[hn_throwaway_99]

I followed these guides for a while but was never happy with the recommendations. No matter which pen I chose it seemed like they would bleed, or dry up, or get "splotchy" if I didn't write at the correct speed. I think the primary thing is that I don't really like any pen that has a "ball tip", i.e. a ballpoint, rollerball or gel pen.

Finally I decided to try something new and discovered that my favorite pen for writing was actually a marker. I know this may sound like I'm shilling but I'm not, these Prismacolor fine tip markers, https://www.prismacolor.com/markers/premier-illustration-mar..., are my favorite things to write with. They're the closest in feel to a mechanical pencil, they never dry out, never bleed, etc.

For all the analysis posts like this one that I've read I'm just at a loss as to why fine-tipped markers don't feature more prominently.

[ink_13]

In this vein, I can personally vouch for the Sakura Pigma Micron they recommend as an excellent felt-tip pen.

[crq-yml]

Markers are powerful, and defacto the most practical art pens since they give immediate gratification, reasonably controlled lines and dark permanent inks with low risk of leakage, fraying or drying out.

But the ballpoints are slightly better at being everyday pocket pens because they resist rough handling and improper storage. This becomes less true as you move up the price ladder into hybrid, gel and rollerball pens, but it's definitely the case if you're getting a Bic Stic or other classic oil-based ballpoint.

What I've noticed is that overall, if you care about the type and amount of drag on the pen, you end up moving away from gels and rollers. The oil-based pens have a kind of creaminess to them when you get them in large point sizes(e.g. Bic Xtra-Bold 1.6mm) that can be satisfying. But if you want things to be really crisp and controlled you need either the additional friction of felt tips or a sharp, fine nib.

If you haven't tried one, get a Speedball Hunt 102 nib and some dip ink. The nib needs the factory coating scrubbed off, and you'll need some tissue to clean up, but once you get past that part, the path is open to experience a pen that will absolutely carve up your paper.

[mayormcmatt]

Yes, I definitely second this recommendation. I used to do IT for a couple architects and got turned on to these kinds of pens, which they use professionally for blueprint markup. They are just perfect for me, too.