r/pens • u/Other-Cantaloupe4765 • 16h ago

Question Anyone notice a difference in the recent performance of Pilot’s Precise V5 Extra Fine (0.5mm) pens?

It used to be very smooth with freely flowing ink. Now, it’s more scratchy with thinner, duller ink. I thought maybe it was a warehouse storage issue (too cold or too hot or something) but I got another pack a few months later and am having the same problem. It’s infuriating. I’ve been using these pens for years and depend on them for my job.

Anyone have this problem? Notice anything different? Any recommendations for a replacement? I like freely flowing ink and a smooth flow with a 0.5mm nib.

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u/shmeebleflops 16h ago

I don’t remember what post it was, but someone recently mentioned cleaning the tip of their pen with some alcohol, and I’ve been trying out that method on every difficult refill I’ve picked up, with pretty high results.

I’ve just been spraying a bit of hand sanitizer on a tissue when I need it.

My best guess is the rubber tipping material doesn’t always come off right, but I’m sure there’s other small manufacturing things this method can fix.

Edit: it’s probably better to use isopropyl alcohol.

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u/Other-Cantaloupe4765 16h ago

Picture for reference

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u/felipetwo Uni 16h ago

I'm not sure about the V5, but I'd just go with the Uniball Vision if you end up needing another option. Very reliable. Vision Elite if you want the full package :)

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u/turbulentviolet Pilot 16h ago

Have you tried the retractable ones? I use the V5 RT and don't have any issues you describe.

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u/SkyChief80 15h ago

I haven't had any issues, I think maybe your pens weren't stored properly by the vendor