Great Rollerball Or Gel Pen?

[dickens]

I need a great, smooth-writing rollerball or gel pen to use when FPs just won't do or I don't want to use one. Here's the catch: $30 or under. Will you use your great experience to give me some recommendations?

[Pulse]

There's the classic Pilot g-2, but I really don't like it much. The Pilot V5 or V7 are great. The Uni Ball Signo 0.38mm is very nice, The Morning Glory Mach II is supposed to be better than the V5. I also like the Bic 537R.

 

But overall- I suggest a Platinum Preppy converted to an eyedropper.

Edited July 12, 2011 by Pulse

[Dark Side]

I use a Pilot Knight rollerball and love it, it takes Pilot G-2 refills which are pretty readily available so that's a plus.

[kalali]

I need a great, smooth-writing rollerball or gel pen to use when FPs just won't do or I don't want to use one. Here's the catch: $30 or under. Will you use your great experience to give me some recommendations?

 

I use Parker Jotter with Gel ink refill. Can be had for under $6.

[KrazyIvan]

I recommend the Jetstream Alpha Gel. It's $15 at Jetpens.com.

 

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3357/4610013498_83ebc62439_z.jpg

Unibal Jetstream _Alpha Gel Grip by IvanRomero, on Flickr

 

http://www.jetpens.com/Uni-ball-Jetstream-Ballpoint-Pen-0.7-mm-Alpha-Gel-Grip-Series-Black-Body/pd/2775

[erratik]

I like the A.G. Spalding & Bros rollerball

[bluejay]

i suggest go to a pen store and try every roller refill you can find then find a cheap rollerball pen holder like pentel and see if you can fit the refill to the pen. Many people do this. This saves you money to spend on essential items like fountain pens

[Black Rose]

I also like the Bic 537R.

That's what I use at the office. Quite happy with it.

[RayMan]

Pretty much any capped BP that will accept G-2 refills will do for me. Waterman makes some inexpensive models.

 

Parker gels are OK, but they have two shortcomings for me. First, they seem to have a lower ink capacity than G-2 type gels. Secondly, and more importantly, they are designed for click (or twist) retractable pens. I've had instances where the refill did not fully retract when the pen was clicked or twisted, probably due to a weak or restricted spring. This creates a risk of ink seeping into your pocket.

[kalali]

Secondly, and more importantly, they are designed for click (or twist) retractable pens.

 

Very valid point. I should have added that the only time I use a gel/roller type pen is when I only have one free hand thus the clicking action is a must.

[kaissa]

Pilot G2 refill, Visconti gel refill for Parker type BP and Parker gel for Parker type BP.

 

For Pilot G2, a Pilot Knight rollerball or a G2 type pen should cost less than $30.

 

For others any Parker compatible BP should do regarding your taste.

 

I use Pilot G2 B and Visconti B most of the time {non-FP time }. Parker only has M for its gel.

 

It has been some time since I last used a roller. Gels suit me just fine so I cannot recommend any roller.

 

Regards,

[lovemy51]

i rocommend Waterman Kultur RB. you can use the Pilot G2 refill... i think :hmm1:

 

http://montgomerypens.com/xlpictures/kulturclearrb_bg.jpg

 

 

http://montgomerypens.com/product_detail.asp?product_id=14792

[Surfbits]

I need a great, smooth-writing rollerball or gel pen to use when FPs just won't do or I don't want to use one. Here's the catch: $30 or under. Will you use your great experience to give me some recommendations?

 

Without a doubt, try the Uni-ball signo 207, I got one free as a business hand-out last holiday and loved it so much I went and purchased more on my own. Cheap, smooth and the blue color is unique compared to other blue gels I have.

[ghazali]

I need a great, smooth-writing rollerball or gel pen to use when FPs just won't do or I don't want to use one. Here's the catch: $30 or under. Will you use your great experience to give me some recommendations?

 

When would FPs just won't do? :hmm1:

 

Anyway, try a Pentel Vicuna or Surari.

[RMN]

Pentel ERGoNoMIX

 

Good balance, has a thick rubber grip and an adjustable support that rest in the crook between thumb and forefinger.

 

 

 

D.ick

[BeachBum]

I am a Pilot G-2 (0.5) all the way for non-FP work. Now that I have seen some of the "fancier" pens that will accept the G-2 refill, I may have to check them out. (Just something else to spend money on as a result of checking this dadgum bulletin board! )

[Garageboy]

Any of the JDM Uni Balls will do (or JDM Zebras)

I think I'm the only one who hates G2s (bad history of skipping) - much rather use a Hi Tec C

[bertramsinkwell]

1. LAMY Safari around $25, with lots of color options. It also can take the felt tip refill, if you like that style.

 

2. Retro 51 Tornado is another wildly popular pen, with many different finishes and editions. They are all around $30, which is the high end of your range. Having that said, these pens are coveted for their retro appearance, and remarkable reliability.

 

3. Monteverde Jewelria is a popular rollerball made by Monteverde USA, and has even more finishes and appearances. The pen is around $32, so a little out of the range. I added this one just to give some more choices.

 

 

Overall, I would say the best option would be the LAMY Safari, due to its durability and simple look. However, if you enjoy the Retro 51's classic look, then those are great pens too!

 

 

Hope this helps!

 

Cheers,

[Merrib]

Retro 51 Tornado they are usually priced at less than $30 and they can use the Parker

Gel refills.

[RayMan]

Retro 51 Tornado they are usually priced at less than $30 and they can use the Parker

Gel refills.

 

 

I have a Tornado. Very nice.