The mechanism comes from Schmidt. They make a variety of pen and pencil mechanisms. This one is their MDR4 pen/pencil combo. Schmidt calls it a Multisystem Mechanism. The system uses a mini ballpoint refill and a mini pencil mechanism that uses 0.5mm lead. More on them below.

Although the pen looks like a clicker, it actually uses a twist mechanism. But not like a regular twist pen. I’d call it a hybrid because it uses the action of both clicker and twist to operate.

The action works in the center of the pen, therefore I had to make the parts so the lower barrel could recess into the upper barrel. See the action at the right >>>>>

Custom clicker pens: I also make custom ballpoint clicker pens with Schmidt mechanisms. I have two different style clickers: #SKM-88 and SKM-192. The SKM-88 clicker has a built-in external button, while the SKM-192 is only the internal clicker mechanism. If you’re interested in a custom clicker, please send me an email.

The pen works very similar to a standard twist style ballpoint pen. To use the pen or pencil, grab the top section with one hand and the lower section with the other hand. Then twist it clockwise. Clockwise retracts the pen. Then to use the pencil you twist it again counter-clockwise. To retract the pen or pencil, twist again, but only partway. You’ll feel and hear it click.

About the refills and how to use them:

Pen refill: The pen uses a standard mini ballpoint refill. Schmidt refers to it as a ‘D’ refill. The refill is press fit into the mechanism. So to remove or replace it, you first unscrew the nosecone. Then grab the refill and pull on it until it pops out. Then simply push in a new refill and replace the cap.

Pencil refill: The pencil uses standard 0.5 mm pencil lead. But it only accepts one short piece at a time. To extract the lead, once it’s in the pencil position, you push up on the lower barrel, pushing it slightly up into the upper barrel. That motion extends a small amount of lead each time. To install a new piece, you push the barrel up and hold it, then insert the lead and push it up into the mechanism.

Eraser: The pen also includes a replaceable white pencil eraser at the top. I made a removeable cap to protect the eraser when not in use.

This pen was special ordered in the clear acrylic shown. Pen made with clear acrylic are known as demonstrators, because the clear material lets you see the internal parts.

Just like all my pens, you can choose the material for your pen. If you’d like to order one of these pens, please contact me via email using the the email address or contact form on the on the Contact Us page. The link is at the bottom of the page. I’d be glad to talk to you about a pen!