Tactical pens are very popular these days. In fact, they are probably too popular according to the TSA website. So, while tactical pens are certainly cool to look at, they are no longer a very discreet self defense option. They also tend to be relatively expensive.
The Zebra 701 is nearly as beefy as any other tactical pen on the market however, it features far more utilitarian styling. It is not a tactical pen but it is certainly built strong enough to handle the same kinds of hard work as a tactical pen (the truth is that just about any pen can be used in the manner of “tactical pen”). The 701 features mostly metal exterior construction and with the addition of the switch spring retainer from a Zebra 402, it will have completely metal exterior construction. This pen can even be modded to accept Fisher SPR4 pressurized ink refills (which sounds like a great Tactical Handyman post, stay tuned).
The best thing about the 701, is that it can be found locally at office supply shops for less than $8. If you are looking for a much more discreet option to a “tactical” pen, check out the Zebra 701.
A tactical pen hiding in plain sight….. Thats great!
Back before TSA coaught on to tac pens, I often said that I didnt think it was very wise to try to go through a security check point with something that is marketed as a weapon and say “Smith & Wesson” on the side.
Great post… I’m gonna have to get me one of those.
I have a F701 since a year or so and I use it every day. I love it! A little hack is to buy a F402 and remove the end cap to replace the black plastic one on the F701 and also switch to the more pointy head.
it makes the F701 look more solide 😉
http://media.photobucket.com/image/f701%20hack/Stormdrane/More%20images/CIMG6008.jpg
Thanks Seb! That picture is great.
it’s not mine, but mine looks the same. here’s a picture of the whole pen after the mod, see the new pointy tip?
http://i894.photobucket.com/albums/ac145/spydercomonkey/701-402hybrid.jpg