Tactical pens are a great addition to your everyday supplies when in need of self-defense or on duty. It can not only be used as a writing tool, but can also be used as a self-defense or attack tool in close combat situations.
There are many different types of tactical pens on the market, so it can be difficult to find the right one for you. Our experts have compiled a list of the best tactical pens for EDC in 2022, so you can make the best choice for your needs. Read below!
The Tactical Pens History
In the late 60s, a man named Soke Takayuki Kubota invented a simple keychain weapon called a Kubotan.
In combination with some very basic locks and pressure, point strikes a Kubotan is incredibly effective at turning someone into a whimpering heap of terrified jelly.
Most people recognize these implements as small key-chain attachments that are usually blunt at one end and taper to a dull point on the other.
Kubotan is particularly useful for a few reasons: they are easy to conceal by fitting into small pockets with ease. When using a Kubotan correctly, they hurt like hell.
When used incorrectly, they still hurt like hell.
They are cheap. And the techniques are relatively easy to learn.
On top of that, practicing with a Kubotan teaches us something paramount about survival and combat: even simple, mundane objects can be surprisingly potent means of self-defense.
Being a creative survivalist is about thinking outside of the box, and breaking down preconceptions of what it means to compete and combat.
And a weapon can be anything – a keychain, a tactical pen, a pencil, a railroad spike, a drill bit, or a coffee mug.
What you use is less important than how you use it.
Anything can be a deadly weapon, but nobody can deny that some objects make better ones than others.
So what’s the best option to carry a Kubotan?
Tactical Pen Definition
You can think of a tactical pen (or self-defense pen) as a Kubotan disguised as a pen.
Like Kubatan’s, they are forged from hardened metal. The metal is stamped with small and tight friction grooves to improve grip.
The non-writing end of the pen incorporates a hardened tip. This tip is the primary weapon of the tactical pen.
It’s designed to penetrate and injure. It’s made to puncture and incapacitate. So a tactical pen is a pen made out of metal, with stamped grip grooves and a hardened tip.
Few products can offer you as much utility as the tactical pen.
Not only is it a mean weapon that can poke, prod, twist, and stab anyone dumb enough to get on the wrong side of it, but it is also one of man’s greatest inventions: the pen.
A self-defense pen is what is known as a “survivor’s multi-tool”, or a survival device that serves multiple purposes.
Other survivor multi-tools can include survival hatchets, sword canes, dogs, walking sticks, matches or lighters, and anything with two or more functions.
And as we all know, the pen is mightier than the sword or so they say.
But what could be mightier than a pen in the right hands?
That is a question I cannot answer. To me, it’s a fantastic personal protection tool.
Why Everyone Should Carry A Tactical Pen?
Being fully armed and ready to defend yourself at all times is no easy task.
In fact, in our modern world, most people are disarmed more than armed. Often because social and political regulations forbid conventional weapons from being openly carried.
The harsh reality is you can’t legally carry guns everywhere, nor swords, clubs, bows, blowguns, or knives.
But there are solutions to these restrictions. Protecting yourself with a self-defense tool does not mean you have to be armed to the teeth.
Even if you’re already a highly trained martial artist, whose hands and feet are weapons unto themselves, having a self-defense pen is always a welcomed advantage.
And that’s why you should carry a tactical pen.
Tactical Pen Uses In Today’s Uncertain World
The primary use of a tactical pen is straightforward.
It’s a device for self-defense and writing. But there are two other lesser-known uses of tactical pens such as:
Breaking Glass
The pointed end of a tactical pen is perfect for breaking panes of glass.
Just grip the pen firmly in a gloved hand, stand back against the same wall the glass is off to one side, and swing your arm from the elbow like a pendulum.
Slamming the pointed metal tip into the corner of a pane.
The glass should shatter with ease.
DNA Collection
Yeah, believe it or not, these fancy little self-defense tools come with a built-in device for tracking an assailant with the power of science.
Some self-defense pens even have a crown studded end cap that is ideal for scraping, jabbing, scratching, stabbing, and attacking.
Leaving blood or flesh behind that can be analyzed by a lab.
And here are the 10 most useful features of tactical pens:
- They are discrete; people will overlook them and let you carry them almost anywhere.
- Tactical pens are difficult to pry from your tight grip because they fit almost entirely into the palm of your hand.
- You can write checks and sign documents on the fly or jot down notes about your most recent survival adventures.
- Tactical pens are concealed weapons in your pocket and are extracted quickly without a lot of movement.
- They are ideal for attacking someone’s pressure points, and for twisting uncomfortably against bones.
- If someone commits a crime and steals off in a getaway vehicle, you can quickly scribble down their license plate on your hand before they get away.
- Self-defense pens get overlooked as a weapon in pat-downs.
- People rarely see a tactical pen attack coming – you have the element of surprise.
- If you need to break a window (for whatever reason), tactical pens are exceptionally efficient for this purpose.
- With some practice, they could make a decent projectile. I feel like that’s a stretch, though.
Using a Tactical pen for self-defense is easier than you might imagine.
Unlike most forms of martial arts weaponry, using this small weapon does not require you to memorize any complicated forms, hand-grabs, or punching techniques (although knowing those would help you become proficient much faster).
“Killer” Tactical Pen Techniques You Should Master
The techniques are pretty simple and can be learned by anybody – but the key is practice.
Look up some internet videos and work with your friends.
As long as you are careful not to hurt each other, practicing these simple moves can be a lot of fun.
Even running through them a few times can significantly improve your ability to perform effectively when the time of need finally arrives.
Note: I’ll share a couple of short videos later in this article to help get you started.
Here are some general ways in which you can use a tactical pen:
Slashing
Pretty self-explanatory but the tactical pen can be used as a makeshift tactical knife or sword. It can be swung in a striking motion, down being the strongest move.
Although there’s no blade, the best tactical pen will still do real damage when you connect with someone’s head. Especially with a solid over-the-shoulder swing.
Pressure Point Striking
This is a method that requires some background knowledge and practice. Pressure points can be debilitating when pinched or pressed.
If done right, it doesn’t take much force.
Knowing how to use your tactical pen to target these natural human weak spots gives you an incredible advantage against less knowledgeable attackers.
The tactical pen is a close-quarters weapon; you can’t do much damage at more than arm’s length distance.
However, close-range combat is how you get access to pressure points. If the opportunity is there, knowing the pressure points could save your life.
Check out this video on a few self-defense pressure points. The introduction is a bit long but worth the 5 minutes to watch.
Stabbing
This motion is obvious, but the best target locations might not be.
Aim for the eyes and if you connect the fight will come to an abrupt end.
Another vulnerable location is someone’s Adam apple. It’s really hard to keep fighting if you can’t see and/or breathe.
Here’s another short video showing a few self-defense pen techniques to give you an idea of how powerful this weapon can be.
The Do’s And Don’ts Of Tactical Pens
Things you SHOULD DO:
Carry One Or More
- This is the kind of backup defense tool that you can store in lots of sneaky places to keep yourself safe at all times. Sure, you could carry just one tactical pen with you at all times.
- Or you could get one for your bug-out bag, one for your bug-out vehicle, one for your office, one for your home, one for your survival cache, hell you could even keep a tactical pen in your survival medical kit.
Use Your Tactical Pen Creatively
- There is no defined “right” or “wrong” way to use a self-defense pen.
- A “How To Use Tactical Pen For Dummies” does not exist.
- So feel free to get creative and imagine unique ways you could use your tactical pen throughout your day.
- Picture yourself in various self-defense situations, or how you can retrieve your tactical pen covertly.
- A creative survivalist is a survivalist who survives.
- Thinking outside the box is incredibly important, and tactical pens can help you train your brain to think that way.
Practice With It Often
- Could you pick up a guitar without ever doing so and play a rock song? Your clumsy attempt at a song would probably sound similar to cats dying.
- Some idea goes for all new skills, if you want to be any good at them you need to put in practice time.
- Anyone can wield a self-defense pen but there’s a big difference between randomly slashing and thrusting vs mastering it.
- And while no one is saying you have to be a master, learning and practicing tactical pen basics will go a long way to preparing to defend yourself with it.
Things you SHOULD NOT DO:
Consider This Your Primary Weapon
- No one has ever marched into battle armed with a jubilee of tactical pens.
- They are never a primary weapon but they are the ideal last resort weapon.
Get Too Attached To It
- Any incognito weapon is liable to get confiscated.
- No matter whether it is a tactical pen, a cane sword, or a sleeve pistol, anything that hides or disguises a weapon is a target for seizure.
- Be careful where you bring your self-defense pen, it is a weapon after all. There are places where it is downright unacceptable to carry a weapon on you.
- And although it is a pen, it doesn’t exactly look like a regular pen, and if you get caught trying to sneak this weapon somewhere you’re not supposed to, there could be severe consequences for getting caught.
Expect The Pen To Write Flawlessly
- In a pinch, where available weapons for self-defense are limited, using a regular pen is better than nothing.
- But don’t practice tactical pen techniques and then go cheap and carry around a lame plastic ballpoint pen expecting it to function on the same level as the aircraft-grade aluminum weaponized tactical pens.
- Standard pens don’t have the strength or durability to perform as those engineered by weapons manufacturers.
- The bottom line is regular pens make poor self-defense tools.
Even More Tactical Pen Advice
- They’re not illegal, but they’re still a weapon.
- So don’t use them as a toy, and don’t abuse their power.
- You can seriously hurt someone just “messing around”. And I’ve said it before, and I will say it again, be careful where you bring your self-defense pen.
- Carrying one into a place like an airport could result in arrest and get you charged with conspiracy to commit a crime (whether those were your intentions or not).
- Tactical pens are weapons, treat them as such.
- Tactical pens are considered a non-lethal weapon.
- That does not mean they can’t kill; it just means that they are not designed to.
- Murder (even in the name of self-defense) is something you should avoid if possible.
- Killing someone with a tactical pen would take a lot of effort. It won’t happen by accident, and it would be both gruesome and messy.
- Also, it’s not something easily defended in a court appearance.
- Tactical pens suck as far as pens go.
- If you want a smooth, flawless ink implement to write your memoirs with, don’t rely on a self-defense pen.
- Tactical pens are more Kubotans than pens. Or more accurately they are 27% pen and 73% badass tactical weapon.
- So don’t be surprised if the ink is of poor quality and it’s a bit hit or miss when writing.
- Realize weapon companies make these and not pen companies.
- Nobody looks menacing brandishing ANY pen.
- Even a tactical one. Leave your ego at the door because you won’t scare off any attackers when you whip out your tactical pen and start thrusting it around and making tough guy sounds.
- In fact, expect to draw a few chuckles from your assailants.
- But use this to your advantage; when they think they are about to beat the living crap out of some pen-wielding-dink, their confidence will be high but their guard will be low.
- Let them underestimate you and your tactical pen-abilities. It will be their downfall.
- Don’t tell others your pen is tactical.
- The best part of the tactical pen is its discretion.
- Why then would you show a random drunkard at the bar your weapon? It’s a good practice to keep your self-defense weapons to yourself until you’re forced to use them.
How We Picked Tactical Pens?
A quality tactical pen needs to start out with a self-defense or glass breaker point. This is arguably the most prized feature that makes it “Tactical” instead of just a writing instrument.
At the same time, we also kept an eye out for tactical pens that will serve as a quality executive pen, while also looking good on your desk or in your pocket.
We kept an eye out for durable, lightweight material construction, and physical ease of use. This includes aircraft-grade aluminum, tungsten steel, tungsten carbide, stainless steel, and titanium.
Tactical pens with extra features, or that come with added accessories are also a nice touch. This includes things like:
- A built-in flashlight is capable of blinding or dazzling assailants.
- An accessory mini knife for self-defense as well as cutting cordage.
- A fluid storage compartment to hold first aid and fire-starting fluids.
- Removable clips and caps to attach it to pockets, lanyards, and jeans.
- A special textured grip or exterior coating for comfort when writing and slip reduction during self-defense.
- A DNA collector to take a sample from a potential assailant for further prosecution evidence.
- A bottle opener or hex key attachment tools for convenience.
- A built-in compass for orienteering when other options aren’t available.
These are just a few of the very attractive features and characteristics that help separate a simple writing device from a truly high-quality tactical pen.
Of course, price is also a factor. With some tactical pens, you get what you pay for. With other tactical pens, keen attention was paid to creating a quality item with basic utility. Then the manufacturer offers accessory options as part of a package with the initial purchase or as an affordable secondary purchase. This allows you to customize how you use the tactical pen.
The convenience of the ink refills was also a factor with many of these tactical pens. After all, they are a serious investment, and chances are you intend the pen body itself to last longer than the ink it comes with. Some tactical pen manufacturers require you to use their in-house ink refills. However, there are many many who make it a point to design their tactical pens to work with popular Parker and Fisher Space pen ink refill cartridges.
Top-Rated Best Tactical Pens For Self Defense
1. Gerber 31-001880 Impromptu Tactical Pen
Specs:
- Stainless steel body
- Cerakote™ coating for superior grip and corrosion resistance
- Glass breaker point
- Made in the United States
- “Rite in the Rain” ink
- Compatible with Space Pen refills
- Weight 2.4 ounces
- Length 5.59-inches
- Stainless steel pocket clip
- Superior warranty protection
When most people hear the word Gerber they think of the baby food company. However, this Gerber company is geared toward tactical items like the 31-001880 Impromptu Tactical Pen. Which is sourced and made in the USA.
It has a durable stainless steel body and shaft with a special Cerakote™ coating for superior grip as well as corrosion resistance. There is also a stainless steel pocket clip. It weighs in at only 2.4-ounces and measures 5.59 inches long. The point is engineered to be strong enough to break tempered glass as you would find in a vehicle’s side windows.
This tactical pen comes with their “Rite in the Rain” ink cartridge, though it will also accept Space Pen refills by Fisher. It can write upside down as well as in rain or extremely dry conditions.
What We Liked
The Cerakote™ coating is also a nice touch. Not only does it provide the pen with superior corrosion resistance, but it also makes it comfortable in the hand for times when you need to write with it or use it for tactical purposes. The fact that it can work with Space Pen refill ink cartridges is convenient.
At the same time, you also shouldn’t overlook the fact that in North America the Gerber 31-001880 Impromptu Tactical Pen is backed by a superior lifetime warranty. Outside of North America, this warranty is reduced to a still impressive 25 years.
Overall
The Gerber 31-001880 Impromptu Tactical Pen has the quality materials and components to last well beyond the return on investment. It is also inconspicuous enough to live in your pocket without screaming out to the world that you are carrying a tactical pen.
2. Valtcan Titanium Bolt Tactical Pen
Specs:
- Titanium body
- 5.5-inches long
- 1.6-ounce weight
- Tungsten tactical point
- Strong pocket clip to secure it in place
- Schmidt P900 Parker style Parker gel refills
- Also accommodates Fischer Rite as Rain refills
Titanium is the premium material for maximum durability while also being lightweight. Yet it does take some sophisticated manufacturing which can often drive up the overall price. This means with a titanium tactical pen you are getting what you pay for.
This shines through with the gleam of the Valtcan Titanium Bolt Tactical Pen, which blends high-quality polished titanium construction with innovative design. The end result is a tactical pen that looks good in your pocket, feels good in your hand, and lets you take it with you to places where danger lurks around every corner.
It weighs in at 1.6 ounces and measures at 5.5-inches in length. This is right in the sweet spot of where you want a tactical pen to be. It also has a secure bolt action tungsten point.
It originally comes with a Schmidt P900 Parker style Parker gel ink cartridge, with no additional refills included in the purchase. However, it will also work with the Fisher Space Pen “Rite as Rain” refills. You should consider getting the Fisher refills if you will frequently need to use them in wet conditions.
What We Liked
The titanium construction is the first thing you’ll notice that sets the Valtcan Bolt Action Tactical Pen apart from most of the competition. The fact that it can also work with different ink refills is also a nice touch, and not something to overlook. Many people with this pen will choose to switch over to the Fisher Rite as Rain refills if they need to use it in wet conditions.
Overall
If you are in the market for a titanium tactical pen, the Valtcan Bolt Action Tactical Pen deserves to be near the top of your list. It has the durability and lightweight that you likely prioritize, while also looking good and writing comfortably.
If there’s a knock on this pen, it’s the slippery nature of polished titanium. You may want to practice your tactical grip to make sure it isn’t slipping in your hand during the times when you may need to use its self-defense capabilities.
3. Wuben TP 10G Tactical Pen
Specs:
- Aircraft-grade aluminum body
- Tungsten steel point
- Window breaker and self-defense point
- USB rechargeable light
- 2 lighting modes
- Maximum 130 lumens
- IP 68 waterproof rating
- 5-year warranty
- German refillable ink cartridge
The Wuben TP 10G Tactical Pen was designed to be a fully functional writing instrument in the office as well as a durable, dependable self-defense weapon.
It also has a USB rechargeable light which comes in handy when looking for things like a set of keys in the dark. There are two lighting modes, with the brightest producing up to 130 lumens.
The body is made from lightweight, durable aircraft-grade aluminum. The point is made from tungsten steel, which allows it to be used as a weapon or as an emergency glass breaker tool. The seals on this pen also carry an IP 68 waterproof rating.
What We Liked
Adding a USB rechargeable light to a durable tactical pen is a nice touch. The waterproof seals also mean that things like rain or an accidentally spilled beverage won’t damage the light. This is a great tactical pen for women who appreciate a tactical pen and might also need to quickly find a set of keys in their purses.
The fact that Wuben offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 5-year warranty makes a statement about the overall quality.
Overall
This is a very functional tactical pen for the money. The lightweight durable construction, tungsten steel tip, and USB rechargeable LED light can all come in handy. The waterproofing is also thoughtful.
The only minor knock on this pen is that there is no specific exterior texture treatment, which could cause the pen to slip from your grasp under certain severe conditions.
4. Smith & Wesson SWPENMP2BK Tactical Pen
Specs:
- T6061 aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Screw off top
- 5.8-inches long
- 1.4-ounces
- Refills with Schmidt P900 M Parker black ink
- Ballpoint tip
Smith and Wesson is a long-established firearms manufacturer that has expanded its presence into other niches including tactical items like their SWPENMP2BK Tactical Pen.
It is made from T6061 aircraft-grade aluminum and has a screw-off cap disguising the tactical point.
This tactical pen measures a sleek 5.8-inches long and only weighs 1.4-ounces. When clipped into your pocket it looks and acts very much like a high-quality pen. The exterior surface doesn’t have a special grip coating. However, it is contoured to fit comfortably, yet firmly in your hand.
The SWPENMP2BK Tactical Pen is designed to use a Schmidt P900 M Parker black ink refill. Yet it will also work with a Fisher “Space Pen” refillable ink canister.
What We Liked
The T6061 aircraft-grade aluminum construction makes this a lightweight and durable tactical pen. The fact that it will also work with relatively inexpensive Fischer Space Pen refills is also a nice touch.
Overall
As a trusted name in the tactical industry, you know that Smith & Wesson is going to bring a quality product to the market. The screw-off top concealing the tactical point is a nice touch that keeps the pen looking and feeling like a quality writing instrument when you are sitting in the office. Just keep in mind that it will take you an extra second or two to deploy its tactical point.
5. Tactical Tools Self Defense Tactical Pen
Specs:
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Tactical pen with flashlight
- DNA “Defender”
- Accessory magnesium fire starter with compass
- Belt clip with bottle opener
- Ball chain with map odometer
The Tactical Tools Self Defense Tactical Pen comes with a suite of accessories. The pen itself is made from aircraft-grade aluminum to make it lightweight as well as durable.
The pen includes a flashlight as well as a tungsten steel point that serves as a glass breaker as well as a self-defense weapon. It’s also designed with their “DNA defender” which is a special catcher crow in the tactical point that’s designed to collect a blood sample. This can come in very useful when seeking prosecution for an assailant who flees from the conflict.
This package also includes some additional accessories that are designed to appeal to campers and other outdoor enthusiasts. It includes a separate waterproof magnesium fire starter striker, with a built-in compass. There is also a belt clip with a bottle opener and a ball chain map odometer.
What We Liked
The optional extras that come with this pen are what really make it attractive. Though you shouldn’t overlook the DNA Defender. It’s meant to “Take a sample” and hold it for later analysis. This could become a key piece of evidence for identifying and prosecuting an assailant.
It’s also worth noting that the magnesium fire starter is waterproof and a better option than other packages which often offer a flint striker fire starter.
Overall
The pen itself is a basic tactical pen with a glass breaker striker point that offers the level of self-defense you want. It’s all the accessories with their own bells and whistles that really make this package appealing. When you factor this into the affordable price point, it puts this package on the list for a camping and outdoor enthusiast.
6. Gecko Equipment’s 7-in-1 Tactical Pen
Specs:
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Tungsten steel tactical point and glass breaker
- An LED flashlight with two modes
- Paracord with accessories
- Flint fire starter
- Bottle opener
- Compass
- Emergency whistle
The Gecko Equipment 7-in-1 tactical pen is made from highly durable, lightweight aircraft-grade aluminum. It has a tungsten steel tactical point that also serves as a glass breaker.
There is also an LED flashlight built into one end. It has two settings “Steady” to act like a standard flashlight and “Sparkling” which is meant to dazzle a potential assailant.
The unidirectional, high-intensity light generated by the LED bulb essentially blots their version with flash shadows and “Blue Spots” that make it hard for them to track your own movements. Under the right conditions, this simply sparkling feature could prove to be a lifesaver.
The package includes a variety of accessories that can be connected to the accompanying paracord. This includes a flint fire starter, a bottle opener, a compass, and an emergency whistle.
What We Liked
At first glance, Gecko Equipment’s 7-in-1 accessories are what sets it apart from the competition. While they are certainly nice for outdoor hobbyists, the thing that really sets it apart is the LED light built into the tactical pen. It can be used as a standard flashlight to quickly find a set of keys or to dazzle an assailant’s vision to even the odds and potentially make a quick escape.
Overall
This is a nice little package for the price. If you are a camper or backwoods hiker who also needs a quality writing instrument with self-defense capabilities, then the Gecko Equipment 7-in1 deserves a good hard look.
7. CRKT Williams Tactical Pen
Specs:
- Trusted manufacturer of tactical items
- 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum
- Works with Fischer Space Pen refills
- Snap-on cap disguising the tactical point
- Looks like an executive pen
- Removable pocket clip
- Backed by a 1-year warranty
CRKT is a trusted manufacturer and industry leader in the tactical items marketplace. This pen was designed by former Army officer James Williams. He brought his decades of martial arts experience to the design of this tactical pen.
Yet it also looks, writes, and feels like a high-quality executive pen. It even uses convenient Fischer Space Pen refills.
It’s made from 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum, which makes it light as well as very durable. It measures at 8.25-inches and weighs only 1.2-ounces.
The cap snaps on and off via an O-ring. The pocket clip is sturdy but can be removed if you prefer a sleek look.
What We Liked
This is a well-designed tactical pen from a trusted industry leader. For all intents and purposes, it looks and works just like a quality executive pen. The Space Pen refills are convenient, and the 1-year warranty speaks to the overall quality of materials as well as design.
Overall
This is a high-quality pen with a sponsored story behind it. There aren’t any bells and whistles with it like a built-in flashlight or compass. You do pay a little bit extra from the name brand and the James Williams design, but this pen stands on its own as a conversation piece.
8. Atomic Bear Tactical Pen MTP-6
Specs:
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Dual-mode LED light
- 1,300 lumens
- Glass breaker and self-defense point
- Bottle opener
- Hex key attachment
- 1 fluid ounce storage container
- 3 replacement ink cartridges included
- Online self-defense class
- 1-year warranty
- Additional accessories available
Atomic Bear is one of the faster-growing manufacturers of tactical pens and accessories. Their MTP-6 is one of the most popular in their line and is backed by their 1-year limited warranty.
The pen body includes a dual-mode LED flashlight capable of producing up to 1,300 lumens. It provides you with a functional, convenient flashlight, which also can be used to temporarily blind an assailant.
There is also a 1-fluid-ounce container that can hold things like rubbing alcohol or lighter fluid. It also includes a removable glass breaker point, or a replacement bottle opener and hex key attachment.
Atomic Bear also sells a very popular kit of additional accessories. It includes an emergency whistle, ferrocerium rod fire starter with a multi-function striker, and a miniature knife.
It’s also worth noting that Atomic Bear offers a special online self-defense class with the purchase of this pen. You log on and they give you helpful tips to make the most out of your tactical pen.
What We Liked
The LED light is a convenient feature that you don’t always find in a tactical pen in this price range. The extra attachments are also handy, and the fact that they make very affordable upgrade packages. The one-ounce fluid container is also a nice little touch
Don’t look past the one-year warranty that comes with it. This is an overall statement of quality and thoughtful engineering.
Overall
There’s a reason why Atomic Bear is growing to be an industry leader in tactical items and accessories. You see this reflected in the versatility, quality, and friendly price point of the MTP-6.
9. Iron Works Gear Tactical Self-Defense Pen
Specs:
- Aircraft-grade aluminum
- Tungsten carbide tip
- 98 mm length
- Carrying tube
- Includes a refill ink cartridge
Iron Works Gear is another trusted name in metal manufacturing. Their 860002612201 tactical pen stands up to this reputation with aircraft-grade aluminum, and a tungsten carbide tip. An ink refill comes with the purchase.
It comes with a carrying tube that looks very much like a cigar tube.
The integrated pocket clip is made from hardened metal designed to withstand wear and tear while also filling comfortably on thick fabrics like denim.
What We Liked
The aircraft-grade aluminum and the included ink refill mean that this tactical pen is durable as well as lightweight. It also accommodates most another standard 98 mm ink pen refills.
Overall
This tactical pen doesn’t necessarily have a lot of bells and whistles. Still, it has the quality and durability you are looking for, with a friendly price tag.
Tactical Pen-Related Questions
Q: What Qualifies As A Tactical Pen?
A. The term “Tactical Pen” casts a broad net over some popular features that go beyond being a quality writing instrument. Most tactical pens have some sort of sharp or hardpoint. This could include self-defense features like the ability to use it as a stabbing or piercing weapon. While this is one of the most popular characteristics it’s not the only one that classifies as a tactical pen.
For example, ice fishermen and private plow drivers living in northern states operate vehicles out on frozen lakes. Should a car go through the ice, the hard point of a tactical pen can be used to shatter the glass and escape before the vehicle sinks too deep to effect self-rescue.
Some tactical pens also have features like flashlights or DNA collections that add to their overall utility.
Q: How Do I Refill The Ink In A Tactical Pen?
A. some manufacturers will keep their ink refills in-house. This helps pad their margins and also ensures that you are getting the right ink or correct size cartridge every time. However, some ink manufacturers make it a point to offer replacement ink cartridges that are designed to fit some of the more common size tactical pens. They make a point to formulate or engineer them with tactical characteristics like the ability to write upside down or in the rain.
Space Pen refills and cartridges by Fisher tend to be one of the more popular options in this niche.
Q: What Are Some Popular Tactical Pen Accessories?
A. The tactical point or glass breaker is obviously the most appealing tactical pen feature. However, there are other accessories and options that you might want to prioritize.
A DNA collector is essentially some type of crow feature or texture area that is meant to hold blood and other tissues. It can serve as proof for times when an assailant flees the conflict. The DNA collected can often be used in court as part of the prosecution process.
Hex keys and bottle opener attachments are very convenient tools that you might want to prioritize. Especially if you work in some type of technical or trade service.
A mini knife is a small blade that you can attach to the end of the tactical pen to create a slashing weapon. It can also be very handy for things like cutting cordage or cleaning an animal when you are out in the bush.
An internal fluid chamber is handy for carrying first aid rubbing alcohol or lighter fluid.
A built-in compass might also be a priority feature if you need help orienteering when you are off the grid.
Q: Do I Need An LED Flashlight?
A. An LED flashlight is particularly handy for times when you might need to find a set of keys when moments count. A tactical pen capable of producing up to 1,300 lumens or one that has a flash or blinking feature can be especially helpful for blinding and potentially dazzling an assailant.
Shining the light into their eyes can distract them. Flashing the bright light directly into an assailant’s eyes can also cause them to see blotches or become temporarily blinded. In a close-quarters, physical confrontation, you might be able to shine the light directly into one eye. This can disorient an opponent’s vision, causing the eyes to not work together efficiently. It might be exactly the edge you need to take advantage of the physical conflict or simply take the opportunity to flee.
Q: Is Titanium That Much Better Than Aluminum?
A. On a technical level titanium is a very durable material that can take a lot of punishment. If you put it next to an aluminum pan of the exact same specifications, the aluminum pen is going to fail first with just about every test. However, the extreme nature at which aircraft-grade aluminum fails is going to be something you rarely encounter, and when you do chances are the last thing you will be worried about at that moment is your pen.
In tactical pens, titanium has a gleam that some people prefer over the dull and often treated black surface of an aluminum tactical pen. This ultimately means that titanium has far more esthetic appeal, for those who want a high-quality executive pen that might come in handy in an emergency.
Q: Is A Glass Breaker Tip Important?
A. A glass breaker tip and a self-defense point are essentially the same things. Depending on the circumstances the glass breaker feature might be the most used. Car windows and other types of tempered glass tend to resist blunt force trauma very well. Yet a single small point can crack and shatter them with far less damage to the interior, occupants, and operator.
This might include things like water rescue, pet rescue, or accidentally locking yourself out of your vehicle in extreme weather conditions. In a moment like this, something as simple as a tungsten steel glass breaker tip can make a life and death difference.
Q: Should I Get A Pen With A Concealed Or Exposed Self-Defense Point?
A. Admittedly, there is a little bit of personal preference when it comes to answering this important question.
Some tactical pen manufacturers conceal the glass breaker or self-defense point under some type of cap or cover. Not only does this conceal the identity of the tactical pen, but it also prevents accidental injury. Depending on how you carry the pen a concealed point can also minimize wear and tear on clothing items like a shirt pocket.
The downside of concealing the point is the momentary delay of removing the cap or cover to use it in an emergency situation. Some people who like the look and feel of this type of tactical pen will practice spinning, twisting, or popping the cover off with one hand. This can spare you precious seconds when they count the most.
Of course, a tactical pen where the point is always exposed or the self-defense point is the tapered writing point is always ready to use at a moment’s notice. The drawback here is that a potential assailant might be able to recognize the pen’s true nature and prepare to defend against it. Even if you never use the point in a conflict, it could start to wear a hole in clothing or accidentally injure you in a fall.
If this is a concern for you, there are some manufacturers like Scorpion Bros or EASYANT who offer special sheaths for tactical pens and related accessory items.
Q: What’s The Best Way To Use A Tactical Pen For Self-Defense?
A. At first glance, a tactical pen might look like a basic stabbing item meant to produce a puncture wound in a potential assailant. However, there is some technique to using it. Some manufacturers will offer an online self-defense course to train you in how to best use their tactical pen.
There are also books written by military and first responders that can provide you with key insights and tactical pen techniques.
Conclusion
It’s great that you have read to the end of this article. I hope with the information we give you, it will help you choose the best tactical pen for you. Follow us for other posts! thank you!
The 16th Sergeant Major of the Army, Sgt. Maj Christian Smelling was sworn in on August 11th 2009 and has held every enlisted leadership position ranging from cannon crew member to command sergent major