara/Kubotan/pocket stick type impact weapon is preferred.

The Inpax pen includes a glass break that has actually been tested and works against automobile glass, which cannot be said for everything being marketed as a "glass break." Automobile glass is surprisingly tough. The shape is specifically designed not only to break glass, but also to resist penetration of the skin when used as an impact weapon.

As a pen, it utilizes a pressurized ink cartridge that is less expensive than a Fisher space pen refill, and in my experience works wuite well. In my profession, a pen contributes at some small level to my overall professional appearance, so I want a tactical pen that looks like a nice professional pen, not something that looks "tacticool." A significant number of tactical pens I have seen fall short in this regard. I appreciate that the Inpax logo is discreetly placed on the pocket clip.

Prior to the Inpax pen becoming available, I used a TuffWriter Executive Model. This is one of their shorter length "sterile" pens with a nickel finish. I like everything about it except the spike on the end, and the way the end of the pocket clip sticks out. It uses Fisher Space Pen refills, which I like. I use my pens not only for writing, but also for informal patent drawings which will be filed with the Us Patent and Trademark Office and will sometimes end up in an issued patent, and I have found Fisher Space Pen refills to be some of the best I have used - even when professional drafting pens are included.

[Mr Pink]

Concept isn't bad, but it's a little bulky. That's my problem with most of the tactical pens too. If they made it a little smaller, it might look less like something that vibrates.

[newyork]

Owned a few. I've had and carried a Fellhoelter ti-bolt for about 15 months. I actually use it to write with and it's something to fidget with when I'm bored too. Using it for defense would probably work well but it never crosses my mind.

[Eli]

Zebra F701.

I'm a nurse and use my pen dozens of times every day, I require a pen that is "clickable", refillable, and doesn't look tactical. The Zebra options meet all of these requirements.

[ST911]

The SF pens have a nice size and heft making them strong enough for a lot of expedient tasks. They get more notice than others, may not fit a lot of pen slots, and need more discreet markings. The EWP1's smooth surface can slip in the hand a bit, the others are a little better. Mine have traveled pretty easily and cleared checkpoints.

The Zebra 701/402 hack is GTG. Cheap and functional.

I like Sharkies for some applications. The new Pocket Shark revision is all black and looks more "hmmm...". The logo belies it's discretion and needs to be scrubbed off if it might actually be scrutinized.

I've also had other purpose built "tactical pens", almost all of which had one or features that gave them away. If their explanation needs to start with a "but...(it's a pen)" it's a no go.

I'd like a pen that's half the difference in circumference between the 701 and the EWPs, the weight of the EWPs, the knurling at the nose of the 701, little to no branding, and finished in a friendly non-tactical color.

[butler coach]

In school I carry a zebra G-301 because it works great as a pen. A friend of mine gave me a fisher police pro pen and i like it but it stands out in a school . I do use it for doing construction bids because it will write in the rain.

[JTQ]

A friend of mine gave me a fisher police pro pen and i like it but it stands out in a school . I do use it for doing construction bids because it will write in the rain.
Maybe you should drive the unmarked version http://www.spacepen.com/zerogravitypenmatteblack.aspx

[theJanitor]

I had a tactical pen that wouldn't make it past a domestic airport security, even though I probably had ten flights with it in my carry-on. I had to use the crazy expensive kiosk that mails back your items, as the pen was a gift, and I was not about to surrender it.

Currently I use an old Rotring 600 Trio. Two pen colors and a pencil in a SOLID machined body.

https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5483/11424260096_7e59fb6ff0_z.jpg

[butler coach]

Maybe you should drive the unmarked version http://www.spacepen.com/zerogravitypenmatteblack.aspx

i would but the one i have was free.. and that my friends is my favorite price to pay.

[23JAZ]

I bought a Zebra F-701 a while back and already had a Zebra F-402. I didn't like the fact that the 701 had plastic as a clicker retainer (if that's what you call it) and noticed that the 402 had a steel one. So I swapped them out and now I've got a ALL steel Zebra F-701 - 2 :cool:

https://pistol-forum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=6873&stc=1
https://pistol-forum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=6874&stc=1

[Drang]

I posted a link to "the hack" earlier.

[23JAZ]

I posted a link to "the hack" earlier.
I missed that post. Shop rag and needle nose pliers is all I used. I use zebra ink so I didn't have to worry about swapping the internals out for the space pen crap.

[Randy Harris]

Tuffwriter Precision Press series is my "go to" and the Zebra 701 series is my "cheap alternative". Neither one is "tactical looking" with teeth or spikes or razor blades and does not draw any unwanted attention....

I have flown all over (US and Caribbean) and other than a female TSA trainee in the Chattanooga airport commenting to another TSA officer that the Tuff Writer pen was "heavy" when she picked it up after it went through in the bucket with my watch , belt and shoes no one has said anything about it or even raised an eyebrow or given it a second look.....it just looks like a pen.

On our last trip to the Bahamas I just went with the Zebra 701s since if I lose it I'm only out $6 not $100 and I can make sure I have 2 and the wife has 2 for under $30. The Tuffwriter is longer and heavier than the Zebra and as such is my preferred "travel pen" but no one wants to get stabbed in the face with a Zebra 701 either....

[ST911]

I know. ;-)



The link mostly read as a long winded "I did it" and not so much as a how-to. I'm a simple man with a simple mind. I need more pictures. :)

Try this one: http://clickypost.com/blog/2015/2/1/how-to-hack-the-zebra-f-701

[RoyGBiv]

Try this one: http://clickypost.com/blog/2015/2/1/how-to-hack-the-zebra-f-701

I have absolutely zero interest in having such a pen, but have an incredible urge to build one now. Thanks :p

[f308gt4]

Karas Kustoms Retrakt. Uses the popular Pilot G2 refills (and others, like the Parker or Space Pen refill with adapter).

http://karaskustoms.com/pens/retrakt-649.html

They've also got a few different styles of machined pens, including a fountain pen.

http://karaskustoms.com/pens.html

I've been very happy with their pens.

[VolGrad]

Word of caution on the Karas. I bought one to use with Parker refills. It was really loosey goosey. It rattled bad. I called and chatted with them and they assured me it wasn't normal so they sent me a replacement. It rattled just as bad. I sent them both back and got a refund. Yes, I used the proper adapter setup. I spoke with the guys in depth and they assured me I did everything right and they were baffled. Either way I won't try again.

[Gray222]

Karas Kustoms Retrakt. Uses the popular Pilot G2 refills (and others, like the Parker or Space Pen refill with adapter).

http://karaskustoms.com/pens/retrakt-649.html

They've also got a few different styles of machined pens, including a fountain pen.

http://karaskustoms.com/pens.html

I've been very happy with their pens.

http://i.imgur.com/4lEaHt8.jpg (http://www.vdmsr.com/2015/11/ti-edc.html)

I have a bolt pen, its nice and all but there is no way I'd carry it on the job or in any context where I needed to use a pen as an object to hit people/things. It's just not built for that.

[Drang]

I think I have links to better posts of the Zebra pen hack on my desktop, after I get home from work...

[9mm_shooter]

I have a solid copper pen from CountyComm. Here it is with his carry buddies.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160405/82329e6d1b0fe5ceb4294645dd355380.jpghttp://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160405/18029ac63067090ab11e31bcab6d9fce.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[GRV]

Right up PF alley, there is now a "new" 402 design and an "old" one. And, you guessed it, the old one is more desirable for this mod because the tail button is unmarked steel.

I was fortunate enough to be able to trade my better half a new one for an old one. So, yes, I now have an unobtanium backup pen...

I also spent considerable time tuning the spring to replicate the stock feel with the Fisher insert. I kept the 701 internals for the "soft click" feel as well.

The 701 clip is actually a bit better than the 402 clip, despite looking like the crappy 301 clip. Nevertheless, I used the 402 clip in the mod for aesthetics.


This site is unhealthy....

[JDM]

I have carried a Surefire pen III for going on 4 years I think.

I have come to prefer its dimensions over a "standard" pen, and I have taken it on many multiple trips through TSA checkpoints without so much as a second glance.

I've beat the shit out of the thing and it's still in reasonably good shape. However, I have had to get new clicky devices from Surefire probably about 7 times. I don't know if that is a function of their design, or because I'm very hard on the pen.

At any rate, while I've looked at numerous other serious pens, I will likely never get rid of the Pen III...unless Surefire stops making replacement clicky things and I can't cobble together my own. Both of these seem unlikely.

[JDM]

The "clicky thing" is made by a company in Germany. Lots of custom pens use it. Surefire only modifies it slightly (they glue/epoxy an extension on it).

I remember you showing me that.

Now I'm sure I can cobble one together.

I suppose that makes this a lifetime pen!

[ST911]

So I don't have to keep looking this up, the company is Schmidt (http://www.schmidttechnology.de/en/schreibgeraete/produkte/index.htm) and the partnumber is SKM 88 (http://www.schmidttechnology.de/en/schreibgeraete/produkte/vorschubmechaniken/c_1_1_3.htm) and it's on page 9 of their catalog (http://www.schmidttechnology.de/en/schreibgeraete/download/SCHMIDT-catalogue_en.pdf) (pdf link).

There are several places in the US where you can buy single units, for example:

http://www.richardlgreenwald.com/mechanisms-c-2_7/push-button-mechanisms-p-29.html

http://www.milanspens.com/#!click-mechanisms/c1qu1

Websites with component pen parts with which to build custom units to my fancy, and divert more of my time, attention, and funds.

Some days, I really hate this place.

[GRV]

Would it be possible for you to post a picture showing the difference?

New 402 (left). My Federal #1 buckshot with FliteControl uberzebra (right) with old 402 tail hardware.

7025


New 402 (bottom). My uberzebra (top).

7026


New 402 (bottom). Old 402 (top).

7027


Old 402 (left), Stock 701 (right). (Not my picture)

https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5144ee05e4b033f38037f73d/t/54ce9893e4b08a9c05c36035/1422825637080.jpg


Stock 701. (Not my picture)

http://pilotman007.ru/d/158716/d/dsc_0071.jpg


Various color 301s. (Not my picture). Note the clip. It looks similar to the stock 701 clip, but is actually much shittier. Some 301s have text on the clip, making the appearance even more similar.

http://officesupplygeek.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Zebra-F-301-Colors-Bodiesa.jpg

[GRV]

You may be wondering "Wait, that tiny dot on the back? That's what this is all about!?". If so, I ask you to consider whether or not you've ever been pissed off that you can only find P9HST3 and P9HST4 in stock when what you really want is P9HST2. Now you know how our SMEs feel.

[Drang]

I think I have links to better posts of the Zebra pen hack on my desktop, after I get home from work...

Or... not. :o

So... Pens, Pencils, Notebooks, and Notebook Covers | EDCForums (http://www.edcforums.com/forums/pens-pencils-notebooks-and-notebook-covers.85/). Because of course there are forums specifically for Every Day Carry!

Here's one thread: Heavily modified Zebra f701 | EDCForums (http://www.edcforums.com/threads/heavily-modified-zebra-f701.89967/); unfortunately, it's so old the early photos have died, and early links are unusable.
Another: My Zebra F-74301 | EDCForums (http://www.edcforums.com/threads/my-zebra-f-74301.102832/#post-1649737)

How to Hack the Zebra F-701 — The Clicky Post (http://clickypost.com/blog/2015/2/1/how-to-hack-the-zebra-f-701)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YtXdbOQRxI

And of course, there's always the zebra 701 pen mod Google Search (https://www.google.com/webhp?tab=ww&ei=7QMEV4S3JYzcjwO5-bmQDw&ved=0EKkuCAcoAA#q=zebra+701+pen+mod).

[GRV]

But it's not a dot, it' a hole. Consider it the maritime spring cups (http://www.amazon.com/Ghost-Maritime-Spring-Cups-Glock/dp/B008BD0NCI) of the F-701 -- OTB ready!

One step ahead of you. I thought about this on the toilet this morning. The hole is unneccesary. The pen has a hole at the bottom and the clicking mechanism of the 701 already had a hole through it. (The 402 is a bit different and is more solid, though still not totally so.) If you want submersion tests, someone else is going to have to do them, because I'm intent on artificially inflating the value of my pen enjoying my new pen :)

ETA: If someone does them, preference for wearing a welding mask and screaming in German throughout the video.

[ubervic]

I picked up a couple of the Zebra F-701 pens as a result of reading this thread. It's a fine implement and an absolutely tremendous value.
Thanks to those who recommend it here.

[VolGrad]

I have a few F-402s and a bunch of F-301s just because I always liked the way they felt and they write well. I don't carry them as secondary weapons but like they could stick a bitch if needed.

I have a Surefire EWP-02 I bought a couple of years ago after reading a thread like this. I use it daily in the office and carry it in my work bag so it goes everywhere with me - through FED bldg security, on airplanes, etc. I have never had an issue with it. No one has ever raised a brow at it. Now, I also don't really see it as as a weapon. I just love big heavy writing instruments. I use Parker refills in it as they are my favorites.

Part of my EDC pocket dump is a Fisher Space Pen Bullet. I hate the way it writes but I love always having a pen handy without taking up any extra room. It fits right in my pocket loose with my Burt's Bees, my Fenix E05, my money clip, and whatever else I have in there. When I'm not at work I have a CRK Sebenza or Umnumzaan clipped on the pocket - also not intended for use as a weapon. Wallet (mostly card holder) is in back pocket and iPhone in other front pocket.

I have in the past owned a couple of other "tactical" pens but the only one I can recall at the moment was a Hinderer Investigator Pen in Stainless. I REALLY wanted to like this pen. In the end it used a Fisher refill so it wrote like crap and most annoying was the fact the cap continually came loose. I actually lost the cap a couple of times but luckily it turned back up. I sold it within a few weeks of purchase.

Several people mentioned Jotters. Would you believe I can't find them locally. I've looked at most all places that sell office supplies and can't find them. I have thus far been too lazy to place an online order but once I burn up all the Zebras I have stockpiled I'll likely buy a bunch of Jotters.

[vcdgrips]

Amazon prime is your friend my man.

Silver with gold clip @ 10ish
http://www.amazon.com/Parker-Jotter-...5%3A2470955011 (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001F86LJU/)

Silver with silver clip @ 10 ish as well
http://www.amazon.com/Sanford-Parker...ilpage_o02_s00 (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0017D5WXY)

[ReverendMeat]

I have a few F-402s and a bunch of F-301s just because I always liked the way they felt and they write well. I don't carry them as secondary weapons but like they could stick a bitch if needed.


Not so much the 301s. They're surprisingly fragile and I've broken a couple of them.

[JDM]

Not so much the 301s. They're surprisingly fragile and I've broken a couple of them.

That plastic joint in the middle really spoils the whole "I'm going to stick this through your cheek" plan.

[LOKNLOD]

One step ahead of you. I thought about this on the toilet this morning. The hole is unneccesary. The pen has a hole at the bottom and the clicking mechanism of the 701 already had a hole through it. (The 402 is a bit different and is more solid, though still not totally so.) If you want submersion tests, someone else is going to have to do them, because I'm intent on artificially inflating the value of my pen enjoying my new pen :)

ETA: If someone does them, preference for wearing a welding mask and screaming in German throughout the video.

The hole at each end allows the use of the pen as a survival straw by wedging a cigarette filter in the tube :cool:

[LOKNLOD]

Chest dart!

Combo function - survival straw for vampires!

[ST911]

Amazon has some good deals on the 701X components right now. They are priced as add-on items, requiring $25 in other purchasing.

order 2: 701 pen for $4.63ea, https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002L6RB80/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1
order 1: 402 pen 2-pack for $4.55, https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004WOAJP6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1
order 1: Fisher Space Pen refill 3-pack for $4.99, https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004HGDQQS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

$18.80 for two assembled 701X, $9.40 each, and leaves you a spare refill.

[Shawn Dodson]

Fuck, I just do the gang-banger padlock on a bandanna thing in my back pocket. I separate them going thru TSA security then reassemble when I arrive on the "sterile" side. A tactical pen rates right up there with a tactical tomahawk.

[Clusterfrack]

S&W M&P SWPENMP2BR 2nd Generation Tactical Pen
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B007DCEQY4

It's the only S&W product I own.

[Gater]

Bumping this one rather than start a new thread. I use pens as pens (go figure), and favor a Parker Jotter in the office, but the Zebra pocket clip is better for pants pocket carry when I'm working outdoors.

Zebra apparently took note of the famed F-701 hack and introduced an all-metal F-701 in August:

"Zebra Pen USA Releases All-Metal STEEL F-701

EDISON, NJ, August 1, 2018– Zebra Pen Corp., a global leader in the writing instrument industry, is proud to announce the relaunch of the all-metal Zebra STEEL F-701, a popular stainless steel ballpoint pen.

The Zebra All-Metal STEEL F-701 Retractable Ballpoint Pen now features an all metal interior, replacing all plastic pieces with durable, stylish stainless steel. The stainless steel barrel, metal clip and metal refill, makes the STEEL F-701 easily detectable in a factory setting. Unlike plastic pens, the STEEL F-701 is known for strength and reliability."

They are running a site wide 25% off sale right now, which makes the all-metal F-701 $6.74. Two pack of all metal refills was $2.48 at sale price. Site says free shipping on orders over $30, but an older coupon "freeshipping" appears to have worked on less.

https://www.zebrapen.com/product/f-701-ball-point-retractable/

"Stainless Steel – from tip to clip. NOW with an all metal ring and refill."

[SeriousStudent]

Most excellent, thank you for the links, Tom. I'm always passing those out to the minions at work.

[Drang]

"Stainless Steel – from tip to clip. NOW with an all metal ring and refill."


When this sale is over, you can get 2-packs (https://amzn.to/2RyOSgk) and 3-packs (https://amzn.to/2RwJnPl) on Amazon for close to the current sale price. the 2-packs are $15.87 (https://amzn.to/2RyOSgk) and 3-packs are $22 (https://amzn.to/2RwJnPl). :cool:

That's awesome! There are a few other companies that should follow suit...

I totes forgot starting this thread. Is it weird I want to subscribe to a thread I started?

[Drang]

Huh.
X-701 Retractable Black Matte Ballpoint Pen | Stainless Steel | Zebra Pen (https://www.zebrapen.com/product/x-701-retractable-ballpoint-0-7mm-black/?source=brand)
Amazon.com: Zebra Pen X-701 Tactical Ballpoint Pen with Bonus Refills, Fine Point, 0.7mm, Black Ink, 1-Count: Office Products (https://www.amazon.com/Zebra-Pen-Tactical-Ballpoint-Refills/dp/B07H7QNKBM/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1546664583&sr=8-3&keywords=x-701+retractable+ballpoint+pen)

[23JAZ]

I have the Clutch space pen. Really liking it. Good weight to it and feels very durable.
http://www.spacepen.com/cap-o-matics.aspx (http://www.spacepen.com/cap-o-matics.aspx)

[secondstoryguy]

I’ve been carrying the 701 for a long time as a duty pen. The new Zebra 701s are also all metal (they got rid of the plastic parts). Best clicks duty pen ever.

Another favorite of mine for general purpose use is the Skillcraft military Aviator pen. It has black, red and a .07 pencil(with hidden eraser) all in one(other colors available). It’s surprisingly durable, has refills, can be had with a stylus end, and most of all it’s very thin(small diameter)which makes it fit in pockets and in my little Field Noted that generally accompanies me to training.

https://www.amazon.com/SKILCRAFT-Aviator-Multi-function-Medium-7520-01-564-9906/dp/B001KKPGHQ

[23JAZ]

Huh.
X-701 Retractable Black Matte Ballpoint Pen | Stainless Steel | Zebra Pen (https://www.zebrapen.com/product/x-701-retractable-ballpoint-0-7mm-black/?source=brand)
Amazon.com: Zebra Pen X-701 Tactical Ballpoint Pen with Bonus Refills, Fine Point, 0.7mm, Black Ink, 1-Count: Office Products (https://www.amazon.com/Zebra-Pen-Tactical-Ballpoint-Refills/dp/B07H7QNKBM/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1546664583&sr=8-3&keywords=x-701+retractable+ballpoint+pen)

Mia it all steel or does it have plastic parts?

[ST911]

Huh.
X-701 Retractable Black Matte Ballpoint Pen | Stainless Steel | Zebra Pen (https://www.zebrapen.com/product/x-701-retractable-ballpoint-0-7mm-black/?source=brand)
Amazon.com: Zebra Pen X-701 Tactical Ballpoint Pen with Bonus Refills, Fine Point, 0.7mm, Black Ink, 1-Count: Office Products (https://www.amazon.com/Zebra-Pen-Tactical-Ballpoint-Refills/dp/B07H7QNKBM/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1546664583&sr=8-3&keywords=x-701+retractable+ballpoint+pen)

in extremis penmanship

[SeriousStudent]

Mia it all steel or does it have plastic parts?

I ordered one. It arrived yesterday. The pen is plastic.

[Drang]

Mia it all steel or does it have plastic parts?

In the questions on the Amazon entry, it said that the barrel was steel, but the internals were plastic. Sounds like the standard all-steel 701 is a better bet for an actual rugged pen.

[echo5charlie]

I've carried a "tactical pen" since around 1999, starting with a Fisher. In 2011 I went with a Tuff Writer EDC. I never lost it, had it taken at a check-point, or grew attached to it - it was a pen that I could use in a shit situation. That particular design, a screw cap one, sucked as the cap could not be attached to the body and thus was only used when a real pen was not handy. During SHOT 2017 I picked up a new Tuff Writer, the Operator. It was better in that you could attach the cap to the pen. I figured I was good to go.

But I had forgotten one thing....

Fisher cartridges SUCK. When new, they tend to work for a period of time. Usually long enough to make you think you've gotten a lemon. Then one of two things happens - either there is a massive ball of ink-sludge on the tip or the cartridge stops writing which then requires furiously scribbling on a scrap piece of paper to get it writing again. I have been using pens that utilize the Fisher space pen cartridges for about 20 years now. For 20 years I have been wondering why I keep using them...

Anyway, I like my Tuff Writer Operator and I'd like to use it more as a pen than as pocket filler. Does anyone know of a better* ink cartridge that is Fisher compatible?


* - in my case better means it will write consistently until out of ink. It does not need to be "write-in-the-rain".

[ragnar_d]

I’ve been carrying the 701 for a long time as a duty pen. The new Zebra 701s are also all metal (they got rid of the plastic parts). Best clicks duty pen ever.
If that’s the case, then that is one happy day for me. All my 701s have plastic guts and that frustrated me to the point of casing up my own all steel pen. I’ve been carrying a beat up old modified zebra 402/701, but it will be nice to be able to order it off the shelf now.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[GyroF-16]

Fisher cartridges SUCK. When new, they tend to work for a period of time. Usually long enough to make you think you've gotten a lemon. Then one of two things happens - either there is a massive ball of ink-sludge on the tip or the cartridge stops writing which then requires furiously scribbling on a scrap piece of paper to get it writing again. I have been using pens that utilize the Fisher space pen cartridges for about 20 years now. For 20 years I have been wondering why I keep using them...



Wow... I’ve had a consistently different experience.
I’ve carried a Fisher Space Pen daily for 30 years now. A bullet pen in my pants pocket, or a no-kidding astronaut pen in my flight suit pocket for my entire Air Force career. At 120 deg or -10, they always worked. I think I had one bad cartridge in that time. The “Write in the Rain” knock-offs seem to be of inferior quality, so I quit trying those.
I currently roll with a bullet pen (Fisher insert) in my pants pocket every day, and add a SureFire pen in my shirt pocket (Fisher insert) at work. I actually prefer the Fisher cartridge to others, as they always write immediately, and aren’t “wet” enough to smear when writing left-handed.

Fisher cartridges seem like a no-brainer to me.
I’m disappointed to hear that you had such a different experience.

[secondstoryguy]

I just bought a couple of 701s yesterday and they are all metal. The sleeve that holds the button is now made of metal. Here’s Zebra’s press release:
https://www.zebrapen.com/press-releases/zebra-pen-usa-releases-metal-steel-f-701/

[Drang]

I see that Zebra also has markers (https://www.amazon.com/Zebra-Stainless-Permanent-Refillable-1-Count/dp/B079NR6HFJ/ref=sr_1_1_m?s=office-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1546931718&sr=1-1&keywords=zebra+701+marker)in the 701 line. Black, blue, Red Green, keep your stick on the ice.

[Jaywalker]

Since you can't take it apart, how can you tell the difference between the new STEEL and the previous F-701, online or through the wrapper at the store?

[camsdaddy]

I've carried a "tactical pen" since around 1999, starting with a Fisher. In 2011 I went with a Tuff Writer EDC. I never lost it, had it taken at a check-point, or grew attached to it - it was a pen that I could use in a shit situation. That particular design, a screw cap one, sucked as the cap could not be attached to the body and thus was only used when a real pen was not handy. During SHOT 2017 I picked up a new Tuff Writer, the Operator. It was better in that you could attach the cap to the pen. I figured I was good to go.

But I had forgotten one thing....

Fisher cartridges SUCK. When new, they tend to work for a period of time. Usually long enough to make you think you've gotten a lemon. Then one of two things happens - either there is a massive ball of ink-sludge on the tip or the cartridge stops writing which then requires furiously scribbling on a scrap piece of paper to get it writing again. I have been using pens that utilize the Fisher space pen cartridges for about 20 years now. For 20 years I have been wondering why I keep using them...

Anyway, I like my Tuff Writer Operator and I'd like to use it more as a pen than as pocket filler. Does anyone know of a better* ink cartridge that is Fisher compatible?


* - in my case better means it will write consistently until out of ink. It does not need to be "write-in-the-rain".

I carry a F701 or a F301 both converted to use Fisher refills. I have the same issue and I also wonder why I keep using them. I have found the fine do not gunk up as bad as the medium refills. I also carry a F301 with the standard Zebra refill as its always clean even if its not as dark as I would like.

The F701X has more plastic and the reviews thus far have been less than positive. This doesnt mean I will not buy one. Someone complained that the F701X uses Bic refills. This could be the greatest thing ever. There are few pens no matter the cost that write as smooth and clean as a Bic Crystal stick pen.

I will soon buy F701X and the newer all metal F701 just because. If for no other reason than Zebra listened to their customers and for the most part responded.

[echo5charlie]

Wow... I’ve had a consistently different experience.
I’ve carried a Fisher Space Pen daily for 30 years now. A bullet pen in my pants pocket, or a no-kidding astronaut pen in my flight suit pocket for my entire Air Force career. At 120 deg or -10, they always worked. I think I had one bad cartridge in that time. The “Write in the Rain” knock-offs seem to be of inferior quality, so I quit trying those.
I currently roll with a bullet pen (Fisher insert) in my pants pocket every day, and add a SureFire pen in my shirt pocket (Fisher insert) at work. I actually prefer the Fisher cartridge to others, as they always write immediately, and aren’t “wet” enough to smear when writing left-handed.

Fisher cartridges seem like a no-brainer to me.
I’m disappointed to hear that you had such a different experience.

I figured that I was just unlucky. I'm glad they have worked for you.

[echo5charlie]

I carry a F701 or a F301 both converted to use Fisher refills. I have the same issue and I also wonder why I keep using them. I have found the fine do not gunk up as bad as the medium refills. I also carry a F301 with the standard Zebra refill as its always clean even if its not as dark as I would like.

The F701X has more plastic and the reviews thus far have been less than positive. This doesnt mean I will not buy one. Someone complained that the F701X uses Bic refills. This could be the greatest thing ever. There are few pens no matter the cost that write as smooth and clean as a Bic Crystal stick pen.

I will soon buy F701X and the newer all metal F701 just because. If for no other reason than Zebra listened to their customers and for the most part responded.

I had a new-to-me Space Pen with a fine tip back around 2001, but I lost it at Ft. Indiantown Gap by the fall of that year. I don't recall it (the fine cartridge) giving me issues, but it was short lived and almost 18 years ago. Maybe I'll buy a fine cartridge and see how that does for me.

[RoyGBiv]

I just bought a couple of 701s yesterday and they are all metal. The sleeve that holds the button is now made of metal. Here’s Zebra’s press release:
https://www.zebrapen.com/press-releases/zebra-pen-usa-releases-metal-steel-f-701/

Any recommendations on a Gel refill for this pen? I ordered one hoping I'd like it better than the Made-in-Mexico 0.5mm Zebra Sarasa gel retractables I got from Amazon that only last me a month or so of infrequent writing before they stop functioning (still half full or more).

Found some posts on Reddit and EDCForum but nothing approaching a consensus.

This guy likes the Zmulsion, but I'd prefer something with a smaller tip than the Zmulsion 1.0mm.
Maybe I'll like the ballpoint enough for ED and just keep the lame Zebra gels for signing checks.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jDG8KfB-5qs

[camsdaddy]

Since you can't take it apart, how can you tell the difference between the new STEEL and the previous F-701, online or through the wrapper at the store?
The older ones have a black plastic piece at the top that the clicker is in. The newer ones have a metal piece.

[Jaywalker]

The older ones have a black plastic piece at the top that the clicker is in. The newer ones have a metal piece.
I did see that hole in the clicker but the press release link announcement of the new model came later in the thread. That makes it easy - thanks.

[Wyoming Shooter]

I'm a bit confused. Is it correct that the current F-701 is all metal and the X-701 has some plastic parts?:confused:

[Notorious E.O.C.]

Almost a hundred posts and no fountain pen enthusiasts? Jeez. I figured at least one correspondent would have a recommendation for a BBQ tactical pen.

I jest, mostly, but I also admit to a bit of disappointment that the engineering of fountain pens seems to be mutually exclusive with that of tactical pens. I discovered them mid-last-year and have been amazed at how much more enjoyable the writing experience is compared to my 701s and whatever cut-rate crap ballpoints were in the supply closet at work.

[Drang]

I'm a bit confused. Is it correct that the current F-701 is all metal and the X-701 has some plastic parts?:confused:

It does seem to be the case that the one marketed as a tactical/EDC pen has plastic parts. But, hey, it's tacticool black, so...

[SeriousStudent]

I'm a bit confused. Is it correct that the current F-701 is all metal and the X-701 has some plastic parts?:confused:

The X701 that I bought a few days ago and received from Amazon has a plastic barrel.

This part of their webpage:

X-701 Ballpoint pen features a durable stainless steel barrel with an anti-reflective matte black finish and is 5x more durable than everyday plastic pens (military Grade drop-tested)

Is a lie.

I am referring to the X-701, not the F-701. The link is here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07H7QNKBM/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B07H7QNKBM&linkCode=as2&tag=pistolforum-20

It is a working pen, and I can use the refills. Therefore I am not sending it back. I'm just disappointed in Amazon's false advertising.

[Warped Mindless]

The X701 that I bought a few days ago and received from Amazon has a plastic barrel.

This part of their webpage:

X-701 Ballpoint pen features a durable stainless steel barrel with an anti-reflective matte black finish and is 5x more durable than everyday plastic pens (military Grade drop-tested)

Is a lie.

I am referring to the X-701, not the F-701. The link is here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07H7QNKBM/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B07H7QNKBM&linkCode=as2&tag=pistolforum-20

It is a working pen, and I can use the refills. Therefore I am not sending it back. I'm just disappointed in Amazon's false advertising.

A commenter on amazon mentioned this too. Baffles me that Zebra would release a plastic "tactical" pen when they have all steel "regular" pens. Couple that with the false marketing and it makes me lose faith in their company.

[Jaywalker]

Almost a hundred posts and no fountain pen enthusiasts? Jeez. I figured at least one correspondent would have a recommendation for a BBQ tactical pen.

I jest, mostly, but I also admit to a bit of disappointment that the engineering of fountain pens seems to be mutually exclusive with that of tactical pens. I discovered them mid-last-year and have been amazed at how much more enjoyable the writing experience is compared to my 701s and whatever cut-rate crap ballpoints were in the supply closet at work.
Yeah, I thought about that but people were serious and I didn't want to harsh the vibe.

Here's mine - Pilot Custom Heritage 91 with Soft Fine Medium nib. The advantage of a fountain pen over a ballpoint is it takes much less pressure to leave an ink line on paper. Presumably, it would be a good tac pen, one time.
33990
Photo credit - penpen-avenue on eBay

[awp_101]

I can't believe I'm finding a thread on pens so interesting. Nor can I believe I just subscribed...

[camsdaddy]

I can't believe I'm finding a thread on pens so interesting. Nor can I believe I just subscribed...
Nor can you believe how excited you will be waiting on your Zebra F701 to show up from Amazon. Welcome

[Chipster]

I just picked this up for $100. I would never pay $350 for it but it is a really substantial pen.

https://www.benchmade.com/1100-14-damasteel.html

[Drang]

I just picked this up for $100. I would never pay $350 for it but it is a really substantial pen.

https://www.benchmade.com/1100-14-damasteel.html

That's awesome, but, like I mentioned in Post #1 in this thread, I'm a cheapskate. I don't even like paying $30 for a pen. I lose them. And did I mention I broke a tactical pen?
If the all-steel F701s had been available when I started the thread, I wouldn't have.
Started the thread, I mean.

[awp_101]

Looking through The Gallery sub-forum, I noticed a distinct lack of pen/fountain pen picture threads. Any of you collectors/hoarders/gurus feel like rectifying that situation? ;)

[randyho]

I own a pair of uzi's. I never use them due to their heft. +another for jotters.

[Notorious E.O.C.]

I just picked this up for $100. I would never pay $350 for it but it is a really substantial pen.

https://www.benchmade.com/1100-14-damasteel.html

Now that is a barbecue pen.

[RoyGBiv]

After 2 days, I like the feel of this steel Zebra in my hand, but don't like the ballpoint. I'm definitely a gel guy, unless I'm writing on carbon paper or some surface prone to smudges. I'll report back if I find a gel hack that I like. :)

[camsdaddy]

After 2 days, I like the feel of this steel Zebra in my hand, but don't like the ballpoint. I'm definitely a gel guy, unless I'm writing on carbon paper or some surface prone to smudges. I'll report back if I find a gel hack that I like. :)
Please do I am probably going to buy a Parker Jotter with the quinkflow later today. If I don’t like it I will try an easy flow refill. I love the F701 and the F301. If i could find better refills I would look no further for a pen.

[Chuck Whitlock]

After 2 days, I like the feel of this steel Zebra in my hand, but don't like the ballpoint. I'm definitely a gel guy, unless I'm writing on carbon paper or some surface prone to smudges. I'll report back if I find a gel hack that I like. :)

I have 2 of the early 701 hacked pens that I use for work. Gel is out for completing multi-part forms. I use regular Zebra refills, medium point blue ink.

[secondstoryguy]

3422434225
Out of curiosity I took apart one of the new all metal 701s. Definitely more metal as they have a metal cartridge and the plunger housing is all metal but there is still a little plastic piece inside. For $5 and change at the local HEB it’s still my go to clicky pen for duty use.

[Chuck Whitlock]

3422434225
Out of curiosity I took apart one of the new all metal 701s. Definitely more metal as they have a metal cartridge and the plunger housing is all metal but there is still a little plastic piece inside. For $5 and change at the local HEB it’s still my go to clicky pen for duty use.

The threaded part with the clicky that holds down the pocket clip used to be made of black plastic. The threads would loosen and strip over time.

[JAD]

My go to pen is the Rotring RapidProhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190119/1fbd1c1ad2075abe01c74423bb314d17.jpg. Heavy all steel, and so black it could be navy.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0055ZZQFY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_JwPqCbBF6T75N

[SeriousStudent]

I've given those Rotring pens as gifts to several friends on this forum, and they all enjoyed them.

Their mechanical pencils are very nice as well.

[TXBK]

While not tactical, I have carried this Fellhoelter TiBolt for going on 5 years. All Titanium parts except the spring, o-ring, and cartridge. I did change the original cartridge to a finer tip, but it is still heavy on ink and will smear.

It has gotten many compliments over the years, and a few people have attempted to keep it so I am very selective of who I let use it. I do get some strange looks when I tell someone that I don’t have a pen when they obviously see it in my pocket, or straight tell them no they can’t use my pen.

https://i.imgur.com/oKd4WhQl.jpg

[SeriousStudent]

While not tactical, I have carried this Fellhoelter TiBolt for going on 5 years. All Titanium parts except the spring, o-ring, and cartridge. I did change the original cartridge to a finer tip, but it is still heavy on ink and will smear.

It has gotten many compliments over the years, and a few people have attempted to keep it so I am very selective of who I let use it. I do get some strange looks when I tell someone that I don’t have a pen when they obviously see it in my pocket, or straight tell them no they can’t use my pen.

https://i.imgur.com/oKd4WhQl.jpg

I have always had a simple reply when someone wants to borrow my expensive pens.

Them: Can I borrow your pen?

Me: Sure, can I borrow a hundred bucks?

Them: Why?? I'm going to give the pen back.

Me: I understand, and I'll return the hundred bucks, too.

A light either dawns in their eyes, or it does not. Or they just call me a bastige and walk off.

I don't lose a lot of pens.

[Jaywalker]

I have always had a simple reply when someone wants to borrow my expensive pens.

Them: Can I borrow your pen?

Me: Sure, can I borrow a hundred bucks?

Them: Why?? I'm going to give the pen back.

Me: I understand, and I'll return the hundred bucks, too.

A light either dawns in their eyes, or it does not. Or they just call me a bastige and walk off.

I don't lose a lot of pens.
A fountain pen's nib can be ruined by by an unknowing user by pressing down as you would a ballpoint pen, so when I carry one I always carry a cheap ballpoint I can lend when asked. Doesn't happen much anymore since I retired, though.

[Cool Breeze]

A lot of the premium manufactures of fountain pens use precious resin/plastic/acrylic/etc. Some of the legacy manufacturers like Cross, Schaeffer, and Parker still use metal on some of their models. There is a company called Tactile Turn that makes both rollers and fountain pens out of different types of machined metal depending on how heavy you want the pen - they have a very interesting engraved ribbing that might be considered "tactical" - might be worth looking into. Good looking pen too. Here are some of their pen weights depending on metal. 34393

[Cool Breeze]

A little late to respond.... But the Pentel Energel needle tip 0.7 refills are the best I found for rollerballs. I wanted to like the Uniball 307 for its anti-forging ink qualities but my blue one (awesome blue color btw) dried up in two weeks. I have no idea how people like the Pilot G2 - it is by far the worst I have tried and skips like crazy. I am not sure if you can mod the energel to fit as I don't know the nuances of the zebra pen. Worth a shot though for cheap.

[Hambo]

For $5 and change at the local HEB it’s still my go to clicky pen for duty use.

Too much money for what my wife calls a "throw down" pen. ;) Meaning something you would let a nasty ER patient use to sign something.

[camsdaddy]

Too much money for what my wife calls a "throw down" pen. ;) Meaning something you would let a nasty ER patient use to sign something.
No matter what pen I am using I always keep pens for customers to use either in my pocket or on the desk. I guess those would be considered my throw down pens.

[Warped Mindless]

I've done a lot of work with tactical pens in my krav classes and I've come to really appreciate them.

Most people carry them as a "last ditch" weapon but I have found they are often a good first choice if you are able to see the potential threat coming. Its easy and innocent looking to preposition yourself in a good vantage point and have your pen already in your hand ready to go. No one looks scary holding a pen so you aren't likely to scare some sheep.

[camsdaddy]

Please do I am probably going to buy a Parker Jotter with the quinkflow later today. If I don’t like it I will try an easy flow refill. I love the F701 and the F301. If i could find better refills I would look no further for a pen.
I really like the Parker jotter with the Schmidt easy flow refill. If I could fit the easy flow refil in a F301 I would look no further for an everyday carry pen.

[vcdgrips]

A fair bit bigger/thicker that the new 701 or parker jotter. A very smooth writer as well.

https://www.amazon.com/Pentel-EnerGel-Medium-Silver-BL407BP/dp/B0026ZPWZA/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=pentel+engergel&qid=1553701285&s=sporting-goods&sr=8-6

[Chuck Whitlock]

A fair bit bigger/thicker that the new 701 or parker jotter. A very smooth writer as well.

https://www.amazon.com/Pentel-EnerGel-Medium-Silver-BL407BP/dp/B0026ZPWZA/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=pentel+engergel&qid=1553701285&s=sporting-goods&sr=8-6

That looks nice, but unfortunately gel pens don't work well with multi-part forms.

[Gater]

Dropping this here for anyone interested--not sure anything would arrive in time for Xmas stocking stuffers:

40% off plus free shipping on orders over $10, code ZEBRA40

https://www.zebrapen.com/

[Medusa]

I really like the Parker jotter with the Schmidt easy flow refill. If I could fit the easy flow refil in a F301 I would look no further for an everyday carry pen.

Jotters are awesome. Inexpensive, classic design, , small, available in many colors The Parker Quinkflow is a nice insert, and I prefer it to the Schmidt, but if you want bomb proof write on anything anywhere, get a Fisher Space Pen refill for it with the little adapter for Parker.

[theJanitor]

My go to pen is the Rotring RapidProhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190119/1fbd1c1ad2075abe01c74423bb314d17.jpg. Heavy all steel, and so black it could be navy.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0055ZZQFY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_JwPqCbBF6T75N
JAD. Again, I like your style. My pen since college has been a Rotring trio, in chrome. Red,black/blue, and a pencil all in the footprint of a regular pen. Built like a tank, and I think it’s been discontinued

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191219/b8e7fb27a7f269cc6b4c01f523a8a44b.jpg


ETA: I looked back and I see that I posted this same pen back when this thread was new.

[camsdaddy]

JAD. Again, I like your style. My pen since college has been a Rotring trio, in chrome. Red,black/blue, and a pencil all in the footprint of a regular pen. Built like a tank, and I think it’s been discontinued

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191219/b8e7fb27a7f269cc6b4c01f523a8a44b.jpg


ETA: I looked back and I see that I posted this same pen back when this thread was new.
I'm hesitant to ask. Is this a click style pen?

[theJanitor]

I'm hesitant to ask. Is this a click style pen?

Yeah, click the tailcap to deploy a cartridge. Twist the barrel above the clip to retract. Rotate the pen horizontally to select which cartridge deploys. Cartridges are limited, but I'll take the tradeoff, for it's utility.


https://youtu.be/5AAGVwVpUoY

I have a black cartridge in place of the blue

[camsdaddy]

Yeah, click the tailcap to deploy a cartridge. Twist the barrel above the clip to retract. Rotate the pen horizontally to select which cartridge deploys. Cartridges are limited, but I'll take the tradeoff, for it's utility.


https://youtu.be/5AAGVwVpUoY
I don’t know if the pen or the fact you made a video to explain the pen is cooler.
Thank you

[Cool Breeze]

A fair bit bigger/thicker that the new 701 or parker jotter. A very smooth writer as well.

https://www.amazon.com/Pentel-EnerGel-Medium-Silver-BL407BP/dp/B0026ZPWZA/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=pentel+engergel&qid=1553701285&s=sporting-goods&sr=8-6I know people want pens to be used for defensive uses but let me say that the energel refill is the best there is out there. Smooth, non-goopy (like g2), ink dries on paper super quick, and doesn't dry up in refill body. This pen has it all.

ETA - the normal blue refill is waterproof too even though it doesn't say it is. No smearing whatsoever.

[JTQ]

For those that like the Fisher Cap-O-Matic pen...

For the LE guys, now available as a "Blue Line" https://www.spacepen.com/MatteBlackLawEnforcementCap-O-MaticSpacePen.aspx

For the pistol-forum.com "orange" folks, Rite in the Rain offers an orange model https://www.riteintherain.com/no-97-metal-pen

[Wyoming Shooter]

Gentlemen--Do any of you have experience with this pen from Everyman:https://everyman.co/? I'm intrigued. Thanks.

[critter]

I carry this one from Olight now. Sturdy, lightweight, and has a rechargeable light built in. Comes apart so that the light and pen may be used separately. Capless rollerball and comes with an extra refill. I dig it.

https://www.olightstore.com/o-pen-2-black.html

[camsdaddy]

Gentlemen--Do any of you have experience with this pen from Everyman:https://everyman.co/? I'm intrigued. Thanks.

I have not but I’ve been curious about it. They appear to do a good job advertising. I’ve heard mixed reviews but most were positive

[vcdgrips]

A twist the body energel in 0.7mm. Available in blk/silver/drk blue etc. at under 20 per. Much narrower in diameter the the metal barreled energel click pen


https://www.amazon.com/Pentel-EnerGel-Style-0-7mm-Medium/dp/B0776KVXG1/ref=asc_df_B0776KVXG1/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=242013179956&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=3429770762126589813&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9023227&hvtargid=pla-465099196213&psc=1

[That Guy]

I've been using a Rick Hinderer Knives Investigator Pen. I quite like it. Much smaller and more, well, pen-like than a lot of the overly aggressively designed tactical pens.

[Flamingo]

I really like my Tuff Writer mini click pen (https://www.tuffwriter.com/category-s/1843.htm). I think I have carried it for at least 6 years and I have only had one small problem with it which was rectified by the folks at Tuff Writer.

I am less likely to use it as a weapon now that I have gone through some training with Cecil, but when I purchased it I was flying commercial into and out of Afghanistan 3 times a year for several years and I wanted something I could get through security with no issues. When I was going through Qatar regularly they would give us a ration of shit of we were wearing what they considered "roughs"... I could never get a good answer on what was considered roughs from the Qataris.

I also like the fact that they are a small business and manufacture here in the USA. I am trying to purchase less from PRC and more from USA and other friendly nations.

[BillSWPA]

I really like my Tuff Writer mini click pen (https://www.tuffwriter.com/category-s/1843.htm). I think I have carried it for at least 6 years and I have only had one small problem with it which was rectified by the folks at Tuff Writer.

I am less likely to use it as a weapon now that I have gone through some training with Cecil, but when I purchased it I was flying commercial into and out of Afghanistan 3 times a year for several years and I wanted something I could get through security with no issues. When I was going through Qatar regularly they would give us a ration of shit of we were wearing what they considered "roughs"... I could never get a good answer on what was considered roughs from the Qataris.

I also like the fact that they are a small business and manufacture here in the USA. I am trying to purchase less from PRC and more from USA and other friendly nations.

Their retro click pens are the nicest tactical pens I have come across. I own both a brass version (the nicest looking one in my opinion) and a zirconium version, with the zirconium version being in my shirt pocket as I type this. If they do another run of titanium versions, I will likely get one.

They need to make the retro click a regular part of their product line.

There is absolutely nothing about the retro click line that identifies it as anything other than a high quality pen.

Edited to add: Tuffwriter now has brass retro-click pens on their website. https://www.tuffwriter.com/RCBRBRUSHEDMATTE-p/twp-rc-br-brushedmatte.htm

[SmokeJumper]

Gentlemen--Do any of you have experience with this pen from Everyman:https://everyman.co/? I'm intrigued. Thanks.

Great pen. I now have 2, one in black and one in gun-metal grey. Both write well, function well, positive click to deploy pen tip or retract it. I use one at home and one on my vest for work. I really like the Pilot G2 gel refills and this was the reason why I bought one to try. Bought them off of Amazon back in March. I have a tuff writer mini click that I tried a Parker gel refill in, but it didn’t write well, not nearly as good as the Pilot G2 refill. The Tuff Writer is better suited with a Fisher or Schmidt refill.
The only negative was the ink cartridge that the pens came with, neither one lasted very long and they didn’t write very smooth and consistent when compared to the Pilot G2 refills, just my experience. Buy one to try, it’s a lot cheaper than other pens out there since we’re all buying guns, Ammo and gear

[Wyoming Shooter]

Great pen. I now have 2, one in black and one in gun-metal grey. Both write well, function well, positive click to deploy pen tip or retract it. I use one at home and one on my vest for work. I really like the Pilot G2 gel refills and this was the reason why I bought one to try. Bought them off of Amazon back in March. I have a tuff writer mini click that I tried a Parker gel refill in, but it didn’t write well, not nearly as good as the Pilot G2 refill. The Tuff Writer is better suited with a Fisher or Schmidt refill.
The only negative was the ink cartridge that the pens came with, neither one lasted very long and they didn’t write very smooth and consistent when compared to the Pilot G2 refills, just my experience. Buy one to try, it’s a lot cheaper than other pens out there since we’re all buying guns, Ammo and gear

Having used two of these pens for about a month, I concur. Fit, finish, and function are excellent. They write well, are comfortable in the hand, and relatively light weight due to the aluminum body. I like. ELN

[Up1911Fan]

I have a few Hinderer's I really like.

[RevolverRob]

I'm not a "tactical" pen users. And despite a deep love affair with fountain pens, all of mine have ended up side lined for day-to-day stuff. In favor of the four-color Bic Click: https://www.amazon.com/BIC-4-Color-Ballpoint-Assorted-3-Count/dp/B002JFR8Q8/ref=mp_s_a_1_6?dchild=1&keywords=Bic+Four+Color&qid=1620898107&sr=8-6

These pens are still Made in France and Bic is still a French-owned company. I view items made in western Europe as the next best alternative to buying US. Particularly, UK, German, and French made stuff.

The pen bodies on these Bics are a nice diameter and they are robust enough to withstand hammering them into a 2x4 a few times without damage. The tips are too rounded to puncture, so you're opting for a pocket stick kind of effect. Flip side these fly right through ANY security screening.

And four colors is actually far more useful than you might think. I got onto this kick a few years ago. The different colors are very useful for drawing cartoons of different concepts and being able to quickly identify different parts of the concept due to coloration. Similarly I often make lists in blue or black and check them off with red and green, using the alternate colors to give me feedback on the status of things without having to remember everything I intended with just a black check mark.

After more than a decade if trying to make fancy writing utensils work for me, the stupid Bic Four-Color turned out to be the right choice for me. Plus the blue and white makes it much harder to lose the pen inside my black canvas briefcase.

[guymontag]

Thanks to everyone who suggested the Zebra F701 - nice heft to it, just fine at writing, and quite inconspicuous in the office (as a SD tool).

[Joe Mac]

Thanks to everyone who suggested the Zebra F701 - nice heft to it, just fine at writing, and quite inconspicuous in the office (as a SD tool).

I like this one; it joins a Surefire Backup as my carry-on items.

[Willard]

So apparently there is an All-Metal STEEL F-701. Hack is unnecessary and you can get an all steel pen for about $7. Seems a lot of people don't like the Fisher pen mod, so existing refill ok. Am I missing a key piece of info here? Thanks all.

[vcdgrips]

17 ish shipped 3 ct.

Zebra F-701 Ballpoint Pens, Stainless Steel with Knurled Grip, Pk of 3 Pens https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KCY5OC8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_QC7Q3HBZJKZEG0RKCHPY?_ encoding=UTF8&psc=1

[Chuck Whitlock]

17 ish shipped 3 ct.

Zebra F-701 Ballpoint Pens, Stainless Steel with Knurled Grip, Pk of 3 Pens https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KCY5OC8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_QC7Q3HBZJKZEG0RKCHPY?_ encoding=UTF8&psc=1

I use these at work with blue ink refills.

Running around town on my own time, I tote a Skillcraft pilot's pen. Not really 'tactical', but a nice, compact red/black pen/mechanical pencil suitable for signing receipts or doodling on napkins.

https://www.amazon.com/SKILCRAFT-Aviator-Multi-function-Medium-7520-01-564-9906/dp/B001KKPGHQ/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=skilcraft+pilot+pen&qid=1621556627&s=office-products&sr=1-2

[Nephrology]

And four colors is actually far more useful than you might think. I got onto this kick a few years ago. The different colors are very useful for drawing cartoons of different concepts and being able to quickly identify different parts of the concept due to coloration. Similarly I often make lists in blue or black and check them off with red and green, using the alternate colors to give me feedback on the status of things without having to remember everything I intended with just a black check mark.

This is how I study for board/shelf exams. I usually write out the correct answer/explanation in green, the concept I got wrong/explanation in red, pertinent extra info in blue... it's helpful for the weird framework you need to impose on the knowledge you're responsible for on these exams but I dunno if Id apply it to anything else I do.

My favorite pen is the 0.5mm pilot G2 because they're cheap, write nice, and are click pens. accidentally ordered the 0.7mm and it's kind of a problem, my handwriting sucks so badly I really need the fine tip to keep myself legible on paper. Oh well.

[BobM]

I'm not a "tactical" pen users. And despite a deep love affair with fountain pens, all of mine have ended up side lined for day-to-day stuff. In favor of the four-color Bic Click: https://www.amazon.com/BIC-4-Color-Ballpoint-Assorted-3-Count/dp/B002JFR8Q8/ref=mp_s_a_1_6?dchild=1&keywords=Bic+Four+Color&qid=1620898107&sr=8-6

These pens are still Made in France and Bic is still a French-owned company. I view items made in western Europe as the next best alternative to buying US. Particularly, UK, German, and French made stuff.

The pen bodies on these Bics are a nice diameter and they are robust enough to withstand hammering them into a 2x4 a few times without damage. The tips are too rounded to puncture, so you're opting for a pocket stick kind of effect. Flip side these fly right through ANY security screening.

And four colors is actually far more useful than you might think. I got onto this kick a few years ago. The different colors are very useful for drawing cartoons of different concepts and being able to quickly identify different parts of the concept due to coloration. Similarly I often make lists in blue or black and check them off with red and green, using the alternate colors to give me feedback on the status of things without having to remember everything I intended with just a black check mark.

After more than a decade if trying to make fancy writing utensils work for me, the stupid Bic Four-Color turned out to be the right choice for me. Plus the blue and white makes it much harder to lose the pen inside my black canvas briefcase.

I bought one at Walmart today, the green has been replaced with purple on the Walmart version.

[Smoke]

Hi Gents, I'm also of the opinion of not really being into tactical pens but rather a pen that doesn't break and has some weight.
I tend to carry in the pants pocket, so pens under 6" that aren't push button and not too pointy work for me.

I haven't found the perfect pen yet but I like Karas Kustoms Render K in brass or copper, I do have to check for the pen unscrewing from time to time.
https://karaskustoms.com/product/render-k-pen/#body-options

The brass Bic pen series from Elegant Utility (also on Etsy), you may have to improvise a pen cap and clip
http://elegantutility.com/product-tag/bic-pen/

The Boker Redux Inkless Pen (more like a pencil, available in brass or titanium, I got the latter)
https://bladeops.com/boker-plus-redox-titanium-inkless-pen/

[Wyoming Shooter]

I'm pleased with my 2 Grafton pens. It's time for some refills. Here are my choices:

"Versatile with Refills: The Grafton Pen comes with one . 7 mm black cartridge but it also takes Bic Gel, Uniball Jetstream, Pilot G2, Fisher Space SPR4, Rite in the Rain, Monteverde Ballpoint, Parker Gel, and Parker Ballpoint cartridges."

Your suggestions please. Thanks!

[camsdaddy]

I'm pleased with my 2 Grafton pens. It's time for some refills. Here are my choices:

"Versatile with Refills: The Grafton Pen comes with one . 7 mm black cartridge but it also takes Bic Gel, Uniball Jetstream, Pilot G2, Fisher Space SPR4, Rite in the Rain, Monteverde Ballpoint, Parker Gel, and Parker Ballpoint cartridges."

Your suggestions please. Thanks!

I like Schmidt easy flow 9000 in my Parkers. I also like the Parker gel. I may be the only person in the world who is not a huge fan of the space pen. I find them globby.

[vcdgrips]

+1
"I like Schmidt easy flow 9000 in my Parkers" I have 6 or 7 Parker Jotters as the are a go to "tactical pen" for me. They all get a Schmidt EF 9000 when their OEM cartridge goes blank.

Of the refills listed, I like the Uni-Ball far more than the G2.

I too, think the Fisher SP refill runs globby.

[JTQ]

"Versatile with Refills: The Grafton Pen comes with one . 7 mm black cartridge but it also takes Bic Gel, Uniball Jetstream, Pilot G2, Fisher Space SPR4, Rite in the Rain, Monteverde Ballpoint, Parker Gel, and Parker Ballpoint cartridges."

That is pretty versatile. The Fisher and the Rite-in-the-Rain are the same refill, so whichever is easier to source or cheaper. As mentioned, the ink does gloop a bit, though my newer pens do this less than the older ones.

I haven't used the Bic Gel, or the Monteverde ball point.

The Uni-ball Jetstream is a ball point and pretty smooth writer for a ball point.

I don't care for the Pilot G2, the ink smears easy. Pilot has the same problem with their roller ball ink. In roller balls and gel pens, Uni-Ball has the best ink.

I like Parker refills, their ball points are much cleaner than the Fisher pens, but their gel ink is only OK.

[Archer1440]

I’ve carried these for years. I bought a few in Japan.

Pilot Capless. (Sold in the USA as “Vanishing Point”).

The ‘mechanical watch’ of pens.

(And capable of very nasty things, if absolutely needed.)

[rob_s]

Thought I’d bump this for no particular reason other than I’m sitting at an airport bar and the topic popped into my head.

[Clusterfrack]

Surefire, Hinderer, Space Pen

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220721/308183696219c8d275eda6d213caff29.jpg

[Notorious E.O.C.]

I can't believe I complained about a lack of fountain pen content when this thread was younger and then missed Archer1440's contribution.

91813

Pilot Vanishing Points + Galen Leather A5 zippered folio.

[rob_s]

Surefire, Hinderer, Space Pen

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220721/308183696219c8d275eda6d213caff29.jpg

It appears to me that the surefire was otpriginallyna twist pen but now is colicky-style. Is that right?

Current production?

https://www.amazon.com/SureFire-Writing-Pen-Clicking-Mechanism/dp/B004XPGZM0

[Flamingo]

91838

I like Tuffwriter (https://www.tuffwriter.com/). They are well made and stout. I think I have have had the larger pen for more than 10 years, and the smaller one at least 8 years.

They are clicky pens.

[Clusterfrack]

It appears to me that the surefire was otpriginallyna twist pen but now is colicky-style. Is that right?

Current production?

https://www.amazon.com/SureFire-Writing-Pen-Clicking-Mechanism/dp/B004XPGZM0

I have the original SF twist pen. It feels like it could last for generations. Not sure why they went to a "colicky" [sic] style...

[Moylan]

I have the original SF twist pen. It feels like it could last for generations. Not sure why they went to a "colicky" [sic] style...
People couldn't stop crying about not having the colicky style.

[Up1911Fan]

Reviving this thread for a quick question. I've been carrying a Hinderer Investigator pen for a couple years and like the pen and the size ( approximately 5"), but call me lazy, I'm sick of unscrewing the cap everytime I want to use it. I'm looking at two bolt action pens similar in size, I don't want a click pen. Does anyone have a Microtech Kyroh mini or a Heretic Thoth? Thoughts on them if you do?

[Bergeron]

I have the original SF twist pen. It feels like it could last for generations. Not sure why they went to a "colicky" [sic] style...

Dang. I'm sorry to see that the twist-pen is gone. I had one back a decade ago, when I was working in a field R&D role, and I loved how tough that thing was. The pocket clip didn't last that long, though, before it snapped off.

I don't like the "clicky" pens, because I keep "clicking" them, and it's a pattern of my own behavior that annoys ne.

[Super77]

While not marketed explicitly as “tactical”, Tactile Turn (https://tactileturn.com/) makes pens that check all the boxes. I like the “smooth operator” slim bolt action in titanium, personally. They have some other awesome designs with a few different mechanisms.

[ragnar_d]

If that’s the case, then that is one happy day for me. All my 701s have plastic guts and that frustrated me to the point of casing up my own all steel pen. I’ve been carrying a beat up old modified zebra 402/701, but it will be nice to be able to order it off the shelf now.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Well, 4 years later and I couldn't even tell you where those pens are. Lost in the last 2-3 moves since then or something. Right now, I'm more likely to have a Parker Jotter or Everyman "Grafton". I'm a big fan of the Grafton pens/pencils for the reasons mentioned above. Being able to use a G2 refill in them is very nice. The Rite in the Rain note pads I tote around aren't fans of the gel, so I tend to have a Fisher "Bullet" (https://www.spacepen.com/400B.aspx) pen or a Pokka Pen (https://pokkapens.com/) handy as well. And this doesn't include the stash of pens in my backpack for work because the dang things always grow legs in an office.