Q&A for How to Add Lead to a Mechanical Pencil

Take it apart and pull it out. If this fails to work, get a new pencil. However, it is of interest how you got the wrong size lead in -- if it is too small, it'll easily fall out upon removing the leads already in there. If it is too large, then it wouldn't have fitted in there in the first place.

You can get it from most discount, office supply, or stationery stores.

You should put 2-3 pieces of lead in your mechanical pencil. It might also say how much to add on your pencil package.

It should open at its middle (pull both sides to different directions and it shall open). Insert the lead and close it back up.

Take the cap off, then take the eraser off. Open the container of lead (make sure it is the correct size) and insert pieces of lead into the pencil one at a time. Never overload a G-2 mechanical pencil.

It should say what type of lead somewhere on the pencil, usually on the clip, and you have to buy the type of lead it says on the pencil.

If the pencil says #2, it means HB. HB is the standard for pencils in America. If you have problems with smearing, H may be better suited to you.

You can pull off the top where the eraser is held, and there should be a barrel. Once you are done refilling it, put the cap back on.

Pull the eraser off and insert about 9 pieces of lead into the pencil.

You can get them on Amazon, or on eBay for cheaper prices.

For the Graph Gear 500, pull the silver push-button off, pull the eraser (make sure not to poke yourself with the needle), and insert about six pieces of 0.3mm lead.

If the eraser (rubber) is used up, remove the stub with a needle or your fingernails. Put about six pieces of lead into the pencil, put a new eraser in the pencil, and you are ready to write!

If it comes with a cleaning rod, push it into the tip to clear the lead jam. Otherwise, you may have to take the pen apart to get the lead out.

Mostly drafting pencils. At one time 0.5 was the thinnest lead available and was mostly used in drafting pencils. Now there is a mix, including for general writing and for drawing.

Pull the metal eraser cap, pull out the tiny eraser, and then insert about six pieces of lead (in this case a 0.5). Match the lead grade indicator (the circle with HB inside of it and spins) with the lead grade of your choice.

Save the lead in case you run out of lead the next time you need to refill your mechanical pencil.

The little needle is for clearing out any small pieces of lead that are stuck in the tip for faster lead advancing. (The PG4 is very rare! Take good care of it!)

Press the button to advance the lead, and hold it down. While the button is pressed, you can gently push the lead (graphite) back into the pencil. (Same as Method one, Step three above.)