Blackwing Volume 458 – Set of 4

Birding, or bird watching, is the observation, study, and cataloguing of birds in their natural habitats. Even more than that, it’s an exercise in slowing down.  In a world constantly vying for our attention, birding asks us to simply be present. It reminds us there is beauty all around us, waiting to be discovered.

Blackwing Volume 458 is a tribute to birding. Each balanced graphite pencil features a gradient finish inspired by one of four North American birds: the Clark’s Grebe, Mallard, Green Jay, and Black Rail. The model number 458, the estimated number of migratory bird species that regularly travel through the United States and Canada, is stamped on each pencil in black foil. Each 12-pack of pencils comes with four designs, three pencils of each design.

Graphite: Balanced.  Released July 2026.

Click here to learn about the Blackwing brand and the differences between each variety.

In 2015 Blackwing introduced the Volumes series, a limited edition pencil released each quarter celebrating the people, places and events that have defined our creative culture. Blackwing have paid tribute to everything from John Steinbeck’s writing ritual to Ada Lovelace’s contribution to computer science. A summary of Blackwing Volumes are presented here.

Note that Blackwing pencils are longer than most pencils, at around 20cm.  Blackwing is an American brand under Palomino.  The pencils are made with Japanese graphite and Californian cedar.