Wow. That is one of the coolest mechanical pencils that I have ever seen. I'm more of a fountain pen guy, but I really appreciate the high level of thought that went into making this. Makes me want to buy one just for the "cool" factor.
Kuru toga dive club is best for .7 leads if you use .5 or thinner Orenz Nero is superior pencil. 50 dollars should have better eraser and less plastic. Orenz Nero is 30. Orenz AT is about 20 dollars.
Thanks for a great video! I finally managed to get my hands on a Kuru Toga Dive, and it is absolutely incredible! I wanted to clarify one thing: To my knowledge, the Kuru Toga Dive is the first ever mechanical pencil that is able to push out the lead WITHOUT the sleeve touching the paper. Pencils such as the Orenz Nero and the Pilot S30 have automatic mechanisms based on the sleeve being retracted by pushing it against the paper, meaning that the writing experience is not great due to the steel sleeve dragging against the paper. Kuru Toga Dive is not only offering a completely novel and superior mechanism for automatically feeding the lead, but also combines this with the familiar Kuru Toga mechanism that rotates the lead to avoid the formation of a flat spot. I can personally attest to how well the mechanism really works. It feels like any earlier Kuru Toga, except that you don't have to stop to knock. Given the novelty and superior writing experience of the Kuru Toga Dive, I would say that the price tag (¥5500 incl. tax, though it’s still difficult to get one at that price even here in Japan due to the massive demand) is justified, even though the pencil is plastic. I really hope they will release a metal version in the future though!
Awesome review my dude. The wobble on your cap top finial is a defect. I have two of these, and neither have that issue and are both locked tight. I think there is a misunderstanding most people have about the Min to Max setting. It's an independent function that progressively lets out a bit lead every time you lift the pencil off the page (this function is also independent of the sleeve-type auto-advancement possible if your lead runs down that 99% of other mechanical pencils primarily rely on for their auto advancing feature). The thing is, it's almost non-functional (cursive writers, you can forget about it) without having it set to the max setting and using leads harder than B. It takes many actuation's (we're talking nearly 80-100 before you start to notice the lead automatically coming down). The mechanism is similar to the rotating mechanism (in the sense it works only when you lift the pencil from the page, but in my opinion, it's far too extremely gradual unless you're using a seriously hard lead, and are doing things like math). It shows this was a Japanese release, since their alphabet involves small short strokes where you lift your lead off the page constantly (and the fact this isn't using the better Advanced mechanism that rotates lead more than the normal mechanism). I think if Uni can bring this in an Aluminum body (very easy given the simplicity of their two-part body design). Increase the amount that lead comes out through out the entire range of 5 settings. Bring the Advance rotating mechanism. And maybe allow clicking while the pen is capped similar to how the Pentel Kerry does - they can easily charge $100 for a pencil like that and still have people clamoring over it to perpetuity. I agree also, it's quite odd with how thick the grip is compared to other pencils we're used to. Though as a fountain pen user, it's not really an issue for me. One last thing I'd like to mention. Even though this is a plastic pencil, it's finished impeccably, everything clicks and snaps with authority, nothing squeaky etc.. So if you're someone who wants a lightweight pencil, this still fills that need. One thing that'll be interesting to see, is if any company will have an answer to this. This is a considerable jump in the relatively stagnant mech pencil landscape. And consumer reaction has been substantially positive for Uni.
Thanks also!! Glad to read your hands-on comments, and feel like I would inevitably agree. I think I'll nonetheless be getting this iteration, under the assumption that it may not see a yet higher grade finish. Looks like it's otherwise very comfortable, not to mention visually stunning.
I really wanted to want this pencil. I agree with the commenter who said it needs a metal body and the Kuru Toga Advance mechanism to justify the cost. I like the design choice of a capped mechanical pencil. Great review.
That price is far above the price point needed for any pencil, unless it's for industrial use. Go for the Pentel Kerry for a capped mechanical pencil that help protects the pencil tip, but for most folks, keeping it in a pencil case will do.
Ordered the Aurora Purple.... I'm a sucker . I like purple. But the cap to protect the tip is golden. Broke 4 Rotring pro by droping them and braking the tip. The dive is just beautiful.
Did you get yours yet? I’m only thinking about buying one for the 25% off, which is probably the cheapest it will ever be again until they come out with a new model.
Great review here! I'd balked at getting a Kuru Toga Dive for the longest time, when I missed out on that fleeting short 1 day window of getting one at $40 USD on the Uni Ball Co site. The scalping that has happened on the Dive is atrocious. Some people paid nearly $200 to have one. I waited and got one for $63 shipped. Finally with one in hand, I do appreciate so much of what it offers, in line with your review. And the same goes for the faults. The eraser and plastic lead reservoir are an insult to the buyer, given the price. Uni could've provided those like the Orenz Nero. My hope is that they will when the Metal Dive comes out. But I'm afraid another round of ridiculous scalping is going to happen, because the company refuses to hire the right people to solve the problem (which has been solved before, by many other companies).
I want a Kuru Toga Dive with the W speed engine and Standard engine with an option to toggle between 2 modes, full titanium body with brass internals, longer eraser with a cleaning pin, built in lead hardness indicator from 4H to 4B, knurled grip like a Kuru Toga Roulette, 0.2mm and 0.3mm option, and a tungsten carbide tip.
It is kinda gimicky but man, I would love to have this during my engineering studies. These days, I do most of my work in CAD but back then, I did a lot of drafting by hand, rolls and rolls of paper. And I used mostly stenography pencils, because they don't need frequent sharpening. Shout-out to Apsara, by the way, cheap and good quality pencils. Plus, buying these pencils by dozens, I had always one on hand, I could lend them, lose them, break them, mechanical or even drafting pencils were popular but as a student, there was no way to buy like a set of Rotring 600s, or even 300s, no, you had one or two and than what stationery shops sold for cheap. I remember how horribly expensive was set of Rotring Rapidographs, because you needed different nib sizes and colours. I am quite interested if pencils like these are really used as serious tools or are just enthusiast toys, I own Pilor S30 (gift from my then girlfriend) but it mostly stays in my pen cup. For me, this is like buying a nice watch or gold-nibbed fountain pen, more enjoyment of quality object than some serious need.
Switch between standard and high speed kuru toga turning would be great. Plastic material is not a big issue if done well as even fighter jets and large passenger aircraft are made of plastic nowdays.
Great video. Thanks for the review. I have two Koru Toga Advances. And they haven't let me down in the last five years. But for a capped mechanical pencil that allows me access to advance led and use of the eraser, and still looks pretty sharp, I prefer my Pentel Kerry. Besides, the Dive doesn't come in 0.7mm. When I was in the Army, I used 0.5mm exclusively because of the maps and logistical notations I had to do. But in the last few years, I've found that led breaks too easily and is less readable when doing cross-word puzzles. Cheers!
Kurutoga is perfect for .7 because always keeps sharp point due to rotation of lead the advance of lead is extra gravy. In .5 that rotation is not necessary. Orenz Nero for the win 30 bucks and better built. Orenz AT is about 20 USD. I have .7 Kuru Toga and love it just wish it had auto feed.
I've been using a lot of FriXion pens in recent years, so, it's been quite a while since I used pencils for writing. If I used them, it was for art. But I decided to give pencils (for writing) another chance in 2024. I'm starting with mechanical pencils. So, your video comes along at a good time for me. I've been using what's in my collection, and slowly adding a few other models. But, so far, nothing as high-end as this.
I have it and I agree with you 100%. My favorite one is Rotring rapid pro or maybe Kuru Toga Advance Upgrade (cheaper), And I want to prove Orenz Nero but I dont have it yet
For the auto-extending lead feature, do you agree that some mechanical pencil (I got one) that can extend the lead by shaking the barrel is more handy?
Is this the newest version, if so whats the difference between the older one and this one. I really am planning on buy one but I would rather spend 90 on the older version rather than 150 on the newer one if they are the same
God, I don't need it, and it's slightly disappointing at $40, but ngl I'm gonna get one, lol. Visually, I think this is stunning, and I'm hoping the larger diameter might be more comfortable for extended use or "aggressive" note taking, over my Roulettes and Advance. I sort of wish it came in black, but I'll probably end up getting the orange shade. Also wish the grip was some sort of TPU or silicone, especially for the price. Thanks for sharing!!
The OP missed the main geek factor of the pencil. Auto-feed mechanisms are old-hat for mechanical pencils, something that is decades old. The Kuro Toga dive rotates the lead as you write, ensuring that you never get a flat spot! So EXTRA!
Wow, great review! I'm currently shopping for some mechanical pencils and this model was highly recommended. However, based on your review, I don't think I would buy this model (mainly because non-metal construction combined with high price). I like the idea of the Kuru Toga rotating mechanism, but that just means I should buy a cheaper model. Subscribed!
I just want one in full metal, steel or brass or something heavy, and with replaceable parts I would pay anything for one that is full metal and overbuilt
does the lead auto feed mechanism rely on the sleeve/pipe making contact with paper like the way the orenz nero does? I feel like the only only downside to the orenz nero was how scratchy it feels because of the pipe-paper contact
I have owned 2 pentel orenz nero 0.5 and 0.3 both are broken now and cant use anymore. The lead pipe does not let the lead stay firm and put, it retracts back. Also I have owned a Pilot S30 also broken. Dont buy those pencils. All of my auto extending lead pencils are broken. What about this kurutoga dive will it last or break. I really dont like when my pencils break
Really cool video! Hey i was just wondering if you could only have one mechanical pencil which one would you get? I’m wondering bc i bought a red mechanical pencil recently by Rite in the rain and it sucks. And I’m still in the market for a good reliable one & i figured who better to ask than unsharpened.
I got a small pure malt. It's no drafting pencil, but having a wood feel on hand is a different experience. Also have substantial weight and no rattle (brass clutch btw)
Just one? I’d probably get a pilot s10 or s20. So long as you don’t need mind the pipe sticking out. You don’t need to spend more than that to get something fantastic
first. also i want this pencil so bad but i promised I'd take a break after the rotring 800 and orenz nero edit: i apologize, i was not the first. maybe next time
hopefully Uni would make this overengineered pencil in roulette or high grade body, the pure mechpen shape the shape of the dive look like a screwdriver with its handle, lol I hate any capped mechanical pencil.. c'mon boss, it's a pencil, don't need a cap to protect a ballpoint inside from drying, cause there's no ink inside, please
Wow. That is one of the coolest mechanical pencils that I have ever seen. I'm more of a fountain pen guy, but I really appreciate the high level of thought that went into making this. Makes me want to buy one just for the "cool" factor.
The price is also very cool $100
Kuru toga dive club is best for .7 leads if you use .5 or thinner Orenz Nero is superior pencil. 50 dollars should have better eraser and less plastic. Orenz Nero is 30. Orenz AT is about 20 dollars.
In fountain pen realm 100 bucks is nothing. @@ramnarayanmishra1310
I am also a fountain pen guy, but I really love the Dive.
Thanks for a great video! I finally managed to get my hands on a Kuru Toga Dive, and it is absolutely incredible! I wanted to clarify one thing: To my knowledge, the Kuru Toga Dive is the first ever mechanical pencil that is able to push out the lead WITHOUT the sleeve touching the paper. Pencils such as the Orenz Nero and the Pilot S30 have automatic mechanisms based on the sleeve being retracted by pushing it against the paper, meaning that the writing experience is not great due to the steel sleeve dragging against the paper. Kuru Toga Dive is not only offering a completely novel and superior mechanism for automatically feeding the lead, but also combines this with the familiar Kuru Toga mechanism that rotates the lead to avoid the formation of a flat spot. I can personally attest to how well the mechanism really works. It feels like any earlier Kuru Toga, except that you don't have to stop to knock. Given the novelty and superior writing experience of the Kuru Toga Dive, I would say that the price tag (¥5500 incl. tax, though it’s still difficult to get one at that price even here in Japan due to the massive demand) is justified, even though the pencil is plastic. I really hope they will release a metal version in the future though!
Awesome review my dude.
The wobble on your cap top finial is a defect. I have two of these, and neither have that issue and are both locked tight.
I think there is a misunderstanding most people have about the Min to Max setting. It's an independent function that progressively lets out a bit lead every time you lift the pencil off the page (this function is also independent of the sleeve-type auto-advancement possible if your lead runs down that 99% of other mechanical pencils primarily rely on for their auto advancing feature). The thing is, it's almost non-functional (cursive writers, you can forget about it) without having it set to the max setting and using leads harder than B. It takes many actuation's (we're talking nearly 80-100 before you start to notice the lead automatically coming down). The mechanism is similar to the rotating mechanism (in the sense it works only when you lift the pencil from the page, but in my opinion, it's far too extremely gradual unless you're using a seriously hard lead, and are doing things like math).
It shows this was a Japanese release, since their alphabet involves small short strokes where you lift your lead off the page constantly (and the fact this isn't using the better Advanced mechanism that rotates lead more than the normal mechanism).
I think if Uni can bring this in an Aluminum body (very easy given the simplicity of their two-part body design). Increase the amount that lead comes out through out the entire range of 5 settings. Bring the Advance rotating mechanism. And maybe allow clicking while the pen is capped similar to how the Pentel Kerry does - they can easily charge $100 for a pencil like that and still have people clamoring over it to perpetuity.
I agree also, it's quite odd with how thick the grip is compared to other pencils we're used to. Though as a fountain pen user, it's not really an issue for me. One last thing I'd like to mention. Even though this is a plastic pencil, it's finished impeccably, everything clicks and snaps with authority, nothing squeaky etc.. So if you're someone who wants a lightweight pencil, this still fills that need.
One thing that'll be interesting to see, is if any company will have an answer to this. This is a considerable jump in the relatively stagnant mech pencil landscape. And consumer reaction has been substantially positive for Uni.
Great comment! Thanks!
Thanks also!! Glad to read your hands-on comments, and feel like I would inevitably agree. I think I'll nonetheless be getting this iteration, under the assumption that it may not see a yet higher grade finish. Looks like it's otherwise very comfortable, not to mention visually stunning.
The led advancing happens every 440 strokes.
Thanks!
Amazing! Thank you!
I want a Kura Toga with 9mm lead!!
You probably meant .9mm but now I’m imagining a kuru toga with a centimeter-wide lead crayon extruding from its tip
@@largestbrain LOL ya meant 0.9mm.
Damn
@@gobluejdFor a second I thought you really wanted a lead holder
@@largestbrainsounds and looks like you’re welding the whole time 😂. That lead would look like a huge welding rod 😂
I really wanted to want this pencil. I agree with the commenter who said it needs a metal body and the Kuru Toga Advance mechanism to justify the cost. I like the design choice of a capped mechanical pencil. Great review.
Thanks for watching
That price is far above the price point needed for any pencil, unless it's for industrial use. Go for the Pentel Kerry for a capped mechanical pencil that help protects the pencil tip, but for most folks, keeping it in a pencil case will do.
Incredible amounts of customization to the user's preference :D Looks like a really well featured pencil.
Ordered the Aurora Purple.... I'm a sucker . I like purple. But the cap to protect the tip is golden. Broke 4 Rotring pro by droping them and braking the tip. The dive is just beautiful.
Did you get yours yet? I’m only thinking about buying one for the 25% off, which is probably the cheapest it will ever be again until they come out with a new model.
Great review here! I'd balked at getting a Kuru Toga Dive for the longest time, when I missed out on that fleeting short 1 day window of getting one at $40 USD on the Uni Ball Co site. The scalping that has happened on the Dive is atrocious. Some people paid nearly $200 to have one. I waited and got one for $63 shipped.
Finally with one in hand, I do appreciate so much of what it offers, in line with your review. And the same goes for the faults. The eraser and plastic lead reservoir are an insult to the buyer, given the price. Uni could've provided those like the Orenz Nero. My hope is that they will when the Metal Dive comes out. But I'm afraid another round of ridiculous scalping is going to happen, because the company refuses to hire the right people to solve the problem (which has been solved before, by many other companies).
If a metal version ever comes out I just know it's gonna be like $100 msrp and $300 scalped price
A few variants of lead thickness is
Needed asap ...for notes,letters & the like is needed,IMO.....
Fai lng that is a larger barrel, installed by yourself....( Is that a possibility?)
Uni has jacked up the price to $99 a piece. 😭
So evil :(
eBay has them for around $65 shipped. I wonder how they can sell these brand new for this price. Ships from Japan too.
I want a Kuru Toga Dive with the W speed engine and Standard engine with an option to toggle between 2 modes, full titanium body with brass internals, longer eraser with a cleaning pin, built in lead hardness indicator from 4H to 4B, knurled grip like a Kuru Toga Roulette, 0.2mm and 0.3mm option, and a tungsten carbide tip.
That’s the dream. I hope uni is reading this thread
the ohto conception is also a good pencil with adjustible lead deployment
It is kinda gimicky but man, I would love to have this during my engineering studies. These days, I do most of my work in CAD but back then, I did a lot of drafting by hand, rolls and rolls of paper. And I used mostly stenography pencils, because they don't need frequent sharpening. Shout-out to Apsara, by the way, cheap and good quality pencils. Plus, buying these pencils by dozens, I had always one on hand, I could lend them, lose them, break them, mechanical or even drafting pencils were popular but as a student, there was no way to buy like a set of Rotring 600s, or even 300s, no, you had one or two and than what stationery shops sold for cheap. I remember how horribly expensive was set of Rotring Rapidographs, because you needed different nib sizes and colours. I am quite interested if pencils like these are really used as serious tools or are just enthusiast toys, I own Pilor S30 (gift from my then girlfriend) but it mostly stays in my pen cup. For me, this is like buying a nice watch or gold-nibbed fountain pen, more enjoyment of quality object than some serious need.
I believe they added a damper to the tip as compared with all other Kuru Toga models
Switch between standard and high speed kuru toga turning would be great.
Plastic material is not a big issue if done well as even fighter jets and large passenger aircraft are made of plastic nowdays.
Great video. Thanks for the review. I have two Koru Toga Advances. And they haven't let me down in the last five years. But for a capped mechanical pencil that allows me access to advance led and use of the eraser, and still looks pretty sharp, I prefer my Pentel Kerry. Besides, the Dive doesn't come in 0.7mm. When I was in the Army, I used 0.5mm exclusively because of the maps and logistical notations I had to do. But in the last few years, I've found that led breaks too easily and is less readable when doing cross-word puzzles. Cheers!
Kurutoga is perfect for .7 because always keeps sharp point due to rotation of lead the advance of lead is extra gravy. In .5 that rotation is not necessary. Orenz Nero for the win 30 bucks and better built. Orenz AT is about 20 USD. I have .7 Kuru Toga and love it just wish it had auto feed.
great review ... glad to see it is made of plastic ... and then painted ...
Cool pencil and I love the magnet. The thickish barrel at the grip without a proper metal knurling ruins this for me though.
Some more metal elements would make a big difference. Even if it was metal-like, like the Orenz Nero, would be great
This looks like the perfect EDC Pencil for my pocket, Shame its hard to find in the UK
Can it be in the future it will be produced on a higher scale and maybe the price will become lower?
That’s the hope! We’ll see
I've been using a lot of FriXion pens in recent years, so, it's been quite a while since I used pencils for writing. If I used them, it was for art. But I decided to give pencils (for writing) another chance in 2024. I'm starting with mechanical pencils. So, your video comes along at a good time for me. I've been using what's in my collection, and slowly adding a few other models. But, so far, nothing as high-end as this.
Wouldn't really recommend a regular kuru toga for drawing
I have it and I agree with you 100%. My favorite one is Rotring rapid pro or maybe Kuru Toga Advance Upgrade (cheaper), And I want to prove Orenz Nero but I dont have it yet
For the auto-extending lead feature, do you agree that some mechanical pencil (I got one) that can extend the lead by shaking the barrel is more handy?
Is this the newest version, if so whats the difference between the older one and this one. I really am planning on buy one but I would rather spend 90 on the older version rather than 150 on the newer one if they are the same
God, I don't need it, and it's slightly disappointing at $40, but ngl I'm gonna get one, lol. Visually, I think this is stunning, and I'm hoping the larger diameter might be more comfortable for extended use or "aggressive" note taking, over my Roulettes and Advance.
I sort of wish it came in black, but I'll probably end up getting the orange shade. Also wish the grip was some sort of TPU or silicone, especially for the price.
Thanks for sharing!!
“Aggressive note taking” love it
The OP missed the main geek factor of the pencil. Auto-feed mechanisms are old-hat for mechanical pencils, something that is decades old. The Kuro Toga dive rotates the lead as you write, ensuring that you never get a flat spot! So EXTRA!
Wow, great review! I'm currently shopping for some mechanical pencils and this model was highly recommended. However, based on your review, I don't think I would buy this model (mainly because non-metal construction combined with high price). I like the idea of the Kuru Toga rotating mechanism, but that just means I should buy a cheaper model. Subscribed!
Does the Dive still have the auto-lead-rotation feature of the other Kuru Togas? I didn't find this mentioned anywhere.
Yea it does. But the low speed version. This isn’t mentioned in the materials
I was always on 0.7 ! B2 or B3
This is SO COOL. I hope they become cheaper later/copycats become easier on the wallet. That magnetic cap is really cool
Does the lead still turn
I just want one in full metal, steel or brass or something heavy, and with replaceable parts
I would pay anything for one that is full metal and overbuilt
does the lead auto feed mechanism rely on the sleeve/pipe making contact with paper like the way the orenz nero does?
I feel like the only only downside to the orenz nero was how scratchy it feels because of the pipe-paper contact
yes but if you go to the 0.5mm the pipe contact feels smoother
My kurutoga dive is jammed can you pls help
FYI: it seems uniball has increased the price to 99USD as of May 15
Wow! Big jump. Demand must be huge
Crazy. It feels overpriced at $50. Good o supply and demand.
they raised it to 150 for a bit for the blue one when i last saw it in stock, i think they lowered it back but not sure
Does the lead also rotate?
Yes. This is the case with all kuru toga pencils
Im really interested, i hope theres a 3d model of it, i want to make 1
For roughly 100 dollars I would want it to be metal.
I have owned 2 pentel orenz nero 0.5 and 0.3 both are broken now and cant use anymore. The lead pipe does not let the lead stay firm and put, it retracts back. Also I have owned a Pilot S30 also broken. Dont buy those pencils.
All of my auto extending lead pencils are broken.
What about this kurutoga dive will it last or break. I really dont like when my pencils break
Can you recommend some good pencils then??
@@BOBO-wq9mx platinum 371 is a nice pencil
looks like a fountain pen with cap on
have a question, is the kuru toga mechanism the upgraded (double rotation speed) or the standard?
Upgraded. It would be a scam if it was the old one. And watch out as well this has a plastic body
thanks@@Unlucky1776
@@verruckt674 if you plan to buy it I hope you get a good price
i have it and it doesn’t automatically put out lead, is it supposed to extend while your writing
This was just awesome. Thank you.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Really cool video! Hey i was just wondering if you could only have one mechanical pencil which one would you get? I’m wondering bc i bought a red mechanical pencil recently by Rite in the rain and it sucks. And I’m still in the market for a good reliable one & i figured who better to ask than unsharpened.
I got a small pure malt. It's no drafting pencil, but having a wood feel on hand is a different experience. Also have substantial weight and no rattle (brass clutch btw)
Just one? I’d probably get a pilot s10 or s20. So long as you don’t need mind the pipe sticking out. You don’t need to spend more than that to get something fantastic
@@unsharpen Thanks man you’re the best, i just got one in black and silver and it’s AMAZING!
Does this come in 5mm and or 7mm led
Just .5mm for now
That is alot of tech! Cool review.
$100 for a plastic body... meh
okay, not spending that amount of money for non-metal body though
Yo lo tengo y es una pasada
Very nice >>>>>> thank you .
lol.. should have bought one when the video was released... $100 now. I'll stick to a $5 instead and just click the end... LOL
It’s a cool pencil but there are a ton of awesome pencils sub $10 and even sub $10 that some days I prefer to this.
$90 ouch. I still stick to my $12 Kuru Toga.
first. also i want this pencil so bad but i promised I'd take a break after the rotring 800 and orenz nero
edit: i apologize, i was not the first. maybe next time
hopefully Uni would make this overengineered pencil in roulette or high grade body, the pure mechpen shape
the shape of the dive look like a screwdriver with its handle, lol
I hate any capped mechanical pencil.. c'mon boss, it's a pencil, don't need a cap to protect a ballpoint inside from drying, cause there's no ink inside, please
To protect the pencil tip.
👍
I got mine for 72$ at Kinokuniya at edgewater NJ
Nice pickup