Saturday, June 23, 2012

A Year of change 2012

This year seems to have in it a lot of transitions for everyone.  I don't know of any of my friends or acquaintances who are not going through some sort of life change.  One of my changes came a month ago with the passing of my Father.  Since that time, I have done / continue reflecting on relationships with family and friends, as well as just with people in general.  As such, I have not posted on this Blog until now.  I am taking time to do some introspective work and to pay attention more to the signs and messages that come into my line of vision, but which may be subtle in nature. 

That said, I still love the writing implement, and will continue acquiring them, but with a more discerning eye.  I will return to this Blog, hopefully with a higher sense of what drives me and gets my creative juices going.  This is not farewell, simply time to reflect.

Thanks to all my readers,
peace & blessings,
Yochanan

Friday, May 18, 2012

Ohto Liberty Cigar - Shape Ceramic Rollerball CB-10GL Pen, Black

The Ohto Liberty Ceramic Rollerball Pen is quite the class act.  A classic designed cigar shaped rollerball, Liberty is also a great inking implement.  Employing a 0.5 mm cartridge, it lays down a fine, vibrant line on paper.  A lacquer painted aluminum barrel with gold trim, and a rubber grip section, easily make Liberty a go-to writing instrument.







 Liberty is well-balanced and weighted when holding, giving the writer a sense of control and ease of use when putting pen to paper. 







The ceramic cartridge tip combined with a water-based ink, produces a smooth, comfortable writing experience.  The Ohto Liberty Ceramic Rollerball is one pen I look forward to using on a regular basis.
As such, I recommend it highly.

Friday, May 11, 2012

Moleskine Click 0.5 mm Rollerball Pen

When I reviewed Moleskine's Classic Rollerball Black Fine Tip Pen last year, several readers commented that they loved the way it performed, but really would love to see a retractable version produced by Moleskine.  Well the wait is now over.  Did this version of Moleskine's extremely popular and well received rollerball pen live up to the hype?  Let's see.

A huge fan of the classic version, I had very high expectations of this click version.  And guess what, it didnot disappoint.  Both versions measure in at 14 cm capped, Classic much longer when posted of course.  When Click's knock mechanism is engaged, it appears much shorter however.  But that's just from my vantage point.  Outwardly, both pens are constructed of the same high quality polycarbonate material, the trade mark rubberized pocket clip standing out at its top end.  However, that would be where the similarities seem to end. 

Gaining entrance into Click's inner workings proved a bit tricky.  Pocket clip facing you, on its right side is a semi - circular opening.  When a straight stick type instrument is inserted into the opening, the knock mechanism pops up, thus revealing the entrance to the pen's inner housing.  Quite an unexpected procedure for changing out ink cartridges!  Classic on the other-hand, employs a simple screw type barrel piece which is quite predictable.  Once inside, the ink cartridge is the same vibrant inking 0.5 mm cartridge that is seen in the Classic version.  Writing with this pen is simply a fulfilling experience.  There will be detractors who will point to the potential hassle of changing out refills, and it could be a deal breaker for them.  That said, I see Click as a result of Moleskine listening to their fans, and obliging them with another winner of a writing instrument.  One which definitely has a place in my daily pen rotation.  As such, I highly recommend it. 

Saturday, May 5, 2012

Hand Stylus

Here's another great Stylus for iPad.  It's a Kickstarter Project by Steve King, the Hand Stylus.  Take a look.







Depending on your pledge amount, you can opt for different packaged options.

Here's the link: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/hand/hand-stylus?_m=3n.002i.372.jh0ao00rgx.fyc

Monday, April 30, 2012

Lunatik Touch Pen

Well looks like I know where my next stylus pen for iPad will come from. Its the Lunatik Touch Pen. Check this out.









Here's the link for pre ordering: http://www.mnml.com/21277/341930/our-work/lunatik-touch-pen

Friday, April 20, 2012

New Trent Limir Touch Screen Stylus / Pen

I recently received an iPad 2 and found myself using it at times really wondering if, like my Palm T3 PDA, I wanted a stylus to do my typing, browsing, and basic touch screen use.  The answer after a few days of use was a resounding yes.  So the search began.  And as any iPad user knows, there are literally hundreds of styli out there for touch screen devices.  So I needed to narrow my search criteria.

I wanted a stylus which had very good tactile, screen sensitive capacity.  The reason being, I enclosed my iPad in a Griffin Technology Survivor Extreme Duty iPad 2 case.  This beast of a case is the ultimate iPad protection one can employ to keep their investment safe.  The case encloses the iPad in a protective polycarbonate front and back high impact resistant casing, and is then in turn surrounded by a thick rubber back cover.  Tested and approved for use by the U.S. Military, this case called for a compatible stylus which possessed a high degree of responsiveness when tapping through to the iPad 2. 
After much research, I narrowed my search down to five styli, all of which I will review at some point.  But my first choice was the New Trent Limir Touch Screen Stylus / Pen.  I wanted a stylus / pen for those times when a pen was needed close at hand to jot down impending notes while using iPad 2. 

But let's talk first about the stylus end of New Trent Limir.  Its tip is constructed with a micro knit fiber mesh material, which will not scratch the iPad 2 surface.  It is quite smooth when doing screen writing or games that require repeat motion.  It is also highly responsive when using with the Survivor Extreme Duty case. 

New Trent Limir is short at 10 cm, and rather slim when holding.  I would have preferred it at 5 to 5.5 inches in length.  But it is quite adequate when employing screen side.  I find the experience to be quite comfortable as I hold the stylus differently I find from that of a pen.

On to the pen end of New Trent Limir.  The good news is, New Trent Limir employs a D1 International type ink cartridge which I have long enjoyed using in quite a few of my pens. Simply twist the middle of the barrel and out pops the cartridge tip.   Having said that, due to New Trent Limir's short stature, writing for extended periods, such as this post for example, cause quite the writer's cramp.  There is simply not enough pen to hold on to.  My fingers were aching at this point in the Post writing.  Not a memorable experience.  Hopefully New Trent decides a longer version is in order for the larger hand users. 
Needless to say the pen use of this stylus pen combo will be limited to short sweet notes.  Thank goodness for the D1 cartridge. 

There you have it.  The New Trent Limir Touch Screen Stylus / Pen, a great stylus, and an average pen experience.  As such, I give it a limited recommendation. 

Friday, April 13, 2012

Schrade U.S. Army Tactical Pen

I have developed an interest in tactical defense pens since my review of Schrade's  Tactical Fountain / Ballpoint Pen.  I simply appreciate their multi - functional potential.  In addition to their sturdy build construction, engineering and aesthetic appeal. 
So when I saw Schrade's U.S. Army Tactical Pen, well I was intrigued to say the least. 

The first thing that grabbed my attention was the authentic looking camouflage paint job.  Should a U.S. Army Service Man choose to place this pen in their ACU blouse top, pocketclip in, the pen would appear virtually invisible.

Constructed of impact resistant MARPAT coated aluminum, this kubotan designed pen can obviously withstand devastating attacks.  At 145 mm posted, it has an equal length capped.  When capped, U.S. Army's business end narrows to a rounded point that obviously has kubotan potential.  On the other end, the ink cartridge, a Hauser variety, is just so, so as a performer.  I swapped it out for a Schmidt P900 M, which completely made this pen a well inking machine.

Because U.S. Army is so well balanced, its heft is simply complemented by the Schmidt P900 cartridge.  It glides on paper, inking consistently and smoothly.  An attractive no nonsense writing instrument, Schrade's U.S. Army Tactical Pen, while certainly not for everyone, has an appeal unrivaled by any others in its class.  As such, I highly recommend it.

Friday, April 6, 2012

Terzetti Peek-A-Bo Expanding Ballpoint Pen Black

I found this pen on eBay. The seller had purchased this line from China and it came without a branded name.  The seller then decided to give the pen line the name (his name no doubt) Terzetti.  (Catchy!)  When I saw it listed on Ebay, I really liked the design style.  It has a knurled chrome twist top, The pen has a degree of heft appeal which I also like.  The barrel is brass constructed, with a matte black paint job.  The tip crest and pocket clip are chrome metal.

The Peek - A - Bo name is obviously derived from how the pen tip is engaged.  When the knurled cap is twisted, the crest tip moves down from within the barrel into a locked position pen cartridge exposed.  Nice touch.

The cartridge is a non-descript Parker - style medium ballpoint.  Writing with this pen was basically uneventful.  I was neither wowed nor underwhelmed.  It was a forgettable experience, not matching the somewhat exciting pen design at all.  I immediately thought about finding a matching cartridge with which to swap out.  And so I did.

 I exchanged the original cartridge with a perfect matching Schmidt P900 m which has transformed this pen into a potential go - to writing implement.

The Schmidt cartridge is a smooth, consistent inking refill.  It gives Terzetti a whole other appeal.  This pen now has become a go - to writing instrument that is very comfortable and pleasing to use.

As such, I highly recommend it.

Friday, March 30, 2012

Rotring Tikky Rollerpoint EF Liquid Ink Pen - 0.5mm Black Ink

Not a big fan of disposable pens, I was not convinced that Rotring's Tikky Rollerpoint EF would meet my expectations.  But the one thing I knew it had going for it was the Rotring name.  So I purchased it from Jetpens and took it for a test drive.

What immediately captured my attention was its overall design and build quality.  I love its black polished barrel, constructed from quality ABS plastic, gleaming like a ebony baby grand piano.

The pen cap has a large chrome metal pocket clip attached and has branded on its top 'EF" for extra fine.  And indeed it has an extra fine 0.5 mm needlepoint tip that delivers a fine vibrant black ink line on paper.

This pen is a joy to use.  Its employment of free flowing liquid ink really allows consistency when inking.  My only complaint would be that it is disposable.  A pen that inks this accurately, should have been constructed as a refillable pen.

This Rotring, with its needlepoint cartridge, offers a precise, accurate feel when putting pen to paper.  It is a familiar feel of the quality Rotring is consistent of.  While I can appreciate Rotring's attempt at capturing a piece of the disposable market, they could also pay attention at reducing the carbon footprint.

That said, this is a daily workhorse of a pen; a writing implement that is a smooth, precision ink deliverer; one that can handle most any writing tasks.  As such, I highly recommend it. 

Friday, March 23, 2012

Lamy Scala Preview

I received this newsletter today from Lamy about their latest line offering, Scala.  I like the design from the photos.  Can't wait to take it for a test drive.



Friday, March 16, 2012

Platinum Preppy Fountain Pen 03 Fine Nib Black Ink

This beginner's demonstrator, the Preppy Fountain Pen by Platinum, is an inexpensive but effective writing implement that offers a smooth writing experience when putting pen to paper.

No skipping, smearing or feathering was noted,  as this refillable, economical pen simply delivers.

When deconstructed, Preppy reveals a well built writing instrument, whose ink cartridge is of considerable size.  It sports a black 03 fine stainless steel nib.  The ink line it lays down is much like a 0.7 mm rollerball pen.  It is an enjoyable experience writing full narratives with Preppy.  If I had any artistic ability, I am sure that I would appreciate more of how Preppy's lines can be alternated in width when inking.

But since I will simply be calling on Preppy for writing purposes, I shall enjoy its ability to effortlessly allow me to place pen to paper.  As such, I highly recommend it.

Thursday, March 8, 2012

Lamy Tipo Rollerball Aluminum Pen

As a huge fan of Lamy Pens, when I first laid eyes on the Lamy Tipo, well I had to take it for a test drive.  Constructed from anodized aluminum and ABS plastic, Tipo has a light weight feel.  That said, it is a stylish sturdy handling writing instrument. 

Tipo came delivered in a trapezoidal box that when opened, lies flat and displays Tipo vertically held in place with a pop-up presentation holder.  Quite impressive!  Inside was the usual lifetime warranty slip from Lamy CEO, C. Josef Lamy. 

Employing the M66 ink cartridge, Tipo lays down a consistent vivid line on paper.  Its grip section is ribbed, giving the writer ample gripping potential. 

Its pocket clip is designed to double as the knock mechanism, its top end sitting 6mm above the pen's top.  When pushed directly down, the clip is locked when seated squarely in a circular groove on the barrel side.  If not done correctly, the clip returns back to its point of origin, unlocked.  This exercise is truly a learning curve.  Quite an unnecessary one at that.  I feel Lamy Tipo designer Wolfgang Fabian should have positioned the pocket clip so that when pressed in, not down, the ink cartridge would engage, and the clip would be recessed into the pen barrel, Ala the Lamy Swift, also designed by Wolfgang Fabian. 

That said, writing with Tipo is a smooth, consistent inking experience.  There was no skipping or feathering when putting pen to paper, typical of Lamy pens. 
All in all, my test drive of the Lamy Tipo was one which I found consistent with the quality and craftsmanship familiar of Lamy writing instruments.  Its true I have an issue with the pocket clip / knock mechanism, but that is not a deal breaker when all of Tipo's attributes are factored into this pen which make it a true pleasure to use.  As such, I recommend it.

Friday, March 2, 2012

Tombow Egg Rollerball Matte Black

Designated by Tombow as the Zoom 858 bw, but better known as the "Egg Matte Black", this pen won the prestigious European Red Dot award in 1989.  Introduced in 1987, and officially launched in 1988, it did not take long before Egg took off as a darling anomaly of the pen community.
                                                            (Photos courtesy of I Love Pens)

Touted as the "thickest" writing instrument in the world, Egg is the antithesis of the Zoom 707, Tombow's "thinnest" offering to date.

In its attempt to expand creative muscles, Tombow, a producer of artistically designed writing instruments and creative office products since 1913, literally knocked this one out of the park with the amazing Tombow Egg Rollerball Pen.

Unusual is an understatement when describing Egg.  Its specs read: 108 mm capped, 134 mm posted, and a whopping 20 mm in diameter.  Coupled with the matte black color and the incorporation of velvex coating over an ABS plastic barrel, makes this Egg a go-to writing implement of choice. 

As somewhat of a "Cult" pen, if located, Egg is available in Gloss Black,  Silver,  Matte Grey, the rare White Egg, and of course Matte Black.  The Egg family also includes the even rarer Egg Fountain Pen.
                                                   
 Tombow employs a smooth writing liquid pigment black ink inside of a 0.5 mm fine point cartridge.  It lays down a vibrant black ink line on paper.  Using this pen is a real treat.  Having large hands, I personally appreciate Egg's ample girth.  Is this ergonomic marvel for everyone?  Probably not.  Those with smaller hands may complain it is too thick, or that it is way too short.  Maybe Tombow's Zoom 707 is for them.  I however thoroughly enjoy calling upon the Tombow Egg Rollerball Matte Black Pen for a host of writing tasks, as such I highly recommend it. 

Friday, February 24, 2012

County Comm Embassy Pen (Rev. 2) Black

Reminiscent of a police baton, County Comm's Embassy Pen (Rev. 2) Black is a stylish, formidable looking tactical defense writing instrument.  At 13 cm capped, it is of average length, its styling simplistic, with clean lines, sporting a sturdy aluminum pocket clip, a knurled grip section occupying its bottom half, incorporating integrated grip rings in this area.
                                                          (Photos courtesy of County Comm)

Below lies the tip crest housing area that unscrews to separate the upper and lower sections of the barrel.  When deconstructed, inside resides the ink cartridge which is a Fisher Space Pen black, SPR4 medium refill.  Apropo for this pen type, the Fisher cartridge increases its all around versatility.  I have since swapped out the medium Fisher refill for the fine black refill, but that is personal preference.

Interesting to note is this pen was constructed omitting the ability to post its cap.  County Comm's reasoning for doing this, per their website, has to do with lending the business end of the pen to someone, but holding on to its cap and theoretically according to County Comm, you should get it back.  Having a pen like this, my advice would be to "just say no."  Or carry a different pen just to lend out.  After all, this is a finely engineered writing implement, constructed from T6061 Type 3 anodized aluminum, its loss would certainly be a deficit in anyone's collection.

Writing with this pen is a comfortable, smooth experience.  Typical of pens with its heft, knurled grip and its incorporated use of the Fisher ink cartridge.  Add the attractive, ninja kubotan like design, and this becomes a writing instrument of multi - faceted proportions.  There are few pens which I feel "always" need to be made available to me, the writer.  The County Comm Embassy Pen (Rev. 2) Black is one.  Whether its with me in the field, or I'm sitting behind a well-appointed desk, this pen adapts and looks and performs well in any environment.

As such, I very highly recommend the County Comm Embassy Pen (Rev. 2) Black. 

Thursday, February 9, 2012

Muji Gel Ink Ballpoint Pen Hexagonal 0.4 mm Black

Available in eight colors, Muji's Gel Ink Ballpoint Pen Hexagonal 0.4 mm inks a thin tight line on paper.  Available in both 0.3 and 0.4 mm tips, this is a workhorse of an everyday writing instrument.

                                                    (Photos courtesy of MUJI U.S.A.)
The barrel is constructed of a rubberized material, allowing easy, firm gripping during the writing experience.  Not at all scratchy, I find the ink delivery to be even, smooth and quite vivid on paper.  13.5 cm capped and 15 cm posted, this is one pen that rivals Pilot's Hi Tec - C and others in both the cost effective category a well as in delivery potential.  Ease of use is an understatement when using this pen.  If I had one complaint, it would be the employment of its clear plastic cap.  It sort of detracts from the pen's visual stimuli, as well as having a disengaging issue when removing it from the pen barrel.  Muji might have simply opted for a rubberized cap to circumvent this issue, hence providing the pen with a total matte black stealthy appeal. 

This aside, I enjoy using this pen so much, deciding to purchase more colors as well as the 0.3 mm tip variety was truly a no-brainer.  Definitely a member of my daily arsenal, it is without hesitation that I highly recommend the Muji Gel Ink Ballpoint Pen Hexagonal 0.4 mm Black.

Friday, February 3, 2012

Tombow Object Rollerball Pen Matte Black

Elegance and style are the first words that come to mind when beginning to describe the Tombow Object Roller ball Pen Matte Black.  The matte black color, blended with its clean, timeless lines, makes Object seem like it should be gently placed in the handkerchief pocket of a black tuxedo. 
                                                 (Photos courtesy of Journaling Arts)

Constructed of lightweight aluminum, Tombow Object is balanced and sturdy.  At 5.5" capped, and 5.75" posted, it is of average length and has substantial girth at 12 mm in diameter at its widest circumference.   

The Tombow Object Matte Black sports a 0.5 mm black ink cartridge, and inks a very vibrant line on paper.  Tombow employs a waterproof, fast drying pigment ink that does not smear, skip or fade.  Inking quite smoothly, the cartridge is of the premium tungsten carbide rolling ball variety. 

This is one pen that is hard to put down.  Writing with it is quite a pleasurable experience indeed!
There is no issue with slipping or creeping as the barrel is half ribbed.  Only one potential issue could be when the pen is capped, uncapping calls for a degree of pull apart power.  My suggestion is for Tombow to consider machining in screw threads inside the cap and barrel area where the two connect. 
This would solve the problem, and add to the pen's elegance. 

The Tombow Object Roller ball Pen Matte Black has the appearance and overall performance of a pen worth three times its cost.  As such, I highly recommend it. 

Friday, January 27, 2012

Zebra B2A1 2 Color Multi Pen Silver

Zebra's B2A1 2 Color Multi Pen Silver, is an attractive, slim aluminum multi pen offering, but is not without a few issues.  Having used Zebra's F - 701 Ballpoint with the knurled grip, I felt Zebra had a better sense of aluminum barrel creeping issues.  Apparently I was mistaken.  After using the B2A1 for a week, my only resolve is to incorporate a rubber grip sleeve to circumvent the creeping which is perpetual when using this pen.  Writer's fatigue is an inevitability when using this pen for an extended period.  What's interesting to note is Zebra offers this pen in matte black and matte blue, which probably have less of this issue.
                                        (Photo courtesy of Winning Pen)

All that said, B2A1 Silver inks well on paper.  Incorporating Zebra's 4C - 0.7 mm cartridges, inking is a smooth but slippery experience.  Coming with blue and red refills, each is engaged by twisting the center barrel in either direction.  The blue ink cartridge produced a vivid ink line on paper.  An equal result occurred with the red cartridge.

The pen is rather short at 12 cm, and slim in diameter at 8 mm,  causing large hands to really make unnatural like adjustments when holding.  Had the creeping issue been a non-issue, this problem would be considered less of one.  Don't get me wrong, this is not a cheaply constructed writing instrument, and from cap to tip, B2A1 Silver is quite the looker.  I do however judge a pen by overall performance as well.  As such, it is with some reservation that I recommend the Zebra B2A1 2 Color Multi Pen Silver.

(Update: I have since applied a rubber grip sleeve to the barrel which has now given this pen an upgraded rating of good). 

Friday, January 20, 2012

Zebra SK - Sharbo + 1 2 Color 0.7 mm Ballpoint Multi Pen + 0.5 mm Pencil Black

The Zebra SK - Sharbo + 1 Multi Pen Black, constructed from a quality black plastic material, delivers a thin, vivid ink line on paper.  A three point multi pen, the SK Sharbo + 1 is a solidly built writing implement, and has comfortable gripping potential.  Packing black and red 0.7 mm ink cartridges, SK Sharbo + 1 is as versatile as any multi pen, including its 0.5 mm lead holder to boot.  The pen engages its functions by twisting the pocket clip in either direction, indicating below it which function is being engaged when  pointing to the labeling posted there.
                                          (Photos courtesy of Jet Pens)
Below that lies the rubber gripping section, which provides a comfortable zone for writing.  When engaging the mechanical pencil, the lead is advanced by pressing down the knock mechanism on the pen cap.  Beneath the cap resides a white eraser, of adequate size.  After using the SK - Sharbo + 1 for a while, I find it a great pen for everyday use.  It is light in weight, and has a girth which is substantial, perfect for writing lengthy narratives.


The Zebra SK - Sharbo + 1 Multi Pen is a solid performing writing instrument, as such I highly recommend it. 

Friday, January 13, 2012

Muji Wooden Hexagonal Ballpoint Pen, 0.5 Natural

The Muji Wooden Hexagonal Ballpoint Pen is an easy pen to like.  It is however a bit diminutive in stature, especially for those with large hands.  What compensates for the lack of girth and overall size, are several different attributes it possesses.  First is its form factor.  Being hexagonal in shape, allows easy gripping and easy hand paper coordination.  Second, it is constructed from California cedar wood (incense cedar), which is placed around an aluminum core. Tip and knock mechanism are both constructed from light weight  matte aluminum.  This also contributes to the pen's comfortable gripping feel during the writing experience.  The pen is very light weight, even lighter than a number two pencil of the same length.  At 12.5 cm, it is less than average in size.  It is the wood version of its brother, the Muji Aluminum Hexagonal Ballpoint. Also available as a mechanical pencil.  This is a pen that is effortless to carry and even comfortable when writing narratives of some length.
                                                       (Photo courtesy of Muji)
When deconstructing, inside resides a 0.5 mm needle point cartridge.  Currently both pen and cartridge are out of stock on Muji's web site.  A problem that seems to be a recurring theme with Muji writing instruments.  None the less, writing with this pen is more than efficient.  It inks a rather thin line on paper, and the ink is not washed out, but appears vivid and clear.  This pen is one that definitely gets used on a regular basis as it gets carried back and forth, and sits in an non-designated spot on my desk as well. 

At $6.50, it is reasonably priced, and performs like a pen worth twice that amount.  As such, I highly recommend the Muji Wooden Hexagonal Ballpoint Pen. 

Friday, January 6, 2012

Ohto NBP - 507R Promecha Ballpoint Pen, Blue

At first glance, the Ohto  Promecha Ballpoint Pen appears to look much like a mechanical pencil. And indeed it does closely resemble its mechanical pencil Promecha brother.  But don't let the knurled grip or the needle point tip fool you.  This is a finely crafted aluminum body pen, and precision writing instrument. 
Packing a 0.7mm needle point tip ink cartridge, Promecha delivers a thin, tight ink line.  At 135mm in length, and a slender barrel diameter of 7.5mm, this pen is balanced and feels comfortable when applying to paper.  Weighing in at 18 grams, Promecha is on the light weight side.  None the less, it feels substantial when gripping to write on paper.  The stainless steel knurled grip provides secure holding power, giving the writer a feeling of solid penmanship ability.
                                                     (Photo courtesy of iPen Store)
Promecha is available in four different colors, including: black, silver, gold and metallic blue, which I have chosen for review.  The pen cap is matte silver.  The knock mechanism working flawlessly when pressed to engage the ink cartridge.  Below it resides a removable shiny chrome metal pocket clip, which adds to the pen's flare and appeal.  To its side and further below, is the pen model and Ohto logo stamped in white.  Moving down its barrel, next is the knurled stainless steel grip section.  It is ribbed, allowing for an even better gripping ability when writing.  Directly below lies the metal tip housing section which screws off to reveal the ink cartridge and spring.

What's interesting is how the tip section is made to look telescopic, narrowing to the cartridge needle point tip.  This unique style feature sets Promecha apart from other needle point ballpoints indicative of its precision build and penning accuracy. 

Writing with the Ohto Promecha is simply a pleasurable experience.  It is a near perfect writing implement.  Could it be improved at all?  Probably.  But presently, I can't think of any addons I would make.  I personally like it as is.  And to that end, I highly recommend the Ohto Promecha Ballpoint Pen.