The LAMY safari and the LAMY AL-star are specialists in the field of sketching and drawing. The mechanical pencils are equipped with the LAMY M41 fine-tip refill, which enables particularly precise work. Thanks to its ergonomic shape, both models fit comfortably in your hand, and you can write and draw without fatigue for a long time.
A pencil lead is mainly composed of two components: Graphite and clay. The "lead" in the name is just a relic from earlier times. Nowadays, the toxic substance is no longer used, and the graphite-clay mixture is absolutely harmless to human health. The two ingredients are crushed, mixed together and mixed with water to form a paste, which is then fired at 1200°C - the mixing ratio determines the degree of hardness.
The body of a pencil can be made of many different materials, such as wood or metal. At LAMY, we rely on high quality fabrics to create extra durable products for you. The mechanism in a mechanical pencil is usually made of metal.
The LAMY abc learn-to-write pencil is the ideal companion for a successful start to school. Thanks to its child-friendly, educational and ergonomic design, this mechanical pencil is perfect for learning to write systematically and with ease. Once they have made a start, children can continue their journey with the LAMY abc learn-to-write fountain pen.
Pencil leads are divided into different degrees of hardness. HB means that this pencil lead has a hardness grade HB (half black), i.e. it is medium hard. This hardness level is particularly suitable for writing and drawing.
Mechanical pencils and twist pencils have different mechanisms for advancing the lead. With mechanical pencils, you have to press the pusher at the back of the barrel, similar to a ballpoint pen. With a twist pencil, the twist mechanism that transports the lead comes forward when you turn the grip. You have the choice: The two techniques differ only in handling, not in quality. Therefore, what you like better, you can decide quite freely.
Unlike other writing instruments, the graphite that a pencil emits does not form
a strong bond with the paper. The drawing is merely superficial. So everything can always be removed afterwards with an eraser. Furthermore, the quality of the paper can also have an impact on the lifespan of your drawing or notes. If you want to record your thoughts for many years, we recommend our ballpoint pens and fountain pens with document-proof ink (e.g. LAMY T53 in Benitoite color) as well as our notebooks made of acid-free paper.
There are a total of 20 different degrees of hardness for pencil leads. These range from very soft to extremely hard. Also, the following applies: The softer the lead, the richer the black.
9B - 4B: very soft (sketching, artistic work)
3B - B: soft (writing, drawing)
HB, F: medium (writing, drawing)
H, 2H: hard (technical drawing, writing).
3H – 5H: very hard (technical drawing, graphical representations)
6H – 9H: extremely hard (lithography, cartography)