Top products from r/pens

A thinner pen on the cheaper side, hmm. Any of the Paper Mates line in fine point work very well for the pricepoint. There's the 100RT, 300RT, and 500RT/550RT, and the 700RT. I've had a hard time finding the 700RT in fine point (.7), but I believe they do make it. The RT stands for retractable by the way, if that makes a huge difference. I tend to lose caps easily so I prefer all my pens in retractable. The Pilot B2P in fine point (.7) and the Pilot "Better Ballpoint" fine point both use the same refill, but I prefer the B2P, which writes incredibly. All of the ones I just named have a pretty thin body to them as well. If you wanna spend a couple extra dollars I always feel the Zebra F-701 is an absolute must for every day carry. It's got a super heavy feel to it and you can snip down most thin refills to fit into it. The refill that comes in the 701 is okay, but not the greatest, although I would still recommend it. It's all metal, even the grip which is metal. I'm a tense person too and grip my pens tight and I love the feel of the 701. That's just a few to look around on the internet for. I'm super particular about my pens so if you get to try any of those and are looking to go in a different direction youre always welcome to message me. I'm not into fountain pens at all, basically just the cheap stuff, and with a little ingenuity you can combine some cheap parts to make some pretty nice stuff. As far as how it looks, if you check any of those out and like/dislike certain looks I could probably help there too. A super cheap pen you can get by the dozen is the Bic "Soft feel" which I personally love the look of but dont be fooled, the "soft grip" isn't all that soft but it writes okay for a "by the box" pen. The last one I could say off the top of my head is the Pentel RSVP in a fine point. It has a cap unfortunately, but it really does write well, looks super basic, and I'm sure they make a retractable version I haven't seen. Gimme a sec and I can link you to some that I mentioned.

Edit - Links: Ill keep updating.

Retractable Pentel RSVP in black (.7) - Pentel RSVP Super RT Ballpoint Pen, (0.7mm) Fine Line, Black Ink, Box of 12 (BX477-A) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079Q9VZ4F/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_PUPIDbP272DEN

Zebra F-701 (.8) - Zebra 29411 F-701 Ballpoint Stainless Steel Retractable Pen, Fine Point, 0.8mm, Black Ink, 1-Count https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002L6RB80/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_TWPIDb0QM0M7H

Bic Atlantis Exact (.7 but writes way thinner) - BIC Atlantis Pen 0.7mm, Pack of 3 - VCGNP31-AST https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01F6B60UG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_VXPIDbKTK07BB

Pilot B2P ballpoint (.7 but again seems thinner. Careful though, they make a B2P gel so make sure you read descriptions and check packaging if possible) - Pilot Bottle-2-Pen (B2P) - Retractable Ball Point Pens Made from Recycled Bottles (5 Count) Fine Point, 2 Black Ink/2 Blue Ink/1 Red Ink, Refillable, Comfortable Grip (32614) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007ZYF26G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_JZPIDbFKEPGTP

Pilot "Better" ballpoint (.7, uses the same refill as the B2P) - Pilot Retractable Ballpoint roller pens, Black & Blue colors Fine point, 10 Count https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CJCY6P5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_20PIDbH8JHY61

Paper Mates RT 300 (can find in .7 pretty easily) - Paper Mate InkJoy 300RT Retractable Ballpoint Pens, Fine Point, Black, Box of 12 (1951360) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EB4IZN4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_M2PIDbSHMC6V6

Paper Mates RT 700 (have only been able to find in 1.0 but pretty sure there's .7's out there. To me it's kinda girly looking but you can swap it into a Paper Mates Flexgrip Ultra which has a nice, classic look

RT700 - Paper Mate InkJoy 700RT Retractable Ballpoint Pens, Medium Point, White Barrel, Black Ink, Box of 12 (1951347) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EB4KBVI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_C5PIDb4JEMV5Q

Flexgrip Ultra (not Flexgrip Elite, unless you like that one better) Paper Mate Flexgrip Ultra Stick Medium Point Ballpoint Pen, 12-Count https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00006IE6H/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_T6PIDb5KPA4T3

Bic "Soft Feel" (only been able to find in 1.0/Medium but I'm sure they make a fine as well, though I heard it's not great) - BIC 8373971 Soft Feel Retractable Ballpoint Pen, Medium Point, Black, 12-Count https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00006IE82/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_E7PIDbBCG8T5R

Give me your thoughts when you have time or if I missed any you wanna see.

Here is a sample and abbreviated review of the 10 Parker-compatible G2-sized ballpoint refills (and 1 gel refill) that I've tried in my Parker Jotter XL and my Ohto Rays pens. They are mostly blue because that is the color I typically prefer. They range from extra fine to extra bold, but are mostly in the fine-medium range. I have fairly small handwriting, so I very much prefer pens with 0.38mm to 0.5mm lines. And I tend to write without much down pressure on the page. (For this page, I tried to be consistent with my writing pressure so that I didn't compensate for any refill's potential for skipping.) Paper is Rhodia No. 16 A5 Lined (8mm).

(I have not included refills from Kaweco, Monteverde, Pelikan, Rotring, or Visconti for a variety of reasons, whether it was price, expected reliability, or lack of fine tips.)

So here's the rundown. Standard disclaimers apply, and your mileage may vary.

[1 & 2] Parker Quinkflow Medium 1.0 and Fine 0.8: The Medium came with my my Jotter XL. They are both adequate and write smoothly. But to me, they feel a bit slow – like I can feel the drag from the ink viscosity. If I had to choose a Parker refill, I'd pick the Fine. At $1.25 each (6-pack was $7.50), it's the least expensive refill option I've seen.

[3] Faber-Castell Medium: Like the Parkers, it's adequate. The blue is a little lighter/brighter than – and I like the color a little better than – the Parker Quinkflow. But I don't know if I can point out any particular reason why someone would pick this over some others. One refill costs $5.00.

[4 & 5] Fisher Space Pen Black Fine (SPR4F) and Blue Fine (SPR1F): Some people will say that the Fishers write like garbage. I didn't think they were that bad at all. They're not my first choice, but they could be a solid third (first and second preferences are coming up). This is a top choice for many people looking for a solid EDC refill. So if you need to write underwater, or in extreme climates, this is the refill for you! These refills fit in the Fisher Space Pen, of course, but Fisher include the adapter to add the necessary length and ratcheting endcap to fit the Parkers. With that adapter, these are a tiny bit longer than the standard Parker refill, but that doesn't seem to matter. However, prepare to pay $5.00 for a refill.

[6] Schmidt easyFlow 9000 Medium: Lots of people like this refill. I'm slightly ambivalent about it. It does write quite smoothly and quickly, and the color is a dark blue. But it only comes in a Medium tip, so it writes a bit too broad for my tastes (i.e. tiny handwriting). If you don't have small, compact writing, this may very well be a refill that you enjoy quite a lot. This is another $5.00 refill.

[7] Schmidt P900 Fine: This is my #2 refill. It might not be as "exotic" or as talked-up as its fancier brother, the easyFlow 9000. But I think that this is really good for a ballpoint refill. It's a fine tip that writes smoothly and easily. It's a $3.00 refill, so it's not as expensive as many others. And, it's what I keep in my Jotter XL.

[8] Schneider Slider 755 XB (Extra Bold): Even though this is an extra broad, and easyFlow 9000 is a medium, I think the two write a very similar line. Overall, I don't think there is anything exceptional about this refill. If you like a slightly broader line, this is an acceptable choice. I like the color, and if they made a Fine or Extra Fine version of this, this probably would be my #2. I paid $6.50 for a 2-pack.

[9 & 10] Uni Jetstream SXR-600-05 (0.5mm) and SXR-600-38 (0.38mm): This is my #1 refill. Uni's Jetstream ink is fantastic for ballpoint ink. It's lower viscosity makes for a more effortless writing experience. And both sizes allow for very fine lines. My only gripe is that, for now, they only offer black refills. When they ship a blue refill, I'm probably going to buy a dozen. If you have small writing and/or prefer very fine lines, and you don't mind black ink, these might be the one of your best bets. I paid $10 for each 4-pack. I keep a 0.38mm in my Ohto Rays pen.

[11] Ohto Flash Dry Gel 0.5mm: This is the only gel in the lot, and I've only included it because it came with my Ohto Rays pen. It writes very smoothly, and dries very quickly. In terms of writing experience, I think it could be compared to pens like the Pilot Precise V5. You can see that it's version of 0.5mm is still thicker than Uni's Jetstream version of 0.5mm. But you do get a very dark, saturated black. I paid $3.90 for the entire pen, but the refill by itself is basically $2.00.

If you're looking for a new refill for your Parker-compatible pen, I hope you found this informative and helpful.

Cheers!

​

^([EDIT: Changed the way I numbered the list because some browsers/apps translated some of the items into numbered lists, always starting at 1. So it looked I had: 1&2, 1, 4&5, 1, 2, 3... Weird.])

I have a suggestion, not sure how you’ll like it.

TL; DR Pentel Energel Style. It’s a twist action metal pen, but the satisfying feeling it provides and wide range of refill compatibility make it a worthwhile purchase for around $15.



I am a long-time user of Pilot g2 and Signo 207/307 refills in 0.5. They are great, and easily/cheaply acquired when lost. I also had the issue of pen bodies breaking. (Strong grip, maybe I needed a pencil case too?

Anyway, I went a slightly different route. Pentel makes their Energel refills (gel) in a needle-style form, which is comparable in size with Pilot g2 and signo refills. (These refills are super cheap, like 10 bucks for a pack of 12. I buy them often, due to constant sales and deals.)

Here’s a link to the refills: Pentel Refill for Energel (0.5mm black, needle tip)

My favorite pen body is actually the one that the Pentel refills came with, the Pentel Energel Style. Despite the funny name, it’s a metal pen with a satisfying retraction, and can fit g2, signo, Energel, Jetstream, and more types of refills.

Here’s a link to the pen. Pentel Energel Style Pen (0.7mm), black barrel

*this pen comes with a 0.7mm refill, but it would fit any refill similar to the signo and G2.

I much prefer this body to that of the signo or Pilot. It’s powder-coated metal, giving the pen a balanced and weighty feeling.

Hope this helps!

Zebra F-701: Nice weight and grip, and the ballpoint isn't bad. I recommend to mod it to be even better.

Fisher Space Pen: The cream of the crop when it comes to ballpoint inks, Fisher pens are really nice. There's lots of variety, so check around for the style you like.

Baoer Skywalker: is a good not-knockoff of the Montblanc Starwalker. I have one, and with good ink in it it's a nice pen. The clip is a little flimsy but I like it, nice and heavy.

Jinhao 599: Heavy and solid pen, but a little cheap feeling at times. It's a rollerball, so I don't know if it takes ballpoint refills.

Vktech Tactical Pen: I have one of these and it's very solid but lightweight too. The ink it comes with is garbage, but it fits any standard Parker refill. I have a Parker gel refill and it writes great. There are lots of other "tactical" pens out there made of steel and aluminum, but this is the most affordable option.

Hope that helps!

there are some pens made to accommodate common gel pen refills like the uniball and g2 refill.

I think there are some in the same price range as the jotter, maybe the zebra? but maybe not.

They are thin stainless steel.

But there are other much more impressive and expensive ones too. The tactile turn is pretty awesome, 7 times the price of the jotter though.

I would look for an all metal click pen like the jotter, in the same price range as the jotter, that is compatible with the g2 refills.

I really like cheap but functional. It will write just as well as a $70 tactile turn.

here's a zebra for $8, there are different models but I don't know what refills they take, the zebra gel refills are excellent anyway.

https://www.amazon.com/Zebra-Ballpoint-Stainless-Retractable-Pen/dp/B002L6RB80

To start off, check out the Uniball Jetstream Premier or the UniballJetstream Alpha.

I recommend this because of numerous reviews that support the Jetstream as one of the smoothest/best writing pens available. The ink dries almost immediately and the ink soaks into the page (Uniball says that this is good for signing important documents and avoids forgery), but the ink doesn't leak through. I think these are definitely worth checking out, I have the cheaper plastic cap version and it writes well.

If you prefer a different aesthetic but want that Jetstream ink, you will have to look into whether certain pens accept certain ink cartridges.

Edit: I'll also add the Parker Jotter as well. It's /r/pens approved and it looks more professional than the Jetstreams.

I have some of those myself and I agree they are really nice. I was lucky to have my work put me up for a meeting at the RC and well lets just say I kept "losing" the pens each day, so I am good for a while. :)

Personally I hate the cross refill though. Some pens I have that are close would be:

https://www.amazon.com/Pentel-EnerGel-Style-Medium-Barrel/dp/B0776M8VY1

not quite as thin but a nice feel and comes in black. Gel is a bonus for me.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07K7YJFZK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1

again not quite as thin but it is a jet stream refill so it is super smooth and not gel if you don't like that.

I think either is a really close runner up to the RC ones and in my mind better because they aren't cross refills.

Great! Okay, let's see... Nice pens that fit the Pilot G-2...


--Machine Era Co. (solid brass): http://www.machine-era.com/collections/catalog/products/machine-era-pen-solid-brass (I have this one and love it.)

--Karas Kustoms G2 Bolt: http://karaskustoms.com/pens/the-bolt-449.html (also available in brass and copper)

--Pilot Cavalier Gel Pen: http://www.amazon.com/Pilot-Cavalier-Hi-Tec-C-Ballpoint-LCA-3SRC4-BL/dp/B001AX5URY/ref=sr_1_1

--Pilot Metropolitan Gel Pen: http://www.amazon.com/Pilot-Metropolitan-Collection-Classic-91207/dp/B009X9Z2DY/ref=sr_1_1

--Pilot G2 Limited: http://www.amazon.com/Pilot-Limited-Retractable-Roller-31536/dp/B00FACLJBM/ref=sr_1_18


In terms of handmade wood pens, here are some from Etsy that take standard rollerball refills and should take your refill!

--https://www.etsy.com/listing/192177602/pen-presimo-rollerball-ink-pen-exotic

--https://www.etsy.com/listing/160612352/rollerball-style-pen-with-chrome-accents


In terms of the thinnest of these... I think you'd like the Machine Era Co. and Pilot Cavaliers -- they are nice and slim, with a decent amount of heft -- both are well-made.

Have fun shopping!

One of my favorite refills! They fit in anything that an Energel, Uni Signo 207/307, or Zebra Sarasa will fit in to. I currently use one in a Zebra Sarasa Grand everyday and I’ve also used one in a Pentel Energel Alloy body.

With some minor trimming they’ll also fit in most metal bodies that fit a Pilot G2.

• Zebra Sarasa Grand - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0771SMQ9Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_gf5SBb343A7KR
  
• Pentel EnerGel Alloy - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0026ZPWZA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_eg5SBbJY4A8AW

I recommend this pen so often I feel like I work for the company, but it’s just that good. Lightweight titanium that will hold up better than the Grafton. It’s thin, but the knurling gives it a great grip as opposed to the smooth tapered end of a Jotter. It takes Energels up to 0.7mm.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072Q8ZR5K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_uZ5OCb1SPP4Y3

I have a Retro51 Tornado and it's a great pen... I don't love it, though. The refill feathers on some paper (yes, I know I can change the refill!), and it sort of wiggles in the tip of the pen when I write which bothers me. I recently got a Rotring Rapid Pro ballpoint and am really enjoying it. It has a nice weight without being overly heavy, the refill is smooth and free of ballpoint boogers, and I personally love the knurling on the grip.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozaA05OvD8c - The Jetstream SXR-600, theSchmidt EasyFlow 9000 (hybrid inks), the Itoya gel, and the Monteverde gel refills (softroll ballpoint ink also) are Parker G2 compatible all come in 1.0mm/broad tip except the Jetstream and the Schmidt. With slight mods they should fit the F-701. If you like a needle-tip, then choose the Itoya. I am sure others fit but IMO, the Jetstream is the best writing hybrid and either the Monteverde or Itoya are good writers.

Great pen! I have the same one and I love it! Best Parker-style refill, especially at 0.5mm, is the Jetstream SXR-600. Downsides are it only comes in black, and they are kind of pricey. But there is a 4 pack on amazon for $20.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07L8K32HG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_qocxDbM7HN3J6

I'd say look at Fisher Space Pens, I don't have one (cause I'm not into ballpoints) but these seem really nice:

[Fisher 400B Space Bullet Space Pen - Matte Black] (https://www.amazon.com/Fisher-400B-Space-Bullet-Pen/dp/B000WGD13U/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1466379244&sr=8-1&keywords=fisher+space+pen)

Fisher Space Pen Men's Cap-O-Matic Space Pen

The Lamy 2000 isn't flashy, but it definitly looks expensive, personally if you like that pen save up and get the fountain pen version, its more worth it than the ballpoint in my opinion...

I know this thread is a week old, but in the chance that you haven't made a decision yet, I would like to recommend the Pentel Energel Style(or Philography, same pen, different name basically and the philography comes with a cheap little case). It uses the same ink as the Pentel Energel disposable pen you show that she likes, but it is a classier pen body and only runs $10-20 depending on where you purchase it. I have seen them on ebay for $9 each or 2 for $18. On Amazon they usually run $15-20 each. I've used $800+ pens(that I didn't own), and would prefer my Energel Style over anything.

​

Some links to consider (I'm not affiliated with any of them):

https://www.amazon.com/Pentel-EnerGel-Style-Medium-Barrel/dp/B0776M8VY1/ref=sr_1_48?keywords=pentel+energel+style+.7&qid=1562303647&s=office-products&sr=1-48

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Pentel-EnerGel-Style-Premium-Gel-Pen-Black-Med-Point-0-7mm-2-pens-Black-White/133093443241?epid=13023641291&hash=item1efcfcc6a9:g:UgQAAOSwK3lcu8uB

Pilot Metropolitan Collection Fountain Pen, Black Barrel, Classic Design, Fine Nib, Black Ink (91111) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KRPFD96/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ClLyCbE11EHDE (comes with converter, and personal favorite)

Pilot Kakuno Fine-Nib Fountain Pen, White Body Soft Blue Cap Body (FKA-1SR-SLF) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IOOOBU4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_emLyCbX5CXBY8 (takes con-50 converter)

(25 u.s. dollars) Pilot Explorer Fountain Pen Gift Box, Fine Nib, Gray Barrel, 1-Pack, Black Ink (12271) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KBSLWCZ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_9mLyCbABH6FRS (get con-40 for this one, or syringe and refill cartridge)

Platinum Fountain Pen, Preppy, Fine Nib, Black (PPQ-200-#1) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001H0CEM4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_lrLyCbFE357BE (just get an o-ring and eyedropper convert this one)


For all the pilots get the refill cartridges at Staples cheaper than online.

Good (cheap) ink brands are noodlers, waterman's, diamine, and Parker.

Also r/fountainpens is a good resource.

Regular pens

Tombow Airpress 0.7mm Ball Point Pen, Full Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0047Z24IU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_-xLyCbH5FAXT9 (pressurized can even write upside down)

Zebra F-701 Stainless Steel Ballpoint Retractable Pen, Black Ink, Fine Point, 2 Pack (29411) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0141DN1CA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_SyLyCb6MJMDZ4

Pilot FriXion Ball 0.7mm Erasable Gel Pens, Fine Point, Black Ink, Pack Of 6 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019OZVV6I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_XzLyCb98B993R (erasable)

Pentel EnerGel Deluxe RTX Gel Ink Pens, 0.7 Millimeter Metal Tip, Assorted Colors, 6 Pack (BL77BP6M) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0012G9VNS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_NALyCbV2QVSTV (disposable cheaper at Staples to)

Parker Jotter Stainless Steel Ballpoint Pen, Medium Point, Black Ink https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0017D5WXY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_UBLyCbX0J93DW (Again Staples)

Anyone else can and should add on to this if you want to.

How about a Zebra F701 and add a Fisher Space Pen refill. The pen body is well built and pretty cheap and the refill is literally good enough to write in space. For something more classy you can get a Parker Jotter which also fits the space pen refill but has a pretty good refill itself.

Dr grips aren't all that thick, the grip isn't that soft and the refill is meh. I'm in the same boat with cramping. If you want a pen for all day writing check out the alpha gel jetstream from jetpens super comfy and super smooth or [Here's one for $14 on amazon prime! :D]
(http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001BYNGGO) such an amazing pen and so worth it, one of the only ballpoints I use.

Thanks! I’ve seen it mentioned a few times that the point size writes smaller than what they’re labeled as? I previously was using a 0.5 and 0.38 Pilot G2’s that I liked the point size of. Not sure which Jetstream size would be around in that area. Maybe I’ll just have to get both as well! :)

Just to be sure, these are the correct ones?

https://www.amazon.com/JETSTREAM-PRIME-Twist-Mechanism-Accessory/dp/B07L8K32HG/ref=mp_s_a_1_fkmr1_1?keywords=uniball%2Bjetstream%2Bsxr%2B600&qid=1573239606&sr=8-1-fkmr1&th=1&psc=1

Sure. This pen is amazing ergonomically and hella cheap (shaped much like rotring with knurled grip and stainless steel construction), BUT: it has two drawbacks. One is the awful stock ink that smudges, and the other is the plastic clicky that squeaks. So, several posters took it upon themselves to remedy these problems.


Firstly, everything on the pen is metal except for one part of the pen; the retractable "clicker" - weird, right? The plastic parts make it squeak whenever you bring the pen in or out. Thankfully, another zebra pen DOES have the metal clicker! The rest of the pen's construction is not much to write home about, but that's unimportant. You just need that metal clicker construction.


Secondly, the ink. The stock ink is pretty bad and is prone to smudging. Once again, thankfully, the fisher space pen insert will fit once you remove a small plastic part at the front of the f-701.


An anon that I think posts here made a walkthrough of the mod process here, so if you follow it you will yourself become the very owner of a Space Zebra F-7401!


This will leave you with a great fully metal pen that also has an ergonomic knurled grip and that makes use of the pressurized space ink!

They will not work with the G2s, but these are pretty awesome refills that WILL work.

6 Pack - Schmidt easyFLOW 9000 - Black Ink https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0025ZX11S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_LiFVCbJV6GC1R

A friend gifted me a Parker IM he didn't use, and for $12, I'm having a hard time finding something better.

I've heard mixed reviews of how well Parker refills write, but with so many Parker-style refills to choose from (I've heard the Schmidt easyFLOW 9000 is great), you should be able to put together something you like pretty cheap. And it's metal and clicky.

OP thought they were getting this:
rOtring Rapid PRO Retractable Ballpoint Technical Drawing Pen, Medium Point, Matte Black, Blue Ink (1904292) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0055ZZQFY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_9Cs8Ab1HWKF0H

But ordered the pencil version. They are pretty cool. My pen is on the way and I’m super excited for it.

Let me tell you the Legend of the Jetstream!
A hybrid ink specifically built to be as smooth as a gel pen and as quick drying as a ballpoint.
A cool metal body with a grip that will keep you comfortable writing for hours on end.
I present to you: The Jetstream Alpha Gel, a durable and fairly cheap pen that uses some fantastic ink and is comfortable for an uncomfortable amount of time!

Wow, this is such a perfect fit for OPs requests:

​

\> The ink had to dry within five seconds and be guaranteed not to smear or blot. Printed on paper, the ink had to withstand being submerged underwater for 48 hours and two doses of chemical bleach.

\> the pen’s unusually slight size — 5 and 1/8 inches long

Here's the amazon link for the fine point, for the lazy ones: https://www.amazon.com/Skilcraft-Government-Retractable-Point-7520-00-935-7135/dp/B0055KSNYK

Pentel Energel RT Alloy. Silver. Great EDC pen.


https://www.amazon.com/Pentel-EnerGel-Medium-Silver-BL407BP/dp/B0026ZPWZA?th=1


Have Retro 51 Albert set as well. Love 'em.

The Easy flow 9000 is very good as stated by another redditer, however I personally like the fine space pen refill which comes with an adapter to fit parker pens.

A little higher on the price range you mentioned but I've enjoyed the Pilot Precise V5 line of pens. They come in a variety of colours, pack sizes, and they're fine pointed which I fine handy in my line of work where I have to take a lot of notes in a day.

Pilot Precise V5 RT Retractable Rolling Ball Pens, Extra Fine Point, Black Ink, Dozen Box -26062

I would definitely recommend the Rite in the Rain pen or the Fisher Space NonReflective Military cap-o-matic

https://www.amazon.com/Rite-Rain-Weatherproof-Black-Clicker/dp/B000QBPZKS/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=23G1I5MLT9K23&keywords=rite+in+the+rain+pen&qid=1554850746&s=office-products&sprefix=rite+in%2Coffice-products%2C177&sr=1-1-spons&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/Fisher-NonReflective-Military-Matic-SM4B/dp/B001NXDFC8/ref=sr_1_4?crid=23G1I5MLT9K23&keywords=rite+in+the+rain+pen&qid=1554850746&s=office-products&sprefix=rite+in%2Coffice-products%2C177&sr=1-4

They're very similar and I have the rite in the rain and it's a great all-metal retractable pen.

Not capped but the Pentel Energel RT Alloy would feel at home in big hands.

The Sheaffer 300 is my favorite "big" fountain pen. You may like the roller ball. If I am not mistaken you can use a G2 refill in them without modification. Unfortunately I only have the fountain pen, but it works in a sheaffer aggio rollerball I have and both take the sheaffer slim refill.

Zebra F-701 with F-402 action. I put the 402 nose on mine, with a blue refill.
Makes me wish I had non-marring pliers - the threading seemed to be different from the two pens and I wish it turned out nicer.

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Like these https://www.amazon.com/JETSTREAM-PRIME-Mechanism-Accessory-0-38mm/dp/B07L8M8LZB ?

I typically write on normal copy paper (signing documents) or in my moleskin notebooks. Is there anything slightly cheaper than the above that you’d recommend?

Thanks for the insight!

My roommate had an Apollo with the same problem. If you want the same pen design with a more sturdy and durable shell, I'd recommend the matte black, which is made of full brass instead of having a bunch of plastic parts (it therefore has the weight of a good pen). It's served me pretty well.

Man, do I have a pen for you.

Parker Jotter with a rollerball refill is THE SHIT. I keep two, a black one and a blue one, with matching ink inside them. It's a clicker, a good one.

Here's the pen

Here's the refill

to clarify, I was asking about felt tip pens similar to this paper mate specifically, not pens in general.

but i usually write with [whatever] or, if i have one with me, a Parker Jotter in stainless steel (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0017D5WXY) which is not comfortable to write with, but is my favorite pen because it was used by Boris in Goldeneye :)

As others are mentioning, gel versus ballpoint is a place to start. I'm a fan of the Signo 207 gel pens as well. For ballpoint, I carry a Zebra 701 + a Fisher Space refill with me pretty much everywhere

Awesome, thank you. Got a link for the fisher space pen refill? Also the Lamy looks very bulky. I went ahead and bought this pen and energel .5mm refills. Saw someone suggest it in another thread.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B072Q8ZR5K/

It's a nice slim pen with great knurling. I got one for a Precise V7 cartridge in black and another for a Precise V5 in red.


https://imgur.com/6AyrSji

They're not Bic Clic's but they are awesome pens.
https://www.amazon.com/Skilcraft-Government-Retractable-Point-7520-00-935-7135/dp/B0055KSNYK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1478350052&sr=8-1&keywords=skilcraft+pens

So far it’s nice, I have a nice pen collection, but if you are itching to buy a new pen you can get the Zebra F-701 and add in a Fisher space pen refill . It writes nice, relatively durable.

Jetpens has a good post about this: https://www.jetpens.com/blog/left-handed-pens-writing-supplies/pt/891

Personally I'm a big fan of the jetstreams. Their metal body pens are a bit hard to get, but they're very nice: https://www.amazon.com/Mitsubishi-Pencil-ballpoint-stream-SXN220007-24/dp/B00O4P5CI2

If you wanna start to understand why, you can buy a Zebra F-701 for $5 at your local office supply store. That was my introduction to nice, metal manufactured pens.

What I really like to do is take an F-701, and buy an F-402 for $10. I replace the plastic mechanism in the F-701 with the metal mechanism from the F-402. Then I replace the branded clip on the 701 with the 402's blank clip. Now you have an all metal pen that looks nice with no branding on it, and it only cost you $15.

The pen that I would recommend is Pilot Metropolitan Collection Gel Roller Pen. It has a nice looking partially metal body and takes G2 and Precise V5 RT refills quite handily. There are also a few other styles for the pen if you just search Amazon or jetpens.com. I just tested it out and it has the same unnoticeable small amount of tip wiggle as the standard body for the pen.

Any idea what kind of pen he carries? I don't know about others, but one main aspect that draws my attention to a pen is the size; I avoid anything that feels like large Crayola or sidewalk chalk.

One suggestion would be this A.G. Spalding & Bros. if he doesn't mind the lack of a pocket clip. Otherwise, the rotring Rapid Pro is just as nice - especially with a Fisher refill.

Is this the same thing? I'm trying to find it on Amazon, but not having a lot of luck.

You could always just put matte black paint on it, if you're feeling adventurous. I did it with a Zebra f-301 once.

Though as the other post mentioned, a Fisher Cap-o-Matic pen would be close to what you want, though keep in mind it can only fit Fisher Space refills.

There's also the Jetstream Prime pen, which I believe is made of aluminum.

zebra f701

single for 7.5$

3 pack for 19$ - share with friends

pen pencil set for 15$, good for school

I saw this post yesterday and thought, "wow they make beautiful pens." Unfortunately this isn't that model as they've been discontinued (and are now VERY expensive on ebay), but I believe this to be it's successor.

Some ideas:

Retro 51 Tornado Classic (already recommended; excellent choice) - https://www.amazon.com/Retro-Tornado-Rollerball-Stainless-VRR-1315/dp/B0002HT6UQ/

Pilot Metropolitan Rollerball - https://www.amazon.com/Pilot-Metropolitan-Collection-Classic-91207/dp/B009X9Z2DY/

Parker IM Rollerball - https://www.jetpens.com/Parker-IM-Liquid-Ink-Rollerball-Pen-Medium-Point-Gunmetal-Body-Black-Ink/pd/7430

These are amazing and have never failed to not write...

http://www.amazon.com/Skilcraft-Government-Retractable-Point-7520-00-935-7135/dp/B0055KSNYK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1371921249&sr=8-1&keywords=skilcraft+pen

Not bolt action but this one has like a stylus over the top of it.

https://www.amazon.com/Titanium-Tactical-Survival-Emergency-Personal/dp/B072Q8ZR5K/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=titaner+pen&qid=1564843851&s=gateway&sprefix=Titaner+&sr=8-3

I'm fond of the Zebra F-701 for hospital carry. Study, clean looking pen. I used to love the Jotter, but the plastic barrel cracked on me.

Pilot Precise V5 RT is the best pen I've ever owned

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001NXDFC8/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?qid=1421798773&sr=8-3&dpPl=1&dpID=21C-EtcsKvL&ref=plSrch&pi=AC_SX200_QL40

Just bought one of these, love it so far

The Schmidt Easy Flow 9000 is a refill that is a ballpoint/rollerball hybrid, but I find it writes just like a rollerball. Here's a review.

The Pilot Precise V5 is a solid, classic rollerball that comes in a retractable version! Check it out! One of the smoothest and most vivid lines you'll be able to produce with a pen that's readily available in stores.

Other than that, some common retractable 0.5 mm pens you could find easily at retailers would be the Pilot G2 or the Uniball Signo 207 Micro. These two are both gels.

Check out the Pilot Metropolitan

Great pen imo that takes the G2 refill

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009X9Z2DY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_OBKJAbZ9TVGRA

Titaner makes two different pens that both take the Pilot G2 refill, are made of titanium, and are *really* slim. Both twist at the top to deploy/retract the refill.


This one has a stylus on top with a glass breaker underneath and a knurled grip.
This one has a glass breaker/flat top (it unscrews and flips) with a hexagonal grip, and I have this one. I was shocked at how thin it is, and I really dig the hexagonal grip. I'm not a tactical pen person, so I unscrewed the glass breaker and flipped it over for a flat top.

Both of these are affordable, considering they are titanium pens, which are usually more expensive. You can sometimes catch these cheaper on eBay, though I could only find the 1st one and not the 2nd one currently. The only drawback is that they are made in China and can take a while for delivery, though the 1st one above is listed as Prime on Amazon, so it ships in a couple of days.

One that instantly springs to mind is the Parker Jotter in stainless steel. Here's a larger photo for comparison. I don't think it's a perfect match, but it's pretty close.

The Parker Jotter is a classic choice. It looks nice, has a well known name, and hits your price range.

I second the vote for the Jetstream, and if you are willing to spend a little extra money for less than $10 you can get it in a metal body pen with a very comfortable gel grip:

https://www.amazon.com/Uni-Jetstream-Alpha-Gel-Black-SXN1000071P24/dp/B001BYNGGO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1492893247&sr=8-2&keywords=uniball+alpha+gel

There are lots of pens that use Parker style BP refill. I like Graf von Faber Castell. Some others include Parker, Rotring, Pelikan, Aurora, ST Dupont, and Aurora.

You can get the refills from Jet Pens or Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/JETSTREAM-PRIME-Twist-Mechanism-Accessory/dp/B07L8MSQNR/ref=sr_1_1?crid=324OA4OGRWI2N&keywords=jetstream%2Bparker%2Brefill&qid=1569515398&sprefix=jetstream%2Bparker%2B%2Caps%2C155&sr=8-1&th=1

• Uniball Jetstream Alpha-Gel
  
• Uniball Jetstream Prime
  
• Pentel Energel Alloy
  
• Pentel Energy Philography (twist-retractable, not a click but still worth a mention)

I mainly use gel/rollerball pens, I happened to have a jetstream refill laying around and tested it in a few of my pens. A few metal pens that will take the Jetstream refill are Pentel Philography, Zebra Sarasa Grand, and Pentel Energel Alloy Hope one of those looks like something you were thinking of.

Edit: Also, not always the easiest to find, but Uni does make a metal Jetstream pen. My one issue with the pen itself is that it has a very subtle click. If you're a fidgeter and like to click your pens, it might not be the best option.

Amazon sells a 4 pack for $20 - $16 for the 0.7mm. And it comes in 0.38mm as well. Need to search for the jetstream twist refill.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07L8M8LZB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_aMdHDbPS6EYKG

They were $10 for 4 when I bought them in January, but I guess they got wind of how much jetpens was selling them for and upped their price a bit. Still worth it, imo.

Zebra F-701. Should hit all the points on your list, and blue refills are easily available despite the fact it comes with black. Pen+refills from Amazon would still be under the $10 mark.

The Zebra F-701. My favorite pen and I think it meets all of your requirements.

Fisher Space Pen refill is nice.

>tactical

> I quite like the styling on the rOtring Pro technical pen

Buy a Zebra F-701 with a Fisher Space Pen refill. Total cost: around $11 plus shipping if you don't have Prime. It's a solid steel tube and will write anywhere, plus it doesn't scream "tactical pen!" so you can fly with it, and has the same general look as the rOtring pro.

Note: this pen is .7mm, not .5mm as you requested. The F-301 is available in a .5mm 2-pack for $6, but doesn't have the same construction.

Looks like a Parker Jotter to me..

PARKER Jotter Ballpoint Pen, Stainless Steel with Chrome Trim, Medium Point (133321) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0017D5WXY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_3g4Hzb12SKTGR

My black Luxor "Parker Classic" definitely feels like a cheap knockoff -- especially the threads that connect the two halves of the pen. Ugh!

I bought it here. I should've known.

These are also inferior-quality knockoffs. Based on the photos, I hoped I might receive pre-2016 Parker Jotters with flat buttons on the cap. No such luck. They have rounded buttons.

The colors of the plastic barrels are slightly 'off' and the metal bands at the tip are 'scuffed' or discolored. I would not recommend them.

These are genuine, but they are new-style Jotters with metal barrels and rounded buttons. I did not like the gel refill; it was too liquid, too runny.

I think it's the fisher cap-o-matic
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001E103CY/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1452817928&sr=8-2&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=fisher+space+pen&dpPl=1&dpID=41AroqYEPJL&ref=plSrch

It's got the fisher space pen medium in it, I'm a fan of that refil

I would assume that if your pen takes one Parker style refill then any would fit. Parker makes Gel refills but they run about $3 each. You could also try a Schmidt Easyflow 9000 which is an Emulsion/Hybrid ink refill. They cost less and are very smooth.

https://www.amazon.com/Pack-Schmidt-easyFLOW-9000-Black/dp/B0025ZX11S/ref=sr_1_1?s=office-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1492488655&sr=1-1&keywords=schmidt+refill+easyflow+9000+m

https://www.amazon.com/PARKER-QUINK-Ballpoint-Refills-Medium/dp/B001AFB6YI/ref=sr_1_1?s=office-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1492488838&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=parker+gel+pen+refills&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/Pilot-Metropolitan-Collection-Classic-91207/dp/B009X9Z2DY/ref=sr_1_1?s=office-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1526601658&sr=1-1&keywords=pilot+metropolitan+gel

This pen takes the G2 Refill, it's by Pilot as well.

You won't find SS the barrel by itself, but a new all-SS Jotter isn't all that expensive, and you can find older ones on eBay in a wide range of prices.

Less than $12 on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/PARKER-Jotter-Ballpoint-Stainless-Chrome/dp/B0017D5WXY/

I’d agree with this, but even the standard Pentel Energel Alloy RT would meet this standard as well! They’re generally inexpensive, with decent barrels that last for quite a while. The refills also fit in other bodies you may prefer, such as the Zebra Sarasa clip bodies! They’re quick drying, difficult to smear, and tend not to skip. Unless if your paper is extraordinarily thin, it shouldn’t bleed either!

Most tactical pens won't pass the TSA test, i.e. "does it look like a weapon". Have you considered pens that aren't intended to be "tactical" but are still sturdy, such as the Zebra F-701? (Or the M-701 mechanical pencil.)

I found it on Amazon here https://www.amazon.com/Mitsubishi-Pencil-ballpoint-stream-SXN220007-24/dp/B00O4P5CI2/

This is what you want
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07L8K32HG/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_4?smid=A2YBZANT6TDJYR&psc=1

The SJP Power Tank refills fit in a Zebra F-701 pen with no modification.

Jetpens sells both SJP and SNP Power Tank refills. You want the metal SJP refills for this. The plastic SNP refills are quite a bit bigger.

Well, if you want to stick with the Uniball company, there is this aluminum uniball jetstream limited edition. Any body that fits the Pilot G2 refill should have similar dimensions to the Jestream refill. Look that up.

kind of like this: https://www.amazon.com/Uni-Jetstream-Alpha-Gel-Black-SXN1000071P24/dp/B001BYNGGO

you might find a cheaper one somewhere else

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000WGD13U/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1500337624&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=Matte+black+space+pen&dpPl=1&dpID=31DwvYnEM4L&ref=plSrch

Fisher Space Pen.

My vote is with the Uni Alpha-Gel Jetstream

https://www.amazon.com/Jetstream-Alpha-Gel-Black-0-7mm-SXN1000071P24/dp/B001BYNGGO/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1EBFFBR91VDPZ&keywords=jetstream+alpha+gel&qid=1555025539&s=gateway&sprefix=jetstream+alpha%2Caps%2C142&sr=8-1

This one, right? I've been thinking about getting one of those.

that reminds me a lot of the fisher space military pen

Pilot makes a refillable retractable pen that might work for you. Not metal, but maybe more durable and also designed to be refilled https://www.amazon.com/Pilot-Precise-Retractable-Ink-5mm-26062/dp/B001E6A9M8

Someone else mentioned it too, but give the Schmidt easyflow 9000 refill a shot.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0025ZX11S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_4ACbBb8ZANSC2

I can't imagine switching from schmidt easyflow 9000 refills, myself.

Skilcraft U.S. Government

You can get three stainless steel Jotters for $13.14, too.

Clickity Click

This is the only brand I recognize on sale right now ($11.32, normally $16.97):

Pentel EnerGel Style Gel Pen, (0.7mm) Medium Line, Black Barrel - BL2007AABX

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0776M8VY1/

They make a Uniball Jetstream refill now for it.

JETSTREAM PRIME Twist Mechanism Accessory Pack 0.5mm https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07L8K32HG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_M1i1CbDEKT0E2

https://www.amazon.com/JETSTREAM-PRIME-Twist-Mechanism-Accessory/dp/B07L8K32HG/ref=sr_1_1?crid=S4924D5ANRPT&keywords=sxr-600-05&qid=1572967825&s=office-products&sprefix=sxr-600%2Coffice-products%2C158&sr=1-1

Is this relevant?

=)

Uniball Alpha Jetstream. I swear by these guys. Amazon Link

I got you This is what I put in my cartier's after their ink died flows somewhere between a ballpoint and a gel. Also Cartier makes excellent pen refills, they are just expensive and hard to come by.

This is what I was looking at. But I have no idea if it's any good or I'm just being roped into some shit pen that looks cool.

Some people lose things like pens constantly, some lose them occasionally, and some never do. I think in most cases it can be improved on with attention and effort, but life is short and there are often other priorities.

My suggestion is that you shouldn't assume you will regularly lose pens based on one loss. Pick a single pen to carry, cheap or not, and see whether you're able to hold onto it for a few months. If you can, you will probably be okay with a more expensive pen too. If you can't, find yourself a type of relatively cheap pen that you don't mind using and replace it as needed.

A couple of other things to note:

One: there are some very good cheap pens out there. Don't put up with bad ones.

Two: You can get a four pack or a three pack of Parker Jotters for under $15. Even if you lose some, that brings the price per pen way down.

Good luck!

This is the the official metal body. It is very nice but on the slim side. It's not super comfortable for longer writing sessions.

$9 at the moment but I've seen them go even lower:

https://www.amazon.com/Parker-Jotter-Stainless-Ballpoint-133321/dp/B0017D5WXY/

I myself use a zebra F-701. The outside is pure stainless steal and has a decent weight to it. http://www.amazon.com/Zebra-F-701-Stainless-Ballpoint-Retractable/dp/B002L6RB80

As long as you don't rely on the shitty pocket clip some of them come with, this is what you want:

https://www.amazon.com/Fisher-400B-Space-Bullet-Pen/dp/B000WGD13U