STAEDTLER2.0mm Mechanical Pencil Night Blue Series (925 35-20)

This pencil was a recent edition after doing heavy research into lead types, different styles of graphite, lead thickness, and the virtues of having something other than "#2 pencil." As a caveat, I am left handed and have a terrible writing wrist. I have struggled with pencils all my life.This is a mechanical lead holder, except the clutch mechanism is not a "slip" mechanism, meaning it progressively advances in measurable increments the lead, rather than a simple vise that uses spring tension to hold the lead.The pencil itself is stunning and the fit and finish are extraordinary. It's all metal (likely aluminum) and the blue is a deep blue. The bare metals all polished. The clip is sturdy. The inside holder for the lead (which only fits one) is brass (some other reviews report plastic, but mine did not have it). The point cap screws on tightly.The lead viewfinder (that indicates what type) is adjusted with the lead cap, which means it stays sturdy in its place until you're ready to change the lead type. This keeps the viewfinder from wandering. The overall fit and finish is excellent, and the weight feels heavier than a traditional pencil, but not so heavy as to annoy my left hand.When advancing the lead, it feels very sturdy, and the clutch is tight, which means there's not a lot of "give" in how much of the lead advances. I also played with pushing the lead back in (to see if it would grind against the clutch mechanism) and it had absolutely no grind or scratch, indicating that the mechanism has enough give as to not rub off excess graphite (and potentially lubricate the mechanism and cause slip later on).It comes with an HB lead, but I bought Staedtler Mars Carbon 2B refills.Overall, this is a fabulous choice, and cannot recommend it highly. If you are someone who cherishes their writing instruments and doesn't loose them, then this is a fabulous replacement for ye' ole wood pencil. If you are someone who could care less, I would implore you to consider yourself and your habits and maybe change them for nicer and longer lasting instruments such as this. :)

These are a tad pricey but, so far, seem to be well worth the extra bucks. It's solid feeling and easy to write with. Physically it's a very attractive writing tool.

I recently purchased the Staedtler 0.5mm Mechanical Pencil in Night Blue, and I must say, I'm quite impressed. Here's why:Design: The night blue color is sleek and sophisticated, making it stand out from typical mechanical pencils. It's not only stylish but also easy to spot in my pencil case or on my desk.Performance: The 0.5mm lead size is perfect for precise writing and drawing. The pencil feels sturdy in my hand and writes smoothly without any snagging or breaking of the lead. I've been using it for both detailed sketches and everyday writing tasks, and it hasn't let me down.Comfort: The ergonomic design of the pencil ensures a comfortable grip, even during long writing sessions. I appreciate that Staedtler prioritizes user comfort without sacrificing style or performance.Durability: So far, the pencil has held up well to regular use. The construction feels solid, and I haven't encountered any issues with the mechanism or lead jamming.Overall, I'm very satisfied with my purchase of the Staedtler 0.5mm Mechanical Pencil in Night Blue. While I haven't given it a full five stars due to some minor issues with eraser durability, it's still a reliable and stylish option for anyone in need of a quality mechanical pencil. Highly recommended!

Despite collecting mechanical drafting pencils for years Staedler 925 is my favorite mechanical pencil.Compared against other high-end drafting pencils, the Staedler represents a great value, top quality construction, and an appealing form factor.Compared to the venerable Rotring 600, the 925 is far more comfortable (more even balance, larger grip with better knurling), durable (Rotring has perhaps the thinnest and most fragile lead pipe I've ever seen), and affordable (1/2 the current price, 1/3 or less for the classic model 600s that are better built). The 800 has the same issues but with the advantage of being pocket safe.Compared to the Alvin Draftmatics, again the Staedler is more comfortable with more precise knurling and larger grip.The Pentel Graph Gear 1000 is the closest competition to the 925 in smaller lead sizes. It is arguably more comfortable with the rubber grip inserts, and the spring-loaded clip is great for some people. I find it oversized, both in length and in width thanks to the clip. Otherwise is can be seen as a good alternative to the 925 for just a bit more money.Pentel's other graphing pencils, the Graph Gear 500 and 600, as well as the Graph 1000 for Pro, are all great options as well, but lack the extra polish and solidity of the 925.Less traditional graphing pencils like the Pilot graphing pencil or more everyday 'graphing-like' pencils such as the Kuru-toga or the Pentel Sharp all have their merits, but for a pure drafting pencil there is nothing that beats the Staedler 925.

You can feel the quality. The tip holds the lead firm. No play. Very tight tolerances for the price. I highly recommend using an external eraser.