The Grunt Pen by Voodoo Tactical is considered one of the best pens for its price.
After purchasing it and giving it a test-drive, I guess it’s not that bad a pen.
However, it does come with a little extra, which changes everything.
If you’re looking for a compact, budget-friendly tactical pen, the Grunt Pen by Voodoo Tactical might be your guy.
Designed for everyday carry (EDC) and emergency use, it combines a pen, whistle, and glass breaker in a small, lightweight package.
I’ve had the Grunt pen for quite a while now, and I’m pleased with the purchase, but of course, there are some things I wasn’t so happy about.
As a gearhead, I’m always down to test products to their limits to see what they are really capable of and whether they are worth the price tag.
In this Grunt Pen review, we’ll break down its features, performance, pros and cons, and who it’s best for.
What Is the Grunt Pen?
The Grunt Pen is a multifunctional tactical pen from Voodoo Tactical, a brand known for affordable, practical EDC gear. It’s more than just a pen — it doubles as a survival tool with three main functions:
- Ballpoint pen for writing
- Whistle for signaling
- Glass breaker for emergencies
At just 4.125 inches long, it’s easy to carry in a pocket, bag, or on a keychain. Its compact size makes it ideal for minimalists and anyone looking to add a small but versatile tool to their EDC kit. The pen retails for $14.95, making it one of the more affordable tactical pens on the market.
Key Features of the Grunt Pen
1. Multi-Functional Design
The main draw of the Grunt Pen is its 3-in-1 functionality:
- Writing: The pen uses a standard metal-cased refill with black ink and medium point, making it suitable for daily writing tasks.
- Emergency whistle: Built into the pen’s cap, the whistle is designed for signaling during outdoor activities or emergencies.
- Glass breaker: A reinforced tip allows the pen to be used as a glass breaker, adding a practical self-rescue function.
2. Durable Build
- Material: Aircraft-grade aluminum ensures the pen is strong yet lightweight, which it is.
- Finish: Black carbon coating gives it a sleek tactical look while resisting scratches and wear.
- Portability: Its small size and pocket clip make it easy to carry anywhere.
3. Easy Refills
The Grunt Pen uses metal-cased refills, sold separately in packs of two. Refills are affordable and straightforward to replace, ensuring your pen continues to work for years.
Performance Review
Writing Performance
If there’s one thing the Grunt Pen does right, it’s writing. The pen writes smoothly for everyday use, and I carry it wherever I go, along with the pen I acquired from our last staycation. It’s not a premium gel pen, but it’s reliable for quick notes, journaling, or when my kids need something signed for school. The refill sits securely in the pen, preventing ink leaks or wobbling. Do note that the pen works best when
Whistle Function
While the whistle is convenient, users have noted it’s not very loud. Personally, I think it’s a lot louder than I expected. Compared to the TiWhistle from Daily Carry Co., I think it’s not too shabby. It may work best for short-distance signaling, but in a real emergency, you might want to grab a dedicated whistle.
Glass Breaker
The reinforced tip allows the Grunt Pen to break glass in emergencies. While not as heavy-duty as a dedicated rescue tool, it provides a small but valuable safety feature for EDC or travel. I have not tried breaking any glass with it, but maybe I will when we move into our new house. Hmmm….
Durability
The aluminum construction handles everyday wear well. Even with regular use, the pen maintains its shape and finish, making it a durable companion for hiking, travel, or daily office use. Unlike other pens and tools that I carry daily, the Grunt Pen has held the same look since I got it.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable multi-tool pen under $15
- Compact and easy to carry
- Combines a pen, whistle, and glass breaker
- Durable aircraft-grade aluminum
- Looks amazing (my favorite part)
Cons:
- Whistle could be a lot stronger
- Limited refill options
- Not ideal as a primary self-defense tool (you won’t save the world with this)
Who Should Buy the Grunt Pen?
If you’re in the market for an EDC pen that can fit anywhere, the Grunt Pen is for you. It takes up zero space and can unscrew and become the size of a regular old pen.
The Grunt perfect for:
- Gearheads looking for a compact, multifunctional pen
- Outdoor adventurers who want a lightweight tool for hiking, camping, or traveling
- Budget-conscious preppers seeking affordable emergency tools
- Backup or gift items for anyone interested in tactical gear
Yup, the Grunt Pen makes a great gift. It’s a practical, inexpensive addition to a minimalist EDC kit, though it should be paired with more robust signaling tools for serious emergency preparedness.
Final Verdict
The Voodoo Tactical Grunt Pen is a solid choice if you’re looking for a small, functional tactical pen at a low price.
While its whistle isn’t the loudest and refill options are limited, it delivers reliable writing, a handy glass breaker, and a durable aluminum body.
For minimalists and EDC enthusiasts on a budget, the Grunt Pen is a worthy addition to your kit.
Overall, I recommend the Grunt Pen, and great job, Voodoo Tactical, for offering affordable options for gear.