I'm still pretty new at this, but I've tried a lot of the less expensive kits. I originally learned to turn European and slimlines and I still like both, but I've really learned to like cigar pens. My dad really pushed me to make some so he could have some big pens to write with and we both really like them. In addition, out of all the pens I've sold, which granted are not too many, cigars are about the most popular. Plus I really like the parker style refil they take. It seems to write much more smoothly than the cross refill.
Oh, and I just started turning Barons. If you want a nice roller ball kit with a screw cap, it's the tops! Plus, the chrome plated Baron kits aren't that pricy.
Oh, and I've orderd from both Arizona Silhouette and CSUSA and both had great customer service. I've orderd from PSI, but they took foreve to ship and the Woodcraft near my house is pretty pricey. I can get the same kits and blanks cheaper from AS and CSUSA with minimal waiting for shipping
Sorry that was so long!
Jonathan