That's interesting Paul - If you had paltinim to choose from as well, would you still go for steel? Is it looks or price (clearly performance) that influences your decision?
Ahhh, Brian. Platignum pens. That brings back memories. I grew up on them too. Wonderful, affordable, and obtainable, and THE ideal weopon for splatting the exercise book of the swatty little kid at the next desk.
Your post is taken in the spirit it's intended, but you do make a good point too, A softer metal will get "run in" faster than a harder metal. Presumably then it will wear out faster too.
Your links are very interesting too. Put your coat back on the peg.