Tuff-Writer / ArmourLite FAQs
Information about Tuff-Writer Tactical Pens
Information about ArmourLite shatterproof tritium illuminated tactical watches
Benefits of the GSLT tritium illumination system
Design focus behind the ArmourLite series watches
Q: What's the difference between the models?
A:Frontline Series: This is the original Tuff-Writer pen although the design has been continuously improved. It's exceedingly strong and sleek. Very well balanced and available in two lengths (full size and shorty). It's designed to fit into virtually any pen pocket but the cap does NOT post / snap onto the back of the pen when writing with it. Compatible with Fisher, Foray and Schmidt pressurized refills.
Operator Series: Slightly shorter and thicker than the Frontline Series, this model has an elegant waspish shape and has a cap which DOES post / snap onto the back of the pen while writing. Compatible with Fisher, Foray and Schmidt pressurized refills.
Precision Press / Clicky: Designed for those who need single handed operation the clicky is the ultimate automatic pen. Designed to be completely modular with a recently re-profiled stainless tip. Compatible with Fisher, Foray and Schmidt pressurized refills as well as EasyFlow, Parker Gel and any Parker-style refills.
EDC Series: Our highest end design. Currently only available in titanium and made to fit into virtually any pocket but the cap does NOT post / snap onto the back of the pen when writing with it. Compatible with Fisher "Space Pen" SPR4 refill only.
Q: Why do I need a tactical / defense pen?
A: Because it's a dangerous world out there and the price of being unprepared is just too high. With the growth of non-permissive environments (places where guns, knives, pepper-sprays and sharp sticks are prohibited) people’s options for personal defense tools are becoming more limited all the time. Tactical flashlights and defense pens are multi-use tools which can and should be carried at all times. Their multi-use nature limits restrictions as well as excuses for not having them when you need them most.
Q: What exactly is a tactical / defense pen?
A: It’s a pen designed to be as reliable and durable as the people using it. A writing implement as well as a last ditch defensive tool that you can bring virtually anywhere and have with you at all times. The Tuff-Writer tactical / defense pen is an essential piece of gear for anyone who needs tools that they can depend on.
Q: Couldn't I just carry a knife?
A: The Tuff-Writer isn’t designed to be a replacement for a knife. It isn’t designed to replace a flashlight either. It’s a supplemental tool which soon becomes an essential piece of gear for any prepared individual. Afterall, even the best knife isn't doing you much good when you have to leave it behind in your car / home.
Q: What makes the Tuff-Writer tactical / defense pen special?
A: The Tuff-Writer is more than a pen, it’s specifically designed to function in the harshest environments and under the worst conditions. It’s a pen that conceivably may one day save your life. The minute you put one in your hand, we think you’ll understand.
Q: Aren't there other pens like it out there?
A: Once you put a Tuff-Writer in your hand we think you'll agree that there's nothing else quite like it. From the solid feel and smooth look to the durable finish, it's easy to see that the Tuff-Writer is unique.
Q: Is it a weapon?
A: A lemon yellow Crayola is a weapon in some people’s hands. The Tuff-Writer is a tactical / defense pen, how you use it is up to you. Who knows, one day it may save your life.
Q: Doesn’t a disposable pen work as well?
A: Not even close. The Tuff-Writer is designed to function in the harshest environments and take massive amounts of abuse, both as a pen and as a tool. The knurling is designed to work well with gloved hands while the thickness, length and overall balance fit perfectly in the hand. This is no disposable, it's made to last.
Q: How well does it write?
A: Very well. It utilizes a pressurized cartridge which writes at any angle, even upside down. The Tuff-Writer will write in the freezing cold, the blistering heat and even function underwater. No disposable pen can do that yet.
Q: What kind of refill does it use?
A: The pen utilizes a gas pressurized ball-point cartridge made in the USA by Fisher. They are available at Office Depot, on-line and most other office supply stores. The brand and model are: Fisher - SPR4. The previous Foray refill has been discontinued by the manufacturer and we are no longer able to source them.
Q: So I can just use a Fisher Space Pen / Rite In The Rain refill cartridge?
A: Yes, due to popular demand all Tuff-Writer pens now support the Fisher Space Pen cartridge as well. Fisher has recently stepped up big time and provided us factory support for cartidges for use in the Frontline Series pens.
Q: How does the cap fit onto the pen?
A: The Tuff-Writer uses a screw-on cap. With fewer moving parts there's virtually nothing to break and when closed the pen functions as one solid piece.
Q: It’s one tough looking pen, did you design it that way?
A: It more than looks tough, it is tough. The Tuff-Writer is precision machined to aerospace tolerances in the United States. It’s made from oversized stock 6061-T6 aluminum and hard anodized to Mil-A-8625 “F” standards for maximum durability. We use a custom designed spring steel clip attached with hardened bolts, then chemically bonded. It might not be indestructible, but it’s close.
Q: Hard anodized?
A: Anodizing is a process used to increase the thickness and density of the natural oxide layer on the surface of metal parts. Hard anodizing greatly increases corrosion resistance and wear resistance imparting a surface as hard as some gemstones. In other words, it helps make our pens tough.
Q: Where is the Tuff-Writer made?
A: Each Tuff-Writer tactical / defense pen is made in the U.S.A. and hand assembled, inspected and laser engraved. Each pen is both special and unique, you know... like a really tough snowflake.
Q: Who came up with the design?
A: The Tuff-Writer was designed, tested and refined over the past few years by people who expect the best from their gear and can’t afford to settle for anything less. This includes S.W.A.T. range-masters, defensive tactics instructors, serious operators and martial artists. The Tuff-Writer tactical pen has been tested like few pens before it.
Q: Is there a warranty?
A: We stand behind our products. Tuff-Writer pens are guaranteed against defects in materials and workmanship for the duration of their useful life. If you ever have a problem, we’ll do our best to make it right. While we don’t warranty the pen against intentional destruction, everything else is game. We call Tuff-Writers the toughest pens in the world for a reason.
Q: Do you ship internationally?
A: Yes, we do. We offer flat rate shipping outside of the United States through the postal service. We use registered mail with tracking - this is by far the most secure way to ship internationally. Delivery time is usually between 1-2 weeks but can vary widely based on customs and final country of destination.
Q: What about accessories?
A: We have just finished testing, and now offer, a fantastic Kydex® neck sheath made by Dave Brown. In addition, due to popular demand we now carry genuine top quality Fisher cartridges direct from the manufacturer.
Q: What colors does it come in?
A:
Stealth Black
Sniper Gray
Breath Taking NP3
Rescue Red
Toxic Green
Pretty Pink
History of ArmourLite Watches
COMING SOON
Benefits of GTLS:
The use of tritium gas light sources offers other benefits besides optimal insulation of the radioactive material. These light sources are self-illuminating and do not require batteries or exposure to other light sources to charge. Their luminance is almost one hundred times that of watches with traditional tritium phosphorescent paint. The hands and markings are also extremely bright at night, so bright in fact that soldiers in the field occasionally wear a cover over the watch in order to avoid accidentally revealing their position in low-light conditions.
The major difference between tritium and the Superluminova used in most traditionally illuminated watches is that tritium doesn't have to be "charged", whereas Luminova, Superluminova and its other versions have to be "charged" by a light source in order to glow. In other words, tritium doesn't fade at all over the course of a night. Superluminova will last roughly 1 to 5 hours, depending on how much of the material is applied and how full “charged” it is while tritium lighting will last well over 12-25 years. Another difference is how bright the different illumination substances are. Tritium tends to be less bright when compared to a freshly charged Superluminova application but while the Superluminova will dim noticeably over the first few minutes of darkness tritium will stay light at the same intensity for years. Of course, this can vary depending on how much tritium is in the tube and how much Superluminova is applied. All TAWATEC watches use the T25 GTLS system from MB Microtec which is currently the most advanced tritium illumination system available.
About ArmourLite watches
Originally designed for police, firefighters, and military personnel, ArmourLite goes to great lengths to ensure its watches would withstand the wear and tear that is common with first responders and military professionals. By employing innovative new technology and strict manufacturing standards, ArmourLite watches are designed and built to be extremely durable in virtually all types of conditions:
- ArmourGlass Watch Crystal
ArmourLite all utilize the ArmourGlass(tm) ultra scratch resistant, impact resistant and shatter proof crystal technology. Adopted from the latest in military grade armouring technology, this watch crystal helps make ArmourLite watches virtually indestructible when worn on your wrist.
- ArmourLite Crystal Shield
On most watches the crystal protrudes above the case and has a leading edge which is exposed to impacts and abrasions. ArmourLite recognized this common design weakness and implemented the ArmourLite Crystal Shield(tm), a portion of the impact absorbing case structure which is actually extends up and around the watch crystal acting to help absorb impacts and protect the leading edge of the watch crystal. This attention to detail exemplifies ArmourLite's commitment to refining its watches to create best-of-breed tools for the tactical industry.
- 10 year battery life on selected models
No, we're not kidding. Many models now use a new Ronda Swiss quartz movement designed to work with new lithium battery technology which requires changing just once every 10 years. This means that you don't have to worry about fiddling with batteries and can safely depend on your ArmourLite to keep on ticking when you need it.
- 316L Steel Case
ArmourLite watch cases are built out of 316L stainless steel, known for it's strength and machinability. This material yields an exceptionally strong watch which will easily handle all the hard wear your can throw at it.
- Tritium Illumination System
All ArmoutLite watches use the T25 GTLS system from MB Microtec which is currently the most advanced tritium illumination system available. No need for charging up, it's always on and always visible even in the darkest conditions.
- Uni-directional Bezel
ArmourLite's uni-directional diver bezel functions as a “minutes elapsed” timer. Simply turn it anti-clockwise and align it with the minute hand to begin. As the minute hand advances, you have a clear indicator of elapsed time. For example, if the minute hand is at “30” on the bezel, you know you’ve used thirty minutes of dive time. Unlike many other watches, the smoothly operating bezel has specifically been designed and tested for ease of use smooth turning functionality. You can feel the quality with every turn and every click.
- Large Face and Clear White Font
In order to make the watch legible in all conditions—including both low-light and normal daylight— ArmourLite uses a large watch face with a clearly marked dial. The watches all use of clear font with white numerals and a second set of 24-hour numerals for easy conversion to military time. In repeated testing, the combination of large dial, clear white font, and tritium illumination has proven to be easily and quickly readable in virtually any lighting condition.
- Water Resistance (WR)
Everyone has seen or owned a watch that can be submerged to a certain depth, be it 5M, 20M or 1000M. Most watches come with some form of water resistance for added protection, but it’s important to understand the difference between Water Resistant watches and true Dive watches. Unless the watch is classified as a Diver watch, such as Diver 100M, then it's not suitable for diving; it's only good for surface activities or recreational snorkeling.
Every ArmourLite is designed and tested to function in marine environments. The screw down double o-ring crown and sealed case-back ensure that while every ArmourLite is conservatively rated to 100M, it will easily function at that depth in actual operational conditions.
ArmourLite watches have not only been designed but worn and tested in harsh underwater environments. So whether you're on dry land or swimming with the fishes, your ArmourLite will continue to function just like you expect it to.
Information about ArmourLite shatterproof tritium illuminated tactical watches
Benefits of the GSLT tritium illumination system
Design focus behind the ArmourLite series watches
Q: What's the difference between the models?
A:Frontline Series: This is the original Tuff-Writer pen although the design has been continuously improved. It's exceedingly strong and sleek. Very well balanced and available in two lengths (full size and shorty). It's designed to fit into virtually any pen pocket but the cap does NOT post / snap onto the back of the pen when writing with it. Compatible with Fisher, Foray and Schmidt pressurized refills.
Operator Series: Slightly shorter and thicker than the Frontline Series, this model has an elegant waspish shape and has a cap which DOES post / snap onto the back of the pen while writing. Compatible with Fisher, Foray and Schmidt pressurized refills.
Precision Press / Clicky: Designed for those who need single handed operation the clicky is the ultimate automatic pen. Designed to be completely modular with a recently re-profiled stainless tip. Compatible with Fisher, Foray and Schmidt pressurized refills as well as EasyFlow, Parker Gel and any Parker-style refills.
EDC Series: Our highest end design. Currently only available in titanium and made to fit into virtually any pocket but the cap does NOT post / snap onto the back of the pen when writing with it. Compatible with Fisher "Space Pen" SPR4 refill only.
Q: Why do I need a tactical / defense pen?
A: Because it's a dangerous world out there and the price of being unprepared is just too high. With the growth of non-permissive environments (places where guns, knives, pepper-sprays and sharp sticks are prohibited) people’s options for personal defense tools are becoming more limited all the time. Tactical flashlights and defense pens are multi-use tools which can and should be carried at all times. Their multi-use nature limits restrictions as well as excuses for not having them when you need them most.
Q: What exactly is a tactical / defense pen?
A: It’s a pen designed to be as reliable and durable as the people using it. A writing implement as well as a last ditch defensive tool that you can bring virtually anywhere and have with you at all times. The Tuff-Writer tactical / defense pen is an essential piece of gear for anyone who needs tools that they can depend on.
Q: Couldn't I just carry a knife?
A: The Tuff-Writer isn’t designed to be a replacement for a knife. It isn’t designed to replace a flashlight either. It’s a supplemental tool which soon becomes an essential piece of gear for any prepared individual. Afterall, even the best knife isn't doing you much good when you have to leave it behind in your car / home.
Q: What makes the Tuff-Writer tactical / defense pen special?
A: The Tuff-Writer is more than a pen, it’s specifically designed to function in the harshest environments and under the worst conditions. It’s a pen that conceivably may one day save your life. The minute you put one in your hand, we think you’ll understand.
Q: Aren't there other pens like it out there?
A: Once you put a Tuff-Writer in your hand we think you'll agree that there's nothing else quite like it. From the solid feel and smooth look to the durable finish, it's easy to see that the Tuff-Writer is unique.
Q: Is it a weapon?
A: A lemon yellow Crayola is a weapon in some people’s hands. The Tuff-Writer is a tactical / defense pen, how you use it is up to you. Who knows, one day it may save your life.
Q: Doesn’t a disposable pen work as well?
A: Not even close. The Tuff-Writer is designed to function in the harshest environments and take massive amounts of abuse, both as a pen and as a tool. The knurling is designed to work well with gloved hands while the thickness, length and overall balance fit perfectly in the hand. This is no disposable, it's made to last.
Q: How well does it write?
A: Very well. It utilizes a pressurized cartridge which writes at any angle, even upside down. The Tuff-Writer will write in the freezing cold, the blistering heat and even function underwater. No disposable pen can do that yet.
Q: What kind of refill does it use?
A: The pen utilizes a gas pressurized ball-point cartridge made in the USA by Fisher. They are available at Office Depot, on-line and most other office supply stores. The brand and model are: Fisher - SPR4. The previous Foray refill has been discontinued by the manufacturer and we are no longer able to source them.
Q: So I can just use a Fisher Space Pen / Rite In The Rain refill cartridge?
A: Yes, due to popular demand all Tuff-Writer pens now support the Fisher Space Pen cartridge as well. Fisher has recently stepped up big time and provided us factory support for cartidges for use in the Frontline Series pens.
Q: How does the cap fit onto the pen?
A: The Tuff-Writer uses a screw-on cap. With fewer moving parts there's virtually nothing to break and when closed the pen functions as one solid piece.
Q: It’s one tough looking pen, did you design it that way?
A: It more than looks tough, it is tough. The Tuff-Writer is precision machined to aerospace tolerances in the United States. It’s made from oversized stock 6061-T6 aluminum and hard anodized to Mil-A-8625 “F” standards for maximum durability. We use a custom designed spring steel clip attached with hardened bolts, then chemically bonded. It might not be indestructible, but it’s close.
Q: Hard anodized?
A: Anodizing is a process used to increase the thickness and density of the natural oxide layer on the surface of metal parts. Hard anodizing greatly increases corrosion resistance and wear resistance imparting a surface as hard as some gemstones. In other words, it helps make our pens tough.
Q: Where is the Tuff-Writer made?
A: Each Tuff-Writer tactical / defense pen is made in the U.S.A. and hand assembled, inspected and laser engraved. Each pen is both special and unique, you know... like a really tough snowflake.
Q: Who came up with the design?
A: The Tuff-Writer was designed, tested and refined over the past few years by people who expect the best from their gear and can’t afford to settle for anything less. This includes S.W.A.T. range-masters, defensive tactics instructors, serious operators and martial artists. The Tuff-Writer tactical pen has been tested like few pens before it.
Q: Is there a warranty?
A: We stand behind our products. Tuff-Writer pens are guaranteed against defects in materials and workmanship for the duration of their useful life. If you ever have a problem, we’ll do our best to make it right. While we don’t warranty the pen against intentional destruction, everything else is game. We call Tuff-Writers the toughest pens in the world for a reason.
Q: Do you ship internationally?
A: Yes, we do. We offer flat rate shipping outside of the United States through the postal service. We use registered mail with tracking - this is by far the most secure way to ship internationally. Delivery time is usually between 1-2 weeks but can vary widely based on customs and final country of destination.
Q: What about accessories?
A: We have just finished testing, and now offer, a fantastic Kydex® neck sheath made by Dave Brown. In addition, due to popular demand we now carry genuine top quality Fisher cartridges direct from the manufacturer.
Q: What colors does it come in?
A:
Stealth Black
Sniper Gray
Breath Taking NP3
Rescue Red
Toxic Green
Pretty Pink
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History of ArmourLite Watches
COMING SOON
Benefits of GTLS:
The use of tritium gas light sources offers other benefits besides optimal insulation of the radioactive material. These light sources are self-illuminating and do not require batteries or exposure to other light sources to charge. Their luminance is almost one hundred times that of watches with traditional tritium phosphorescent paint. The hands and markings are also extremely bright at night, so bright in fact that soldiers in the field occasionally wear a cover over the watch in order to avoid accidentally revealing their position in low-light conditions.
The major difference between tritium and the Superluminova used in most traditionally illuminated watches is that tritium doesn't have to be "charged", whereas Luminova, Superluminova and its other versions have to be "charged" by a light source in order to glow. In other words, tritium doesn't fade at all over the course of a night. Superluminova will last roughly 1 to 5 hours, depending on how much of the material is applied and how full “charged” it is while tritium lighting will last well over 12-25 years. Another difference is how bright the different illumination substances are. Tritium tends to be less bright when compared to a freshly charged Superluminova application but while the Superluminova will dim noticeably over the first few minutes of darkness tritium will stay light at the same intensity for years. Of course, this can vary depending on how much tritium is in the tube and how much Superluminova is applied. All TAWATEC watches use the T25 GTLS system from MB Microtec which is currently the most advanced tritium illumination system available.
About ArmourLite watches
Originally designed for police, firefighters, and military personnel, ArmourLite goes to great lengths to ensure its watches would withstand the wear and tear that is common with first responders and military professionals. By employing innovative new technology and strict manufacturing standards, ArmourLite watches are designed and built to be extremely durable in virtually all types of conditions:
- ArmourGlass Watch Crystal
ArmourLite all utilize the ArmourGlass(tm) ultra scratch resistant, impact resistant and shatter proof crystal technology. Adopted from the latest in military grade armouring technology, this watch crystal helps make ArmourLite watches virtually indestructible when worn on your wrist.
- ArmourLite Crystal Shield
On most watches the crystal protrudes above the case and has a leading edge which is exposed to impacts and abrasions. ArmourLite recognized this common design weakness and implemented the ArmourLite Crystal Shield(tm), a portion of the impact absorbing case structure which is actually extends up and around the watch crystal acting to help absorb impacts and protect the leading edge of the watch crystal. This attention to detail exemplifies ArmourLite's commitment to refining its watches to create best-of-breed tools for the tactical industry.
- 10 year battery life on selected models
No, we're not kidding. Many models now use a new Ronda Swiss quartz movement designed to work with new lithium battery technology which requires changing just once every 10 years. This means that you don't have to worry about fiddling with batteries and can safely depend on your ArmourLite to keep on ticking when you need it.
- 316L Steel Case
ArmourLite watch cases are built out of 316L stainless steel, known for it's strength and machinability. This material yields an exceptionally strong watch which will easily handle all the hard wear your can throw at it.
- Tritium Illumination System
All ArmoutLite watches use the T25 GTLS system from MB Microtec which is currently the most advanced tritium illumination system available. No need for charging up, it's always on and always visible even in the darkest conditions.
- Uni-directional Bezel
ArmourLite's uni-directional diver bezel functions as a “minutes elapsed” timer. Simply turn it anti-clockwise and align it with the minute hand to begin. As the minute hand advances, you have a clear indicator of elapsed time. For example, if the minute hand is at “30” on the bezel, you know you’ve used thirty minutes of dive time. Unlike many other watches, the smoothly operating bezel has specifically been designed and tested for ease of use smooth turning functionality. You can feel the quality with every turn and every click.
- Large Face and Clear White Font
In order to make the watch legible in all conditions—including both low-light and normal daylight— ArmourLite uses a large watch face with a clearly marked dial. The watches all use of clear font with white numerals and a second set of 24-hour numerals for easy conversion to military time. In repeated testing, the combination of large dial, clear white font, and tritium illumination has proven to be easily and quickly readable in virtually any lighting condition.
- Water Resistance (WR)
Everyone has seen or owned a watch that can be submerged to a certain depth, be it 5M, 20M or 1000M. Most watches come with some form of water resistance for added protection, but it’s important to understand the difference between Water Resistant watches and true Dive watches. Unless the watch is classified as a Diver watch, such as Diver 100M, then it's not suitable for diving; it's only good for surface activities or recreational snorkeling.
Every ArmourLite is designed and tested to function in marine environments. The screw down double o-ring crown and sealed case-back ensure that while every ArmourLite is conservatively rated to 100M, it will easily function at that depth in actual operational conditions.
ArmourLite watches have not only been designed but worn and tested in harsh underwater environments. So whether you're on dry land or swimming with the fishes, your ArmourLite will continue to function just like you expect it to.
Copyright © 2011 Tuff Writer Inc. All Rights Reserved.