In Search of Perfection | The Perfect Pen

[@MArif2328]

9:30 “It brings a little bit of joy into my life so why won’t I do it?” is such a beautiful sentiment. True for all of us who love silly little things like pens

[@animationmann]

Absolute the definition for a Good Pen in Life

[@commandohazelnuts]

I do it for things that aren't pens it's worth it.

[@jake407]

Because it's OCD? 😮

[@jlingo6371]

You both remind me of Bilbo Baggins with the ring of power.

[@ethereal41]

that's literally me lol, i love silly things because they make me happy, also why i love overengineered and overkill things, like using a technical drafting pen (i have an entire set of staedtler marsmatics) for gcse d.t. and looking at my friends using bic cristals...

[@neilfraser8042]

I've been using a Parker Jotter in stainless steel as my edc for years. About $20, small and durable, writes well and takes easy-to-find refills. Very satisfying click too.

[@nicolasf.moreno4444]

A classic for a reason

[@Choadifer]

My favourite everyday work pen. It’s always in my pocket. ✌️

[@virtualmike13]

Enjoyed your video as a pen newbie. I’ve seen some comments that don’t prefer expanded commentary but again as a new user I found detailed info helpful. Thanks, I’ve subscribed.

[@michaelrolton7502]

Love the uniball too. Also, it fits neatly in the spiral top of my notebook.

[@trentc7329]

I used one Parker Jotter (FIne, Blue) all the way through college. I picked up a new one last year after years of trying other premium and budget pens. It ass like, "Helo, Old Friend". Now I have three of them. One in my pocket, one on my desk at work and one on my desk at home. No annoying cap, disappears in my pocket, a pleasure to write with and cheap enough to lose without crying.

[@themightysquid]

I couldn’t agree more. Got my first Jotter in Junior High School(back in the 60’s) and still are my #1 choice pen to use at my desk, carried in my jacket inner pocket, clipped into my jeans pocket (so light I forget it’s there). I have about a dozen around my home. Tossed all those street fair freebies and keep 4 Jotters in the kitchen drawer and 8 or so in my office room, and refills for those rare days when they get used up or leak. I still feel that twinge of nostalgia when I feel and hear that beautiful “click” that no other pen has.

[@maybe7824]

My daily is a Uniball Jetstream RT with 1.0mm ball. I have gone through dozens of these. The clip is great too. I bought a Mont Blanc ballpoint around 1994 and used it daily for many years. After having Mont Blanc rebuild it twice, I only use it for nice occasions. I also use 1.0mm Mont Blanc refills which I like better than the finer points. Writing on multi-layer invoices for decades will make you press down hard.

[@maxcomo9197]

I use jetstream sx217 1.0mm from the last 15 years.I feel 1.0 tip covers all kind of handwriting..

[@themightysquid]

I got my first Jotter in Junior High School(back in the 60’s) and still are my #1 choice pen to use at my desk, carried in my jacket inner pocket, clipped into my jeans pocket (so light I forget it’s there). I have about a dozen around my home. Tossed all those street fair freebies and keep 4 Jotters in the kitchen drawer and 8 or so in my office room, and refills for those rare days when they get used up or leak. I still feel that twinge of nostalgia when I feel and hear that beautiful “click” that no other pen has.

[@mykromacro4599]

Glad I found your survey as I'm looking for a new fountain pen and wondered about trying the Lamy. Watched the whole review after you kicked off with the Uniball. Totally agree with your comments to end on - can't live without my Uniball nearby but will now leave it behind next plane trip!

[@MarcusCreates]

Thanks for watching. The best pen doesn’t have to be the most expensive one. 👍🏻☺️

[@harysson]

Nice collection! This week I got my first Montblanc Meisterstuck Classique 😊

[@tommccafferty5591]

My special occasion pen is a Pelikan M800 with a fine point 18 carat two tone gold nib. It always writes the first time you put the nib to paper, no matter how long it has been since you used it last.

[@MarcusCreates]

Love it!!!

[@patrick.lin.]

People being passion about stuff, makes them so much cooler! Great video:)

[@MarcusCreates]

Thanks Patrick. 😊

[@Ender.wigginn]

One mechanical pencil you should try is the Kurutoga by Uni. It has a mechanism that slightly rotates the lead every time your touch the lead to the page, it basically keeps your lead sharp. Very consistent lines. It's hands down my favorite pencil

[@MarcusCreates]

Love that. Love it. Thanks for the suggestion.

[@Chook47]

I teach English, and the Kurutoga is a truly fantastic writing device. I refuse to use anything else to mark with now!

[@Extinction.of.Innocense]

Waiting on my first, should be here Friday.

[@andrewn7365]

My favorite mechanical pencil is the Pentel twist erase because I erase so often when using pencil

[@lawsonharper]

I’m not sure if you mentioned it, but in my opinion, the Lamy 2000 fountain pen provides an amazing experience in day-to-day writing and note-taking.

[@MarcusCreates]

Seems like you’re not alone here. 👍🏻

[@jtjt210]

Really good pens. Nice to be able to see the ink level as well without opening the pen up. The way they integrate that ink view window and the borderline invisible filling mechanism (until you unscrew it) is a superb piece of industrial design and material selection. There's a reason many consider them a design classic. I'm super happy with mine.

[@johnfpotega2017]

Finally a man that can take something as simple as a pen and make something truly exciting and meaningful out of it! I’ve collected and enjoyed pens (and pencils) since I was a young kid and started writing and using with the Bic Crystal and now have several hundred pens including the Mont Blanque you mentioned. My grandparents came from Poland and brought Polish fountain pens with them but alas as time went on and they passed away the pens mysteriously disappeared……would have loved to have been able to have these pens today! Really enjoy your video and will be looking for some of the pens you mentioned! Do kids today appreciate the beauty of a fine writing instrument; do kids today even know how to write……unfortunately I know some who don’t 😮! Again, many thanks for sharing your thoughts on something I thought no one else but me would appreciate or give a hoot about 😊! Be safe!

[@trevorgerland2254]

I have found my trusty Fisher Space pen to be my favorite all around pen. Perfect for pocket, purse, and travel. Filling out papers while traveling in weird positions, bad conditions, and, to me, writes amazingly. My two Space Pens are in brass and have developed a lovely patina. I’ve had the black one before, but lost it. I have my eyes on a titanium-ish (blued) one.

[@AdamLeask]

My favourite is still the classic metal-bodied Parker Jotter, with a Schmidt EasyFlow 9000 refill inside. Perfection!

[@MarcusCreates]

People love those pens. My dad uses them all the time. Classic.

[@3moirai]

My inexpensive daily carry is the Zebra F-301. Strong barrel and decent ball point pen.

[@MarcusCreates]

Nice ballpoint for sure. Have tried them in the past.

[@joecat339]

Hi !!! Great video I'm a Pen collector as well. My EDC pens are Smith & Wesson TAC Pen with a Fischer ink cartridge. I carry it not for the defensive Pen aspect but it one very tough Pen. The other Pen I always carry is Fischer bullet pen with a stylus. Its compact when closed & full size when open. If I'm going to a meeting I'll take my Tombo Object Pen. On the Special Pen, I have a Cross Select Tip that's about twenty five + years old & it has been with me on every important document signing. Thank You, -- Joe --

[@MarcusCreates]

Thanks for sharing

[@jimwilliams14]

The Uniball Jetstream RT in 0.7 mm is the best overall/general purpose pen in my opinion. Writes very smoothly with dark, crisp lines. The ink bonds with the paper to prevent smudging and bleaching/fraud. I prefer writing with the Jetstream over my S.T. Dupont and Montblanc, each of which cost me hundreds of dollars. I'm looking for a way to install the Jetstream refill in my high-end pens - it's that good.

[@MarcusCreates]

I like the Jetstream but 0.7 is too thick for me. I can stretch to 0.5 but prefer even finer

[@jimwilliams14]

​@@MarcusCreatesI do appreciate a long, slender, perfectly curved line myself, but the 0.7 with its bold girth is somewhat more fulfilling.

[@maxcomo9197]

I never got along with jetstream rt.,But I use jetstream sx-217 1.0mm for the last 15 years.I occasionally also use parker vector rollerball.this pen is completely satisfying...I think 1.0mm tip covers all kinds of handwriting.

[@hammurambi]

@@MarcusCreates The Jetstream puts down a pretty narrow line for a 0.7mm tip. The line width is slightly narrower than my Uni-Ball Vision Elite in 0.5mm. You get the smoothness of the larger tip with the thinner lines.

[@jlgugo]

The Uni-Ball Vision is great and is my go to, but I use the "Vision Elite"...Those are a step above the standard Vision Micro.

[@BullRunRoad30]

The Vision Elite is a great pen. Best of all, it's designed to not leak on planes so you can travel with it.

[@rossdonnelly3951]

A good shout for an everyday carry pen is a Leuchtturm 1917 Drehgriffel. Small, but solid, metal, comes in loads of colours. Good to check out! Great video!

[@markgoston4419]

Agree! This is a fabulous pen. Use this everyday. Such a lovely writing experience.

[@OGchickentnt]

A Graphgear 500 was my first proper mech pencil, a gift, and has been my go to favorite writing/sketching implement ever since

[@ryndanriley5348]

15 or so years ago i got a cheap pen from someone and used it every day for 2 years. It was the most reliable and solid pen ive ever had write that well for that long. I totall forgot about it until about a week ago when i saw someone recommend it on youtube. Its the zebra f-301. I bought some for my office, and i find myself using them over pens 20x the price.

[@MarcusCreates]

That’s what I’m talking about!!! Sounds like you’ve found your perfect pen. 👍🏻

[@aaronfrench8322]

I love Zebra’s Steel line! I personally daily a G-402, but the F-301 is the first pen I remember really leaving a positive impact on writing experience!

[@link2299]

Awesome video. For me as a Mechanical Engineer: Budget Full Beat-down Pen - What ever random ball-point is available at the time. Often a BIC, but this is really random. Everyday Carry - Rotring 800 Steel Pen - Black Ink Everyday Carry Pencil - Rotring 800 Steel Pencil - 0.7mm The two Rotring combo look exceptionally professional when meeting with clients and other industry professionals in a Mechanical Engineering setting. The Rotring certainly don't look 'luxury' instead, they look utilitarian, and fully fit with the persona of a high-performance Engineer. I think it adds a bit of credibility to write with those tools in an Engineering setting. I haven't gotten into fountain pens yet, but as an avid writer, I am interested in giving them a go. So that above is what I currently use, but I am in search for my next pieces to fill the rest of the void. Daily Fountain - I would like to give the Lamy Safari a try. This would be for at-home journaling and songwriting. I am also a musician and often write song concepts (my songs are often conceptual/short stories) by hand on paper before I ever hit the keyboard believe it or not. Luxury Fountain - I would like to give a Mont Blanc a try. This would be for at-home or occasion writing. Although, I feel I would push the limits of this and end up using this more than the 'daily' fountain once I actually get one. But I am one to heavily use luxury that I buy. I buy a nice watch, not for the box, but to put it through the ropes with everyday wear, I suspect that, even though it is expensive, I would do the same to $500+ pen and never look back.

[@chigitakazuhiro7835]

my go to pen is Jet Stream from Uni. It writes so smooth, I cannot go back to anything other.

[@Heimir_the_Fool]

I've been a FP user since I was 21 at the uni. I'm 54 now and I've narrowed it down to only piston fillers: Lamy 2000, MB 146 Meisterstuck, Custom Pilot 823 and my favorite daily carry is the MB 149 Meisterstuck. Contrary to MOB's suggestion, all of these pens are quite durable and can be used in nearly all situations if you know how to treat them. My used 149 is my work horse pen and it's never let me down ... never ... either indoor or outdoor; cold or hot. Love my 149s.

[@vessela7484]

I have a Lamy safari rollerball, which I find writes quite thick, but then plot twist....with some very minor modifications, it takes a Pilot G2 refill and it is just perfect.

[@anub3207]

A fountain pen to try is the twisbi eco or diamond. They are in the same catagory as the safari, but are demonstrators, and have a very modern look. If you've tried them, I'm curious on your opinions.

[@douglasdrumond]

I have a Montblanc Writer's Edition Sir Arthur Conan Doyle with a fine nib. Its fine nib is quite broad, actually. It looks like a medium nib. I'm glad I bought a fine nib because a medium would be too broad. But I keep returning to a Platinum Preppy with medium nib (which writes finer than the Montblanc fine nib). My most used pens are that Montblanc, Platinum Preppy, Kaweco Sport, Pilot Vanishing Point, Pilot Kakuno, and Lamy Safari/Al-Star/Lx (I find the three quite similar). When I can't use a fountain pen (for instance, I had post-graduate exams using a paper that feathered and bled with fountain pens), I use Pilot Pop'lol or Zebra Sarasa gel pens.

[@MarcusCreates]

You know your pens. I just started writing with a Kaweco Sport based on some of the recommendations on here and I love it. In fact I’m going to include it in a video set to go live in January.

[@nicolasf.moreno4444]

HOW DID I NOR ME KNOW THIS. I NEED IT

[@jonathanniccolls1592]

I've tried most brands, of gel pens like Sharpie S-Gel, Pilot, Parker, Pentel, Papermate, Bic, etc., but like you, my overall choice for best pen is the Uni-Ball 207 Retractable Fraud Prevention Gel Pens, Micro Point, 0.5 mm, Black Barrels, Blue Ink, Pack Of 12. I've ordered the Uniball Jetstream Retractable Rollerball Pen, Bold Point, 1.0 mm, Black Ink/Silver Barrel, to check it out, but the Uniball 207 Micro 0.5mm Blue is #1 in writing for me. Cheers! 🖊🖊🖊🖊🖊 😃

[@TheJZam411]

If you are looking for a good refill for the montblanc ballpoint I would totally recommend the Monteverde capless gel refills. They work in all Montblanc ballpoint pens.

[@MarcusCreates]

Now there’s a great heads up. Will order a couple and try them out. Thanks 🙏

[@ronspi]

Thank you for sharing. Great selection. I also used the Pilot G-2 07 as my everyday pen, but the pen that took over was the Sharpie S-Gel 07. The Marspark 26 Pieces Disposable Fountain pens in different ink colors are great for daily use. They are better and faster to sign than the Pelikan Toledo M910 Old Style, which is okay but not great. I'm glad to see others use a pen these days. Thanks again.

[@MarcusCreates]

I love how everyone has their own perfect pen. Something so personal about writing. ✍️

[@ronspi]

@@MarcusCreates You're absolutely right. Something to talk about 🙂

[@ajperry48]

I'm definitely a "stylophile" with more than 45 fountain pens in my collection, with pens at a whole variety of price points including some expensive ones (e.g. Yard-O-Led Viceroy, Pelikan M1000, Parker Duofold, Pilot Custom 823). I also have a whole variety of ballpoints including a Cross Lapis Lazuli. Also numerous mechanical pencils. I journal every day and enjoy switching between writing instruments and the 60+ inks that I have in my collection. All that being said if I could have only one fountain pen it would be my Pilot Elabo (aka Falcon) with its Soft-Fine nib. It's very reasonably priced, and an absolute joy to write with. It's light and comfortable in the hand for long writing sessions, provides a certain amount of line variation, and is easy to clean and fill. For me it's one of my two perfect pens. The other perfect pen in my collection, one that I carry on my person for ad hoc use (notes, crosswords, etc), is my Lamy Pico ballpoint. German made, it is a quality and innovative pocket pen, which transforms to a full-grown ballpoint pen thanks to its sophisticated push mechanism.

[@jtjt210]

Yes I just got a Pilot Custom 823 and am very happy with it. How do you like the Yard-O-Led?

[@ajperry48]

@@jtjt210 I have two Pilot Custom 823s, a Smoke Fine and an Amber Medium. Both are always inked, Noodler's Blue-Black for the Smoke, and J. Herbin Lie de The in the Amber. The Amber is a prettier pen, I feel. The Yard-O-Led Viceroy is very special to me as it was a farewell gift to me from my team when I retired from corporate life. It's an elegant pen, and writes well.

[@MarcusCreates]

Now there’s a resounding recommendation. I’ve just added the Pilot Falcon to my shopping cart.

[@jtjt210]

@@MarcusCreates hmmm. I will try again (my comments keep dropping out). Definitely KZbin has an issue with anything I post on your channel. Hopefully this one will go through. If you haven't pulled the trigger yet, do a search on the Pilot Grance with a 14k nib. They are super inexpensive and write like a dream and the 823 has a remarkable ink capacity and nib. Let's see if this comment goes through. If so, I'll try to include a little more information in another one lol... (I'm genuinely laughing at this point at how difficult this has been (lots of reattempts at comments as I have really got into the pen thing in the last couple of years...)) 😝

[@nolongeramused8135]

The problem I have with the Montblanc ballpoint is the ink - you can easily buy a better ink refill for it online. The last ones I purchased were Monteverde.

[@MarcusCreates]

I’ve actually just ordered some Monteverde refills for my Montblanc based on another subscribers comments. Excited to try out.

[@Groinattack1]

My go -to is also the Uniball Eye/Vision in micro. Love them. My students have one-by-one all asked their parents to buy them some too this year as they have seen me using them constantly and love how 'juicy' the ink is.

[@MarcusCreates]

Uni-ball owes you some affiliate marketing commissions it sounds like 😂. Glad we’re both on team Vision Micro.

[@Groinattack1]

Oh, that would be too good😂

[@Vartan297]

I trained with Mont Blanc on their pens and watches. They really are overpriced for what you’re getting in terms of materials. So the black part of the pen is quite an inexpensive resin. The white or yellow metal parts are just a base metal with either a gold plating or platinum plating. The nibs on the FPs are however lovely and are usually solid 18ct Gold with an iridium tip. Each one is hand crafted and tested by a very specialized nib maker. Also interestingly you should always let out some of the ink after filling, at least a 6th of the amount. This allows for temperature and pressure changes and helps eliminate leakage. Also Roller ball pens are generally water based inks, these come with lids as the ink can dry up- they give a more fountain pen feel. Ball point pens are oil based inks so don’t flow as easily but are far more practical. Tbh most BP pens will write in a very similar way no matter what they cost. It’s just how much you want to spend on the name or the “jewellery” of the holder. I’ve had numerous Mont Blanc pens and love them but really only for the luxury name and price. Mont Blanc themselves admit during training that it’s the price that makes them special lol.

[@MarcusCreates]

Very cool. Thanks for sharing.

[@gerardmanvussa5159]

Mont Blanc est une marque de snobs.. Try kaweco or Pelikan

[@shishenliart]

Fisher space pens, the clicker version. It's made of brass so it has a good weight, not too expensive at $15-20. Pressurized catridges works great in planes. Combined with rite in the rain notebooks, you can write in any condition. Writes well too with its ballpoint design. Great EDC, desktop beater, and budget friendly.

[@EclecticOmnivore]

Yep. While I have a "bullet" Space Pen with a clip, I now use only the refill itself. It slips into my wallet, and basically disappears till I need it. The cartridge I tend to buy is the slim "universal" type; less ink, though it can be shortened by breaking off part of the end if needed.

[@boblossie3192]

I liked, subscribed and belled. LOVE the way this guy thinks. Deep and Analytical about any subject he undertakes.

[@MarcusCreates]

Thanks Bob 🙏

[@boblossie3192]

@@MarcusCreates 👍

[@mosesmartinez4364]

LIKED YOUR VIDEO. I BOUGHT BACK IN THE YEAR 2000 A MONTBLANC YEHUDI MENUHIN BALLPOINT TO SIGN MY DAUGHTERS BIRTH CERTIFICATE AND NOW ITS HER PEN 🖊️

[@MarcusCreates]

I love that!!!

[@VimalaSridurai]

That's nice to know! Wishes to your daughter 😊

[@haamidali9055]

My dad did the same with his 88 rialto. Easily one of my most treasured items!

[@SirMopy]

why u writing in all caps ffs

[@NMsince2013]

@@SirMopy who cares man

[@sms357]

I love the Uniball suggestion. I will try that one next. I've tried the Pilot G2, but have not been impressed. My CHEAP everyday go to is the old, clear Bic Crystal. They write so smoothly and I like the medium point. I just don't like the ink globs that you have to occasionally clean off the tip.

[@MarcusCreates]

The Bic Crystal is a heavyweight classic for sure. Reminds me of learning to write cursive as a kid. Try the uniball and let me know what you think. Probably not for everyone (nothing ever is), but worth a shot for the money. 👍🏻

[@pickles632]

I have a tub of Pilot G2's in 0.7 size. I love them with all my heart.

[@MarcusCreates]

A tub. 😂. Love it.

[@beausmith6010]

I always enjoy your shows. I almost always find an item or a tip that helps me out in my writing interests. I write comic books and graphic novels for a living as well as Television and I do all my notes and ideas on paper before going to my keyboard. Thanks for helping out my EDC life.

[@MarcusCreates]

You’re very welcome. Thanks for watching and commenting. What items have you enjoyed the most so far?

[@WolfiePeters]

My wife's experience with Montblanc is that the ink dries and clogs. My preference is and old Parker 51 or a modern Chinese 51 copy. I use them for every day and special occasions. There's nothing better, especially the vacumatic versions.

[@postblitz]

16:50 "as long as they continue to make them" Not like you'd care since you have a "drawer full of them in the back". Good stuff. There is much truth in thriftyness when it comes to writing instruments. We're spoiled for choice but universally the most basic tools are the best.

[@andrewtongue7084]

We Irish know how to keep things simple. Grand job, Marcus - slan agus beannacht !

[@MarcusCreates]

🇮🇪❤️

[@alexhayward9408]

Lamy 2k Squad

[@tear728]

Amazing pen, so glad to have one

[@bobthestinky7369]

As far as value goes, it might be. It's the Casio of pens, affordable, reliable, stylish, timeless.

[@JadenBinette]

I prefer using my Lamy All-Star over the 2000 just for the lower stress carry. I've used mine every day for the last six years and I've never had to buy a second one.

[@jrubis]

custom 74 >

[@leonlee381]

Lamy 2000 is the most overrated pen, truly a pain in the ass.

[@BrendanIhmig]

Great way of dividing up your pens into 'use' categories (similar to how you could categories watches). I'm on the same page as you for most of the pens and I agree that the Montblanc ballpoints are not great writers, so I have opted for their StarWalker fineliners for my EDCs.

[@MarcusCreates]

And how do you like then?

[@BrendanIhmig]

⁠​⁠​⁠​⁠@@MarcusCreatesI predominantly use Fineliners or Gels (love the LEGO gel pens for doodling) but the Montblanc Starwalkers are superb writers - smooth, fast and non-scratching. Refills are also super quick to change and come in different colours and thicknesses. I have one in white, yellow and rose gold - to match the particular watch of the day 😬😬

[@MarcusCreates]

@@BrendanIhmig love it 👍🏻

[@subaruford3344]

I love this video so much! I can't tell you how many times I've rewatched it! You think and speak so well!

[@wybuchowyukomendant]

I have twsbi 580 for everything, pilot custom 823 for more festive sht and sailor pro gear for journaling. From time to time, on a weird paper, I like to use uniball air, but I don`t even have any ballpoints.

[@tidbit19]

Thanks for this video! Love the thorough pen exploration and totally get the desire for a special occasion pen. For daily use I just started trying out the Sharpie S-Gel, and really like it so far. I also have a heavy body ballpoint pen I got from the Hay Adams in DC that I love using, but don't particularly like using ballpoints. The heavy body makes it feel special, even though it's a hotel branded pen.

[@MarcusCreates]

Amazing. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to write with your favorite pen every day. Thanks for sharing.

[@Carl-Camera]

Great overview! My favourite budget everyday pen is a Uniball RT in 0.38mm size - beautifully fine and smooth. Then I put those same refills in nicer Rollerball pens like the Lamy Safari RB, Visconti Homo Sapiens Lava and even some Montblanc RB will fit the Uniball size (“standard Euro size”) because like you said … sometimes the Montblanc refills are sub-par!

[@MarcusCreates]

Love it. Thanks for sharing.

[@proballman]

Two pens I strongly recommend are Sharpie’s S-Gel, and the Kaweco Sport are both budget friendly and fantastic writers.

[@ztienapm]

I forgot about the s-gel. Use one everyday. Great pen. I prefer the Kaweco Student but Sport is a great affordable pen.

[@MarcusCreates]

I bought a Kaweco Sport (actually I bought a couple of them) after this video. Thanks for the heads up.

[@Cernunnnos]

Rotring 600 for both clutch pencils and edc ballpoint. They just feel good. Heavy metal, hexagonal barrels with knurled grips. I'm not really a fan of fountain pens, I've had a few over the years and they always just feel like the bastard midway point between something convenient like a felt tip or ball point. And something more technical or traditional, like a dip pen or even a needle feed. For drawing, I'll always choose a dip pen with either a maru or g-pen nib. Recently started using glass dip pens, which are even better, much smoother experience but usually a thicker line than a maru atleast. Rotring also did a run of pens called isographs which were essentially needle nib actions. Which I think are a valid alternative to fountain pens if you absolutely must have a cartridge ink pen.

[@Satoshi9801]

The medium-point Uniball Vision, as well as the Pilot Varsity, are pens I always keep coming back to.

[@marcad8266]

Enjoy! Handwriting is the most beautiful activity human beings created. The Montblanc Little Prince is gorgeous. But I ended up using only Pelikan souverän fountain pens (400, 600 and 800), on any occasion, even when hiking, with a 10ml Herbin ink (Vert Empire or Lie de thé). No other pens needed. That and a Rotring 800 Mechanical Pencil.

[@mignav464]

8:18 use the Broad (B) version of the Montblanc pens, substantially better than the standard M-version. My best writing experience so far of all pens.

[@sneddy77]

It’s like you knew I’ve been crushing on pens lately. Just grabbed a couple of Lamy Safaris for journaling (inspired by your journal video) but my day to day carries are fisher space pens, either black or chrome depending on my watch. Keep up the great vids mate :)

[@MarcusCreates]

Thanks for all the positivity buddy! Appreciate it and keeps me making the videos. Costs me a future mind because every time I do a review I get recommendations and I end up getting more things 😂

[@fizzymizzy_]

carrying matching fountain pens with your watch is straight class. respect

[@anshumansahoo4869]

​@@MarcusCreatesthe perfect pen i found for me is raynolds jetter, it's a ball point pen and we'll it's very good at what it does and it's refillable

[@timothy4557]

​@anshumansahoo4869 A ball point pen ? Oh my Oh me !!!

[@anshumansahoo4869]

@@timothy4557 ?

[@anub3207]

About a year ago I decided to purchase the Pilot h-2003, which is a very rare 80s mechanical pencil that is incredibly well made, and perfect for me, despite it's somewhat insane price of $90-100. It's the perfect shape and writing feel. I have used it for hundreds of hours now, and despite the price, do not regret it in the slightest. I think a pen should not be purchased purely from the cost or valuable materials(apart from gold nibs), but for the shape and usefulness to the writer. I appreciate how you didn't immediately grab something expensive as the favorite, but rather what was most useful and worked the best. Also to anyone who likes/owns a pilot H-200X, you have the holy grail of mechanical pencils, don't let it collect dust.

[@stefanelf7794]

My personal philosophy is to get high quality tools for the job. Over the years I’ve used many types and brands of pens. For some reason I’ve really fallen in love with Rotring pens and pencils. Something about how they feel in the hand and their reliability. For note taking I mostly use a Rotring 500 mechanical pencil. I kind of prefer it to the 600 even though the 600 is metal, simply because of the lighter weight. For signing documents or whenever I want to use a ballpoint pen I like the Rotring rapid PRO which uses Parker cartridges. I just love the quality of Rotring pens and pencils, and they are surprisingly affordable. Never once have they disappointed me. However, there are a few other pens I enjoy in particular settings, such as Waterman Hemisphere ballpoint (lovely flow but slippery grip), LAMY Safari / AL-star fountain pens (when fountain pens are convenient to use) and Sakura Pigma Micron pens for lettering and illustration.

[@lancer.p1]

I agree with you on the Uniball, and it is my main till this day. However, I never fell in love with a pen like I did with the Zebra Sarasa; I suggest you give it a go. Good video by the way.

[@MarcusCreates]

That’s a good heads up. Will check it out. Thanks for the recommendation.

[@DayuhansDiary]

Flash backs to my school days (over 30 years ago) with the Parker fountain pens! Memories unlocked

[@mmmmm54321]

It isn't a desk unless there is a BIC Cristal. I don't care what other pens I have there will always be a handful of Cristals stashed away. If they ever discontinue it you can bet I will buy a huge bulk order. I do love my Uniballs though

[@michelleadams5609]

For writing or sketching/drawing (I don't have such talent), it has to be the Uni Pin 02, or 01. It's waterproof, archival and inexpensive, looks beautiful. If you lose it, it won't break your heart, but I have tried over 120 ball point pens, gel, fineliners, pencils on different papers and if I had to pick one for multi uses, it would be the Uni Pin. It's more comfortable to hold than the Sigma Micron Sakura. To mark the smallest notes in a book, the 005, and 001 comes in blue which makes the notes standout.

[@MarcusCreates]

Love it. Thanks for sharing.

[@sw6118]

I love the gel inks-most brands. The pens flow very smoothly, but they dry out quickly.

[@pomatheoma416]

The Schneider Slider Rave XB also performs really smooth and THICC. That pen is great for studying (taking notes)

[@MarcusCreates]

Thanks for the heads up 😊

[@SB_Tales_21]

I can totally see myself doing this video when I am his age. It shows when people talk about the things they love

[@MarcusCreates]

❤️

[@andrewtongue7084]

Jesus, SB, & just how old do you think this man is ? Sure, he's not Methusala 😉

[@WSAONE]

Try the Sharpie S Gel 0.7 pen, i picked one up in a multi pack and i now use it all the time, it has great ink and its very dark black which I like. Also like the Uniball AIR again dark black ink. Thanks for your video.

[@Thirsty_Fox]

12:45 Little-known fact -- the Staedtler Mars Micro mechanical pencil actually DOES have a retractable point. It's quite stiff as it locks into place, but if you full press the advance button and push the pencil against the surface, it will retract making it pocket-safe.

[@BobbyReed]

Cross Townsend (discontinued) sterling silver fountain pen 18k fine nib is listed on eBay today for $1,250 but I'm sure I didn't pay that much in 1992 at Stevdan Stationers on West 72nd Street, after an early windfall. It's been in my hand ever since. Ahhhhh, the finer points in life. Nice video, thanks so much for doing it. Writing with a fountain pen is one of the secrets of success.

[@MarcusCreates]

Wow! Just wow!

[@blaiseutube]

in the late 90's I lost a two pen pouch. a few days later, I remember leaving it in a stationery store. Of course, when I went back, no one had seen it. It had a Parker sonnet and .... a Shaeffer Legacy with STUB nib.

[@achaoticproduction8968]

Going to try out the Saffari fountain pen… had a fountain pen that was too scratchy and very messy. Looking forward to seeing how this one handles. Thank you for the recommendation! Happy holidays 😁

[@bengeorge9063]

Lamy Safari is a fantastic option. It has a variety of swapable nibs.

[@themightysquid]

1) Parker Jotter for desk work, notes, attaché, edc(plastic barrel for better grip). 2) Space pen bullet for edc and travel 3) Graphgear 1000 mechanical pencils for calculating numbers and personalizing gift card envelopes 4) Multiple fountain pens when the mood strikes. Pilot Metro’s, Prera, Parker 45, twsbi Eco * Most go to: Parker Jotter ball point or gel refill ** SHTF: Spacepen Bullet

[@spencerezralow7136]

I'm so happy you are posting more now. Love the content. Would love to see your camping setup and best productivity tools!

[@MarcusCreates]

Thanks buddy. You’re always so supportive. Much appreciated. Hopefully get an Office Productivity Tour out next Friday which might be something you’re interested in. 👍🏻

[@spencerezralow7136]

you are the man @@MarcusCreates

[@hhenning9860]

That "chunky" Faber Castell pencil at 13:48 can actually be sharpened to a very fine point with a specialized sharpener. My mom still has a bunch of those pens and the sharpener from her work as a technical draftswoman in the 70ies.

[@Lum_co]

Custom 74 is my desktop & EDC. Extra fine nib. I've tried a lot of different brands, I just really like Pilot. Cheap pens and favorite pencil are also Pilot. For special occasions, I'll use a Noodler's bulletproof ink in my 74.

[@Invisible_Socks]

For me, the bic Crystal is classic and dependable and has many uses. I use the Rotring Rapid Pro 2.0 mm lead holder That Pentel looks nice!

[@MarcusCreates]

I love how many people have commented that the Bic Crystal is their every day driver. What a classic!!

[@Gaij1n07]

I am all about the Big Idea Bolt Action pen. There's over 100 different refills you can use which you can make your pen long or short. I personally go for zebra sarasa blue\black refill with the BID Bolt action pen.

[@MarcusCreates]

Thanks for the heads up. I have one in titanium and it’s beautiful.

[@tonythetitan_1]

For my EDC I use my Parker Jotter. I love that pen.

[@MarcusCreates]

That and the BIC Cristal are the two most commented pens on here. People love them.

[@mcmlxv9827]

My favorite writing/everything pen is the Retro 51 Tornado Lincoln. It is a retractable rollerball and the ergonomics and ink are unbeatable. I have more expensive pens but it is awesome. Another is the Schmidt capless rollerball. My favorite fountain is the Lamy 2000. I had a Mont Blanc in the 90's when it was $120 and I wasn't impressed and I sold it. To think that it costs $400 is nuts.

[@MarcusCreates]

Thanks for sharing some of your favorite picks. Writing is such a personal experience and everybody enjoys something slightly different.

[@CaffeinatedBorb]

I believe pilot varsity is worth a mention on the budget beater list. Its not the cheapest, but its pretty good for a fountain pen experience.

[@MarcusCreates]

Thanks for the heads up

[@AntoninKral]

My total mechanical pencil crush is Pentel GraphGear 1000. It has this mechanism to hide the lead sleeve, so you can EDC this pencil. I've replaced all my other pencils with this one over the years.

[@MarcusCreates]

Very cool. Love that pencil. Thanks for sharing.

[@vsovereign3]

Parker Jotter and Lamy Safari for me. Back to back.

[@carlosXromano]

I almost always carry with me my Twisbi eco, a old Rotring trio-pen (0.3, 0.5 and 0.7) and a Factis mechanical eraser. For me is the perfect combo.

[@anandarochisha]

I use Zebra Sarasa refills in G2 pens. The Sarasa ink is very good. In 10 seconds you can use a colored pencil highlighter over it and it won't smear. Uniball smears and blots and runs, though it is a great utility pen. My desert island pen is not a disposable. It would be a fountain or technical pen with a jug of good ink. Merry Christmas.

[@MarcusCreates]

Thanks for sharing!

[@HoffmansHoopties]

Uniball Vision has been my go-to pen since high school. I always find myself popping the little round part on the cap off and on with my teeth. Great pen, fidget friendly, and oral fixation friendly lol

[@PrasanthPuthiyillam]

For general use Parker vector ink pen. If ball pen must occasion then BiC ball pen. Or Reynolds fine carb. Both are available worldwide! Whenever wearing formal dress with tie then Mountblanc any model.

[@yandre20005]

I also have the le petit prince as a daily carry! Amazing writing experience! Worth the $800!

[@desertratedc9596]

I must be pretty utilitarian, my top 5 pens are the parker jotter, fisher original and cap-o-matic all with the fine point fisher PR cartridge and the uni-ball and pilot you mentioned in the beginning of the video. I did want to try a Cross Century II as a desk or suit pen.

[@MarcusCreates]

Every one of those is a classic. Reliable, great writers and never let you down. Glad you know what you like.

[@starchild24]

Definitly grabing a Refyne EP1 ! Been loving the rotring 800 - the modern re-edition of the 600 Gold - the past year, in both ballpoint and mechanical pencil.

[@mrpipps90]

I've always loved Uni-balls but I use Pilot Acroballs now. They are technically ballpoints but they have incredibly smooth ink and the benefit over gel pens is they work more places. Gel pens are awful on receipts and other glossy paper. Also, the world of pens is left unexplored if you don't look in to different ink cartridge options. The old Pilot G2 ink cartridge is a pretty standard size that tons of different brands make.

[@beanedtea]

I use Muji's gel pens. They are .5 mm, transparent, lightweight, and don't feel mushy. The design is also very unique.

[@bivouacrecording3412]

Great vid! my EDC is my parker jotter (multiple colors, plastic bottom, not slippery metal) with Fisher ink. My special pen is my Rotring 600 Japan roller I got in college decades ago with Fisher ink. Have yet to experiment with fountain pens will try a few you recommended, though I don't baby my pens too much so durability is key for me.

[@MarcusCreates]

Do it. Maybe start with a Kaweko Sport so you’re not spending a lot. But it’s so worth it.

[@milkyISO]

Great video. I have spent around $500 in the last few years. My go to is pilot G2 1.0mm refill inside my custom titanium pen. Love my Lamy fountain pen but the G2 is the GOAT.

[@MarcusCreates]

That’s a lot of money on pens for sure. Glad you’re landing in what you love.

[@Realdavidart]

Excellent overview. I too keep a Montblanc for important signings, it is romantic and as a salesperson for many decades a signature on a document was always a big deal. I still have a few good instruments and as a kid I used to envy a friend who was so passionate about his pen choice… however I am a tech nerd who has moved to all digital when it comes to drawings and note taking. I am in search of a writing experience that mirrors the feel and flow of a great pencil on paper while still allowing me to search and send. The saga continues.

[@paulvallance4970]

I agree regarding the Uni-ball, its always in my pen jar. My basic writer is the Lamy NEXX instead of the Lamy Safari as the rubber grip works better for me and the NEXX is much nicer to hold and look at! My EDC is Ensso's natural ultem XL Minimalist because I love the black Bock nib contrasting with the see through amber colour of the pen. The Bock nib is a step up from the more scratchy Lamy steel nib. My one and only grail pen will be Schon DSGN's Black Ultem with the polished blue titanium Monoc nib. The pen is stunning and looks like some kind of magical item. Inking this pen with an eydropper would take the experience to another level!

[@eno88]

I've found mine in the Montblanc 22. It stays with me everywhere I go.

[@abstractbybrian]

I love my pilot g-2 1.0 mm bold. Just throws so much ink out. If I’m using a fountain pen, love my TWSBI ECO 1.1 stub nib - such a smooth creamy flow.

[@XoaGray]

At least honorable mention for the EDC / desktop beater pen I'd like ro put out there is the Parker IM. It uses the same refills as the Jotter so you can have either ballpoint or gel in it depending on your preference. The refills are very common so you can get them anywhere, And they're refillable instead of disposable so if that's something you care about there ya' go. They write very well, and a lot of companies make refills for these pens so you can find a pretty good variety of inks or change makers if you don't like the flow or feel of a particular refill. People seem to sleep on the IM because it's not as well known as the more popular Jotter, but if you like ballpoints or gel pens it's definitely worth giving a try.

[@mt-nv4jd]

I found a "store brand" knock off of the G2 that is absolutely excellent. Thanks for these reviews. I've been using the Pilot Metro Retro with cartridges. I will order the Safari. I prefer tools that are very good and inexpensive.

[@MarcusCreates]

That’s exciting. Some folks have commented that you can get decent knockoffs at Lidl and Aldi

[@mt-nv4jd]

H.E.B.@@MarcusCreates

[@Mattcruzedc]

Big idea design make great pens. I have a mini bolt action and a full size click pen.

[@MarcusCreates]

I saw those. I’ve never tried them. Maybe I’ll reach out and ask would they like to send me anything for review. I like their edc multitools too.

[@tomasdeleondominguez7693]

I agree. Excellent pens designed in such a way thay you can use just about any type of refills. I have two in titanium, different models, obtained via kickstarter campaigns years ago.