As we continue our exploration of EDC utility items, we’ll encounter the pen, which is a more common object compared to the ones we have discussed so far. Understandably so, since most people carry a pen in their pocket, purse, or backpack, as you never know when you might need to take notes or sign documents. However, in the EDC world, a pen needs to have certain characteristics that go beyond its ability to perform its function of writing.
While any kind of pen (from a reliable BIC to a luxurious Montblanc) might provide a good writing experience, an EDC pen also aims to provide certain ruggedness, safety, and usability advantages. Not to the mention a “cool” factor that can derive in a higher pride of ownership. Hence, several brands we’ve covered in previous posts manufacture pens which pair nicely with other EDC items in their portfolio. Let’s now explore the key aspects that differentiate this category of writing implements as you try to pick the perfect pen for your needs.
Table of contents
Pen categories
Ballpoint
First most common category would be the ballpoint pen. The writing tip in this pen releases a viscous oil-based ink by means of a small hard sphere or ball, which rolls over the surface used for writing on. One half of the ball is exposed while the other remains immersed in ink from the reservoir contained in the pen. As the ball rotates it gets wet as the ink is transferred from the reservoir to the external surface.
Key advantages of a ballpoint pen is that, since the ink has a high viscosity, it does not permeate through the paper and does not leave the tip of the pen through capillary action. The writing provided by this type of pen dries almost instantly and its ink last longer compared to other categories.
Rollerball
Second most common category we need to look at is the rollerball pen. It works similarly to a ballpoint pen, but it dispenses a water-based ink or gel instead. The lower viscosity of this type of inks, compared to the oil-based one used by ballpoint pens, provides a huge difference on the rollerball pen’s performance. These inks flow more easily and have a faster absorbance into paper, hence more ink is dispensed in general.
The constant lubrication of the pen tip over paper changes the writing experience, as it results on a solid, uninterrupted line compared to a ballpoint pen. However, it takes longer for the ink to dry, which can cause seepage through thin paper and become visible on the opposite side, plus ink blots or smears. This category was actually designed to combine the convenience of a ballpoint pen with the smooth effect of a fountain pen.
Fountain
Lastly, we find an older, historic category known as the fountain pen. This type uses a water-based ink delivered through a nib, which is a flat piece of metal with a thin slit extending inwards from the writing tip. Gravity causes the ink to flow from the reservoir in the pen to the nib through a feed, which is a solid block of material which channels and grooves cut into it. The ink is pulled out of this slit by capillary action while writing.
In comparison with ballpoint or rollerball pens, a fountain pen has no moving parts. Refilling this type of pen is more complicated, either through a piston to draw ink from a bottle through the nip, or by using an eye dropper. All of this, combined with the “old school” factor, makes this type of writing instrument the perfect pen for calligraphers and other artists in general.
Pen materials
Metal
Most EDC pen brands in the market will utilize metals to manufacture their pens’ bodies, using one or more combined in their construction. Typical examples would include aluminum, brass, bronze, copper, steel, titanium, and zirconium in some rare cases. A metal pen will have long-term durability and extra ruggedness. Major disadvantage, though, is the extra weight it can add to your pocket or backpack. While this is true for most metals, specifically brass and copper, it won’t be the case with lighter metals like titanium and aluminum.
Plastic
A few EDC pen brands might offer plastic materials such as acrylic or Ultem to create the pen’s body. Besides the lesser weight benefit provided by lighter materials, they can be more resistant to scratches and smudges, which makes them a great alternative to metals. However, since they might look cheaper (and actually be) when compared to more elegant and refined-looking metal ones, the appeal factor might be diminished (unless this is your actual style).
Pen opening mechanisms
Cap
First, let’s discuss the non-retractable pen which is typically covered with a cap or lid. This is simply a cover that goes over the top of a pen to stop the ink from escaping, protecting you and everything else. It also helps to prevent the nib or ball from getting dry. A cap is usually made from the same material employed in the pen’s body, to provide an homogenous aesthetic. Major disadvantage of this type of pen is that it requires both hands for opening before writing.
Click
Next, in the retractable pen category, we find the click opening mechanism. It consists of a spring-loaded mechanism that allows you to retract or extend the pen tip. Since there is no cap in the pen, this provides for swift and easy access, while also protecting the writing mechanism from getting dry. In EDC pens, however, this is accompanied by either one side or dual side release buttons, which prevent accidentally engaging the click mechanism when carrying the pen in your pocket, for example.
Bolt action
Also in the retractable pen category, we have the bolt action opening mechanism, which is becoming increasingly popular amongst EDC pen manufacturers. Put plainly, a bolt is placed on the side of the pen which is used to push out the pen tip and lock it into place. It is a more reliable mechanism, satisfying and fidgety to use, designed to prevent accidental activation compared to a click pen (especially if it lacks side release buttons).
Twist
Finally, within the retractable pen category, we encounter the twist opening mechanism. To operate this type of pen, we need to twist both halves of in opposite directions to either extend or retract the pen tip. Similarly to a cap pen, you may need to use both hands, unless a single handed twist mechanism is possible to be applied on the pen.
Useful tips
Here are some tips to aid you in your search for the perfect pen for you. Or, if you’ve already selected one, to help you make the most out of it as you add it to you EDC collection.
Right writing instrument per purpose
Like with many items in your EDC collection, you need to select the best one for your intended purpose. For example, a pen for taking notes may not be suitable for sketching or drawing. The quality and thickness of the paper you’ll be writing on will also determine the right writing instrument for you. Depending on your job or planned activity, you can choose from a myriad of size, material, and ink options.
Stain protection
If you prefer to carry your pen in a pocket (trousers’ or shirt’s), you may want to prevent ink stains. You should select a pen with a cap or a more secure retraction mechanism (i.e., bolt action, twist), avoiding any accidental retraction of the pen tip. Same applies when carrying it in a backpack or briefcase, as an uncapped or unretracted pen could cause ink spillage.
One size does not fit all
Being an EDC pen, of course it needs to be light and compact enough for easy carry. Certain pens, particularly the metal ones, can get considerably heavy, thick, or long to provide ruggedness. In such cases, ergonomics and usability will be paramount. You don’t want to end up with a pen you can’t write easily with. Some manufacturers offer slimmer or shorter options, to allow each person to procure the perfect pen for them.
Do your research
If there’s a particular brand that piques your interest, go to their website. Browse their product offering and see more detailed information about product characteristics. If you’d like to compare pens from multiple brands, then visit an online retailer like Amazon or Mukama. Product selection will be more varied, to easily find the combination of materials, types, and features you’re going after for your perfect pen.
Buy wisely
Some brands offer a discount for your first purchase, provided you subscribe to their newsletter. Many will also have discounts on occasion to get rid of their older inventory. Both manufacturers and online retailers will advertise special sales and promotions on holidays like Father’s Day, Black Friday, and Christmas.
Key takeaways
Here are the key points you should be aware of in order to pick the perfect pen for you:
- Most common pen categories are ballpoint, rollerball, and fountain.
- Pens can be made from one or more metals (e.g., steel, titanium, aluminum) or plastic (e.g., acrylic, Ultem).
- Most typical pen opening mechanisms are cap, click, bolt action, and twist.
- Useful tips to make the most of a pen include choosing according to your purpose and hand size.
- When buying a pen is important to research properly, and know when and where to buy.
I trust you’ll find this information helpful during your quest for the perfect pen. Stay tuned for future posts (check out our recent posts here). Should you have any questions, please leave a comment below or reach out to us. Until next time!