Nottingham Tactical manufactures modular ballpoint pens and mechanical pencils in Mississippi using five-axis CNC machining centers. Founded in 2017 by Lee Nottingham, a journeyman tool and die maker, and his wife Liz, the company operates a CNC machine shop where Lee personally assembles each writing instrument. All components, including mechanisms, are machined and assembled in-house. The brand developed the first ballpoint pen with a patented built-in safety feature and pioneered a fully modular writing instrument system that lets users interchange mechanisms and convert between ballpoint pens and mechanical pencils.
Grade 5 Titanium, Brass, and Copper Construction
Nottingham Tactical pens are machined from 6AL4V (Grade 5) titanium, solid brass, or copper stock. Titanium models balance light weight and durability, with a Parker format pen weighing 32 grams at 5 inches long. Brass and copper versions develop a natural patina as the material oxidizes and wears, creating unique appearance changes specific to each user's handling. Exotic materials such as zirconium, damasteel, and carbon fiber appear in limited editions. All pen bodies measure 7/16 inch in diameter and come in three lengths: G2 Mini at 4.25 inches (28g titanium), Parker format at 5 inches (32g titanium), and G2 Full Size at 5.5 inches (35g titanium).
Patented TiButton Double Lock Safety Mechanism
The TiButton Double Lock mechanism features a locking button positioned on the side of the pocket clip that prevents ink deployment or retraction until engaged, eliminating accidental ink stains in pockets or duty vests. This patented safety system requires dual-action operation—pressing both the side lock button and top mechanism simultaneously. Nottingham Tactical developed this mechanism over two years using state-of-the-art five-axis machining to create a system that functions smoothly while providing security. The TiButton is available in right-handed or left-handed configurations and single-lock or double-lock variants. The single-lock version requires the button only for retracting the ink, while the double-lock engages for both extension and retraction.
Fully Modular Interchangeable System
Nottingham Tactical created the first 100% modular writing instrument, allowing users to interchange seven different mechanisms across all three pen body lengths. Users can swap the TiClicker for a TiButton or NottaBolt mechanism without replacing the entire pen. Parker format bodies convert between ballpoint pens and LeadSlinger mechanical pencils by changing three components, transforming function while maintaining the same exterior. The modular system includes interchangeable pocket clips and tips, with all components machined with precise timing indicators since 2019 to ensure proper alignment. This design allows collectors to customize appearance and function without purchasing complete new units.
Mechanism Options and Ink Cartridge Compatibility
Nottingham Tactical offers seven mechanisms: TiClicker (traditional top-click), TiButton Single Lock (side button for retraction), TiButton Double Lock (dual-action safety), NottaBolt (bolt action above the clip), TB360, LeadSlinger standard (mechanical pencil with .5mm or .7mm lead), and LeadSlinger SL (mechanical pencil with double-lock safety). Ink cartridge compatibility varies by format: G2 Mini accepts Pilot G2 Mini refills, Parker format accepts Schmidt Easyflow 9000 and all Parker-style refills, and G2 Full Size accepts standard Pilot G2 refills. The mechanisms use machined cam track designs instead of plastic parts, providing smooth action and durability through precision engineering.