Abstract: A writing instrument with a safety cap is disclosed which comprises a tubular body with a grip body having one end securing a writing tip or nib, and disposed within the tubular body, an ink cartridge for supplying ink to the writing tip or nib. The tubular body comprises a barrel detachably secured to a grip body with a writing tip or nib holder. The barrel may include a retention feature to which the user may safely detachably secure the safety cap while using the instrument. The barrel may include one or more tabs protruding from the barrel body which act to prevent the writing instrument from uncontrolled rolling when the instrument is set down on a surface. A safety cap with one or more vents formed inside the periphery of the cap provide for the bi-directional flow of air or other fluids axially through the cap in the event a user ingests the cap.