Masterstroke Pens “Airfoil” Twist Ballpoint Pen – Hands-On and Kickstarter Launch

Announcements, Other Pens, , 7 Comments

Masterstroke Pens
“Airfoil” Twist Ballpoint Pen

Grant over at Masterstroke pens got in touch with me and offered up an Airfoil for review. His project has just over a month to go on Kickstarter and he’s looking to fund this project. See below for some information about the Airfoil:

From the Airfoil Kickstarter:

Airfoil is a beautiful unique twist pen inspired by engineering in aviation. Crafted from titanium, aluminum, SS, & 24K gold.

Airfoil, aviation inspired, breathtaking design.

Airfoil is a beautifully detailed twist pen inspired by engineering design in aviation. This pen boasts a bold industrial design that will stand out from the crowd. Each pen is assembled by hand, tested, and carefully inspected. Titanium models are partially hand crafted. All models feel cold to the touch, and substantial due to the metal construction.

Airfoil on Kickstarter
MasterstrokePens.com

Specs:

  • Length: 5.21″
  • Diameter: 0.60″
  • Weight: 36g
  • Refill: Monteverde Cross Type – Black Ballpoint
Masterstroke Pens Airfoil Ballpoint Pen Review
The Airfoil in its presentation box.
Masterstroke Pens Airfoil Ballpoint Pen Review
The pen is a comfortable length, but the diameter and fins are a bit hard for me to manage. For larger hands, this may work out better.
Masterstroke Pens Airfoil Ballpoint Pen Review
The Airfoil is definitely a conversation starter. While it writes like a regular ballpoint, it certainly looks different.
Masterstroke Pens Airfoil Ballpoint Pen Review
Once again, this pen is has some unique design going on. The 7075 Aluminum is nicely machined, and the red anodizing looks good too.
Masterstroke Pens Airfoil Ballpoint Pen Review
The balance of the pen is actually surprisingly good. You’d think it would be off due to the lack of mid-section, but it’s not. I just wish that it was a bit more comfortable to hold.
Masterstroke Pens Airfoil Ballpoint Pen Review
Might be confused for a model rocket, and rightfully so.
Masterstroke Pens Airfoil Ballpoint Pen Review
The indent in the tail piece is interesting. I’m not sure if it has any function, but it looks pretty cool. The Airfoil is very Ferrari-like from this angle.
Masterstroke Pens Airfoil Ballpoint Pen Review
The Airfoil comes in a simple presentation box with some branding on the top and bottom.
Masterstroke Pens Airfoil Ballpoint Pen Review
The pen extends with a simple twist. The mechanism works as expected. The machined bands on the grip section help keep the pen where you want it.

Masterstroke Pens Airfoil Ballpoint Pen Review

Overall, the Airfoil is a unique looking writing instrument. The performance is about as good as it gets from a ballpoint pen. I do have a few issues with the Airfoil though. Holding the pen is not as comfortable as something with a traditional round body. The fins can be a bit sharp around the edges. The diameter is also slightly too wide for my hands, but the length and balance are good. I think the most limiting thing about the Airfoil is that it only accepts one type of refill. A lot of other Kickstarter pens (because that’s a thing now) are made to accept a bunch of different refills, and I’d like to see a gel pen insert for the Airfoil. The pen is definitely unlike anything I’ve seen before. Pledges start at $59, and there’s just over a month to go in the campaign – check it out if this is something you’d be interested in. Thanks again to Grant for sending one over!

Disclaimer: I was given this prototype free of charge and receive no compensation for my review. All opinions are my own.

7 thoughts on “Masterstroke Pens “Airfoil” Twist Ballpoint Pen – Hands-On and Kickstarter Launch”

  1. “A lot of other Kickstarter pens (because that’s a thing now)…” I have a feeling we’ll be saying that a lot in 2014.

    Also, where is the 24k gold?

    Reply
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