It’s been a month since I started using the Leuchtturm1917 Drehgriffel gel pen, and I have some updates on my experience.
Do I still like it? The short answer is a definite “yes.” However, my initial positive impression came with a significant change: I swapped out the original gel ink refill for a ballpoint.
The reason for this switch was twofold. I found the Leuchtturm’s gel ink refill to be quite scratchy during writing. Additionally, I frequently had to retrace my lines as the ink flow was inconsistent, leaving gaps. Initially, these issues weren’t apparent, but they became noticeable with more use. Interestingly, after revisiting other reviews, I found that several users reported similar experiences, particularly regarding the scratchy nib.
This led me to wonder if the Parker refills I mentioned in my initial review would offer an improvement. I purchased a refill pack containing both gel and ballpoint inks, with black and blue options for each type. This seemed like the perfect opportunity to try both and see how they performed.
Upon receiving the refills, I eagerly opened the pack and installed the black gel refill (my preferred pen color). It was then that I realized I had mistakenly ordered the medium refill pack – I much prefer fine nibs!
Despite the medium nib, I did try the gel refill, and the writing experience was noticeably better. The scratchiness was almost gone, and the ink flow was significantly smoother. However, the thickness of the medium nib was simply too much for my smaller handwriting.
So, I decided to try the black ballpoint refill instead, and this proved to be a much better fit for me. It writes with a line width that feels more like a fine nib than a medium, and the ink flow is reasonably good. However, as is typical with ballpoint ink, there are occasional moments of skipping. As I noted before, this is a general characteristic of ballpoint ink, unlike the consistent flow I appreciate in fountain pens.
I do intend to purchase some Parker fine gel ink refills at some point to compare them to the Leuchtturm’s original and see if they offer a smoother writing experience with a finer line.
Otherwise, my appreciation for the pen itself has only grown. I’ve also become accustomed to its length. As I mentioned in my previous review, the absence of a cap might initially make it feel shorter to some, but this is due to its twist-action mechanism for extending and retracting the nib. I still wholeheartedly recommend the pen, but with the caveat that the original gel refill might be scratchy for some users. Ultimately, I love the design and style of this pen.
