[Pen/Pencil Review] Sharpie Goes Sherpa
It’s been one hot minute, hasn’t it? I have so many pens and pencils to review – and so much guilt for not doing it. Guilt that I’m trying to let go of by getting started once more. I need to just do it. So, okay, we’ll start slow, maybe not every week again at first, but I’m setting that intention. It’s been way too long, and I’m tired of circumstances dictating what I’m able to do.
So, getting started again. Back in the day there Paradise Pen Store existed and they made Sharpie Shells. These Sherpa Shells were a $20-$50 cover for a Sharpie some limited edition, some not. They also worked on some other pens. I love the 4 to 6 that I have. But…Paradise Pen company went away. Someone else may have picked up Sherpa, but I’ve lost track. Then at Target a few weeks ago, I found this package.
Sharpie has been trying to do stainless steel versions of their products with varying success. This is a steel case, like the Sherpas but with the Sharpie logo. It’s 5.75” long capped, just over 5” uncapped, and 6.25” cap posted. Where it differs from the Sherpas of the day, is that there’s no “neck cap”, just a metal collar that keeps the Sharpie secure in the cover. The cap is slightly sturdier plastic with a metal clip
Why do you need this since you have to put regular Sharpie in it? You don’t. Not really unless you’re concerned about destroying a Sharpie? It is definitely built to take a beating. It makes the barrel a bit thicker for MAYBE more comfort in writing. The package runs $12-$13 with the case and 5 Sharpie fine point markers – which is SO MUCH cheaper than the Sherpas, so you don’t have to worry about scuffing up a limited-edition case.
The Numbers.
1. How does it work? – 1 – I am not going to knock off points because I was a bone head trying to put it together. It does what it’s designed to do – make an ordinary Sharpie more durable?
It has a good weight and balance.
3. Material – 1 The barrel is steel. The cap is hefty plastic. It feels solid and rugged.
4. Overall Design – 1 – It’s a well-put together idea. I suppose there are those who want a nicer looking Sharpie, and these give you that. And they probably make them a lot more comfortable if you use Sharpies for autographs or other long-term use. But it’s not “pretty” like the others.
5. Price Point – 0.5 – The package is $12-$13 for 5 markers and the case. The case only works for the marker and not other pens, and I’m not sure the thing is necessary except for hard use? The materials are solid enough that it’s probably worth the cost if that’s what you’re looking for.
4 out of 5 bronze pencils.
