Pentel generously sent me this handsome pen and pencil set known as the Libretto. The pen is a .7 mm and uses the popular LR7 refill, known for high-contrast, consistent, quick-drying lines. The mechanical pencil is a .5 mm size and has a retractable tip, making it safe for pocket carry.
As far as design, the pen and pencil are all metal; they feel well balanced without being too substantial. A small star pattern circles the band around the barrel and a small Pentel logo is just above the band. Other than that, it's all low key.
Curiously enough, the clip on the pencil has a bit more spring to it than the pen, but both are easily to remove from a pocket without snagging.
I mentioned that the pen uses the LR7 refill, which can also be found in the EnerGel line of pens. If you've tried EnerGels, than you probably agree that the ink has some of the best all around properties available.
The pencil comes loaded with Pentel Super Hi-Polymer leads - they are resistant to breaking and perform well.
In the ergonomics department, the pencil allows for a bit more variety in finger placement, at least in terms of writing closer to the point, which I tend to do as I write rather small.
The pen has a proper grip (rather than just holding onto the barrel) and it not too squishy and doesn't seem to attract too much dust, as some grips tend to do, but having a cap certainly helps. Speaking of the cap, it clicks firmly on both sides of the pen, which I love.
The Pentel Libretto Pen and Pencil can be purchased directly from Pentel and currently retails for $39.95. Given the build construction, quality, and overall lack of any real flaws, I think the price is well worth it.
If you're looking for a classy writing instrument gift for the Holidays, the Libretto set would be a fine choice.