The two models we’re looking at are from the Construction range: the larger Construction multi-tool and the Construction Liliput. There are some similarities between them both, but before we dive into their features, we want to talk about their build quality. It’s hard to convey how nice these pens feel. Both pens require a twist of the tip to deploy the ball-point refill, and you can instantly feel the quality and precision in these pens. Both pens feel well-weighted in hand; it’s a luxurious, quality feeling. For us, the actual writing experience comes above the other ‘multi-tool’ aspects of these pens, and we are pleased to report that they both write very nicely with an even flow of ink. Illustrators will be pleased to hear that it takes a reasonable number of strokes with either pen before there is a small build-up of ink at the ballpoint, common with any ball-point pen.
Both pens have hexagonal body tubes, which we like for multiple reasons. They are easy to grip and use, and they don’t move when placed on a desk or other sloped surface – it’s helpful in the workshop or lab that they remain wherever you place them. They both feature graduated rulers in metric and imperial on the body, which is handy for quick measurements. The Construction multi-tool also has some scale ratios, which is useful when working with scaled plans. Whilst we are talking scale, the Liliput is, obviously, small. It’s not uncomfortably small to write with; however, it’s possibly fair to say that it’s not the one we would reach for if we had more than a few lines to write.
At the non-writing end of the pens, both feature a cap with a capacitive tip for use on touchscreens. These work well across a range of screens we tried them on, although they are quite a large stylus to use on smaller mobile phone screens. However, as an input device for a tablet or touchscreen-enabled laptop, they are great. Beneath this threaded cap, both pens have a reversible screwdriver bit with a flat-head bit and a Phillips bit. They again work well – the Phillips screwdriver bit is perfect for adjusting spectacle screws, including those found on many of our PPE glasses, so this is perhaps our commonest use case for them. The screwdriver bit has the familiar 4 mm hexagonal shank, so, if required, you could fit other compatible screwdriver bits from a different set.
Both pens feature a sturdy pocket clip that holds the pen securely in place. The size of the Liliput, combined with the clip, makes this really easy to carry in a shirt pocket – not an uncommon task – and also easy to carry in a trouser pocket without feeling uncomfortable. The final feature for the larger Construction multi-tool is that it has a spirit level incorporated into the body of the pen. The spirit level is decent quality, and we’ve been surprised by how many times we’ve used it, from checking a camera rig is level to checking CNC machine beds, 3D printers, and more.
The Liliput costs around £10 and comes with three refills. The Construction multi-tool costs around £22 and doesn’t come with refills. The Construction multi-tool, however, uses a common ‘D1’ refill, which is a standard refill and is available from a range of companies – this means you can explore different inks, tip sizes, and more. It’s also worth checking out the range of colours and finishes available for these pens, but be warned, they all look very nice – we were tempted by all of them!
Verdict
Both pens are excellent! We deducted one mark as the Liliput might not be ideal for a long writing session, and the Construction multi-tool model should possibly include one refill at its price point. However, these minor points don’t detract from what are very nice writing tools.
Score: 9/10
Price: £22.80
