5 Best Tactical Pen Reviews of 2021-Ultimate Buyer Guide

WHAT IS THE BEST TACTICAL PEN?

Well to answer this question I have created a guide for you that displays all the information of the top tactical pens. This guide should help you to make the best choice for your needs, budget, and features. This is a one of a kind guide that is not available anywhere else on the internet.

We all have our personal preferences on what style of tactical pens we want, but in an extreme situation you want the absolute best tactical pen possible, and so we’re here to help.

The tactical phrase pen often elicits laughter. People say, “they just put the word tactical in front of anything these days, hoping to sell more junk nobody needs.”

The analysis of the tactical pens in the interactive chart below that follows will help you decide what the best tactical pen is best for you.

Tactical Pen High lights Our Rating
Used in Police and Military Gear

ATOMIC BEAR Tactical Pen

  • Ballpoint Pen
  • 2nd ink refill
  • Glass Breaker
  • Solid Grip
  • Smart Cap
  • Carrying pouch
UZI Tactical Pen UZI

UZI Tactical Pen UZI

  • Glass breaker
  • Real Ballpoint Pen
  • Refillable
  • Made of Gun Metal includes a pocket clip
  • REMOVABLE CLIP
  • NO CAP
Gerber Impromptu Tactical Pen

Gerber Impromptu Tactical Pen

  • ​Glass Breaker Tip
  • Rite In The Rain
  • Steel + Cerakote Coated
  • Rugged, machined steel body
  • Stainless steel pocket clip
  • Made in USA
Boker Plus Titan K.I.D CAL .50 Tactical Pen

Boker Plus Titan K.I.D CAL .50 Tactical Pen

  • Matte aluminum body
  • Traditional, bolt action clip
  • Designed by Thomas Braunagel
  • Refilled by Fisher Space Pen Cartridge
  • Limited lifetime warranty
Smith and Wesson SWPENMP2BK

Smith and Wesson SWPENMP2BK

  • T6061 Aircraft Aluminum
  • Pocket clip
  • Ability to perform while blending in
  • Pull-off cap
  • Self-defense end
  • Refillable pen
  • Pocket clip
SureFire IV Writing Pen with Clicking Mechanism

SureFire IV Writing Pen with Clicking Mechanism

  • Rugged aerospace-aluminum body
  • Heavy-duty steel pocket clip
  • Schmidt easyFLOW 9000 ink cartridge
  • No cap to lose
  • Assembled in the U.S.A.
CRKT Williams Tactical Pen

CRKT Williams Tactical Pen

  • Tactical Pen with Case
  • 6061 Aluminum
  • Black Non-Reflective Finish
  • Low Profile Clip
  • Designed by James Williams
  • Limited Lifetime Warranty
Schrade SCPENBK Tactical Pen

Schrade SCPENBK Tactical Pen

  • CNC Machined 6061 T6 Aluminum
  • Pocket clip
  • Ability to perform while blending in
  • Screw-off cap
  • Refillable pen
  • Self-defense end
  • Convenient size

Review of the 5 best tactical pens

Honestly, most of the pens included above are very good choices; but there are a few that we just need to point out as our favorites. Below you will find our top 5 picks for overall best tactical pen along with a more detailed review of each pen.

#1. Gerber Impromptu Tactical Pen Review

Gerber Impromptu Tactical Pen Review

Gerber is more associated with producing knives too many people, but they also produce many different products including survival kits, multi-tools, and tactical pens. The Impromptu Tactical Pen fits nicely into its existing catalog but still represents a new direction for the company.

The Gerber impromptu tactical pen is first and foremost a writing tool. The hope is that you will never have to use it for anything other than writing. On this aspect, the impromptu tactical pen fits the bill with its “rite-in-the-rain” ballpoint cartridge which allows you to write inefficiently in wet and dry conditions situations and upside down if need be.

On the tactical side of things, the impromptu tactical pen is made from machined steel with a tempered window-shattering tip design to break a windshield or defend yourself from an unexpected attack.According to Gerber, the impromptu tactical pen is described as “The Impromptu Tactical Pen combines Gerber’s decades of experience crafting tools with valuable input from police officers to offer a utilitarian tool that could quite literally be your ticket to safety. “Another feature that makes it for beneficial in a tactical pen is that it is a retractable pen. This means that you don’t have to take off the cap and then attack, but that you are ready with a click of a button to protect yourself.

Unlike some other tactical pens, the Gerber impromptu tactical pen is manufactured here in the USA. According to many reviews on Amazon, it is well appreciated it for its sturdy build quality and excellent writing quality.Buy From Amazon

#2. Schrade SCPENBK Tactical Pen Review

Schrade SCPENBK Tactical Pen Review

The Schrade Tactical Pen retails for a more budget-friendly price compared to the above pens.This pen excels on the tactical side of things with its blunt point which means it is highly effective in dealing hard blows that will surely ward of an attacker.The ridges on this pen provide a secure grip. It has a cap instead of a clicker which is a little inconvenient, but that doesn’t take away from its effectiveness as a “tactical” pen.Buy From Amazon

#3. Columbia River Knife and Tool Tactical Pen Reviews

Columbia River Knife and Tool Tactical Pen Reviews

This pen is the master in disguising its true identity: A tactical Pen.It looks just like any other pen, but it still has the strength and durability you would expect from a tactical pen.It is also very light and elegant with a twist to open and close design.The CRKT logo also adds to the notion tactical appearance of the pen because it is not associated with famous gun manufacturer names.It has a tapered body that greatly improves its grip.Buy From Amazon

#4. Surefire IV Tactical Pen Review

SureFire IV Writing Pen with Clicking Mechanism

Surefire was one of the first brands to make a tactical pen.Over the years they have refined their pen, and now they have made their version of the best tactical pen.The SureFire Pen IV is a sleek pen and made from high strength precision machined aerospace aluminum.It comes with a high-quality Schmidt ink cartridge.It is a little bit on the pricey side, but it is well worth knowing that you are getting a quality pen from a quality brand.

Buy From Amazon

#5. Smith and Wesson M and P 2nd generation Tactical Pen Reviews

Tactical Screw Cap Pen for Outdoor

Smith and Wesson is a renowned gun maker company known for their exceptional guns, and they do not fail here with their tactical pens.They have a wide variety of tactical pens, but the Smith and Wesson M and P 2nd Generation tactical Pen stands out among them.It is a heavy duty tactical pen that plays the part but does not look the part which in our case is a requirement.It has a very business-like feel to it which makes it perfect for the ones who work office desk jobs.The pen also comes with a twist off and on the cap.Unlike other tactical pens which come in the classic colors of black and grey, this one comes in Brown, Black, Blue, and Gray.Buy From Amazon

Editor’s Choice Uzi Tactical Pens

Brutally Effective Self Defense Pens

Do you want a low-cost tactical pen that can act as a deterrent against an aggressor? Then the Uzi Tactical Pen is sure to give you what you’re looking for.

 UZI Tactical Pen UZI-TACPEN2

Brutally Effective Self Defense Pens Review

The people at Uzi are known for their marketing prowess. They’re never shy about getting their company name attached to all sorts of public projects.

And their tactical pen is yet another way they boost their brand recognition. This pen is a loss leader. That is, they sell it at such a reasonable price that they don’t expect to make money from it. Instead, it serves as low-cost publicity.

Uzi pens come in two main varieties: the DNA catch version and the glass-breaker version.

DNA Catch

A unique feature of the Uzi tac pen is the so-called DNA catch feature. This feature is optional, but in some circumstances, it makes a lot of sense to have it.

At the top of the pen is a specially-machined area that’s designed to gouge some DNA from an attacker’s flesh, then retain it for later collection.

Law enforcement can use this DNA evidence to convict your attacker. It’s a non-lethal way of marking your attacker, so his chances of escaping justice are reduced.

Glass Breaker

The glass-breaker version of the Uzi tac pen is probably a bit more useful than the DNA catcher model.

The tough, cone-shaped tip is perfect for breaking the auto glass. It’s also a potent impact weapon.

It’s not sharp enough to poke holes in your clothing under regular use, but it’s tough enough to shatter safety glass.

Removable Clip

Unlike most other tactical pen designs, the Uzi features a removable pocket clip. This gives you options, and options are good, right? It’s these sort of details that let you know that you’re dealing with a quality product – despite the modest price point.

Ultra-High Quality Machining

These pens are machined from aircraft quality aluminum. The knurling is deep and accurate, and this gives you a firm, sure grip on the pen even if your hands are wet or slippery.

Just as important is the lightweight afforded by the aluminum. Strength is not achieved at the expense of weight; this pen is less than 3 ounces (including ink cartridge), and it won’t make you feel like you’re carrying an iron bar around in your pocket.

No cap

Another great feature is the lack of a cap. Believe it or not, there are some so-called tactical pens on the market today that force you to remove a cap when it comes time to write (or strike) with them. This isn’t acceptable.

Thankfully, the Uzi tactical pen has no cap. You extend or retract the writing tip by twisting the barrel of the pen.

Bottom Line: It Does What It Promises

The Uzi tactical pens do precisely what Uzi says they do: deliver high performance at a negligible price.

If you want an unnoticeable pen that doubles as a self-defense item, perhaps this isn’t the pen for you. That’s because it looks like a weapon. The in your face design leaves no doubts as to its effectiveness. 

But if you want a pen that’ll be the center of attention, this is the one for you.Buy From Amazon

And yeah, maybe there’s some truth in that statement. But that doesn’t change the fact that some pens have been designed from the ground up to function as more than just a high-quality writing instrument.

Some pens — tactical pens — feature designs which facilitate self-defense when a better force multiplier isn’t available.

  • A large diameter pen barrel means you’ll never lose your grip on the pen, no matter how much power you use when you swing or stab it.
  • Good quality knurling helps you keep your grip even if your palms are moist, sweaty, or dirty.
  • Pens machined out of metal won’t bend or deform under typical stress loads. You can hit multiple times with them, from any angle.
  • A pen with a properly designed clip means it will stay put right where you want it, even if you are running or rolling around on the ground.
  • Nobody wants to make others uneasy and look like a menace to society. A good tactical pen is unobtrusive, yet effective.

So if you’re the type of person who thinks regarding systems, strategy, and tactics, a tactical pen just might fit into one of your defensive systems.

Do you want to do all your writing with one of these defensive pens? Maybe not. After all, every tool is designed to function well for a certain job, and tactical pens are trying to fulfill two (or more) requirements at once. If you’re writing a manuscript in the comfort and safety of your own home, you probably don’t want to deal with the extra weight (and reduced comfort) of a true tactical pen.

But there are times where you’re not in a controlled environment (or where rules or short-sighted regulations limit your defensive options). During those times, a tactical pen may mean the difference between being prepared, and being defenseless.

Our pick for the best tactical pen? The Schrade Tactical Pen is capable, easily accepts refill cartridges, and doesn’t look like a ninja weapon so you can get it past airport security.

[su_accordion][su_spoiler title=”What is a tactical pen?” style=”fancy”]

If you find yourself in an unexpected position what would you want at your side? Of course, a handy-dandy tactical pen. A tactical pen is essentially a hidden self-defense tool. What better way to hide a defense weapon other than in plain sight. These pens are designed to act as Kubotan. A Kubotan is a close-quarter self-defense tool. One end is often blunt to be used to strike or put pressure on pressure points for pain compliance, come-along, etc. The other end is usually more pointed for even greater pain compliance, thrusting or glass shattering. You can take a tactical pen in most places where pens are allowed. A tactical pen gives you the advantage in situations where regular self-defense weapons such as a tactical tomahawk, pepper spray, guns and tactical knives are not allowed. Since these pens are also essential writing tools, most of them come with ink cartridges that are waterproof, temperature proof and can be used to write upside down and of course if you ever need to write something in space you have the fisher space ink. To everyone tactical pens are stylish writing instruments that are designed with most of the fine qualities found in a beautiful pen, but to you, they’re more than that.

The act of carrying a weapon for self-defense can be a difficult decision to make, especially for those wary of carrying a weapon on them at all times. In many ways, carrying a weapon can make you even more uncomfortable than when you are not carrying one at all.

The advent of tactical pens has tried to give a solution aimed at those that fit into this category by providing an inconspicuous way to carry a self-defense weapon.

Pens with the ability to double as self-defense weapons are called tactical pens. They were created as a means of giving everyday people a simple, unnoticeable way of carrying a potential weapon on them without being obvious those around them. Although carrying a self-defense weapon such as pepper spray has always been the norm, these items can be more trouble than good if your attacker gets a hold of them. The most significant benefit to tactical pens is the fact that they are not obvious weapons; if you do happen to be attacked, the likelihood of the attacker viewing your pen as a weapon is low. This decreases the likelihood of them trying to obtain your pen from you and gives you the advantage of having the element of surprise. However, to properly utilize tactical pens for self-defense purposes you must be aware of the proper form and technique. Take a look at our Self Defense with Tactical Pens article for more information.

The biggest problem with tactical pens is the issue of their legality, which is somewhat of a grey area at the moment. Because these pens can be used as weapons that can inflict great harm, many people are unsure of the potential situations where these pens are not suitable.

Another problem with self-defense pens is the range of their quality. Although all tactical pens possess some level of self-defense value, the effectiveness of their self-defense features varies greatly. Some are better for writing, whereas others are primarily weapons with minimal effectiveness aspens. This makes it very important to research and understand the various features of tactical pens before buying one to ensure that you purchase one that suits your needs. Take a look at our various product reviews to give you an idea of what pens are most suitable for either self-defense or writing.

Self-defense pens are relatively new products that were created to meet the modern desire for self-defense at all times. This is especially true for those living in larger metropolitan areas with high crime rates. Additionally, many people are uncomfortable carrying a knife due to their obvious nature and the potential harm that they can bring. Ultimately, self-defense pens are a great way to prepare yourself for self-defense without alerting the people around you. Just make sure to practice using them before you decide to take one out with you and do your research on any potential legal issues in your area.[/su_spoiler][/su_accordion] [su_accordion][su_spoiler title=”What is the difference between a tactical pen and a normal pen?” style=”fancy”]When compared to a normal pen, a tactical pen is more ruggedized and has many other uses in survival situations. Most tactical pens allow you to break the glass. Some tactical pens include features such as a handcuff key and a DNA catcher. They are designed to deal a lethal force on pressure points or joints. While on the other hand if you do this with a normal pen, the tip of the pen could break off, potentially causing you to injure your hand and so rendering the pen ineffective as a weapon.

Features to consider when buying a tactical pen

1. Discreetness – You should consider if your tactical pen looks like something that your co-workers would question negatively like “Why does your pen look like a weapon?” You don’t want anyone to feel uneasy around you and look at you like you are a menace. A good tactical pen is discreet yet at the same time an efficient self-defense tool.

2. Grip– Grip of Pen is very Important because When you are going to use your pen, you should have a good grip because your hands could be sweaty, wet or dirty and no matter what you need to be able to depend on your pen. So You should always look for good quality knurling on your tactical pen.

3. Individual features-Some pens come with a glass breaker or a handcuff key or a DNA catching tip. If you work in law enforcement, then it would be desirable to have a handcuff key or a DNA catching tip. It depends on what extra features you want your tactical pen to include.

4. Pocket clip-When you are in a rough situation, you want your pen to be there, not lost because it fell out of your pocket. This means that you should look for a tactical pen that has a well-built pocket clip to secure your pen wherever you will keep it properly.[/su_spoiler][/su_accordion]

Your Turn

Now that you have seen our options and reviewed our top choices for the best tactical pen on the market, it’s up to you to decide which pen you think will best fit your needs, style and price range.

As you know, new tactical pens are being created all the time by new and old manufacturers. For that reason, the example chart above will be renewed when new tactical pens are available in the market. If you feel like we missed a superior tactical pen that needs to be included on the list, let us know in the comments below!

Shahid Maqsood

CEO

Shahid Maqsood is an experienced writer and journalist with 10+ years in the industry. He is the CEO and founder of TheWisy, where he writes daily articles covering topics like books, business, news, sports, and more. Shahid holds an MBA from Virtual University of Pakistan and a Master's in Mass Communications. He is based in Faisalabad, Pakistan. His work spans multiple platforms like dosttrusty.com and newsbreak.com,Quellpress.com , airriflehunting, and bruitly.com showcasing his versatility and depth. Shahid's insightful articles reflect his expertise, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness, making him a respected and reliable voice in digital content creation. His contributions engage and inform readers, embodying professionalism and passion in every piece.