Swiss Caran d´Ache 848 ballpoint pen

I like the classics of modern design. A giant step above the Bic Cristal, the 849 has been in production since 1969, over 15 millions have been made in Switzerland. It is exactly 5 inches in length with a one-piece hexagonal aluminum barrel coated with an elegant lacquer finish, outfitted with a super silent clicky mechanism. The smooth writing Caran “Goliath” refill lasts forever and the pen will work with a Parker Jotter refill, too. Anyone who appreciates fine every day gear, should like the 849 a lot. Many, however, find it to be a bit too shirt and too slick. Try one before you buy.

Condor Hudson Bay

I just received this massive, traditional wilderness knife yesterday. This is the new version with the “hammer-forge” finish that looks quite credible. The carbon steel blade is flat ground with a convex edge that slices paper right out of the box. The wood handle scales and pins are very nicely fitted, the people at Condor in El Salvador seem to take great care considering the retail price. This knife is a steal if you need a simple brute of a blade. Weight is a tolerable 444grs without the nicely made sturdy leather sheath.