Ballpoint pens are the epitome of convenience.  They are the easiest to use and store, and some can be quite beautiful. The ubiquitous disposable pens, such as the Bic® pens have in some respects given them a bad name.  Users of high end pens comment first on their more comfortable fit in the hand and their increased weight.  They use a petroleum based ink which dries almost instantly on contact with the paper, minimizing smudging, a special problem for lefties.

These pens use a refill cartridge that includes the writing tip--they never wear out before the ink is gone.  There are more styles available than any other pen class.  Explore the pages below to find those which most appeal to you!  

There is an excellent article in Wikipedia on the history of these writing instruments.  

I've divided these ballpoints into five general types to make your quest more logical, if not easier.  The first three types all use a mechanism and refil indistinguishable from a Cross® pen.  The last two types use a Parker® type mechanism and refil.

Twist pens   the basic pen shape, generally cylindrical, similar in dimensions to the Cross  Slimline series

Euro style pens  Slightly larger diameter with a simulated cap and rounded top

American style pens  A stepped cylinder, flat topped design remeniscient of the great pens of the 1920's

Cigar pens  big beefy no nonsense pens, especially for those with larger hands