Recording Thoughts

Pen Review: Lamy 2000 Ballpoint

I bought the Lamy 2000 Ballpoint pen because I have their fountain pen, and I really like that pen even if it’s very, very broad point. So, while I was at Daly’s (if you’re ever in Milwaukee, you really need to check them out) picking up some refills, I decided to pick up the Lamy 2000 ballpoint. I might yet pick up the roller ball, when my obsession comes back around to roller balls.

Anyway, so what kind of pen is the Lamy 2000? A pretty good one, even if it’s a bit pricey ($65). It’s been around since 1966, but it has a rather timeless design - I would have guess it came out maybe 5 years ago. The model I have is the fiberglass reinforced plastic version, they also have a “blackwood” (ebony?) version which costs more.

The pros:

• Very light weight – no dragging down any pocket with this pen.
• Cartridge is pretty large capacity.
• The reveal is enough to grab the pen without trouble.
• The barrel diameter is large enough for an easy gasp.
• The surface finish also provides an easy grip.
• The clip is hinge & spring, versus a straight spring clip. Should last a long time.
• The refill doesn’t rattle or wiggle or click while writing – always a good thing.
• There are no springs or other parts that come sliding out of the pen when changing the refill.
• The mechanism doesn’t squeak or rattle, and has a satisfying action to it.
• The mostly plastic body won’t mar or damage pocket-mates.

The cons:

• It’s pretty expensive.
• It’s so lightweight that you’ll never notice it missing from a pocket.
• The clicker, for lack of a better term, looks the same whether the point is in or out – there’s no way to tell if the point’s out while the pen is in a pocket or sleeve.
• The clip doesn’t have the capacity to clip onto thick pocket hems, like on the inside of a winter coat.
• The clip has an annoying amount of side-play. It’s not a factor in actual usage, but a fine instrument, even a writing instrument, should have perfect fit and finish.

When I got this pen I selected the medium refill, but if they have a broad point I think I’d prefer it to the medium, which is a bit narrow. I like the pen, although the materials and weight make it seem more fragile than it really is. I find it very comfortable to write with, and an easy pen to carry. Time will tell how tough it really is.

One Response to “Pen Review: Lamy 2000 Ballpoint”

1. Chris Meisenzahl Says:
   January 2nd, 2006 at 12:54 am

   I’ve had the Lamy 2000 fountain pen for over 2 years and love it. The piston filling mechanism is great, and holds a good amount of ink.

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