[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.