I have always believed that a person’s choice of stationery says more about them than their actual handwriting. Think about it for a second. When you pull out a standard, clear plastic stick from a 20-pack, you’re saying you value utility and perhaps a bit of “I lose things often” energy. But when you unsheath a solid brass pen, you are making a statement. You are someone who appreciates weight, history, and a tool that actually gets better as it ages.
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I remember the first time I held a high-quality writing instrument made of brass. It felt cold at first, then quickly warmed to my palm. It had a heft that demanded I slow down my thoughts and actually focus on the paper. In this digital age, where we spend 90% of our time clicking on glass screens, the tactile feedback of a heavy pen is almost therapeutic.
Before we dive deep into the specific models that are dominating the market in 2026, let’s look at how this material stacks up against the more common alternatives you might find in an office supply store.
Table 1: Material Comparison – Why Choose Brass?
| Material | Durability | Average Weight | Aesthetic Appeal | Patina Potential |
| Brass | Extreme | Heavy (30-60g) | Industrial / Classic | High (Develops over time) |
| Stainless Steel | High | Medium (25-45g) | Modern / Clinical | Low |
| Aluminum | Medium | Light (15-25g) | Tech-Focused | None |
| Plastic/Resin | Low | Very Light (<15g) | Varied / Cheap | None |

Top 7 brass pen Models for 2026: Expert Analysis
Finding the right writing companion is a personal journey. To help you navigate the sea of options, I have spent weeks researching the most reputable products available on Amazon this year. I’ve looked at everything from the machining precision to the “fidget factor” of the click mechanisms. Here are the 7 best options for your everyday carry (EDC) or your executive desk.
1. Kaweco Brass Sport Fountain Pen
The Kaweco Brass Sport Fountain Pen is a legend in the stationery world. It is a pocket-sized powerhouse that follows a design dating back to 1911. What makes this particular brass pen special is its “compact in the pocket, large in the hand” philosophy.
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Technical Specifications:
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Closed Length: 4.1 inches.
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Posted Length (Cap on back): 5.2 inches.
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Weight: 1.55 ounces (44 grams).
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Nib Material: Stainless steel (Gold-plated).
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Filling System: International short cartridge or squeeze converter.
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Customer Review Analysis: Users consistently praise its “bomb-proof” construction. One reviewer mentioned dropping theirs on concrete and only getting a small “character mark” on the cap. Some beginners find it a bit heavy for long sessions, but most love the balance when the cap is posted.
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Professional Applications: Ideal for architects and field engineers who need a durable pen that fits in a pocket but feels professional during a client meeting.
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Warranty Information: 2-year manufacturer’s warranty against defects.
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Pros & Cons:
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✅ Pros: Extremely portable, beautiful aging process, interchangeable nibs.
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❌ Cons: Small ink capacity, can be back-heavy for some.
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2. Fisher Space Pen Raw Brass Bullet
The Fisher Space Pen Raw Brass Bullet is perhaps the most famous pen on this list. While the chrome version is iconic, the raw brass pen version is a favorite among enthusiasts because it isn’t lacquered. This means it will start to tarnish and develop a unique personality the moment you start using it.
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Technical Specifications:
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Length: 3.75 inches (Closed), 5.3 inches (Open).
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Ink: Pressurized PR4 cartridge (Writes in zero gravity, underwater, and over grease).
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Construction: All-metal solid brass.
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Operating Temp: -30°F to +250°F.
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Customer Review Analysis: It’s a 5-star staple for a reason. Customers love that it “disappears” in their pocket. The main complaint is that the pressurized ink can occasionally “blob” if you aren’t used to the flow.
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Professional Applications: Perfect for outdoor workers, paramedics, and pilots.
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Warranty Information: Lifetime guarantee against manufacturing defects.
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Pros & Cons:
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✅ Pros: Writes anywhere, lifetime warranty, iconic design.
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❌ Cons: Small size can lead to hand cramps during long essays.
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3. Bastion Bolt Action Pen (Solid Brass)
If you like a bit of mechanical flair, the Bastion Bolt Action Pen (Solid Brass) is the gold standard. The bolt-action mechanism is incredibly satisfying to click—it feels like a high-end firearm or a piece of heavy machinery.
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Technical Specifications:
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Length: 5.25 inches.
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Weight: 2.8 ounces (80 grams).
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Refill Type: Parker-style G2.
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Body Material: CNC machined C36000 Brass.
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Customer Review Analysis: Reviewers call it a “beast.” It is significantly heavier than most pens, which many find helps with shaky hands or penmanship. A few users mentioned the bolt was a bit stiff out of the box but smoothed out with use.
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Professional Applications: Great for the workshop or as a self-defense tool in a pinch (though primarily a writing tool).
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Warranty Information: 12-month limited warranty.
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Pros & Cons:
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✅ Pros: Extremely satisfying mechanism, very durable, takes many refill types.
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❌ Cons: Very heavy; might tire out light writers.
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4. Machine Era Classic Brass Pen
For the purists, the Machine Era Classic Brass Pen offers a minimalist aesthetic that is hard to beat. There are no clips, no springs, and no plastic parts. It is just a precision-machined piece of metal.
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Technical Specifications:
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Length: 4.6 inches.
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Weight: 1.6 ounces.
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Refill: Pilot G2 (standard).
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Cap Type: Threaded (screws onto the back).
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Customer Review Analysis: Fans of the “buy it for life” (BIFL) movement adore this pen. They love that it won’t roll off the table due to the flat-milled side on the cap. Some find the lack of a clip a dealbreaker for pocket carry.
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Professional Applications: Ideal for designers and minimalist office setups.
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Warranty Information: Satisfaction guarantee; they are known for excellent customer service on defects.
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Pros & Cons:
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✅ Pros: Zero moving parts to break, uses the popular Pilot G2 ink.
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❌ Cons: No pocket clip, cap threading takes time.
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5. TRAVELER’S COMPANY Brass Rollerball Pen
The TRAVELER’S COMPANY Brass Rollerball Pen brings Japanese craftsmanship to the forefront. It uses a fountain pen-style ink cartridge but writes with a rollerball tip, giving you the best of both worlds: the smoothness of liquid ink and the ease of a ballpoint.
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Technical Specifications:
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Length: 3.8 inches (closed).
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Body: Brass with a sturdy steel clip.
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Refill: Standard international cartridges.
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Customer Review Analysis: Users rave about the “vintage” look. Many use it alongside their Traveler’s Notebooks. Some mention that the ink can feather on low-quality paper since it is a liquid-ink system.
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Professional Applications: Journalists and travelers who enjoy journaling on the go.
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Warranty Information: Standard 1-year retail warranty.
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Pros & Cons:
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✅ Pros: Beautiful Japanese aesthetic, very smooth writing experience.
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❌ Cons: Requires specific paper for best results.
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6. Scriveiner Luxury Brass Ballpoint Pen
If you want something that looks at home in a boardroom, the Scriveiner Luxury Brass Ballpoint Pen is your best bet. While it is made of brass, it often comes with a stunning finish (like black lacquer or 24k gold trim) that masks the raw metal for a more executive look.
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Technical Specifications:
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Length: 5.4 inches.
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Weight: 1.25 ounces.
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Refill: Schmidt P900 (Parker style).
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Customer Review Analysis: It’s often compared to Montblanc but at a fraction of the cost. The presentation box makes it a favorite for gifting. Some users prefer a “rawer” brass pen feel, which this polished version doesn’t offer.
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Professional Applications: Executive gifts, signing contracts, office use.
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Warranty Information: 100% satisfaction guarantee.
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Pros & Cons:
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✅ Pros: Elegant design, high-end feel, great weight balance.
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❌ Cons: The finish can hide the natural patina some users want.
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7. Smootherpro Solid Brass Bolt Action Pen
For those on a budget who still want high quality, the Smootherpro Solid Brass Bolt Action Pen is a fantastic entry point. It features a rugged design and even includes a tungsten tip for emergency glass breaking.
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Technical Specifications:
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Length: 5.5 inches.
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Weight: 2.6 ounces.
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Features: Bolt action, pocket clip, glass breaker tip.
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Customer Review Analysis: Buyers are shocked at the quality for the price. It feels “expensive” and “solid.” Some users noted that the pocket clip is very tight, making it hard to clip onto thick denim.
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Professional Applications: Security personnel, DIY enthusiasts, and everyday carry.
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Warranty Information: 30-day money-back guarantee.
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Pros & Cons:
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✅ Pros: Very affordable, multi-functional, compatible with many refills.
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❌ Cons: Slightly bulkier than premium options.
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Table 2: Technical Specifications Matrix (Spec Matrix)
| Product Name | Mechanism | Weight | Length (Closed) | Refill Type |
| Kaweco Sport | Fountain/Cap | 44g | 4.1 in | Cartridge |
| Fisher Space | Cap | 19g | 3.75 in | Pressurized |
| Bastion Bolt | Bolt Action | 80g | 5.25 in | Parker G2 |
| Machine Era | Threaded Cap | 45g | 4.6 in | Pilot G2 |
| Traveler’s Co | Cap | 28g | 3.8 in | Rollerball |
| Scriveiner | Twist | 35g | 5.4 in | Schmidt P900 |
| Smootherpro | Bolt Action | 74g | 5.5 in | Parker Style |
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The Science of the brass pen: Why Brass Matters
You might be wondering, “Why should I care about the metal? Isn’t a pen just a pen?” Well, consequently, the material of your pen affects everything from the health of your hands to the longevity of the tool.
The Antimicrobial Advantage
Did you know that brass has inherent antimicrobial properties? Because brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, it benefits from the “oligodynamic effect.” This means that certain metal ions can actually kill bacteria and viruses on contact. According to research published on Wikipedia’s entry on the Antimicrobial properties of copper, copper alloys like brass can significantly reduce the transmission of germs. In a post-pandemic world, having a brass writing instrument that naturally sanitizes itself is a pretty cool flex.
The Patina Phenomenon
One of the biggest selling points of a brass pen is the patina. When brass is exposed to oxygen and the oils from your skin, it undergoes a chemical reaction. Over weeks and months, the bright, “fake gold” look fades into a deep, dark, and rich antique bronze color.
Every scratch and every smudge tells a story. If you use your pen while working in a woodshop, it will age differently than if you use it in a climate-controlled office. Moreover, if you ever get tired of the aged look, you can always polish it back to a mirror shine with a bit of Brasso or lemon juice.
Table 3: Patina vs. Polished – A Comparison of Styles
| Feature | Raw Patina Brass | Polished/Lacquered Brass |
| Visual Appeal | Rugged, vintage, “lived-in” | Shiny, luxurious, professional |
| Maintenance | Zero (just use it) | High (requires frequent wiping) |
| Grip Feel | Slightly textured/matte | Smooth/Slightly slippery |
| Best For | EDC, outdoors, personal use | Gifts, boardrooms, formal events |
Buying Guide: How to Choose Your Perfect brass pen
Choosing the right brass writing instruments involves more than just picking the prettiest one. You need to consider how the weight and balance will affect your hand over time.
Weight and Balance
A solid brass pen is significantly heavier than its plastic counterparts. For many, this weight is a benefit. It allows the pen to rest in the “crook” of your hand, meaning you don’t have to press down as hard to get ink onto the paper. However, if you have smaller hands or suffer from arthritis, a heavy brass pen might lead to fatigue.
Furthermore, look at where the weight is distributed. A “top-heavy” pen (where the cap is heavy) can feel like it’s trying to flip out of your hand while you write. A “bottom-heavy” pen is generally preferred for long-form writing.
Mechanism Types
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Capped Pens: The most traditional. They offer a clean look but require two hands to open.
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Bolt Action: The favorite for the fidgeters. These are durable because there are fewer tiny springs to break compared to a standard clicky pen.
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Twist Action: Usually found on luxury executive pens. They look sleek but can be hard to operate with one hand.
Table 4: User Compatibility – Which Pen Suits You?
| User Profile | Recommended Mechanism | Key Benefit |
| The Fidgeter | Bolt Action | Satisfying tactile feedback |
| The Executive | Twist or Luxury Cap | Professional appearance |
| The Traveler | Compact Threaded Cap | Won’t leak or open in pocket |
| The Artist | Fountain Pen Cap | Varied line weights and ink flow |
Refill Compatibility
I cannot stress this enough: check the refills! A pen is only as good as its ink. Some brass pens are proprietary, meaning you have to buy ink from that specific brand. Others, like the Machine Era, use the Pilot G2, which you can find at any drugstore. Always opt for a pen that takes “Parker-style” or “G2” refills if you want maximum flexibility.
Benefits of Brass vs. Traditional Alternatives
When we look at the broader market, why do people keep coming back to the brass pen? Is it just a trend, or is there a functional reason to switch?
Table 5: Benefits Quantification – Brass vs. Plastic/Steel
| Benefit | Brass Pens | Plastic Pens | Stainless Steel |
| Longevity | Generations | Months | Years |
| Environmental Impact | Low (Recyclable & Permanent) | High (Single-use waste) | Medium |
| Hand Comfort | High (Weight assists writing) | Low (Requires grip pressure) | Medium |
| Resale Value | Moderate to High | Zero | Low |
Consequently, investing in a solid brass writing instrument is actually an eco-friendly move. Instead of throwing away hundreds of plastic pens over your lifetime, you use one tool and simply replace the tiny ink cartridge. It’s a win for your desk and a win for the planet.
Table 6: Performance Metrics – Writing Experience
| Metric | Scored (1-10) | Notes |
| Smoothness | 9/10 | Dependent on refill, but brass stabilizes the stroke. |
| Durability | 10/10 | Can literally be run over by a car. |
| Ergonomics | 8/10 | Great for most, but maybe too heavy for children. |
| Style Points | 10/10 | Nothing beats the look of aged brass. |
Maintenance: Keeping Your brass pen in Top Shape
If you’ve decided to go with a pen brass enthusiasts love, you need to know how to care for it. Brass is a “reactive” metal, which means it changes.
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To Keep the Shine: Use a jewelry polishing cloth or a tiny bit of “Cape Cod” metal polish. This will remove the oxidation and keep it looking like gold.
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To Speed Up Patina: If you’re impatient, you can actually age your brass pen overnight. Some people put their pen in a sealed container with a crushed hard-boiled egg (the sulfur reacts with the copper). I personally prefer the natural way—just carry it every day!
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Cleaning the Threads: Over time, the threads on a capped brass writing instrument can get “gritty” due to metal-on-metal friction. A tiny drop of mineral oil or silicone grease will make them feel smooth as butter again.
Table 7: Requirements Analysis – What You Need for Maintenance
| Item | Purpose | Frequency |
| Microfiber Cloth | Removing fingerprints | Daily |
| Lemon Juice/Baking Soda | Natural polishing | Monthly (Optional) |
| Silicone Grease | Lubricating threads | Every 6 months |
| Replacement Refills | Actually writing! | Every 3-6 months |
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Final Thoughts: Is a brass pen Worth It?
In conclusion, the brass pen is more than just a writing instrument; it is a companion. It’s a tool that bridges the gap between the industrial world and the creative one. Whether you choose the ruggedness of a Bastion Bolt Action or the pocketable convenience of the Fisher Space Pen, you are investing in something that won’t end up in a landfill next month.
The weight, the antimicrobial benefits, and the beautiful way it ages make brass the superior choice for anyone who takes their desk setup seriously. I’ve found that since I switched to a heavy metal pen, I actually look forward to writing my “To-Do” lists. It makes the mundane feel a bit more significant.
So, if you’re looking for a gift for a graduate, a promotion present for yourself, or just a way to spice up your everyday carry, go for the brass. It’s a choice you’ll still be happy with ten years from now.
Frequently Asked Questions
✅ Yes, raw brass can leave a distinct metallic scent on your hands after long writing sessions. This is due to the copper reacting with skin oils. Most users find it nostalgic, but you can choose a lacquered model to avoid it…
✅ It depends on your preference. Most brass pens weigh between 30-60 grams, which is triple a plastic pen. This weight helps the pen glide on the paper, reducing the need for downward pressure and potentially easing hand strain…
✅ You will notice changes within the first 48 hours of use. A deep, rich patina typically takes 2-4 months of daily carry to fully develop, depending on your skin chemistry and the local humidity levels in your area…
✅ Absolutely. Brass writing instruments are perfectly legal to carry through TSA. However, if you have a tactical model with a glass-breaker tip, it might draw extra attention, so keep it in your pen case or bag…
✅ Brass does not rust because it contains no iron. However, it can develop ‘verdigris’ (a green coating) if exposed to salt water or harsh chemicals for long periods. This can be easily cleaned off with vinegar and a brush… ❓ Will a brass pen make my hands smell like pennies?
❓ Is a solid brass pen too heavy for daily use?
❓ How long does it take for a brass pen to develop a patina?
❓ Can I take my brass pen on an airplane?
❓ Do brass pens ever rust or corrode?
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