(Part 2) Reddit mentions: The best fountain pens

Yeah? Here's the link! 😉👌

(http://emojipedia.org/people/)

Ah, a journal you say? That sounds lovely. A journal is a lovely way to record and store your excess thoughts. You can look back on them and reflect, and compare your current thoughts to how you used to think in the past. It's a good way to keep track of the way your mind can mature over time. If you organize your thought processes, they flow much more easily and much more naturally. It can be a very calming process. Personally, I know it relaxes me.

Have you ever used a fountain pen before? A friend of mine recommended them to me about a year or so ago. I absolutely love writing with mine. It has a certain way of flowing, you know? My thoughts come straight out of my brain through my neck, down to my right shoulder, through my arm, into my right hand, and it feels almost like the electricity courses through my fingers and I like...become the pen, in a way.

You know? It's nice man. 👌

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tI-5uv4wryI

(Champagne Supernova - Oasis)

(https://www.amazon.com/JinHao-X750-Silver-Fountain-Pen/dp/B00CC76756 for a fountain pen like mine. $3.86.)

(https://www.amazon.com/Lamy-Bottled-Blotting-Paper-Black-LT52BK/dp/B0026I6SM8 for ink like mine. around $10.50. Lasts a few months.)

Enjoy man.

Oh yeah, I work at a small Japanese restaurant somewhere in Santa Cruz. Don't look for me too hard, or I'll disappear! 😉👌

I stopped going to community college...finished my Gen Ed..but I love learning. I just read the textbooks, you know? Sometimes I'll just go to school and drop into the classes or ask people questions about the material. People love teaching each other, you know? 👌

Generally I would recommend a pen with a finer point to allow you to write characters with many strokes. Now that said it would depend on how big you plan to write? On just normal lined paper use whatever feels good to you and a price you can accept. Most people just use the average ball point/gel ink/roller ball or the like for everyday writing.

Check out www.jetpens.com if you want some Japanese writing instruments and stationary. Many of the products you can buy on amazon as well but this will give you a place to look around. You can find pens with much finer points such as the Pilot Hi-Tec-C .25mm.



*** Sorry I made this a bit long, I am bored at work and just went to town with this. It also addresses if you decide you want to find something that can do calligraphy as well.

If you come to a point you want to try something that can offer line variation there are brush pens and fountain pens. These also range from cheap to pretty expensive. A low cost brush pen I would recommend is the Kuretake No 8 just to see if it is something you would like. It is a synthetic hair brush that you cannot refill but should cost only about 8-9$ or so. If you want to step up a bit to something you can refill the the No 13 is a good choice. I use the Kuretake No 50 as it uses a natural hair for the brush. I find you can get finer lines and can write pretty damn small with it if you choose. Also looks and feels higher quality over all. But you can buy the natural hair refill for this pen and it will fit in the No 13 as well. Just FYI for anyone that wants to try a natural hair and may already have a No 13.

Another option is to use a fountain pen, which Japan is very well known for too. Brands such as Pilot/Namiki, Sailor, Pelikan and Nakaya/Platnium. Nibs on Japanese pens are finer than western. So a Fine nib on a JP would be more like an extra fine on something western. If you want to try your hand on this route then a Pilot Metropolitan would be a decent start. Your quality of paper will matter with a fountain pen. The average stuff you get in the US will probably feather pretty bad. Japanese paper is generally much better quality and safe to use with a fountain pen. Also a good brand such as Clairefontaine/Rhodia. The sustainable earth notebooks from staples are not too bad as a cheap locally found option. Now this pen's nib will not flex, if you want to try a low cost option for that there is the noodler's ahab. This will flex on down strokes to give a wider line and it will take practice to use well like a brush pen.

Lastly another curious fountain pen used for writing Kanji is the type of calligraphy nib that is bent to allow line variation depending on the angle used. Such as salior's "fude de mannen." I have one but prefer a flex nib fountain and brush pen myself.

Quick example of a fountain and brush pen.

I have several pens with soft or semi-flex nibs. They are nice for everyday writing, but should not be confused with true flex nibs, and should not be used for continuous shaded/flex writing (like with true Spencerian or Copperplate/Engrosser's scripts). These should be used to add a bit of character (shaded capitals, emphasis on downstrokes, etc.).

Pilot and Platinum both have soft nib variations available (Pilot has the Custom 74, Custom 742, Custom 743, Custom Heritage 91, Custom Heritage 912, and Falcon. Platinum has the Century 3776, and President). In my experience these nibs have a short break-in period, after which they are quite smooth and bouncy. The C74, and 3776 with soft fine (SF) nibs are both available from Amazon for around $80:

• https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=platinum+3776+soft
  
  
• https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001AX5SRG/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_19?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
  
  Alternatively, you could buy a Bock Titanium nib and put it into any pen that uses a #6 size nib. The titanium gives a similar feel as a gold soft nib, but offers more options pen-wise. If you're looking to keep costs down, try putting one into a Jinhao X450 or X750. I have used one in a Jinhao X750 and enjoyed the results. The Bock nib is available from Goulet Pens (sold as a Karas Kustoms titanium nib unit https://www.gouletpens.com/search?query=karas+kustoms+titanium&facetValueFilter=), and the Jinhao is easily found on Amazon or eBay.
  
  Steel "flex" nibs can give you some extra character, but they require quite a bit of pressure and are not as easy to use to add character to everyday writing. Noodler's Ink, FPR, and Esterbrook are the most well-known brands that offer steel flex nibs.
  
  Personally, after years of writing with dip pens and fountain pens with soft nibs I have to say that I prefer dip pens. That being said, a nice soft nib is a joy to use. I like the Bock titanium nib just slightly more than the gold soft nibs, but both are excellent.
  
  If you want true flex (which is really only useful when writing in ornamental scripts or for calligraphy, and is not terribly useful for everyday writing) then I highly suggest using dip pens. If you go the dip pen route I highly recommend a universal oblique holder (like this guy from Paper & Ink Arts: http://www.paperinkarts.com/hourgl.html
  and vintage French nibs such as Blanzy-Poure No.2552, Baignol & Farjon No.730, or Baignol & Farjon No.803. These are available from an excellent seller on ebay called bart.12 here is a link: http://www.ebay.com/usr/bart.12?_trksid=p2047675.l2559

If you don't know if you like the triangle grip of the Safari, best bet would be start with the Jinhao 599, same basic shape, much cheaper to try. This link is to a set of hooded fine nib 599s, they also come in exposed nib medium.

> would love to find one that comes with multiple nibs

This is my opinion only, but there are a lot of good pens at the low end of the market price wise that are still very good pens, the Pilot Metro you have is one of them. Find out what the nib variance is using these pens, and as you move to more expensive pens, buy the nib for the task you want the pen for. Forget about many nibs for a single pen, it really is more hassle than having a pen with the nib you want.

Also note if you want to move to pens by someone like Lamy, the M you have on the Metro is more like an F or EF on the Safari, depending on the luck of your grind from Lamy.

Now for some basic recommendations, besides the Wing Sung 698, the Wing Sung 659 and Jinhao 992 might interest you. The links are Amazon, but you might find them cheaper elsewhere like aliexpress.

Hope this helps some, lots of info as you get started, but also lots of fun as you begin this journey and explore.

Part 2/7: Accessories

• Headphones. Git gud ones. Even if you don't use them for music or movies or anything, they can help you isolate yourself from the busy ongoings of the an airport. Airports are found to some of the most stressful places in the world, so even just sitting there you'll absorb some of the stress. Solution: isolate yourself as much as you can... put on those Bose QC25s, turn on the sound cancelling and enjoy the quiet. Or the music.
  
  
  
• Comfy shoes. I carry a pair of Toms with me, which I use as slippers around the hotel room and after getting onto a flight (like long ones. I don't even get up on flights under 45 minutes, but 12 hour red-eyes, slippers are nice).
  
  
  
• I also carry a good set of PJs or sweatpants, and change on flights 6+ hours in duration. Just more comfy than sleeping in your suit. Sometimes I get weird looks, but most people say it's not a terrible idea. At least I'm comfortable.
  
  
  
• I do not carry many toiletries with me, if I can avoid it. I try to buy it at my destination if I can't stand the hotel brand. Personal favorite is Rose31 by Le Laboavailable at Fairmont properties. The scent might be too much for some people, but I really like it. Extra glasses, contact lenses, solution, etc. Research your destination to determine if you will need your allergy medications. Combs and brushes, depending on what you need. I have a Dollar Shave Club subscription, and been very happy about it. As mentioned, I don't carry toiletries if I can avoid it, but I do carry a moisturizer. I've been known to abuse my Amazon prime to order toiletries to the hotel, usually the sample sizes that will last me one week.
  
  
  
• A good nice watch. Tame down the smartwatches and fitness trackers. No, the bright pink custom band for your rose gold apple watch does not go with your conservative suit. No, I don't care that it cost you more than your fiancees engagement ring. Good for you. That being said, I look forward to how iBeacons and Smartwatches can make traveling easier, guiding you step by step to lounges or the shortest most endurable security line.
  
  
  
• Purrell or Hand sanitizer, if allowed.. if not find something non-flammable. So you don't have to run to the bathroom every you pick up that shitty, greasy, absolutely horrible wanna-be pastry from Starbucks the lounge.
  
  
  
• External USB battery, for obvious reasons.
  
  
  
• Extra chargers for Laptop and Phone, as well as extra cable for Headphones. The extra chargers for me is easy, since I have two 15" rMBPs.
  
  
  
• I also carry a Moleskine diary, a nice pen with extra ink, various pens and pencils, and a few ring-bound notebooks to sketch and write notes.
  
  
  
• A small sowing kit and an extra button or two has never hurt anyone and it's been used.
  
  
  
• A mouse. I carry a Razer Naga Chroma... I use the thumb grid more than you would think. I have macros and the such mapped to it.
  
  
  
• My iPad, which I can access case studies and magazines from. I keep a library of case studies, white and grey papers, so I can use them as references at work. Potentially. I also keep a DayOne diary with cases and notes from other projects, recycling enabling the synergetic use of previous ideas and methods.
  
  
  
• A lot of the above goes into my carry-ons, but I will split my toiletries between checked and carry-on if I check a bag. I'm also more inclined to take my own stuff (toothpaste, gel, lotions, soap, etc.) if I check my stuff.
  
  
  
• Get a wallet for your documents.
  

OK, I'm going to take a slightly different path than /u/AGOTL, although the preppy is an OK choice I don't really like it for a number of reasons.

I would recommend you pick up a Jinhao 992, https://www.amazon.com/JINHAO-992-Fountain-Pen-Translucent/dp/B06XYFK681 or six https://www.amazon.com/BinaryABC-Fountain-Jinhao-Student-Transparent/dp/B06XS8NY43 If you are willing to wait, you can get them under $2 shipped from Aliexpress also.

My thoughts on this choice, you get a really good pen, with converter that can be converted to an eye dropper if you want, I would stick to the converter personally. At this point, you are ready to go.

For inks, you have good recommendations, and the 30ml Diamine are great values. Add to the list [[Noodler's V-Mail GI Green]], great vibrant green, for a subdued green, [[Seitz-Kreuznach Tundra Green]] is a nice one.

Now, if you want to step one step up on the pen, take a look on ebay for the Wing-Sung 698, that should be a pen that will serve you well for quite a while and look really good with green ink sloshing around in it.

And don't worry about hand writing, not all of us have great penmanship game.

I was just as scared as you are. I am currently a student (high school albeit), and I was extremely worried about the clip being in the way. I bit the bullet, and it is easily one of the nicest—if not the nicest nib I own. The clip has not yet been a problem for me, I just shift my grip around it. I highly recommend the Kasuri (carbonesque) finish as well. Not only is it gorgeous, but it also has a good texture to it so that if you get oily hands, you'll still be able to grip the pen without slipping. Also, the new Matte Blue version from Goulet Pens looks fantastic (although I am not sure about the texture and grip). The fine nib is perfect for schoolwork writing (slim enough for math and very smooth). I also like a fine nib, and it's one of my favorites. It is roughly the size of a Lamy EF. However, do not fall into the trick and think that the VP M = Lamy F. It does not—it is nearly a true western nib, so I don't recommend it. I don't have much experience with the loom, except it is a very good pen from what I have heard.

Also, if you're really scared about the clip, I recommend taking a look at a Platinum #3776 Century (Soft fine or fine, possibly a medium -- I'm getting one this evening so I'll keep you posted), or a Pilot Custom 74 or Heritage 91 (soft fine or fine.) I have a black and gold Japanese sf Import that I bought from Japan, but it seems that they have a soft fine on Amazon. Mine just arrived, and the line variation is insane. I can get anywhere from a western EF to a BB without much effort. (link here).

Hope this helps.

[Image One]

This is an overall picture of what I carry in my backpack every day (non-work days as well)

The only item I don't get a close up on in this picture is my ranger-roll of an extra shirt, boxers, and pair of socks.

[Image two]

1. Deodorant - there are too many times where I forget to apply in my morning daze and realize once I'm in my car.
   
2. Deck of playing cards. In case the power goes out and I need some entertainment.
   
3. Uni Pipe-Shift Mechanical Pencil .07
   
4. Pilot Metropolitan Mechanical Pencil .05 I like to have both for sketching, the thicker lead helps with shading.
   
5. Pilot Metropolitan Fountain Pen, Fine Nib
   
6. Lucky Turtle, Also my Inception Totem :)
   
7. 128 GB Flash Drive - yes, it's real
   
8. Eraser - cuz art
   
9. Secret Santa Gift - Pen Twirling Pen I like to have things to fiddle with at my desk
   
10. Pocket Sized Moleskin Notebook that I write poetry in
    
11. Refillable Ink in case my fountain pen runs out and I don't have my ink bottle near
    
    [Image Three]
    
    
12. Razer Naga Epic
    
13. Old PSP case I use to store my mouse in
    
14. Travel Toothbrush
    
15. Kindle Paperwhite in a Faux Leather Case
    
16. Precision Screwdriver Set I bought at Radioshack
    
17. Laptop charger
    
18. USB Wall Charger
    
19. Mini USB Cables
    
    [Image Four]
    
    
20. Generic Sketchbook I bought at CVS - When work is slow and I get an idea, I draw it. Usually I tend to just free-hand copy images from the internet
    
    [Image Five]
    
    
21. My Personal Laptop Lenovo T440p that I got last year, this thing is a damn beast
    
22. Can of RedBull - I don't always need wings but sometimes when work is slow I start to fall asleep and this is needed
    
23. Filtered Water Bottle - Even IT Desk Monkeys need to drink sometimes
    
    [Image Six]
    
    This is my in pocket EDC, these things never leave my side
    
    Not Shown is my CellPhone which I used to take the pictured. It's a Droid DNA.
    
    
24. Razer Nabu SmartBand - Talks with my phone via bluetooth and will give me all my notifications on the mini screen as well as do the kind of generic fitness tracking that most fit bands do
    
25. Leather Wallet - Cash Money Yo
    
26. Pilot Metropolitan Gel Roller Pen - By now you've seen that I have three different Pilot Metropolitans. I love the feel of this pen and each version (fountain, gel roller, mechanical) I have in a different color to easily tell which one I am grabbing
    
27. Kershaw Cryo II - Best EDC Knife I've ever owned. I love the feel, look, and weight.
    
28. Car Key
    
29. 32 GB Flash Drive, This has my emergency geek tools on there as well as a few emulators, roms and minecraft (it stores all data on the drive)
    
30. House Keys.
    
    [Image Seven]
    
    This is my backpack with everything inside, it's a Northface Surge. They don't produce or sell these anymore. I got it about 6 years ago and it shows very little wear.

I guess Imgur isn't so friendly on links so I'll put them here as well:

1. GoRuck Echo, Black :: http://www.goruck.com/echo-black-rucksack/p/GEAR-000064
   
2. Morale Patch, "Regular Guy" :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014N0NK7M
   
3. MOLLE Grimloc caribiner, Black :: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LEEAMXA
   
4. Jogalite Reflective Band, White :: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000KGATL4
   
   ***
   
   
5. Batman button :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00273934C22
   
6. GoRuck Sternum Strap, Black :: http://www.goruck.com/molle-sternum-strap-black-/p/GEAR-0001023
   
7. Sharpie, Fine, Black :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00006IFHD/
   
8. MOLLE Web Dominator, Black :: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LEEAMXA
   
   ***
   
   
9. Dell Inspiron 13" 7000 :: http://www.dell.com/en-us/shop/productdetails/inspiron-13-7378-2-in-1-laptop/dncwsab5104h2
   
   ***
   
   
10. GoRuck Padded Field Pocket, Echo, Black :: http://www.goruck.com/padded-field-pocket-echo-black-/p/GEAR-000368
    
11. SanDisk Ultra Fit 3.0 flashdrive, 32G (x2) :: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LLER2CS
    
12. Sea to Summit Dry Sack, Small (4L), Green :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001Q3KKCS
    
13. Rowkin Bit wireless earbuds, Space Gray :: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01KBQ6GQ4
    
14. Kindle Paperwhite, Black :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OQVZDJM6. MOLLE Grimloc caribiner, Black :: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LEEAMXA
    
15. Dell AC Adapter, 45W, 19.5V (came with laptop) :: http://www.dell.com/en-us/shop/productdetails/inspiron-13-7378-2-in-1-laptop/dncwsab5104h2
    
16. Building/server card keys, varied
    
17. Building/server room keys, varied
    
18. REV battery, 4,000mAh :: who knows
    
19. Anker PowerCore battery, 10,000mAh :: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0194WDVHI
    
20. Tzumi PocketJuice Endurace battery, 6,000mAh :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TXBHT7Y
    
21. USB to Lightning cable, 4" :: https://www.amazon.com/gp/B010U3XJNG
    
22. USB to Micro-B cable, 4" :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003YKX6WM
    
23. StarTech USB Ethernet adapter :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0095EFXMC
    
24. VanQuest FATPACK Gen2, 4x6, Black :: http://shop.skinnymedic.com/FATPack-4x6-Black-Gen-2-Bag-Only-fatpacksmallblk.htm
    
    ***
    
    
25. Uni-Ball Signo 207, Fine, Black :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005HNZ5SW/
    
26. BIC Roundstic, Medium, Blue :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B010DS4DK6
    
27. Sharpie, Fine, Black :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00006IFHD
    
28. Toothpaste, travel :: Grocery stores
    
29. Toothbrush, travel :: Grocery stores
    
30. Contact lense case :: Grocery stores
    
31. SKYN condom, Original :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004TTXA7I
    
32. Renu soft lense solution :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B016IZ4BO69
    
33. Planters NUTrition, Wholesome Mix :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00C37SX70
    
34. Nail clippers, large :: Grocery stores
    
35. LARABAR, Cashew Cookie :: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007NMDY38
    
36. Visine for contacts :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00099E9D6
    
37. Advil, 200mg :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004ZCT1M2
    
    ***
    
    
38. North American Rescue Compressed Gauze, 4.5" x 4.1 yard :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01ED3H778
    
39. North American Rescue Pressure Bandage, 6" :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N7OCCNC
    
40. North American Rescue Bear Claw gloves, Nitrile, Large :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L9W7T1A
    
41. Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA) Tube, 28Fr :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003950R2E
    
42. Sharpie, Fine, Black :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00006IFHD
    
43. Benchmade 7 :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0013QVC1Q
    
44. Mylar blanket :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007IYIYFE/
    
45. North American Rescue Compact HyFin Vent (x2) :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01K533FB2
    
46. Alcohol prep pad :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MEE2MHK
    
47. North American Rescue CAT (tourniquet), 7th Generation :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LCJCBTA
    
    ***
    
    
48. Stealth Gear USA Ventcore, Appendix :: http://stealthgearusa.com/holsters.html
    
49. Kershaw Shuffle II :: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TAD2P8S
    
50. Cardstack Slim Wallet :: https://www.etsy.com/listing/247503194
    
51. LAMY Al-Star, Graphite, Fine, Blue :: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000R309UQ
    
52. Field Notes, Graph :: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006CQT2KU
    
53. Timex Weekender, original Blue/Gray stripe replaced with standard 20mm leather NATO strap :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004VR9HP2, https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B012UTRAFG
    
54. Springfield Armory XD Mod.2 Sub-Compact, 3", 9mm, FDE :: http://www.springfield-armory.com/products/xd-mod-2-3-sub-compact-9mm/
    
55. Verizon iPhone 7 Plus, 128G, Black :: https://www.verizonwireless.com/smartphones/apple-iphone-7-plus
    8+. Otterbox SYMMETRY, Black :: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01K6PBSK4
    
56. Xikar Allume Single, Black :: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KYK11W2
    
57. Lightning to 3.5mm adapter :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LXJFMGF
    
58. Chapstick Classic, Medicated :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004AIECQG
    
59. Transcend JetFlash, 128G :: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JKATVM4
    
60. Car, House keys
    
61. SanDisk Cruzer, 32G :: Who knows

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE consider the Platinum 3776.

It's got an amazing 14k gold nib, lovely size (not too large) and perfect fit and finish. It has a airtight seal so the nib will never dry out. And best of all it's only £55.69 from Amazon right now.

Seriously crazy price for what it is. Watch some youtube reviews, it's amazing value!

Edit: It is a Japanese pen so all sizes will be one size smaller than regular Western style nibs. A Japanese Medium will have a line size similar to a Western Fine.

Edit II: They also do a "soft fine" which has a slight amount of flex to it. It looks truly beautiful!

Edit III: http://www.gourmetpens.com/2016/02/review-platinum-3776-century-bourgogne.html?m=1

Edit IX: Have a look at this which was recently posted by a fellow r/fountainpens subscriber. https://www.reddit.com/r/fountainpens/comments/5k9g2v/a_new_member_of_the_family_3776_sf/. It's a crazy price, and you won't have to pay any taxes or duties on it like you would if you ordered it from Ebay!

Edit X: Are you at Uni? I can send you some ink samples and a blunt syringe.

Also if you're thinking about Eco vs Safari, I would suggest the Eco, especially if at Uni. I have run out of ink mid note-taking and had to refill, quite a pain! The Eco has a huge ink capacity.

I'd love to hear what other folks are using. Ideally, I'd like a case that can fit a total of 16-20 fountain pens, but hopefully with a smaller footprint. The 96-slot Global Art Leather Pencil Case is almost perfect... but they changed their design since I bought mine and they now have only one loop per slot instead of two. (I utilize both loops for smaller things, like pencil leads, wax stamps, etc.)

My current case contains the following items, but as you can see I'm just about out of room!

---

Side A: Pencils

---

1. rOtring 800 in .05
   
2. Uni Kuru Toga Pipe Slide in .05 with red nano dia lead
   
3. Uni Kuru Toga Pipe Slide in .05 with blue nano dia lead
   
4. Uni Kuru Toga Pipe Slide in .05 with green nano dia lead
   
5. Erasers: refills for the General Pencil Co. Factis BM-2 mechanical erasers, plus some for the Kuru Toga
   
6. A pair of General Pencil Co. Factis BM-2 mechanical erasers (a nice, thin eraser capable of area or detail erasing)
   
7. Extra red, green, and blue Uni nano dia lead
   
8. Extra black Uni nano dia lead (in a spare Pentel container)
   
9. Alumicolor 6" engineer pocket scale, standard (used as a straight edge)
   
10. Heavy-duty X-Acto Gripster knife
    
    ---
    
    Side B: Fountain Pens
    
    ---
    
    
11. Noodler's Neponset Ebonite Flex in black, filled with Noodler's Apache Sunset
    
12. TWSBI Eco in black, filled with Jacques Herbin 1670 Emerald of Chivor
    
13. Jinhao X750 in Black Night Sky, filled with Jacques Herbin 1670 Stormy Grey
    
14. Jinhao X750 in Lava Red, filled with Diamine Sherwood Green
    
15. Jinhao X750 in Black Frost Black, filled with Rohrer & Klingner Alt-Goldgrun
    
16. Jinhao X750 in Black Night Sky, filled with Noodler's Blue Ghost
    
17. An inexpensive atomizer (used for fine control when creating ink splatters)
    
18. Pilot Plumix, filled with Noodler's Firefly
    
19. Noodler's Charlie (not sold; comes free with 4.5 oz Noodler's inks), filled with Pilot Iroshizuku Yama-Budo

I EDC the TWSBI Diamond 580 "MURIKA" (aka, the 580 Diamond USA). I also have a couple of other 580s. I have had no issues with them <knocks on wood>.

The Nemosine Singularity is a great demonstrator for the money. I used to carry one with me, daily, for some time.

The Monteverde Artista Crystal is also a great demonstrator for the money, although it only comes in a medium for some reason. Although you can swap the nib out with the Nemosine nibs, Anderson nibs, Goulet nibs, FC or Edison Nibs, et al. The resin they use in this one is very rugged and hefty feeling compared to some of the others.

Then there are pens like the Lamy Vista, and Kaweco Sports, et cetera.

You can guy way up in price and get Pelikan, Pilot, Platinum Demos too. The pilot Custom 823 is my favorite there.

Then Edison Pens makes some really super nice demo and translucent pens in the $150 to $350 range that are just great pens to own and use.

I enjoy giving people notebooks and staionery from [May Designs] (http://www.maydesigns.com/). They're pretty and personalized (and they're having a 50% off sale through 7/28).

If friends like the same kind of games that I like, then I like to give out [Bohnanza] (https://www.amazon.com/Rio-Grande-Games-RGG-155/dp/B00008URUS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1469562466&sr=8-1&keywords=bohnanaza) and [Guillotine] (https://www.amazon.com/Wizards-of-the-Coast-5510919/dp/B000ARTT7S/ref=pd_sim_21_1?ie=UTF8&dpID=51XbxH977yL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL320_SR216%2C320_&psc=1&refRID=6T7SEJV85QKQKCQJNC1Q) and [Timeline] (https://www.amazon.com/Asmodee-TIM01USASM-Timeline/dp/B005N57CNU/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1469562501&sr=1-1&keywords=timeline).

I'm just getting into fountains pens and am considering giving my best friend from high school (and penpal) a [fountain pen] (https://www.amazon.com/Pilot-Metropolitan-Collection-Fountain-91104/dp/B009M3PIK8/ref=sr_1_4?s=office-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1469562565&sr=1-4&keywords=pilot+metropolitan+fountain+pen) and some [ink samples] (http://www.gouletpens.com/ink-samples/c/21) (this website has a ton of colors to choose from) for Christmas.

Just a few comments/suggestions :)

I would recommend the Pilot Metropolitan as a starter, for around the price of the Plasir it is very reliable, smooth writer, and much easier to clean. If you do buy the Plasir, you will also need to buy a convertor to use bottled ink, where the Metropolitan comes with one included.

The Jinhao is a copycat of the Lamy Safari, a good starter, but know that people either absolutely love or hate the style of the grip.

The inks you picked out are good, although to start I really recommend getting a Goulet sample pack so you can try similar colors before committing to an entire bottle, which will last quite a while.

Hope this helps! I love helping new people explore the world of fountain pens :)

I also can recommend a Pelikan M400 if you like the TWSBI Mini. I generally use smaller pens (my Safaris are by far my largest pens) and also use my Mini unposted quite comfortably. The M400 is just slightly longer than the Mini unposted; here is a comparison of the two (paper is Clairefontaine Pupitre notepad; ruling is approximately 8mm).

I don't own any Sailors, so I can't comment on their quality vs. Pelikan, but I can say that my Pelikan is very nice to write with in terms of weight, feel, and performance. It is actually just as easy to use posted or unposted (much like the TWSBI Mini) and does not get back-weighted at all when posting (the pen always seems to have perfect balance; not sure how Pelikan pulls that off!). I think the only difference between an M200 vs. an M400 is the 200 has a steel nib, but I'm by no means an expert, so please don't quote me on that! For around $100, I think an M200 would be a great pen for your needs!

Oooh, depends on what you're looking for, my friend! However, all my starter pens were under $35 with my favorite being the Pilot Metropolitan ($15). It writes very well and it's a great starter pen!My next suggestions would be: LAMY Safari Pen and TWSBI Eco Demonstrator. These are fun, come in fun colors or can be see-through which is neat cause then you can see the ink!

Also take into consideration nib sizes (Fine being thin lines and more tactile, and Medium+ having thicker, "wetter" lines). 🎆🎇

Excellent way to use your fountain pens indeed! I like to copy recipes and song lyrics. And, my grocery list this week is in "rainbow fashion", haha!

I will have you know that, after seeing your post, I went and purchased another two of these 659 babies. They are just so pleasurable.

I also ordered a few more Jinhao 992's as I enjoy demonstrators very much. For that price ($8 w/Prime) I couldn't not order! I just inked up the one I bought last month and it is just as nice as the WingSung. If you are in the market for another, inexpensive demo, I recommend trying one :O)

These pens will tide me over for some time and make me happy.... One day, I will upgrade to a "big girl version"... The Pilot CH 92. For now, my wallet is taking a break.

I have multiple pens but am still sort of a new collector, and they're all fairly inexpensive. I have a two part question...

My first is, my Pilot's seem to get their tip bent after a while or an unfortunate drop. Is this something I can bend it back or is it toast? I guess I don't know enough about nibs to know if I can just replace them on these Pilots?
My really cheap [Kakuno] (https://www.amazon.com/Pilot-Kakuno-Fine-Nib-Fountain-FKA-1SR-SLF/dp/B00IOOOBU4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1468509915&sr=8-2&keywords=fountain+pen+japanese) seems to be holding up so just as a tip, I'd recommend that baby any day!

Second question is:
What would be a good NEXT pen after the Pilots I own. I've tried a lot of brands under $30 and am ready to go a little higher...like $40-70. Good brands of pens for that price range, and also any inks for that as well. I typically have been using Waterman, J. Herbin, and Parker ink and haven't had a problem but if I buy a more expensive pen I don't necessarily want to junk it up with cheap ink... are those brands OK? OR - are there nibs that I can upgrade to on these Pilot's or are they proprietary and not interchangeable? Are there any good pen websites or what do I look for when buying on eBay?

Pens and bent nibs

I'm going to say either the 2000 or neither. The reason I say this is capacity. With most of my converter pens, I can get a day's writing on a fill. With a piston filler you can get a lot more, though it depends pen by pen. For this reason, I don't advise against converters, but I say that they are the better system by a long shot. Also, I've got a 2000 (actually just got it) and it does feel very substantial and well made, just not heavy. Also, there isn't much flex to the 2000, a bit of spring, but very little flex. It's actually in my opinion a kind of hard nib. It's also Rhodium plated, so the main advantage is longevity, and that wee bit of spring.

That said, you can have both a extravagant pen and good ink capacity by going vintage. The one that comes to mind is the Pelikan 400NN. It's a vintage pen, yes, but it's within your price range in like new condition, and is a kind of classic fountain pen. You can find them at pen shows, on the FPN classifieds, or on eBay.

Here are some other vintage pens:

• Parker Vacumatic: 1 [2](http://www.fountainpenrecycler.com/servlet/Detail?no=506 [3] (http://www.fountainpenrecycler.com/servlet/Detail?no=976) [4] (http://www.fountainpenrecycler.com/servlet/Detail?no=753)
  
• Parker 51 Vacumatic
  
• [Sheaffer Lifetime Balance] (http://www.fountainpenrecycler.com/servlet/Detail?no=803)
  
• Aurora 88
  
  And a couple modern pens:
  
• Pelikan M200(also available as a Demonstrator)
  
• Gate City Belmont

> I really want to start using them, but they're so expensive!

There are several really good starter fountain pens for ~$30

Pilot Metropolitan

MUJI Aluminum Fountain Pen

Would be two that I would recommend. The second I have experience with, it has a lot of feedback but is still pretty decent. I haven't used a Metropolitan but it has a very good reputation.

Roger dodger. Personally, I recommend the Pilot Prera (http://www.amazon.com/Pilot-Prera-Fine-Nib-Fountain-FPR-3SR-SGY-F/dp/B0016YSGRI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1458837245&sr=8-1&keywords=Pilot+Prera) as a first fountain pen. Excellent quality for the price (sometimes as low as $20), not to big/small/heavy/light. Just a good all around pen, and fairly easy to unload on /s/penswap if it's not for you. Just keep in mind that Pilot nib sizes are Japanese standard, so their "medium" is finer than an American/European brand.

And if you DO enjoy FPs, it's good quality so it will last a good time.

To be honest with you the metro is a little smoother while the Eco I feel the metal against the paper more. Now I'm sure that has to do with the fact that my metro is a medium size could possibly have something to do with even the ink i'm not too familiar with pens as I just started this hobby but the one thing that I do like is that the eco-does give me a little more restriction which in turn gives me a little more control over my writing. I will say if you are considering getting it for the price point it's amazing. I did get a medium because I did want size differences. I'm enjoying my metro for every day writing. I try to get all my stuff from Goulet pens but I ended up getting my metro from amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009M3PIHQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_W1zLvMol5MAdD)

I haven't seen those Noodler's feeds in stock anywhere for a while.

I have an FPR ebonite feed in one of my Konrads right now (same size as Ahab). It seems to work slightly better than the Noodler's feed with the Ease-my-Flex nib mod.

With replacement nibs/feeds for Noodler's pens so cheap, I feel freer to use a dremel/knife to adjustment them -- though I have yet to actually destroy anything and need the replacement.

Noodler's & Jinhao are inexpensive and both use #6 nibs on most of their pens (nb: not Nib Creeper or x250). And all the cheap pilot pens' nibs are interchangeable -- I have a set of Metropolitans with 1mm stubs I got for $6 on Amazon, though since Pilot doesn't sell the nibs separately you get a free pen-body made of cheap plastic & shaped vaguely like a squid.

--

VorpalPlayer is right about heat-setting, you do need that - I now do this to any pen with an ebonite feed. It has always made them write better, even if I'm using the nib the pen came with.

A basic modification I think everyone should learn is fixing a nib's tine-alignment, which is easy with some sort of loupe -- just use your fingers and don't be tempted to pick up pliers.

After that, maybe try opening the tines to make a nib write wetter, which I've done to about half my pens. Doing this while drunk gave me the opportunity to learn how to repair a sprung nib, which was easier than I expected.

I'll go with everyone else here and say the Pilot Metropolitan, which is just a classic. I love Pilot fountain pens. They have nice, even, fine and extra fine lines and are economical everyday pens. I prefer the way they work with the way I write to my more expensive LAMYs and Faber-Castell Pens.


I will also recommend the Pilot Kakuno, which is a plastic, hexagonal barrel beginner pen (I think it's actually intended for schoolchildren).

I also like [this one] (https://www.amazon.com/Pilot-Fountain-Extra-Clear-PFP50RNCEF/dp/B006CQUI9O/ref=sr_1_fkmr2_3?s=office-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1510627790&sr=1-3-fkmr2&keywords=cheap+pilot+fountain+pen) just cause I think it's a kind of cool little demonstrator. You can get right into using these with a CON-50 converter or you can use the Pilot IC-100 Namiki cartridges (which I actually prefer at work because they're a little easier to pop in and out).

I would second looking into the Pilot Prera. On amazon they are about $30 bucks and they look pretty to me! I have a metro that I love, and a Pilot Prera will be my 5th pen :)

You can also interchange nibs between the Prera and Metro. The Prera's Con-50 converter will fit your metro as well! I see it as the metro's demonstrator cousin.

Amazon Link

How about a nice pen? Have you ever used a fountain pen?

This pen is great. I have one with a silver trim. I've had many a fountain pen, and this is still my favorite, even more so than pens that cost me twice as much. Feels good, looks good, made very well, writes well. Just don't drop it. It will break. That's the only downside for me. However, I've broken mine 3 times, and epoxied it back together and polished it up each time.

When you start using a FP, paper becomes important too. Cheap paper and some fancy notebook brands (i.e moleskine) are horrible for fountain pens. Ink will bleed and spider on the page. I'd suggest looking at this brand of paper. They're cheap(er than moleskine), look good, and take fountain pen ink super well.

You'll need some ink too. I'd suggest starting with something from Noodler's ink lke this. Some FP inks are waterproof, some are not. Bulletproof, iron gall, or pigmented inks are usually water proof.

I know that probably puts you closer to $100, but imo, it's worth it if that's something that interests you.

Hi everybody, would never have expected fountain pens to have such a big and supporting community! Thank you all for that. I just have a few questions as I'm looking to replace my bic ballpoint pens as they've been causing pain and discomfort.

Firstly, would a fine nib or extra fine nib better suit somebody who does lots of math and calculations? I dislike any smearing or smudging, and my research has suggested that I may be better off with extra fine nibs if that's the case. I've looked up demonstrations of fine vs. extra fine, but many videos do not demonstrate any smearing or smudging.

How long would a typical ink cartridge last? Furthermore, for most pens do you need to replace ink cartridges or can you simply purchase ink alone and refill the cartridges yourself?

I've looked on amazon and came across this pen, and am curious of whether or not it would be good for a beginner: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0002T4032/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_gDN8ybBGZ7QMJ

Thanks!

You cannot buy Pilot nibs separately, but the Kakuno steel nibs are interchangeable with those on the Metro, Plumix, Prera, Penmanship and 78g. The nibs and feeds are simple friction fit so just grip the nib and feed and pull. The first time you do it they may be in quite firmly, so a very slight twist as you pull can loosen it up.

I would recommend a Prera if you don't like the look of the Metropolitan. In my opinion, a better balanced pen with a far more comfortable section. The demonstrator versions look modern.

Does she like to draw? Would she like to learn to draw? Get her some architect-y drawing supplies!

For example:

• Freehand Sketching by Paul Laseau
  
• Lamy Safari Fountain Pen - Extra Fine
  
• Moleskin Watercolor Notebook
  
  If she enjoys that, next up is maybe a set of watercolors or copic markers. Also, JetPens has all sorts of good stuff. Check out things like 2mm lead holders, Pentel Sign Pen (and similar), any of the fine roller ball type pens, etc.

Pilot Metropolitan Collection Fountain Pen, Black Barrel, Classic Design, Fine Nib, Black Ink (91111) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KRPFD96/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ClLyCbE11EHDE (comes with converter, and personal favorite)

Pilot Kakuno Fine-Nib Fountain Pen, White Body Soft Blue Cap Body (FKA-1SR-SLF) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IOOOBU4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_emLyCbX5CXBY8 (takes con-50 converter)

(25 u.s. dollars) Pilot Explorer Fountain Pen Gift Box, Fine Nib, Gray Barrel, 1-Pack, Black Ink (12271) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KBSLWCZ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_9mLyCbABH6FRS (get con-40 for this one, or syringe and refill cartridge)

Platinum Fountain Pen, Preppy, Fine Nib, Black (PPQ-200-#1) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001H0CEM4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_lrLyCbFE357BE (just get an o-ring and eyedropper convert this one)


For all the pilots get the refill cartridges at Staples cheaper than online.

Good (cheap) ink brands are noodlers, waterman's, diamine, and Parker.

Also r/fountainpens is a good resource.

Regular pens

Tombow Airpress 0.7mm Ball Point Pen, Full Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0047Z24IU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_-xLyCbH5FAXT9 (pressurized can even write upside down)

Zebra F-701 Stainless Steel Ballpoint Retractable Pen, Black Ink, Fine Point, 2 Pack (29411) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0141DN1CA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_SyLyCb6MJMDZ4

Pilot FriXion Ball 0.7mm Erasable Gel Pens, Fine Point, Black Ink, Pack Of 6 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019OZVV6I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_XzLyCb98B993R (erasable)

Pentel EnerGel Deluxe RTX Gel Ink Pens, 0.7 Millimeter Metal Tip, Assorted Colors, 6 Pack (BL77BP6M) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0012G9VNS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_NALyCbV2QVSTV (disposable cheaper at Staples to)

Parker Jotter Stainless Steel Ballpoint Pen, Medium Point, Black Ink https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0017D5WXY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_UBLyCbX0J93DW (Again Staples)

Anyone else can and should add on to this if you want to.

This gif ...... this gif is the gif that made me buy my first fountain pen. The Pilot Metropolitan. /r/fountainpens will tell you this is the first pen to get. I also have a decent amount of nibs ( what you see here ) I even have this exact one.

That was about a month ago. Maybe 2. Best part about fountain pens and ink is that it is VERY CHEAP to get into. And if you use it and buy a fucking book you can improve a great deal. You will be busting out lines of beauty and cumming in your pants when you see how much fucking ink can be dumped out of a dremeled out ebonite feed in the Noodler's Ahab Flex.

I'm off to make capital P's. Gooood^byyy^eeee

Pilot Plumix is a very cheap option that writes really well. I like it better than my Lamy Joy.
Here's a link to it's Amazon page : Pilot Plumix Refillable Fountain Pen, Black Barrel, Black Ink, Medium Point, Single Pen and Cartridge (90055) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0058NN4M0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_u29YAbYDTZ8FF

It costs under $10 in the US.

In the price range and (presumably) for the purpose of being solid and portable, I'd suggest something like a Pilot Prera. They're very sturdy, have a really good size when posted, and the non-demonstrator versions actually look very clean and professional. In my opinion the nibs are pretty stellar, too.

In his defense fountain pens are awesome!

My personal favorite starter pen

My favorite pencil

That's a very good choice and a great pen. I would add a couple more to your list: 1, 2, 3, and on the more expensive side, 1 and 2.

But! If you just want to tread the waters, maybe look into this or this. They're both cheap so you're not far down cash if you don't like it. They're also both pens that I carry around with me everyday because I really like how they write.

Welcome!

The TWSBI Eco is a great pen for its price. As for nib size, I'd start with a Fine or Extra Fine. I feel anything broader is too thick for writing on A5 papers and smaller. If you're used to ballpoints, those normally translate to Extra Fine.

Thank you for the welcome! I looked online for Platinum 3776 in black with gold trim and it suits my style (the aesthetics). However, I see a lot of different pricing! What are some reputable online stores that people here trust? Would this be an okay buy? https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005KE5ZWO/ref=psdc_1085704_t3_B005M9EQC2

I do calligraphy, and this is wonderful! you should try out a Noodler Ahab Flex Fountain Pen. They are $20 on amazon and give you a decent thick/thin ratio for a fountain pen. Great for beginners. I love mine.

Here you go! A yellow solid color Pilot Prera for $25 and free shipping! Awesome little pen with a cool snap cap that feels more expensive than it costs. It's a shorter pen so you have to use it posted, but the width is normal and it's one of my favorites.

http://www.amazon.com/Pilot-Prera-Fine-Nib-Fountain-FPR-3SR-SGY-F/dp/B0016YSGRI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1449858959&sr=8-1&keywords=pilot+prera

Thanks, guys! :) I'm cleaning both the fine nib that the pen came with, and the broad replacement nib, and will examine them tomorrow under a magnifying glass.

I also just bought a Jinhao for $2.95 from Amazon. As a backup.

http://www.amazon.com/JinHao-X750-Silver-Fountain-Pen/dp/B00CC76756?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

Finally, an inexpensive pen with no "gold" trim, that also isn't made out of plastic. I have high hopes for this one! :)

I recently switched over from my hacked Zebra 701 with Space Pen insert to a fountain pen. I freaking love my fountain pen. If you want to give them a try, I'd recommend the Pilot Metropolitan, with the medium nib. It's quite the juicy writer. It's got a metal body, and is durable. The only thing I'd worry about is the cap coming off in a pocket. I also switched out the cartridges for an ink converter, and ordered a whole ton of ink samples from Goulet Pens, which is fun to play with.

If you don't want to go the fountain pen route, I love my Staples Optiflow, with the needlepoint tip. Juicy.

Is this the one?

https://www.amazon.com/Luxury-Brands-Noodlers-Fountain-15027/dp/B0065R29OM/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1491786613&sr=8-4&keywords=ahab%2Bfountain%2Bpen&th=1

I love their ink, so this may be the winner (plus a compulsory ink purchase).

If you want to buy them something they'll use on a regular basis, try a nice pen. Psych tends to be a specialty where handwritten notes are still the norm and having a nice pen to write them with is an enjoyable experience.

Here's my recommendations:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Platinum-No-3776-Century-Slip-Fountain/dp/B005KE5ZWO.

https://www.amazon.com/TWSBI-ECO-Fountain-Pen-White/dp/B011M8HXQ2

My 18th birthday was... not the best. Definitely not the worst, but far from the best. There was no school that day because the roads were really bad, but a lot went wrong. Because of the bad roads, my fiance and I couldn't go to the restaurant I wanted to go to. Then we had to finish eating and go home in a hurry because he had to take his sister to this class because she got caught drinking at a party. Then I got home to find out that my cake was 3/4 gone, whe it had only been 1/4 gone when I left that morning. My sister actually ate half of my tiny birthday cake. And I've been craving large amounts of cake since then. Over 7 months ago.

speaker of da hauz

If I win, I'd really like this pen. And happy birthday!

If you'd like to go in the metal-barrel direction, consider the MUJI Aluminum Fountain Pen - I have one, it's a good, basic writer with a classy minimalist design...

https://www.amazon.com/Muji-3407117-MUJI-Aluminum-Fountain/dp/B00MDRZLHA

Nah, I use those, too! Use whatever works. Fountain pens aren't even necessarily grown up pens, just pens with a different feel and a bit more maintenance. But if you ever do feel like trying out a fountain pen, the Platinum Preppy pens start at under $10, and you can't go wrong with a Pilot Metropolitan, which run about $15 and you can get at Staples or Amazon. You can even get converters for both so you can use your choice of bottled ink (there's TONS, including neon/super bright inks)!

http://www.amazon.com/JinHao-X750-Silver-Fountain-Pen/dp/B00CC76756

Start with this. Add the 25 international cartridges for 4 dollars. If you like it you can either move on to something more expensive, or just add a Goulet #6 nib (15 dollars) and a better converter (6 dollars), and get some interesting inks.

Looks like a Nemosine Singularity demonstrator. I've had one for a few months and I love it!

The $25-30 Preras are usually the full color japanese that don't come with the converter. The ~$56 ones are the american demonstrators with converters. Although, it looks like you can pick them up for around $30 now.
Personally I think they're a lot better than the metro, the solid brass body is just too heavy and the center of mass is low enough on the Prera that it can be posted comfortably.

Um, no. You could buy a pilot metropolitan for around $12 usd on sale and a bottle of Noodler's ink for around $12 usd that will last for a very long time, several years. So, $24 usd for a pen and a bottle of ink that will last you for long enough that over on /r/fountainpens we think it's impressive if you actually can finish a bottle.

Like anything it can either be extremely cheap or extremely expensive depending on how you approach it. All of my pens are sub $100, most are sub $10 price range and I wouldn't go back to ballpoints again if i could help it.

Sorry just noticed you replied when digging through my messages.

Well you have other options then. I take it you want a demonstrator. You other options are Pilot Prera FYI it's cheaper else where online.

You also could look at a Lamy Vista or a Kaweco Classic

Nemosine Singularity a personal favorite of mine.

try platinum pla5000a they looks pretty neat.
or pilot C74

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Pelikan-M200-Special-Edition-Souveran-Tortoiseshell-Brown-Color-Fountain-Pen/132612563256?hash=item1ee0532138:m:m9a-3ZsSX2uFdULsaJcuO7w

Or

https://www.amazon.com/Pelikan-M200-Fountain-Black-993915/dp/B000VR7XDY

Good price to be honest.

A cheap TWSBI is really good. Or search PenBBS on ebay..
Here is a $80 Platinum with M nib. A gold nib is not for bragging rights, it really gives a better writing experience.
https://www.amazon.com/Platinum-3776-CENTURY-Chartres-Blue/dp/B00B1N90W4/

This is my go to for plane travel when I'm on a work trip.

• Fossil Wallet
  
• Samsung Galaxy S8+ with headphones
  
• Cheapo plastic sunglasses
  
• keys + Swiss+Tech Utili-Key
  
• TWSBI Eco, either white in F nib or black in B nib, typically inked with something from Pilot's Iroshizuku line.
  
• Jerky or some other snack
  
• Maxpedition Falcon II for all my clothes, toiletries, etc. Fits nicely under the seat in front of me. The snacks I pack usually go into a Maxpedition 12x5 Bottle Holder attached to the side of the backpack. I also attach a Maxpedition Rollypoly to the other side. This is used for unloading all of my pockets when going through security.
  
  

Well, you can get a single one in fine for $13.22 from Amazon right now: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B009X9Z2FW

But if you actually want two, yeah. (I have two, because I wanted to try both nibs.)

Edit: $12.93 for a medium: http://www.amazon.com/Pilot-Metropolitan-Collection-Fountain-91104/dp/B009M3PIK8

Lamy 2000- piston-filler with a 14kt gold nib

Sailor 1911 Standard- a cartridge/converter pen with a 14kt gold nib available in several specialty sizes

Visconti Rembrandt- a cartridge/converter pen with an extremely smooth and wet steel nib

Pilot Vanishing Point- a cartridge/converter pen with an 18kt gold nib available in many different finishes

Pilot Falcon- a cartridge/converter pen with a 14kt gold semi-flexible nib

Pelikan M200 - a piston filler with a steel nib; you can buy a 14kt gold nib for this pen for about $160

Levenger True Writer Select- a cartridge/converter pen with a steel nib

Any regular production Edison pens- cartridge/converter pens with steel nibs; they're turned by hand and available in many different models and acrylics

Most of these are between $100 and $150, so you could also pick up a few inks or some paper. If I had $200 to spend right now, I would buy either a Lamy 2000 with a double broad nib (only available in Europe) or a Sailor 1911 Standard with a music nib.

EDIT: Added links and descriptions

Pen: Jinhao 992
Ink: [[Noodler's Saguaro Wine]]
Paper: cheap printer crap
Song: Tennessee Whiskey by Chris Stapleton

Special thanks to /u/jzpenny who gave the pen and ink from the contest. Sorry for taking so long to finally use it! I was out of town for a few months then moved. I cant wait to finish this ink and try the [[Noodler's Harmonious Green]] next.

Flashlight: Nitecore TIP

Knife: Byrd Cara Cara

Pen: Pilot Kakuno

Wallet: Saddleback Leather Sleeve Wallet

Caribiner: Metolius Mini

Total: 98.33

More realistically, I would DIY the wallet with a $10 piece of tooling leather, and get a better knife like a Spyderco Efficient. This would put me a couple dollars over, so swap the pen for a Zebra F701. Total:$100.42

Hard mode:

Flashlight: Nitecore Tube

Knife: Opinel #6

Pen: Pilot Kakuno (same as linked above)

Wallet: DIY Sleeve (as discussed above)

Caribiner: Metolius (same as linked above)

Total: $49.14

I got it from Amazon. If you're on prime, it'll be at your doorstep in two days

Thanks :)

Ooh, really thin and great reviews!

https://www.amazon.com/Muji-3407117-MUJI-Aluminum-Fountain/dp/B00MDRZLHA/ref=sr_1_15?s=office-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1480642511&sr=1-15&keywords=fountain+pen&refinements=p_72%3A1248945011

Ok thanks. Another question as I'm looking. On this: https://smile.amazon.com/TWSBI-ECO-Fountain-Pen-White/dp/B011M8HXQ2?sa-no-redirect=1

The 'frequently bought together' section also contains a fountain pen converter. Is this necessary? Or will the fountain pen and ink be sufficient?

Nice pen. But just FYI, I can get the same exact new pen sent to me in 2 days for $68:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B1N90W4/

It's tough to make up for the poor Canadian exchange rate and the low cost of gray market pens (if you paid full price from an authorized dealer).

Good luck with your sale.

Love this pen!
http://www.amazon.com/Platinum-3776-CENTURY-Chartres-Blue/dp/B00B1N90W4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1453814469&sr=8-2&keywords=platinum+3776

Well obvious plug for /r/EDC

• Skagen Watch (no idea what model)
  
  
• EPH-100SL earphones
  
  
• EZGO Ninja Slim wallet
  
  
• Karas Kustoms Bolt- COPPER G2
  
  
• Boker Nano Pocket (w/ custom painted scales)
  
  
• Field Notes
  
  A few other things would be my pocket flashlight, nice cigar* lighter, Lamy Al-Star, swiss army classic, cheapy sunglasses, and I also stenciled a HL2 symbol on the back of my S3 commuter otterbox

Timex Watch

Extra-Fine Lamy Safari Fountain Pen

Victorinox Fieldmaster

4 GB free flash drive+keys

Joseph Abboud Wallet

Diztronic Case for Samsung Galaxy Note

They'll come with cartridges, which are usually disposable. You can still get that pack, but if you want to easily take ink from your sample vials, you can either buy a platinum converter, or you can buy a blunt tip syringe(look em up on Amazon) and use that to decant inks into used cartridges.

The converter has a mini piston that draws up ink. Since the preppies seem to come with a cartridge each, I'd just go with refilling the cartridges with a blunt tip syringe as it's cheaper.

Don't forget to wash out the pen and cartridge or converter every time you switch inks!

Al-Star? I wasn't a fan of a colorful pen either, so I got the Al-Star Graphite just a few days ago, I love it.

Platinum 3776, Black, Medium Nib

This plus the Converter is under $70 for a great pen with a gold nib, and cap that will keep the pen from drying out for over a year.

Yea it's about the right price. I would just get it from amazon tho.http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001AX5SRG/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?qid=1451845136&sr=8-3&refinements=p_85:2470955011&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=pilot+custom+74&dpPl=1&dpID=31zLS96VnxL&ref=plSrch&th=0

Most of the nib options and colours are fulfilled by amazon or at least shop from the USA. There's a few listings. You may want to check out the custom 92. It's about 30-40 more but the piston fill and capacity is worth it imo

You might find this video to be of interest.

The usual recs are the Pilot Metropolitan, Lamy Safari, and the TWSBI Eco.

Hi all!

This is being cross-posted from /r/PenmanshipPorn upon suggestion.

In case you're curious...

The pens are, from top to bottom:

1. Manuscript Master Italic Pen 1.1 mm running Noodler's Apache Sunset
   
   
2. Jinhao X750 - with a Knox 1.1 mm Italic stub running J. Herbin's Gris Nuage
   
   
3. TWSBI Eco 1.1 mm Italic stub running a mixture of Noodler's Apache Sunset and Cayenne
   
   
4. Pilot Metropolitan with a 1.1 mm Italic stub nib from a Pilot Plumix running Noodler's Antietam ink.
   
   
5. Manuscript Beginners Pen with an Extra Fine nib and running generic black ink.
   
   The paper is a Clairefontaine French Ruled pad

Perhaps you could look into any resellers that fulfil through Amazon for a more certain return policy, and hope that the price ends up similar. Prices there often depend on nib choice.

FK-700R-B: bold, fine.
CH74: many, music.

I have no experience ordering this way though.

You don't even need to get an old one. There are calligraphy sets in most art stores (you'll usually find new Shaeffer sets, which I've heard mixed things about), and Pilot makes a cheap (for a fountain pen) italic pen which can be had for around $10. Most of the people who have come to me asking for a starter pen, after seeing my writing, were happy with a Pilot Plumix

Here's a new one for $13 plus free shipping if you have Prime or are ordering enough other things.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B009M3PIK8

Jinhao x750 with a zebra g nib. This is really your only option other than an Ahab with a modification like this which I've done myself and is amazing but you do need a dremel (go slow). 10/10

I'll have to look at what ink I got when I get home, but the pen was this one. Probably not the best pen, but I usually don't like how big fountain pens are and I really appreciated the slim, metal body of this one. I would take notes in class and the nib would dry out in between sentences.

I can help with the pen, the trimmer, and the clipper. :D

/u/purekhaos answered most of your question.

The first one's a TWSBI Diamond 580: http://www.amazon.com/TWSBI-Diamond-580-Fountain-Pen/dp/B00BT1BLRU/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1405742663&sr=8-2&keywords=twsbi+580

Second one's a vintage fountain pen from the 1950s that I got from eBay, the Esterbrook LJ.

Last one's a Lamy Safari EF (my first fountain pen!): http://www.amazon.com/Lamy-Fountain-Charcoal-Ex-Fine-L17EF/dp/B0002T4032/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1405742646&sr=8-1&keywords=ef+lamy+safari&dpPl=1

Yeah that is hands down the worst pen I have owned. I threw mine out I was so pissed off with it. This is one that is the same price range but 1000 times better. If you are stuck on getting a pen from amazon get that one (it comes in other colors too).

I just take a plastic pipette, and refill my preppy cartridges. $5 for 100 pipettes that can be used for multiple pens, or $7 for the converter that is easier to use, but only for one pen. I guess it's a matter of preference really.

Depending where you get it a pilot kakuno is around 10 bucks.
Pilot Kakuno Fine-Nib Fountain Pen, White Body Soft Blue Cap Body (FKA-1SR-SLF) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IOOOBU4/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_4BlvDbF12QS6W
It's fine and smooth like the metro but lighter so it's easier to write for a longer period of time.

I second this suggestion! You can get on Amazon for $68 see here Platinum "#3776 CENTURY / Black in Black"(nib : Medium) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005KE5ZWO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_DNLJAbNAF3V2H

You can get a Metro on Amazon for under $12 or a Pilot Kakuno for $9.85. Then you can swap the nibs... not a huge investment.

I've been looking for a new toy to play with and to practice Japanese with (dang, those characters have a lot going on in such a small space), and I think I've settled on a Platinum 3776 with a Fine nib.

My question is, would you say these are probably fakes? The vendor has a bunch of 3776s listed for 50%~ off. I... I am really tempted. Mehhh.

A couple metal pens that I can recall in your price range:

Nemosine Fission - comes in a bunch of colors - http://www.amazon.com/Nemosine-Fission-Fountain-German-NEM-FIS-01-F/dp/B009GL4SIO/

Fabel Castel Loom - also a lot of color choices - http://www.amazon.com/Faber-Castell-Medium-Fountain-Piano-Black/dp/B007ORWBKO

LAMY Al-Star - lots of colors, made of aluminum - http://www.amazon.com/LAMY-Al-Star-Fountain-Graphite-L26F/dp/B000R309UQ/

Skilcraft - http://www.amazon.com/SKILCRAFT-7520-01-451-9102-Executive-Fountain-Barrel/dp/B0095ZR3FQ/

That's all I can think of at the moment, I'm sure there's more out there though. Outside your price range, there's also the Pilot Metal Falcon, LAMY 2000 Stainless Steel edition

It's on Amazon for $70, with prime shipping. I've never heard of the seller before, but they get reputable reviews.

Link: Platinum "#3776 CENTURY / Chartres Blue"(nib : Medium) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B1N90W4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_cLyPzbVJ07H52

I'd suggest Platinum 3776 Century. The gold nibs are very smooth writers.

EDIT: I'm not sure why the Platinum 3776 Century came across as such a bad suggestion. It's available for ~£10 more than OP's budget,and has a beautiful gold nib.

Are these the ones you suggested?
Waterman
Eco

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Pilot-fountain-custom-black-print-FKK1000RB-SF/dp/B001AX5SRG/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1463009185&sr=8-5&keywords=pilot+custom+74

Lamy Safari - EF Nib

Parker Urban - M Nib

Pilot G2 - 0.38mm

I have tiny handwriting, so I tend to go with finer points on pens.

There is only the Platinum proprietary converter. Nothing else fits. I think there is a choice between a gold and silver version.

Luxury Brands Platinum Fountain Pen Converter (PLAT500) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004XDE024/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_ojMRyb9KXK671

Platinum "#3776 CENTURY / Black in Black"(nib : Medium) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005KE5ZWO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_GBvszb6BJ39PF

https://www.amazon.co.uk/MUJI-Aluminum-Body-Fountain-Pen/dp/B00MDRZLHA


It is as others have said a MUJI Aluminium Fountain Pen

Muji Fountain Pen
Molto comoda e dal bel design, non pacchiana come tutte le altre. La uso quotidianamente

Oppure Lamy Safari, ma pare un Panzer a confronto

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Platinum-No-3776-Century-Slip-Fountain/dp/B005KE5ZWO

I can only find this in the UK, what do you think?

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004XDE024/ref=sr_ph?ie=UTF8&qid=1452357357&sr=1&keywords=platinum+converter

Platinum "#3776 CENTURY / Chartres Blue"(nib : Medium) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B1N90W4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_StnGzbT6XMEE2

You're right, it's the [Muji Aluminum](MUJI Aluminum Fountain Pen https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MDRZLHA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_HhtXzbRF578M7), costs $15

The muji (at least this one) seems to take the standard international converter.

Folks, there doesn't seem to be anything nefarious in this link. Here's a clean link anyway, but don't go calling for someone's head.

that's odd I can see one thats a medium nib that has amazon prime. right here https://www.amazon.com/Pilot-Fontain-Custom-SF-Nib-FKK-1000R-B-SF/dp/B001AX5SRG/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1469760924&sr=8-2&keywords=pilot+custom+74

I'm about to screw you over even further. Pilot Plumix and Penmanship have nibs that are compatible with Metros. Just pull the feed unit, change the nib (the metal part) and you're good to go. My Metro is now a calligraphy pen with line variations and shit.

No, I ordered from here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0016YSGRI

It took a few weeks to get here, but timing wasn't a huge factor for me.

I'd pick up a Platinum 3776 Chartres Blue and a bottle of Noodler's Bad Belted Kingfisher. Great looking pen that won't dry out even if you don't use it for a long time, and an ink that is as permanent as permanent gets. Just be warned that you might not be able to use blue ink on certain documents. I showed up to sign my marriage license with [[Pilot Iroshizuku Tsuki-yo]] and they wouldn't let me because it had to be black ink. :(

> unless you country has really gone off the rails in terms of a surveillance state, no it won't get you put on a list

... I live in the US.

> You might also think about switching to finer nib if possible.

Looking into getting the TWBS ECO in fine as an alternate pen to work with.

If it's still troublesome I'll give your mixing suggestion a shot. However, I'd like a sepia-ish or red/black color, can I mix the x-feather with a red or orange by noodle?