Couldn't agree more. Cross pens have been my favorite for many decades. I'm currently using a Fisher Space Pen. Compact and also uber reliable.I have been using Cross pens for 30+ years, and have never had an issue with them. I LOVE Cross pens.
I went full circle with pens. Ended up right back where I should have stayed, The Parker Jotter with Fisher fine point refills. There's a reason they've never been out of production since they were introduced. Before you go all out and spend a fortune on exotic pens, throw six bucks down on a Parker Jotter and carry it for a month. You'll see.