The Bolen

I went with the titanium version and I'm impressed. The pen handles great and has a nice hand feel. The twist mechanism is quiet with a slight click to confirm the retraction of the pen.

The weight strikes a sweet spot, just heavy enough to tell you it's there and light enough to stay out of your way as you write. I have the Burwell in Stainless, and this one just feels better to me. I think I'll keep this pen forever.

The right pen for someone is very subjective. I'll list the items that I prefer in a pen.

Heft. I don't like a ballpoint pen that is too lightweight or too heavy. This pen hits a great balance for me.

Use. I often need to grab a pen from my pocket, open it, use it, and replace it one-handed. Done.

Refills. My preference is for the Parker G2 refill. If you have used a Parker ballpoint pen, you know this refill.

Grip. By far, this pen has the grip I have sought for years. I've had a couple of pens in this spot over the years. THIS PEN NAILS IT! From when I pick up this pen until I set it down, it does not move in my fingers. NOT ONE MILLIMETER. That is amazing.

Size. In fountain pens, I prefer a larger girth; think MB-149. But in ballpoints, I prefer something the size of a #2 pencil. The Bolen hits that size perfectly.

The Bolen (to be honest, the Bolen is my choice from among all the James Brand ballpoints) just knocked out of the top spot a $175 machined titanium pen. I will carry both (the loser fits my Rickshaw 3-sleeve case better because it is taller), but I much prefer the Bolen and reach for the Bolen at my desk. However, the Bolen wins with the 2-sleeve case. It just depends on what I'm walking out of the house with that day as to which pen walks with me. For most of my needs, the 2-sleeve case is the choice, and the expensive pen stays home.

Titanium pen is nice, very light and impressive. Machining marks are throughout and the green circle accent is obnoxious. There is a weird visual effect where the green circle looks off-center because of the direction of the light and angle of viewing. Machining marks at this price are just unacceptable. There are distinct rings on the pen. At least they are near the tip. I'm keeping it, but was very close to returning it.