How to choose a Fountain pen

Today, fountain pens on the market mainly have nibs made of steel, gold, platinum, and titanium. Gold nibs are further classified by their gold content, such as 9K, 14K, 18K, and 21K. Whether steel or gold nibs, they all have varying degrees of flexibility, and different people have different preferences—some like a softer feel, while others prefer a firmer one. Therefore, do not just buy a pen because someone recommends it; it is important to try writing with it first. Additionally, the length, thickness, and weight of the pen barrel can affect the writing feel. Especially for beginners, if possible, it’s best to try it out in a physical store. Here are four main considerations when choosing a fountain pen:

Aesthetic Appearance

The primary functions of a fountain pen are writing and collecting. In the 21st century, consumers have significantly reduced their functional considerations regarding fountain pens; many people buy pens not primarily for writing. When the functional differences are minimal, aesthetic factors greatly influence purchasing choices. Italian fountain pens are often noted for their craftsmanship in precious metal barrels, while Japanese maki-e pens are also very popular. The secret to buying a pen without trying it is: first, your personal budget; second, within your budget, choose what you find most aesthetically pleasing.

Material of the Fountain Pen

The materials are divided into the pen barrel material and nib material. The barrel material determines the style and weight of the fountain pen; plastic is lightweight and suitable for long writing sessions, while metal is heavier and better suited for inscriptions or signatures. Plastic materials can also be differentiated into low-end ABS, resin, and high-end celluloid. Some niche limited editions may use precious wood, precious metals, or have diamonds inlaid in the barrel. The nib materials typically include steel, gold, and titanium. Gold nibs are further classified as 9K, 14K, 18K, and 21K, etc.

Grip Feel

The grip of the pen should be slightly recessed to prevent slipping, while a protruding grip generally feels worse, especially in metal materials. The grip feel is related to the thickness of the pen barrel; a thick barrel isn’t suitable for small hands, and a thin barrel isn’t suitable for large hands. If buying a fountain pen for functional purposes, it’s still recommended to try it out personally, as there is no correlation between price and comfort.

Writing Experience

Many factors influence the writing experience, including the type of nib, nib material, nib finishing, and center of gravity. Common nib types include fine and broad, while less common are semi-fine and stub nibs, along with calligraphy nibs. Relying on gold and steel nibs as the mainstream choice, gold nibs have a moderate level of flexibility and a wider range of line variation, whereas steel nibs are firmer with less variation. When buying a fountain pen, it is essential to choose a nib that suits you, and most people generally prefer gold nibs. The finishing of the nib affects the damping feel; European and American pens typically lean towards smoothness, while Japanese pens have a moderate damping feel. The center of gravity is often a consideration for heavier pens, and it is best placed around the grip area; a pen with its center of gravity towards the back can cause fatigue with extended writing.

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