EDC eh? Start here. Part 5

The Pen is Mightier than the sword

It's always a good idea to have a few essential items with you wherever you go. Among them is the pen and paper. There are a few reasons why you might want to consider carrying an EDC pen with you everywhere you go. First, an EDC pen can be a lifesaver in emergency situations. If you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to write something down quickly, an EDC pen will be there for you. Second, an EDC pen can be used for self-defense. If you are in a situation where you need to defend yourself, you can use the pointed end of the pen to jab at your attacker. Third, an EDC pen can be used for everyday tasks like jotting down a phone number or signing a credit card receipt.

Just to clarify, there is a distinction between an EDC (Everyday Carry) pen and a high-quality writing instrument. Should your preference lean towards a superior writing experience, then we recommend consulting the interwebs, for a reputable pen for enthusiasts. 

How to Choose the Right EDC Pen

There are a few things to consider when choosing the right EDC pen for you. First, think about what material you want your pen to be made from. Stainless steel and titanium are good choices if you want a durable pen that will last for years. Second, think about what size you want your pen to be. Some people prefer smaller pens that can easily fit in their pockets while others prefer larger pens that are easy to hold and write with.

Third, think about what price you’re willing to pay for your EDC pen. You can find good quality pens for anywhere from as low as $20 or above $100 depending on the materials and features that you’re looking for.

Selecting a pen

If you’re a fan of everyday carry (EDC) items, you probably already know the importance of a good pen. Having an EDC pen on hand is not only practical, but it can also elevate your style and show your attention to detail. In this post, we’ll take a look at the different types of pens you can carry. 

• Ballpoint pens, have earned their status as one of the most widely favored writing instruments available today. They offer affordability, reliability, and a diverse range of colors and designs. What sets ballpoints apart is their unwavering consistency and dependability. Additionally, their cost-effectiveness and ease of production have made them ubiquitous, with the Bic Cristal, for instance, claiming the title of the best-selling pen in history, with a staggering 57 pens sold every second. It's even earned a place in the MoMA's esteemed industrial design collection.
• Gel pens, on the other hand, gel pens provide a silky and precise writing experience, making them ideal for note-taking, correspondence, or quick note-jotting. Although they technically utilize water-based ink, their ink-to-pigment ratio is higher, resulting in a similar fluidity to rollerball or fountain pens but with bolder and more vivid colors. Gel pens excel on dark surfaces and smooth materials, yet they do require slightly more time to dry compared to other ink varieties. Nevertheless, they are less prone to bleeding through pages.
• Fountain pens, they represent a timeless choice for aficionados of the written word. Their elegance and the distinct writing sensation they offer make them highly appealing. They particularly shine in the hands of those with impeccable penmanship. However, they may not be the best everyday carry (EDC) option due to the delicacy of their nibs.
• Rollerball pens, while sharing some similarities with ballpoints, possess their own unique characteristics. Rollerballs employ the same mechanics as ballpoints but typically use water-based ink (although some may utilize gel ink). Many upscale rollerball pens feature a cap rather than a twist-action retractor, adding a touch of sophistication to their design.

The challenge with daily pocket carry lies in its potential to cause wear and tear on delicate writing instruments. Consequently, fountain pens and needle-tip pens, along with woodcase pencils and most mechanical pencils, are unsuitable options due to their susceptibility to damage. In this context, EDC writing tools typically boil down to two practical choices: rollerball or ballpoint pens. While these may lack the charm and customizability of fountain pens, they excel in both functionality and durability, making them well-suited for the task at hand.

While the pen's exterior is undoubtedly significant, the importance of pen refills should not be underestimated, a topic curiously underrepresented within the EDC community. Two primary reasons contribute to this lack of focus: first, individuals often stick with the default refill provided with their pens, and second, those who explore alternatives quickly converge upon a single standout choice—the Schmidt EasyFlow 9000. This "Parker style" refill stands head and shoulders above the competition, earning its reputation as the unequivocal best refill for an EDC pen. Other options may have their merits, but none match the universal utility and reliability of the Schmidt EasyFlow 9000.

It's worth noting that in the realm of EDC pens, there exists a near-consensus regarding the optimal ink color—blue. Deviating from this standard is often considered heretical within the EDC community, emphasizing the significance of this particular ink choice.

An EDC pen is different than a regular pen in a few key ways. First, an EDC pen is usually made from more durable materials like stainless steel or titanium.

This means that an EDC pen can withstand more wear and tear than a regular pen. Second, an EDC pen usually has a pocket clip so you can attach it to your clothing. This way, you’ll always have your pen with you when you need it.

Finally, an EDC pen usually has a built-in mechanism for refilling the ink cartridge. This way, you can use your pen over and over again without having to buy a new one every time the ink runs out.

There are many different types of EDC pens on the market, each with their own unique features and benefits. The best EDC pen for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs. Do you just need a cheap pen you can find anywhere and everywhere or do you go with something more subtaintial, that goes beyond just using it as a writing tool.