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Mechanical pencils are available in all shapes and styles. You might actually be surprised by how many options are available. That said, how do you know which one is the best for you? Are all mechanical pencils the same? To help you figure out how to choose the right mechanical pencil, let’s take a look at some of the features you should pay attention to. You’ll be able to figure out the features you like the most and learn why all mechanical pencils are not created equal when it comes to drawing and sketching.
The basic definition is a pencil with a mechanism that advances the lead, eliminating the need for sharpening. Generally, you click on a button at the end of the pencil to push the lead forward. When you get to the end of one lead stick, another one automatically falls in and takes its place. There’s also a place on the pencil to store additional lead, normally in a small cavity under the erase.
Also known as the drafting pencil,most mechanical pencils have small erasers that can’t really be used to erase anything too substantial. There are some models that have erasers that twist and extend in the same manner as lead. They can actually last quite a while and some people prefer them to using a separate eraser. That said, if you’re working on a large project, using a separate eraser is probably your best bet.
Like when shopping for a traditional graphite pencil, wooden pencils, and colored pencils, if you want to find the best mechanical pencil, start by thinking about what you’re going to use it for. You might want different features for sketching as opposed to writing or note-taking. Once you have that figured out, consider the following:
If you’re using your pencil primarily for writing, it’s a good idea to go with a thicker lead. If you want something that takes a lot of pressure without breaking, go for 0.7 mm or 0.9mm pencil lead. Thinner lead will likely snap if you have a heavy hand but some people might find even 0.5mm lead suits them for writing.
Lead size is very important if you’re planning to use your drafting pencil to draw or sketch. In fact, you’ll probably need a variety of sizes to produce detailed and precise work. For example, some people prefer 0.7 or even 0.9mm lead for rough sketching and 0.5 or even 0.3mm pencil lead for fine detailing.
Generally, it’s a good idea to use a pencil that feeds lead quickly and easily. This is particularly important with sketching or drawing when taking the time out to feed the lead might interrupt your flow.
If you’re looking for something that you’ll be able to use for a long time, metal builds are the way to go. People invest in great pens all the time and a pencil is no different, especially if you’re an artist.
Your pencil has to feel right in your hand. It should have the right thickness, shape, and grip. Some people like rubber while some prefer knurled metal. You’ll also notice a huge difference between a higher end pen as far as weight when compared to a lightweight disposable. A really good mechanical pencil will feel balanced and like you’re actually holding onto something substantial.
If you think you’ve seen everything there is to see when it comes to mechanical pencils, you’re going to love the advancements being made. Enter the Modern Fuel Mechanical Pencil 2.0. This innovative new design is loaded with amazing features that might make it the last pencil you ever need.
This pencil was designed by Andrew Sanderson when he couldn’t find the kind of mechanical pencil he wanted. He was motivated to create the perfect mechanical pencil and developed something that’s dependable enough to last for many years to come.
What’s so special about it? For one thing, it’s made from 100% metal parts (except for the O-ring and eraser). Plus, each pen is machined from one solid piece of metal which results in incredible strength and durability.
One of the most impressive things about it is you can add mechanisms that allow you to change the lead size. So, with just this one pencil, you can use 0.5, 0.7, of 0.9mm lead which makes this one of the most versatile mechanical options available.
The tip is retractable so you can keep it in your pocket, briefcase, purse, or pencil cup without worrying about any damage. Each pencil has a hidden screw system that holds it together and comes with an Allen wrench so that you can make changes to suit your needs. We already mentioned you can change the lead mechanism but you can also replace the eraser with an optional metal plug for a more uniform look.
That’s not all.You can also choose between various materials including titanium, copper, bronze, and stainless steel. These pencils are carefully tested for perfect weight distribution and balance before being assigned a unique serial number.
Here’s one of the most impressive things about this pencil. It’s made to be heirloom quality and comes with a lifetime guarantee. If there’s ever a problem, simply return it and they’ll either repair it or make you a brand new one.
There are a lot of great mechanical pencils out there, but the Modern Fuel Mechanical Pencil 2.0 checks all the boxes. It’s durable, versatile, and perfectly balanced. Because it gives you the ability to change between different sizes of lead, you can really use this pencil for anything: writing, drafting, drawing and sketching, or to take quick notes at a business meeting or in class.
Best of all, if anything ever goes wrong, you can return it for repairs or receive a whole new item. That means that this pencil really will last a lifetime.
