Ballpoint Pens:
The ballpoint pens that we offer have a twist action mechanism. There is no reason to remove the end cap that twists. Doing so will loosen the fit over time which will eventually cause a problem for advancing and retracting the refill.
Older silver-plated styles will require polishing. The instrument will tarnish more so when not used frequently. The new platinum-plated styles do not require silver polish and will not tarnish.
Do not use solvents or cleaners to clean the pen. Using a soft cloth and water will usually remove any dirt.
Use a soft polishing cloth to wipe down and polish metal parts.
The international large capacity ballpoint refill has a more controlled feel compared to a rollerball. The ink is a thicker paste which has a longer life span. The stroke of a ballpoint pen is in most cases indelible i.e. it cannot be erased. When not in use, it is recommended to retract the refill in order to prevent any staining on a shirt pocket for example.
At the tip of the ball rolls a ball socket supplied with ink paste via so-called paste channels. As the ball provides closure of the ink at the tip, no cap or other device is required to prevent the ink from drying out. Ballpoint pens are ready to write immediately after placing them on the paper as opposed to a gel pen, which may not immediately start to write. They may need to be “brought back to life” by a few vigorous strokes.
Ballpoint pens can be used with strong writing pressure.