Over the years I've had to say goodbye to many a fine writing product. It's like having your kids go off to college. Things are not the same. My hand misses many of these great pens and pencils, and the Frontier is certainly one of those.

Although I am NOT a fan of .5mm lead, I am a fan of the shape of the Frontier. It is a substantial writing instrument with good design, and it travels well. In a pocket or pocketbook, it's just handy as it can be. 

I use skinny leads for editing, and I will mention it probably again in an a blog about editing materials--we have many. But I think this lovely workhorse of a mechanical pencil deserves its own article.

Here it is

Now isn't that a beauty? 

It's got a rubberized grip so it stays with you even if you're out in the elements. The stainless steel barrel is slightly brushed for glamour, and the gold trim just shouts professionalism. 

If you have a Frontier pen of some kind, it will make a nice set. And because the Frontier is really gone from the market, this will be like snatching something from the ethereal marketplace. We only have a few left, but you will love using it. 

Tip: If you use .5mm lead, and it breaks a lot, you can use polymer leads to help. They are stronger. Also, keep the lead from protruding too much. I keep it close to the sleeve, even though I have to click it down more. It isn't that I have a heavy hand, it's that I write enthusiastically, and I use pressure to keep up with my thoughts. 

So if you need a thin line in your work, or if you simply enjoy the look of delicately written words, this pencil may be your answer both practically and aesthetically. But don't think about it too long; there are a limited number of them remaining. The price is VERY LOW--only $15.59 for a much more expensive pencil (in its heyday).