Icy Mike from Hard2Hurt Answers: Does the Perfect Tactical Pen Really Exist?

Introduction

We sent an Atomic Bear Stealth Pen Pro to Icy Mike from the YouTube channel @hard2hurt [linkto] with the possibility that he would hate it and let the World know. Mike is known to speak his mind no matter what. Mike is a martial arts instructor and a self-defense expert. His content has reached 81,000,000 people so far…

Let’s talk about his analysis and let me give you some additional information along the way so that you know what we are talking about if you are new to this field.

As Mike says: “When it comes to tactical pens, finding the right one can feel like looking for the perfect pizza cutter or baseball cap”. But as he asks, “is there such a thing in a pen for self-defense?”

BTW: To watch the full video, scroll down and hit play.

What is a Tactical Pen?

Let’s chat about a few fundamentals. A tactical pen is more than just a writing tool. It is designed to serve a dual purpose: to function as a reliable pen and as a self-defense unexpected weapon. Tactical pens are typically made from durable materials and incorporate features like glass breakers and sturdy grips, making them versatile tools for everyday carry (EDC). As Mike puts it: "It’s got to be a pen first. It’s got to be a fun pen to use that writes good."

What is a Tactical Pen Used For?

Everyday Writing

At its core, a tactical pen should perform well as a writing instrument. Mike from @Hard2Hurt shares that the Stealth Pen Pro, crafted from polymer, features a fun bolt action mechanism for the writing tip, oddly satisfying. The pen's practical gripping area ensures it's user-friendly and perfect for writing tasks without any hassle. "It writes good,” highlighting its functionality as a writing tool.

Self-Defense Situations and Emergencies

Beyond writing, a tactical pen can be a crucial tool in self-defense situations and emergencies. For instance, the Stealth Pen Pro's tungsten tip can break glass, which is useful in escape situations, or it can be used to fend off an attacker. This versatility makes it an essential part of any everyday carry (EDC) kit. "If you stick that through a window, it breaks. If you stick that through someone's face, it's unpleasant," is how Mike illustrated its potential in emergencies.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Stealth Pen Pro played a crucial role in empowering Asian Americans in New York City, who faced a surge in racially motivated attacks. Through self-defense training sessions organised with the Dragon Combat Club, us from the Atomic Bear and Icy Mike from Hard2Hurt, this discreet tactical pen provided individuals with the confidence and tools needed to protect themselves. Read more about this inspiring initiative in our detailed blog post here. 

Utility Functions

Tactical pens often include additional features such as glass breakers and sturdy grips. These elements make them versatile tools that can be used in various emergency scenarios, such as breaking a car window to escape a dangerous situation or even fighting back an attacker to defend yourself. This reminds of the time on how one of our Atomic Bear's tactical pens were used in order to save a four  month old baby from a locked car in Phoenix Arizona. You can read more in detail in regards to this situation through this blog post. 

The knurling and flat parts of the Stealth Pen Pro provide a secure grip, and the teeth on the writing tip act as a DNA collector. However, Mike from @Hard2Hurt mentions that this feature might be unnecessary, as there isn’t a ton of data showing it as a significant factor in self-defense cases. Let me disagree with Mike here! Heck… these serrations can dig into the skin and make an attacker think twice.

Is a Tactical Pen Considered a Weapon?

A tactical pen is a discreet weapon primarily designed to write. If not, what is the point of carrying a weapon that looks like a pen but cannot be used to write! for example like a Kubaton. Therefore, a tactical pen is a discreet weapon that doesn’t draw attention like other self-defense tools might. Mike’s take on the Stealth Pen Pro was that It’s a functional pen first and foremost, making it suitable for everyday carry without raising eyebrows. "It just looks like a little bit of a thick pen unless someone looks really close," emphasizing its discreet design.

How to Use a Tactical Pen?

Practical Advice

Knowing how to use a tactical pen effectively is crucial. Whether you’re reinforcing your boxing, clinching, or grappling techniques, practice is essential. Regular training ensures that you are prepared to use the pen in self-defense situations. The Stealth Pen Pro allows for one-handed deployment, which is critical in emergencies. "Whether you reinforce your boxing, reinforce your clinching, or reinforce your grappling, it doesn't matter much if you don't practice and train with it," underscores the importance of regular practice.

Everyday Use

As many of us carry a pen on a daily basis, for work purposes or anything at all Mike suggests “why not carry a pen that you can John Wick your way”. Where the Stealth Pen Pro can be used as a good writing tool as well as a self defense weapon that can be useful for emergency situations and to react to attackers when needed. It is always important to be prepared rather than taking a chance. So the Stealth Pen Pro can be a practical choice for daily use as it is a dual purpose defense tool.

Can We Carry the Tactical Pen Through TSA?

I get this question asked a lot. Traveling with a tactical pen can be tricky, especially in carry-on luggage. While tactical pens are generally allowed in carry-on bags, it’s essential to check with the airline and TSA regulations before traveling. The Stealth Pen Pro’s design helps it pass as a regular pen, but its features might still raise questions during security checks. To avoid any issues, consider placing the pen in your checked luggage or be prepared to explain its functionality if asked by security personnel.

This being said, I traveled with 15 Stealth Pen Pro in my carry on without issues or any questions asked. I went to Canada, many States in the United States, UK, Iceland, Hong Kong, Australia, Indonesia, Mexico with my Stealth Pen Pro in my computer bag without issues. I understood that a TSA agent could have asked me to check it in. But it never happened to me.

Tips for Traveling with a Tactical Pen

• Check Regulations: Always check the specific airline and TSA regulations before packing your tactical pen.
• Be Prepared: Have an explanation ready for why you are carrying the pen, focusing on its primary function as a writing tool.
• Consider Placement: Place the pen in an easily accessible part of your luggage for smooth security checks.

Read this blog post on TSA regulations to get more information on how to safe guard your self and also to avoid unnecessary issues when traveling with a tactical pen. 

Are Tactical Pens Legal in the USA and Canada?

Yes they are. You can carry your pens almost everywhere. I had judges tell me they always have their Atomic Bear pens on themselves. Each specific establishment may have rules. But a pen is, to my knowledge, the most accepted tool. The most important aspect is when it comes to using it for self-defense - then your specific location will matter a lot. You need to understand the law for defending yourself lawfully. Needless to say that a tactical pen has a broader range of application than a firearm or a knife which are deadly weapons.

The discreet aspect of the Stealth Pen Pro means that you are less likely to be stopped or judged because it looks just like a cool pen.

This means you can carry it without worrying about legal issues in Canada and in the US.

Does the Stealth Pen Pro check all the boxes? Review from Mike

Mike from @Hard2Hurt provides a thorough review of the Stealth Pen Pro, noting several aspects that address common issues found in many tactical pens. He points out that, unlike other tactical pens which often look overly aggressive or impractical, He said “when making the pen, these guys got everything right.”

Mike highlighted the pen’s design and build as it has a polymer body, making it lightweight and easy to carry, in contrast to many tactical pens made from heavier metals. Due to its lightweight construction, the pen includes robust materials like aluminum, steel, and a tungsten tip. "This is all polymer. The body is all polymer... It's got knurling. It's got little flat parts that make it easy to hold," Mike says, emphasizing its practical design.

The “mean and unnecessary teeth” on the tip can hurt but its satisfying bolt action is a practical design to quickly access the writing part of the pen highlighting its usability as a writing instrument.

With so many pens being sent across to Mike for a review, only the Stealth Pen Pro was able to check all the boxes as an everyday carry pen. He appreciates the overall design of the Stealth Pen Pro, noting that it looks like a regular pen and does not draw unwanted attention.

He concluded the review, saying "I don’t say it unless I mean it. These guys here, they knocked it out of the park with this one."

Safety Tips for Using a Tactical Pen

Using a tactical pen responsibly is essential for ensuring your safety and the safety of others. Here are some guidelines:

• Training: Regularly practice using the tactical pen in self-defense scenarios. Familiarity with the tool enhances your ability to use it effectively. This is why we designed the Stealth Pen Pro to be transformed into a training pen easily.
• Discretion: While carrying the pen, ensure it remains discreet and does not attract unnecessary attention.
• Legal Awareness: Always be aware of local regulations regarding carrying tactical pens, especially when traveling.

Does the Stealth Pen Pro Sound Interesting?

If the Stealth Pen Pro has piqued your interest, there’s more to discover. This patented tactical pen combines everyday practicality with self-defense features, making it a versatile tool for various situations. To get a deeper understanding and see the pen in action, visit The Atomic Bear's website.

For those who are ready to dive right in, check out the Quick Start Guide. This guide provides detailed instructions on how to make the most out of your Stealth Pen Pro, ensuring you are well-prepared to use it effectively in any situation.

You can also read through this blog post and watch the video, on how the Stealth Pen Pro is used for Ninjutsu Martial arts and also learn fighting tips for self-defense from Milan (Ninjutsu Club Bujin). 

Watch the Review from Mike

For a deeper insight into the Stealth Pen Pro, check out the Hard2Hurt review video below.

Conclusion

A tactical pen is a practical tool for everyday carry, combining the functionality of a pen with the reliability of a self-defense tool. The Stealth Pen Pro from The Atomic Bear addresses these common issues in order to provide a tactical pen that ticks all the boxes. If you're looking for a tactical pen that is both functional and discreet, the Stealth Pen Pro is a top choice as stated by Mike from Hard2Hurt.