The clutch pencil is the most versatile and reliable tool in an artist’s pencil case. Whether you’re an artist, architect, engineer, or student, clutch pencils offer precision, durability, and ease of use that traditional wooden pencils often can’t match. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into various types of mechanical clutch pencils, their uses, and which ones might be the best fit for different applications.
What is a Clutch Pencil?
A clutch pencil, also known as a mechanical clutch pencil, is a writing or drawing instrument that holds leads of varying thicknesses, typically 0.5mm & 0.7mm, although for special needs 2mm or 5.6mm. The clutch mechanism allows the lead to be extended or retracted by pressing the top button or by twisting the grip, rather than requiring sharpening like traditional pencils. However, for thicker pencils such as the 2mm clutch pencil or 5.6 mm clutch pencil, sharpening may be needed with specialised sharpeners.
Best Clutch Pencils For Differing Needs
There are myriad clutch pencils out in the market. Hence, it is easy to get lost simply perusing the stationery aisles. If you have ample knowledge of what your mission is choosing the best clutch pencils for your needs is a fairly simple task. Let’s look at 4 different types of mechanical clutch pencils, based on their lead width and their uses.
1. Clutch Pencil 0.5mm
The clutch pencil 0.5 mm is a favourite among artists and drafters who wish to draw fine lines and intricate details. It’s ideal for technical drawing, sketching, and writing where precision is paramount. The thin lead allows for sharp, clean lines that are easily erasable with any regular or electric eraser. They are also smudge-resistant which helps in architectural sketching.
2. 0.7mm Clutch Pencil
Slightly thicker than the clutch pencil 0.5, the 0.7 clutch pencil is also suitable for general writing tasks as well as sketching and technical drawing where a little bolder line could do the trick. Contrary to its counterpart, the 0.7mm lead is less prone to breakage, making it essential for artists and students.
3. 2mm Clutch Pencil
There is a wide difference between the 0.7 clutch pencil and the 2mm clutch pencil. The latter is favoured by artists who prefer a broader stroke and more expressive drawing style. The bold lines render well for shading, sketching, and outlining. If you are a heavy-handed sketcher or drafter, you need not worry about any unwarranted snapping.
4. 5.6mm Clutch Pencil
The 5.6mm clutch pencil is a powerhouse designed for the boldest strokes and shading. It’s often used in industrial design, architecture, and woodworking where marking and sketching require a humungous lead size. The 5.6mm clutch pencil lead can be sharpened to different angles, allowing for varied line widths and shading effects.
Best Clutch Pencils for Drawing
Now that we have discussed the four most prominent types of mechanical clutch pencils, we give you a few pencils which are our personal favourites. These clutch pencils have been through hell and back and continue to amaze us. Let’s take a look.
1. Rotring 600
The Rotoring 600 0.5 and 0.7 clutch pencils have a sleek & metal exterior. It has a fixed lead guidance sleeve to prevent breakage. The brass mechanism aids precise lead advancement. The pencil’s hexagonal barrel keeps it from sliding on surfaces. It also features a non-slip metal knurled grip. But the surprise is under the push-button cap, which houses a tiny eraser.
2. Pentel GraphGear 1000
Combining functionality with style, the Pentel GraphGear 1000 have a 4mm retractable sleeve. It comes in 4 lead sizes, with the 0.7 clutch pencil serving our purpose. It’s ideal for both drafting and everyday writing tasks, offering smooth lead advancement and a built-in eraser. It boasts a metal clip, an adjustable lead grade indicator, and a grooved metal inlay with a latex-free rubber grip.
3. Faber-Castell TK 9400
For artists and designers who prefer thicker leads, the Faber-Castell TK 9400 2mm clutch pencil is a go-to. It has ergonomic finger grooves and can be found in the range of 3B to 2H. The balance point of this 2mm clutch pencil is pointed toward the tip, giving it a thin, even shaft. It has a round grip and hexagonal barrel for a fatigue-free drawing.
4. KOH-I-NOOR Versatil 5311
The KOH-I-NOOR Versatil 5311 has nickel-plated metal components (cone & push button), a rough-textured metal body, and all-metal mechanics. To extend the lead, simply hold the 5.6mm clutch pencil at an angle and press. If you unscrew the push button, you’ll find a built-in sharpener. This pencil has a metal clip and comes encased in a polymer sleeve.
Image Courtesy – Art Supplies Review
