The Pilot Dr. Grip 4+1 Multi-pen
My Pilot Dr. Grip 4+1 Multi-pen ($15, still in stock at JetPens.com as of this writing) arrived today. It's everything I expected: a Dr. Grip-style barrel and rubber grip, no wider than a single-function Dr. Grip, but with 5 functions: black, red, blue, green and mechanical pencil. The inks are comparable to single-function Dr. Grip pens, which make this an easy must-have for fans of those pens.
I'm pleased to say the push-button design works better than a Bic 4-color. The buttons are very easy to push, and not easy to release accidentally, though I did trip the release on the mechanical pencil once when I didn't intend to. The U.S. mini-cultural bias against multi-pens as being for children combined with the unusual diameter common to all Dr. Grip pens gives this pen the appearance of a toy, but it's as solidly built as others in the Dr. Grip line.
The pencil's button also doubles as the clip, which is both clever and counter-intuitive. To advance the lead, you push the clip down further than its active position, which wouldn't be so bad except there's some give between the resting ("on") position and the catch for advancing lead. I wasted a good 60 seconds ticking the clip between those positions with no lead coming out before realizing I had to push harder.
Loading lead is simple but not as easy as most mechanical pencils. With the Dr. Grip 4+1, you remove the tip to expose the cartridges, then remove the metal end of the pencil cartridge. I worried I'd break it, but didn't have any trouble in the end. Surprisingly, my pen did not come with lead pre-loaded, nor did it include a supply in the box. (Thankfully, I have more .5mm lead than I'll ever use in my lifetime.)
I now own 3 somewhat expensive imported multi-pens. One is too short for my hands, but writes fabulously. Of the remaining two, the Platinum Double 3 Action is thinner, sleaker, and has a cooler switch mechanism than the Dr. Grip 4+1. The Dr. Grip has the famous rubber grip and smooth ink of the Dr. Grip line, and more colors. Compared to the Platinum, the Dr. Grip is comically wide, but since it's the same size as a single-function Dr. Grip (which is also quite wide), Dr. Grip fans aren't likely to notice. Those who don't like the grip, the width, or the Bic 4-color push-button aesthetic might prefer the Platinum.
I had planned on doing a silly series of fawning "unboxing" photos, but I tired of the gag before I got to the text. Here are some photos anyway.
The box:
The pen:
The eraser cap removed:
The cartridges exposed:
A brief writing sample:
The instructions in the box:
Thank You,
I have been waiting on such a pen for nearly 4 years. I brought my first Dr Grip 1+1 pen in 2003 July at Kinko. I went back to buy 3 in April 2004 when I had my pen stolen. I had another one stolen in 2007. I brought 2 more. I have a total of 5. I keep 3 in my purse; one in blue, black and purple. I needed a green and red. I am a teacher and I use 5 different ink pens for work and personal use. I called Staples early this evening to see if Dr.Grip had green or red refillers for the 1+1. No such luck. I google and what did I find not only the red and green inks, but I also notice 4+1 which sold in silver and blue bodies. I am a UofL graduate. UK is blue cannot do. I prefer the silver body. I need gold and silver ink as well. Who knows maybe there will be a 2+1 pen in silver and gold. I waiting. I notice whenever I want something I find it on the internet. If you know of such a pen let me know.
Thanks Again