And yes, just about everything that made the pen great remains in the mechanical pencil, save for the ink.

Usually, when we talk about everyday carry writing utensils, were talking about pens.

But we realize that the permanence of ink isnt for everyone especially creatives, those prone to mistakes, or some combination of the two.

Not only is their usefulness tied directly to how much of them youve used, but they require you to carry around a sharpener of some sort in order to keep them in working order.

Mechanical pencils, by contrast, are refillable, can be more compact, last far longer, and come in a wider range of styles.

Thats why, if youre going to incorporate a pencil into your everyday carry, we suggest one of the following 15 best mechanical pencils for EDC.

Not only is it incredibly budget-friendly, but its also durable constructed from stainless steel comfortable to hold and use (thanks to a knurled grip), easy to carry in your pocket due to its integrated clip, and it is useable with standard-sized 0.7mm lead.

The example above is compatible with 0.5mm lead, but there is also a trio of alternative size options for thicker or thinner lines.

It also has a 4mm tip thats ideal for drafting purposes (like using it with a ruler) and it comes with a pocket clip.

This allows for better sketching, shading, and more resistance to pressure than its thinner counterparts making it perfect for anyone who likes to draw.

It also has an integrated sharpener to keep the tip pointed.

Its also available in a quartet of different lead sizes for all your needs, comes with a pocket clip for easy hauling, and has a hideaway eraser under the tail cap.

This unique translucent offering is a state-of-the-art writing utensil available in either 0.5mm or 0.7mm lead sizes, it comes with a hideaway eraser, and it has a rotating lead mechanism to keep the tip sharp and help prevent breakage.

However, if you pick up the Rite in the Rain All-Weather mechanical pencil, you can.

Thats because, like their pens, this utensil has a special lead designed not to suffer any ill effect at the hands of the weather.

Its also ultra-durable, has a patented tip to help prevent breakage, and it comes in multiple colorways for your styling pleasure.

Luckily, Autopoint specifically made their Jumbo All-American mechanical pencil with that same geometric styling.

That makes it comfortable to hold and keeps it from rolling off your desk once you set it down.

Mate that to a pocket clip and jumbo eraser and this is a solid option for any everyday carry loadout.

From the legendary company that makes everyones favorite ink cartridges, this less-permanent utensil is crafted entirely from stainless steel, houses 0.5mm lead, and still has a pocket clip.

Thats because, while all the competition is messing around with lead thats fractions of a millimeter in thickness, this one comes with a whopping 5.5mm piece of lead which is even thicker than most traditional pencils.

For artists and sketchers alike, this might just be the best mechanical pencil out there.

Thats because it has an added bit of safety and security in the form of a retractable tip meaning you dont have to worry about bending or breaking it while youre in transit.

Its also available in matte black or chrome silver, has a knurled grip and pocket clip, and comes with a 2-year warranty against defects.

Best Mechanical Pencils