M+R Brass Sharpeners: Point Comparison

One goal of mine for 2021 is to publish more content responsive to reader questions, and a common question I’ve received is how the points of the various M+R brass pencil sharpeners compare to one another. For today’s post I’ve put together a quick pictorial showing how each works, using a commonly available pencil (the Tombow 2558 HB) for comparison purposes.

Note: All sharpeners and pencils pictured here are available for purchase in the T.G.S. Curated Shop, which along with the T.G.S. Patreon Program is how I support the site. Many thanks!

The Tombow 2258 is a relatively inexpensive, high-quality HB office pencil that works well with nearly all sharpeners.

Brass Bullet Pencil Sharpener

I’ve said before that I believe M+R’s “Brass Bullet” sharpener to be an essential piece of stationery kit. While not a long-point sharpener, the Brass Bullet is versatile, portable, and at $6, inexpensive. It’s also durable, and with replacement blades, can last a very long time. (Purchase here)

M+R Brass Bullet

“Castor” Long Point Pencil Sharpener

If you enjoy the format of the Brass Bullet, but prefer a longer point on your pencil, the “Castor” brass sharpener offers a single-hole option, making for a more portable format and simpler operation than two-stage sharpeners such as the KUM Long-Point or KUM Masterpiece. (Purchase here)

M+R Castor

“Pollux” Long Point Pencil Sharpener

The Pollux represents an attempt at a modern version of vintage “concave” sharpeners, which creates an extra-long, nearly curved point that’s fun to write with (but even more fun to sharpen). Given the unique nature of this sharpener, it’s important to know that it doesn’t work particularly well with ultra-soft or low-quality graphite. Most pencils from companies such as Blackwing, Mitsubishi, and Tombow, such as that shown here, will be fine. (Purchase here)

M+R Pollux

M+R Brass Lead Pointer

For those looking for an upgrade over the built-in sharpener on your Caran d’Ache fixpencil or other lead holder, the M+R Brass Lead Pointer is worth consideration. With two holes sized to fit both 2mm and 3.2mm leads, it’s a versatile sharpener capable of putting a sharp point on your lead holder pencil. It’s also pocketable like the brass bullet, so it won’t bulk up your kit. (Purchase here)

M+R Lead Pointer

A side-by-side point comparison, from left: Brass Bullet, Pollux, and Castor. Replacement blades are also available, for both the standard sharpeners and the Castor/Pollux.