The Pelikan 805 ballpoint pen is a well made and engineered writing tool.The twist mechanism has a reliable feel. The mechanism itself allows for a confident spring-back retraction.Overall, the pen has a good feel and balance. It's close competitor, the Montblanc Meisterstuck LeGrand ballpoint has better overall balance.Contrasting the Pelikan and Montblanc, the Pelikan is about 1/4" shorter, with a thinner grip and top sections.The 805 and LeGrand feel as if they weigh similarly; the Pelikan may be slightly more heavy, although I have not taken measurements.Another way of describing the overall size; the 805 (800) ballpoint pen is between a Pelikan 605 (600) and the Montblanc Legrand.The balance point on the Pelikan is just between the ring bands and clip's end; although closer to the clip's beak end, while the Montblanc is right where the lower and upper barrel meet. The Pelikan feels a little top heavy, nonetheless, is comfortable and has good control.Overall, the 805 pen is a solid and well made everyday writer.