Thanks guys, many humorous replies there, and I'm glad to see I'm not the only one who grapples with this issue on a daily basis. It looks real professional doesn't it when the pilot can't write on his paperwork and has to get the pen started by scribbling on a piece of scrap paper... almost as reassuring as not being able to start a hot continental with pax onboard and people watching (especially if you forgot to turn the mags on).
But there are some genuine suggestions as to which pen works best and I shall purchase a variety next time I'm at office works!