I have the same prob. now it was my first and it has sentamental value. I would like to get a new barrel for it. I agree with frank They put off an "air of sophistication" in the art of contract signing war. in my line of work i need the elderly to respect me and my abilities due to the fact that i look 16 and am helping them through a very tough time. Having nice suits and accessories such as mont blancs give off the right impression to people who know what you hand them to write with durring that most important meeting. First impressions are everything. That sounds like a good excuse right? that is what i tell my wifey when i want to buy something expensive. I have used that line for all my Mont Blancs and also my watch. Now if i could just come up with a way to talk her into getting me a few Gen-1's for x-mass <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/rodent.gif" alt="" />