Faber-Castell 9000 pencils are made of finely ground graphite and clay for excellent results in drawing and sketching. They have great erasability, high smudge resistance, and a smooth laydown with a hint of resistance that translates into good control. The full length of the lead is glued to the wood casing of the pencil to strengthen the lead and prevent breakage, which allows for better sharpening to produce a fine point. Made in Germany.
The degree scale for pencils runs from B (blackness) which is the softest lead thus making the darkest line with least effort, to H (hardness) that holds the hardest lead for lighter lines. HB in the mid-range is similar to a #2 pencil.
FLAX art & design is a genuine Oakland institution. Opening their first store in 1938, they're now on their 3rd generation of family ownership and have recently relocated to a beautiful new Downtown location that could best be described as a "toy store for artists." 80 years in and they're still putting art and community front and center. You can visit them at their own site here, or find more of their products right here on Keep Oakland Alive.