Personalized & Non-personalized items must be on separate orders
FAQS

Q. Where can I find Pilot products?

Among other locations, Pilot products can be found nationwide at the outlets listed below. Stationery stores, College bookstores and Arts and Crafts stores also carry many Pilot products. A full assortment of Pilot writing instruments and refills can also be found on our website.

Drug, Grocery, Warehouse Club and Dollar Stores such as:

Office Super Stores such as:

Mass Market and Key Online Retailers such as:

Commercial Office Product Dealers such as:

Q. What is the Return Policy for Items Purchased on Your E-Commerce Site?

Since your satisfaction is a priority we know that it is sometimes necessary to exchange or return an item. All items must be returned within 30 days of purchase for a refund or replacement. Product must be in 'as new' condition and be returned in original packaging.

Please return to:

Pilot Corporation of America
Attn: E-Commerce Returns Department
3855 Regent Blvd
Jacksonville, FL 32224

Along with the product, please include the original packing list, the reason for the return and if you prefer a replacement or refund. Please note this return policy applies only to merchandise purchased directly from the Pilot Pen web site.

You will receive credit within 7 to 10 business days. Shipping charges are not refundable.

Q. Does Pilot have any eco-friendly / recycled products?

Yes! Pilot is proud to have launched the first pen made from recycled water bottles, the revolutionary B2P (Bottle-2-Pen) in 2010. The B2P product family is the world's first line of pens (gel ink and ball point) made from recycled bottles. Approximately 2 Million plastic bottles enter landfills every hour, and comprise close to 50% of all recyclable waste1. B2P gel ink and ball point pens are made from 89% and 83% recycled plastic bottles respectively and have a unique water bottle inspired design. All B2P pens write smoothly and have vibrant ink and are 100% refillable. Help write the next chapter for a cleaner planet with B2P.

Many of our other popular pen types are available in eco-friendly options. To view a complete list, click here . In addition, many of our popular pens can be refilled for continued use. Refilling products extends their useful life and reduces material waste, along with providing a great value! It is considerably less expensive to refill a writing instrument than it is to buy a new one.

Q. Which Pilot products are Acid-Free / Archival safe?

All Pilot G2 Gel Ink Pens and other products that use the G2 refills in blue and black ink are Acid-free and Archival safe, meaning their inks do not contain any acidic chemicals that may speed the deterioration process of photos and documents. Acid-free / Archival safe inks contain pH levels of 7.0 or greater meaning they're non-acidic.

Q. Which Pilot pens are safe to use for writing checks (won't enable check-washing)?

Our top recommendation is G2 in Black ink, along with any of our Black ink pens in Ball Point or Gel ink pens.

Q. How do I process a tax exempt order?

Create an account as usual, but do not enter your order at that time. Fax your tax exempt certificate to Consumer Service at 904-996-2974. Or, you may email the certificate to ConsumerService@PilotPen.com. Once your certificate has been processed, usually within 2 days, you will receive a notification that you may enter your order.

Q. Is there latex in the grip of the pens? Is there latex in your erasers?

No. All Pilot pens have latex-free grips, and all mechanical pencils contain latex-free erasers.

Q. Which Pilot pens are water resistant and/or water-proof?

While many of our inks are highly water-resistant and won't easily smear, none of our pens are 100% water-proof on every surface. Permanent markers are clearly the most water-resistant, followed by Ball Point pens and advanced ink Ball Point pens because the ink is oil-based. Gel ink, which is found in our G2 and other gel lines, contain water in its base but is still water-resistant, while Rolling Ball ink is the least water-resistant.

Q. Is G2 Gel ink also found in other Pilot products?

Yes! The ink of G2, America's #1 selling Gel pen, is actually contained in a variety of pen styles, all of which are refillable with G2 ink refills. Besides G2 these include:

  • B2P Colors
  • B2P Gel
  • Dr. Grip Gel
  • Dr. Grip LTD.
  • G2 Limited
  • G2 Pro
  • G6
  • G-Knock BeGreen
  • Pilot MR Gel Roller

Q. How are Pilot's pen point sizes defined?

For Gel Ink and Rolling Ball Pens:

  • 0.25mm = Hyper Fine
  • 0.3mm = Micro Fine
  • 0.38mm and 0.4mm = Ultra Fine
  • 0.5mm = Extra Fine
  • 0.7mm = Fine
  • 1.0mm = Bold

For Ball Point Pens:

  • 0.7mm = Fine
  • 1.0mm = Medium

Q. How do I refill lead in my Pilot pencil?

The lead is replaced by removing the cap on the top of the pencil and then removing the eraser. Insert 2 to 3 pieces of lead at one time. Replace the eraser and cap. Push the cap several times until the lead exits from the tip. Be sure to use 0.5mm and 0.7mm lead refills for the appropriate mechanical pencils.

Q. How do I refill my Dr. Grip 4+1

Grasp and turn the lower portion of the Dr. Grip 4+1 barrel to the left (counterclockwise). Grab one of the refills in the pen and firmly pull it out of the barrel. To insert the new refill into the barrel, make sure the plastic end of the refill is securely inserted into the port from your removed refill. Firmly push the new refill into the port. If a retracting color coded button is locked, simply select and click a different color coded button to retract.

To refill the mechanical pencil, (hold) depress the metal clip with one hand (on the metal clip) and pull the metal tip and plastic collar out of the body of the clear refill. Insert the appropriate sized lead (2 to 3 pieces) into the clear refill barrel. Once leads are inserted, replace the mechanical pencil tip. Place the lower portion of the barrel with the soft rubber grip back over the refills and twist (clockwise) into the barrel.

Q. How do I refill my Permanent or Jumbo Permanent marker?

Q. What do I do if I have a product or design suggestion?

The research and development of our products is undertaken by our parent company, Pilot Corporation of Japan. If you have a suggestion or idea, please click the link below and complete the Product Disclosure and Release form. You may mail, fax or email this form to us, along with your idea, to Pilot Consumer Services for review. As warranted, it may be submitted to Pilot Corporation of Japan for further review.

We appreciate your input and enthusiasm for our products. As a matter of policy, Pilot Corporation of America does not respond further to individual inquiries, nor do we discuss product development details of a past, present or pending nature.

Pilot Consumer Services
Customer Service Manager
3855 Regent Blvd.
Jacksonville, FL 32224
ConsumerService@PilotPen.com
Fax: 904-996-2974
Jacksonville, FL 32224

Product Disclosure and Release form

Q. How do I refill my V Super Color and V Board Master markers?

Pilot's markers can easily be refilled by following these instructions. To start, hold pen in the upright position (with tip facing up). Unscrew tail cap and remove. Carefully remove empty cartridge. Insert new cartridge and push firmly into place, then screw on the tail cap tightly. Note: Do not replace a cartridge if there is still ink in it. Our markers provide excellent value in the way they can be refilled up 4 times before a full replacement is needed!

Q. What is the Twin Pipe Feed System mentioned on V Super Color and V Board Master Products?

The Twin Pipe Feed System is patented technology by Pilot that enables delivery of consistent color intensity from first word to last! The newly developed system utilizes two pipes and a pad to ensure a stable supply of ink to the pen tip. One of these two pipes feeds the ink to the pad section and the other pipe feeds air to the ink tank. The pad functions the same as a pen tip and regulates the supply of ink to the tip.

Q. Which Pilot products are considered to have indelible ink?

Indelible ink is defined as ink that cannot be erased or washed away. All Pilot Permanent Markers, Creative Markers and Ball Point Pens are considered to have indelible ink among writing and marking instruments.

Q. Which Pilot products are recommended for writing on photos?

Our top recommendation is the Pilot Extra Fine Permanent Marker or Pilot Super Color Fine Bullet point marker. Take care to also use proper photo protectors (polypropylene-based; not PVC- or acetone-based) to best preserve your photos and writing.

Q. Are Pilot pens recyclable?

Pilot's new B2P Bottle-2-Pen Gel Roller is made from recycled plastic bottles (R-PET). Since it's made of recycled plastic already, the body of this pen can be placed directly into regular recycling bins. Additionally, most pen bodies are considered Type 5 recyclable plastic. However, all metal components and ink refills must be removed prior to recycling. For more information contact your local recycling center.

Q. How do I operate my Vanishing Point pen?

  • For Writing
    1. To expose pen nib, press retracting knob until it clicks. This opens the shutter and extends and locks the nib into writing position.
  • After Writing
    1. To retract nib, press retracting knob as instructed above. The nib will draw in and the shutter will close tightly over it.
  • Filling with Ink Bottle
    1. With pen nib retracted, unscrew body.
    2. Pull out nib/neck assembly from pen cap.
  • Using Ink Cartridge
    1. Remove nib/neck assembly from barrel
    2. Replace cartridge cover from nib/neck assembly. This may require a twisting/pulling action.
    3. Insert cartridge into place.
    4. Replace cartridge cover and insert nib/neck assembly into pen cap.
    5. Screw both ends of pen body back together.
  • Using Converter
    1. Insert converter into nib/neck assembly.
    2. Dip nib into ink and twist converter to draw ink into nib until the pen is filled.

IMPORTANT: Always remove pen holder from the body before refilling. Never dip the pen head directly into the ink bottle - ink will get inside the pen head, interfering with the delivery mechanism.

Q. Why could my pen sometimes leak on an airplane?

Airplane Travel

When using many brands of liquid ink pens (which include fountain pens and rolling ball pens) on an airplane, be sure to remove the cap with the point of the pen upward. This will alleviate most problems (leaks) that could occur due to cabin pressure.

Q. What is the best way to maintain and clean my Fountain pen?

Fountain Pen Care & Cleaning

  1. Your fountain pen will function better if cleaned every two months with cool water. Never clean a pen in hot water or alcohol. If the pen is really dirty, use a solution of two-thirds cold water and one-third dishwashing soap. Shake out any excess water and dry nib with a soft cloth.
  2. If you know you will not be using your pen for a month or longer, clean it by flushing with cold water.
  3. Be sure to cap the pen properly. Hold the pen upright and place the cap on top of it. DO NOT drop the pen into the cap, or you may end up with ink in the cap.
  4. If you are traveling by plane, either fill your pen all the way, or leave it empty. Remember to always uncap the pen with the tip pointed upward. A sudden change in cabin pressure may cause any pen to leak if you don't follow this rule.
  5. Always try to use a pen case for carrying your pen(s). This will protect the finish from scratches or nicks.

Q. What do I do if my fountain pen stops writing properly?

Fountain Pen Repair

Before sending in a fountain pen for repair for skipping, try the following simple steps:

  1. If you normally use cartridges, put in your converter (make sure it is inserted tightly) and clean the pen with a solution of two-thirds cold water and one-third non-sudsing household ammonia. For really "dirty" pens, fill the pen with the solution and let the nib section soak overnight in the solution. To clean, just fill the pen and empty several times with the cleaning solution, then follow the same procedure with cold water only.
  2. Consult your filling instructions; you may not be filling your pen properly. For example, be sure to "bleed out" three drops of ink when filling a pilot Con-50 converter (piston converter).
  3. If you are writing on chemically coated paper that has a slick feel, wipe the pen point with a soft microfiber cloth (not facial tissue) and try writing again. If your pen still skips, try a different paper to get the ink flowing
  4. If your pen skips on the down stroke and the point spreads at the tip and/or has separated from the black feed underneath, the nib is 'sprung' or the nib's end is misaligned. Try to lighten your touch on the pen. If the pen still skips, you will need to have the nib reworked or replaced.

Note:Many writing pads of recycled or coated paper are not truly suitable for fountain pens

Q. Can using oil-based and/or permanent inks clog the nib on fountain pens?

Yes. We recommend using only Pilot-branded water-based fountain pen ink. Oil-based and permanent inks may permanently clog and damage fountain pen nibs.

Q. How can I remove ink stains?

Most ink stains can be removed by using the following products:

  • Motsenbocker's Lift Off #3 - Pen, Ink and Marker Graffiti Remover
  • Amodex Stain Remover -
  • Lifter-1

Q. What do I do if ink from a Pilot product is accidentally ingested?

While the majority of Pilot inks are considered safe and non-toxic, contact your local poison control and/or family physician immediately for further guidance.

Q. How can I obtain an MSDS sheet for one of your products?

Please email Pilot Customer Service by clicking on the 'contact us' link.

Q. What is the Pilot Perfection Guarantee?

Pilot guarantees all of its products*. If you are not satisfied with the performance of any Pilot product, return the product, postage paid, and we will replace it free of charge with a comparable product.

*Pilot Fine Writing and Namiki product purchases are covered by a separate warranty that is specific to those product lines. Please refer to the following product listing for your convenience.

  • Lifetime: Emperor, Yukari Royale, Yukari, Nippon Art
  • 3 Years: Sterling, Justus 95, Falcon, Fermo, Vanishing Point
  • 1 Year: Custom 823, Custom 912, Custom 74, Heritage, Stargazer, Stanza, Ageless, Prera, Knight, Axiom

In the U.S., please return all product to:
Pilot Corporation of America
Customer Service Manager
3855 Regent Blvd
Jacksonville, FL 32224

Q. What do I do if I'm having a problem with my Pilot Rebate?

To assist with tracking and status of your rebate by mail or to report issues, visit: www.rewardsbymail.com

For additional information,
Contact Pilot Pen Customer Service

Contact information:

Email: consumerservice@pilotpen.com
Phone Number: (904) 565-7600

Q. What are Pilot's business hours?

Monday - Friday, 7:30am - 3:30pm Eastern Standard Time

Q. What are your Online Order Security & Privacy policies?

Your privacy and security are important to us. All orders are processed through a secure online checkout system, which employs 128 bit strong encryption on your credit card information and other personal data.

We will never sell your customer information to any third party. We understand the importance of customer privacy and stand against cross-selling of mailing lists between companies. We find this practice highly unethical.

Q. How Does my order ship?

All orders over $4.99 will be processed with free ground shipping. We will ship your order via UPS and the US Postal Service, depending on the package size and weight, insured value, etc.

Q. How does my order ship?

Most orders will be processed and shipped within two business days. If your shipping address is different than your billing address, your information will need to be verified with your credit card company, which can delay shipment. You will automatically be e-mailed an order confirmation, typically within a few minutes of purchase. You will also be e-mailed when your order ships and this e-mail will include your tracking information.

Q. Do you ship internationally?

Pilot Corporation of America only ships to U.S. territories. To find Pilot products near you, visit www.PilotPen.com and select your country of residence.

Q. How could I get my pens personalized?

Please visit our Personalized Pens section to customize and order.

Q. What can I put on my personalized pens?

Up to three lines of text or upload any image from your company logo to a picture*

*You must have any and all appropriate copyrights or permissions for personalized orders
See our Legal Noticefor further details.

Q. How do I actually personalize my pen?

Start at our Personalized Pens section

  • Step 1   Here you have to pick a specific pen to start, you can change your selection later.
  • Step 2   Here's where you can start personalizing and get a live preview of how it will look on your pen.
    • Text & Icon

      Enter up to 3 lines of text (some pens will support less).
      Select one of our custom fonts, choose alignment, and pick from our pre-approved colors to get the best looking print possible.
      Optionally, you can select from our library of over 200 icons to place along the left or right side of your text

    • Custom Logo

      Upload your image*. The image must be a rasterized/bitmap file, things like .png & .jpg/.jpeg
      The personalizer will try it's best to determine logo colors an allow you to edit the colors for the best print possible.
      If the personalizer was able to determine the logo colors an "Edit Logo Colors" button will appear
      To edit a color, click the "Edit Logo Colors" button, select your original color on the left-hand side and your new choice on the right-hand side
      The first option on the right-hand side is transparent to allow you to make your background (or any color) transparent.

  • Step 3   Enter desired quantity for tier-pricing, read and agree the approval at your discretion*
*See our Legal Noticefor further details.

Q. Can I print a black logo onto a black pen or a white logo onto a white pen?

Our quality printing team should see this contact you if this is submitted; however, the online personalizer should be able to help you.

If you only have a color-matching or similar color logo to your desired pen, upload it and then you can edit the color online to one of our pre-approved to get the best looking print possible.

See Q. How do I actually personalize my pen? for more details.

Q. My logo is surrounded by a big white box, will that print as well?

Our quality printing team should see this contact you if this is submitted; however, the online personalizer should be able to help you.

We print in white so extra white in your logo and preview will end up printing.

The online personalizer should allow you to edit the logo color and set the white (or any color) to transparent.

See Q. How do I actually personalize my pen? for more details.