fritz_t_coyote's Full Review: Phd Multi 3 In 1 Retractable Ballpoints-Pencil Blu...
Being a tech professional, I spend a lot of time still working in pencil, a lot of time writing in ink, and a lot of time poking and scribbling on my trusty PDA. Make that PDAs, as I tend to break them pretty quickly.
It was while looking for a replacement for the dinky stylus on my PalmPilot that I first encountered the PhD Multi. It solves the problem of pocket overload, as I now have all three needed instruments in a single, good looking and (most importantly) easy to handle package. This gives me a reverse geek-chic, as I now have a whole pocket-protector's worth of tools in one attractive, manly package.
Functions:
Just twist the barrel and select Pen, Pencil (.5mm) or Stylus.
Click the top to advance the pencil lead, pull off the cap to reveal the big (vinyl) eraser& which does a good job cleaning up my mistakes.
Twist the barrel past the last click, and it unscrews to allow you to replace the ink tube, (pull it out carefully) or reload leads into the pencil. Be sure to only remove one barrel at a time or else you might never get it back together. Lead capacity is limited, as the pencil barrel is pretty slim, but you can stash a spare .5mm lead in the barrel of the Stylus tool.
Grip:
The finger grip is a rounded triangular shape, with nice taper, and very well formed. It is a big beefy grip, that fits naturally, and feels comfortable. I can write for hours without finger strain, and my boss says my notes are more readable. So I give this tool 10 of 10 for ergonomics.
Quality
Overall quality is good, but the first one I had suffered from a gradual hardening of the grip rubber, and began to slip instead of easily clicking between tools. While the pencil leads are standard, and a 'universal' ink refill will fit, the eraser is unique, and may not be easy to find.
The construction is good, but the plastics will wear out in a few years. My first PhD, however, outlasted 2 PDAs. My second PhD is now on it's third PDA. So durability is relative.
Writing
The pencil functions nicely, and the big eraser is handy if you make as many corrections as I do. The pen has a smooth flow of ink, it works without skipping or drying out.
The stylus is dream, as it is much easier to grip than the standard little toothpick that comes with your PDA.
I am happy with mine, and after the first one I bought wore out, I bought another& which seems to be lasting longer, perhaps due to improved rubber in the grip.
Manufacturer: Papermate/Sanford Ink Company. Sold Individually PhD& MULTI 3-in-1 Retractable Pen/Pencil Comfortable ergonomic triangular grip is endor...More at Buy.com
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