Thanks so much! I am getting there. I really need a gamble for steadier motion shots. The quality is good. The 4K looks nice. I’ll keep improving. Thank you!
@@HemingwayJones for the motion shots you can try keeping the camera on a table on top of a towel and slide the towel..much smoother and easier to execute on your own great work with the videos keep up the amazing work!
My first pen was a Platinum Preppy, because even if a Safari or Sport are cheap, I hate spending money on things I'm not sure I will use. I ended up loving it and now I have a few TWSBI ECOs and Kawecos, still trying to figure out what nibs and grips I like before delving into more expensive pens. If I were to add another pen to this list, it would be the TWSBI GO, it is so easy to fill and clean! Great for testing inks and surprisingly comfortable to write with.
Hello Anna, The Platinum Preppy is a great and sensible choice. A lot of people start with the Pilot Varsity in the same way. I think you have chosen wisely! TWSBI is one of my favorite makers and Kaweco too. I love my ECO with the stub. It is so fun to write with. My Kaweco Brass Sport too, which I swapped for their 1.1mm. TWSBI Go looks awesome, but I have never had one. You're inspiring me to try one. All the best.
The Preppy was my gateway fountain pen too. Same rationale. TWSBI 580 next, now I’m … a hopeless case 😆. There are worse things to spend your money on.
Thank you Frank! That means so much to me. Thank you. I wonder if anyone sees my “Moments of Zen.” I have been putting them at the end of each video. I shoot a lot of B Roll and I get to use it. Anyway, thank you. This was very encouraging.
I own all four and enjoy writing with each. My first was a gift - a Kaweco sport - the second the Lamy Safari - then the Metropolitan and finally the Twsbi Eco. For me all have reliable ink flow and nibs that provide predictable lines. Of course the Kaweco is a pocket pen and with the screw cap provides a mental safety factor for traveling. To some the lightness and need to post may be a negative. Both the Kaweco and Metropolitan’s ink capacity is a bit of a writing limitation - if lengthy writing periods are desired. The Lamy and Eco provide more capacity but are a little larger. To me the downside of the Eco is the challenge for nib switching…. Can be done , but at a risk. The other 3 pens can swap nibs within their product line - although only the Lamy and Kaweco have separate NIBS for sale, independent of buying another pen. Unless one needs a pocket pen or small pen - the Lamy’s flexibility on number of nibs along with larger ink capacity may for some be a better choice. As always trade offs are part of the pen process…. Could be like me and own all four of course… I could strongly recommend any of them for a beginner decision. Great writing, to me , the important recommendation is to start enjoying the fountain pen writing world.
I agree with you about the Kaweco and the TWSBI! I’ve yet to try the Lamy or the Pilot. I’m crazy about the aluminum Kaweco! I love my stub nib on the TWSBI Eco but my favorite TWSBI is the Rainbow 700vac with the stub nib!
Good solid recommendations. I personally use all 4 pens. A lot. I do love the Pilot cm nib on the metro. It's swappable to a few other pilot pens and gives really excellent, sharp, line variation.
This was actually my first pen - which I bought a few months ago. I am HOOKED! I love the Iroshisuzu inks (which is honestly what attracted my to fountain pens). I loved how easy the cartridge system works and how easy the Kakuno is to use. I find the writing very consistent and it encouraged me to start researching down the UA-cam rabbit hole on all things fountain pen and writing (improving penmanship, not authoring a book or anything, lol). I was immersed in research for my next pen, and my husband saw me looking at some pens and got me a Waldmann Tango Black pen. I was really surprised - but he explained that he never really knows what to get me as I usually research something and buy it myself. So the pen is under the tree, and I just grabbed some “notions” for cleaning, re-inking, etc. in preparation of moving forward on my journey. I am very happy I “found” your channel (it showed up on my feed this am). Not only are you very transparent about your own takes on the pens you mention here, but you’ve mentioned pens that I’ve heard of many times as good introductory pens. Additionally, I loved so many of the books on your wall - Ayn Rand in particular, but there were several others. Thank you for your content. I’ve subscribed and will check out your other videos shortly.
I've never used a TWSBI Eco, but I agree with you on the rest of them as good, reliable pens. That said, I'm not a fan of the Pilot Metropolitan either: I find it uncomfortable to hold.
I'm not a big fan of the Metropolitan either, but the Cocoon is something else. They look identical, but they don't write the same. Although they require a bit of hunting around since they are sold only in Japan. They are priced in the same bracket though (I got mine for $35). Though since I have tiny hands your milage of comfort may vary. Edit: After seeing this video I'm gonna try out the TWSBI Eco, I might even purchase it as my second pen ever as a stepping stone to the Pilot 823.
We share that in common. I wish I could warm up to it. I need to try your pen. It sounds interesting. I have a Pilot E95S on the way. I am excited for it. All the best.
@@HemingwayJones Also, may I suggest you get the Con40 Pilot piston converter for any Pilot pens that came with a bladder that annoyed you or only came with a cartridge.
I am a software engineer, the fact that I still write at all seem to surprise people. My first fountain pen was actually a gift, a Parker IM. Very traditional and elegant pen, albeit a bit scratchy. But it sparked my interest in fountain pens and actually got myself a Lamy Safari and it's just such a fun pen to write with that I use it far more than the Parker. Also fits my personality more I guess haha. But I am also really interested in the TWSBI Eco (or maybe the 580) as I love to try a transparant one as well so probably getting one of those! The Indigo Blue Bronze version is gorgeous!
Thanks for the great comment. TWSBIs are great and there are many excellent choices. I have done a lot of videos on them and have another one coming up. I know that you will prick an excellent one.
I haven’t used one yet, so I’d hate to say. There is not bad TWSBI though and it looks like an improvement since the 580 is quite long, if you post your pen. Still, I like the Eco out of all. I hope to try one at the Commonwealth Pen Show in a few weeks.
First of all is that a working typewriter on the bookshelf? I own two of them. I gifted two friends a pilot prepppy they love them. I have two Lamy’s a strawberry and cream one. They are nice. My first fountain pen was a kweco iridescent pearl. So pretty.
Hello again, you have quite the nice collection. The iridescent pearl is lovely! As for my typewriters, yes, they all work. I have around 15 of them. Some rare and interesting. I have done some posts on them. Maybe I will again one day. I am tempted to get those Lamy pens as well. I like that the original colors are out again too. So fun.
What is your opinion on low end Parker fountain pen priced mostly like 10 dollars approximately. It happens to be that I need one for marking and taking a quick note. Is Parker good. Considering the price of a Pilot and Lamy, they will be like going overboard in some sort.
I’m afraid I haven’t tried those. I usually reach four Pilot or Jinhao when I want to keep it around or under $10. I am planning on picking up a bunch of lower end pens soon to do some content. All the best.
If I had a child wanting to learn fp's - say, in second grade like I did so many years ago - I'd probably buy him/her a Jinhao Shark or a Kakuno or a Preppy. Goulet Pens has the Shark for sale at $1.97 and having bought and tried one out of curiosity, it certainly writes as well and as easily as those long-ago Sheaffer's cartridge pens that I learned on. Then, if the beginner drops it, no cause for heartbreak. Plus, perhaps they wouldn't like it--again, no great loss. To me, going with a Safari or a Kultur is a step up, as their companies see it also.
@@HemingwayJones I resisted even trying Chinese pens for many years. Regardless of their dictatorship form of government, etc., they are amazing fp's for their price. Particularly good for beginners to get their feet wet without a financial risk of any size.
@@loveisall5520 They come in so many fun forms too, from the Dragon pens, sharks, porcelain. They are a lot of fun. I wish the QC was a bit more consistent, but what can you do?
@@HemingwayJones You got me. I've bought a couple of dozen to give away to newbies and everyone has loved them. You obviously weren't around in the fifties and sixties when all those $1 fp cartridge pens were so universal, and believe me, even with the Sheaffer and Wearever pens, sometimes you'd get a clinker! I've got a couple of those Moonman eyedropper pens and again I find the quality and ease of writing to be far, far above their modest price tags. Certainly worth more for their price than bougie jewelry-store pens hiding very pedestrian innards!
@@loveisall5520 I want to explore some more of these and to feature more affordable options on the channel. I don’t want Fountain Pens to seem like an elitist hobby. For me, it’s all about the writing,
I got a Metropolitan recently. I don't think this hobby is for me because I write just as well with the Pilot Precise roller balls or Uni Ball gel pens. I don't use cursive, though.
you wont believe how much i love your content i am middle aged man who has a penchant for classic things, like typewriters and mechanical watches. By watching your videos i have been able to make a classic choice, a Pilot custom 823 what a delight to write with it. thank you so much.
Thank you, Adil! I am very lucky to have you here. I am so glad that you enjoy the channel! The 823 is an excellent choice! Well done! Keep in touch and drop by again soon.
Lamy Safari is always my recommendation for a first pen. Because of the reasons you mention, but also because I want the person to have a bar set, for functionality. They should know that if they get some pen that is a mess later, it's not that it's a fountain pen. It's the pen. I'm not terribly keen on the other pens you mention, but okay, that's why the choices are so many.
Genuinely not sure why your channel/videos haven't more views. I've recently found your channel and, though I've watched the 'leading' fountain pen enthusiasts on UA-cam over the years, I think your relaxing approach and presentation style far exceeds their abilities. Great job!
I don’t get it either. They just never catch on. I try to make the best content I can and very few people see it. I am so glad that you like it though. Sometimes it’s very discouraging. Thanks again. I appreciate it.
These are all solid choices. I love the Twsbi Eco as well, it's a fantastic pen; I have $100+ pens that don't write as well as the Eco. The Safari is also a good choice as is the Metropolitan and the Kaweko, but as someone who has all four, the Twsbi Eco is the way to go. And for anyone who is a beginner, for about $100 you could buy all four of these pens and if you want to spend $150 you could have 4 fountain pens with a few fantastic inks.
Love the Eco. I just started with fountain pens a few weeks ago and already have 7 pens, 3 of which are Ecos and also a diamond 580. Safe to say I love TWSBIs.
I am starting this month into fountain pens and beginning with a Kaweco Brass Sport (awaiting on delivery), as I am limiting myself to metal fountain pens to minimise plastics in my life, mostly for autographs and business signings. Cheers! 👍
Can you give recommendations for more skinny fountain pens? It seems like all fountain pens are so fat and that is what is stopping me from using them because I like a more slender profile for my fingers.
Sure, I should do a video on this sometime. There are some sleeker beginner pens; Jinhao 82, Scriveiner are a bit more, but are lean. I may do a video on this.
Ok, fountain pens, watches, the odd folding knife sand Bach Cello Suites … Sir, I’d you don’t mind me asking, are you me? Or is it the almighty algorithm? Thanks for this video!
"You have to forget everything you know about you and me..." -A Tyler Durden moment on UA-cam! I am just glad some of this resonates with you. Welcome to the Channel. Consider subscribing and check out some other videos. I think that we have similar taste. Thanks for the kind words.
And now quoting Tyler Durden. A confirmation. I thought I had already subscribed, but I guess I forgot. "Things you own end up owning you": sometimes I think about this quote when I ponder buying yet one more of something I already have and trying to justify it by using the word "collector". Subscribed! @@HemingwayJones
Honestly, i’ve bought g2 pens for a long time. I bought a box 20 colors a couple months ago and saw, just the other week, some video of people with their fountain pen ink haul. I feel like it’s a matter of time before i join them. On another note with these fountain pens, is it possible to find nibs for them that are suited for black letter of gothic script? Particularly that eco one you like so much.
I must admit that you are the reason that i entered this community. I saw your Tiktok video about the twsbi Eco and was immediately captured by it. Here in Germany it is mandatory that you learn how to write with a fountain pen in elementary school, but i couldn't really befriend myself with it at that time since i preferred the simple and 'clean' pencil. I did however enjoy the aristocracy and beauty of a fountain pen. Plus a fountain pen would very much match my Philosophy and History career path haha😄
Hello and thank you for the very kind comment. That is so good to hear. I am so happy that I was able to inspire you. TWSBI makes a great pen and I am glad that you enjoy it. Keep in touch and all the best.
I agree 100% about the Lamy section. Maybe they should take a leaf out of TWSBI's book. The Eco originally came with a round section, then they introduced the Eco T with the triangular grip. A Safari with a round section would go some way towards improving this pen. I have the Pilot Metro as well and find the 'step up' from the section to the barrel quite uncomfortable. I don't mind the rubber sac filling system because, unlike some Chinese pens, the Pilot system actually works. The Kaweco Sport Classic is one of my favourite pens. I have one with a Fine nib. Mine is the colour Bordeaux. It's always within reach when I'm in my Study. The only pen I haven't tried, from your list, is the TWSBI Eco. In fact (shock horror), I don't own any TWSBI fountain pens. Of course, you're right, viewers will give a few alternatives in the comments section but the four you chose are generally regarded as good beginner pens.
I would like the Safari more if it had a round grip, it feels weird in your hands. I love my Kaweco Sport, it right sooooo smooth and looks awesome. I agree with you on the Metropolitan, the included converter works well but the pen is kind of boring once you get more pens. I highly recommend you get a Twsbi, they are fantastic writers and I don't know how they can make a $30 pen write like a $100+ pen.
David, My Friend, thank you. I always look forward to your comments. Bordeaux sounds gorgeous. I love TWSBI. It’s a lot of pen for the price, but it does lack a bit of romance, if you will. Still, an amazing line up.
The pilot metro was my first pen (bright green body) but I think I want to try the Lamy with a calligraphy nib. My only issue with the T-ECO would be my dislike of clear style pens.
Take him up on his advice: stick around for the end ! I just recently watched another of Mr. Jones's podcasts & he had such lovely photography accompanied by one of my favorite pieces: Wagner's Ride of the Valkyries. Beautiful ! I was introduced to fountain pens when I was in grade school (in the Dark Ages). But it didn't go farther than that Schaeffer pen. Now, decades later, I'm fascinated by them & bought a pretty green Platinum Preppy & a beautiful turquoise (they call it aquamarine)Lamy Safari. In a few days, I'll be receiving 16 ink samples from Goulet Pens which I'm very excited to try !
Thank you Pat for the kind words. I’m glad you stuck around until the end of the video. I really enjoy making those montages and I often wonder how many people see them. Thanks for the feedback. You have an amazing collection already with those great choices.
The Lamy grip section is great for how I hold the pen, and makes it easy for my family to notice how to hold it when I get them to try it out! The Kaweco size I really enjoyed, so had to try their smaller Liliput! Love the honesty about the Metro, it’s great to see your recommendations don’t skip pens others may like I had the Metro on a list of pens I wanted, but I decided to save up and have my eye on a Conklin All American in Rainbow. I have been spoiled with great Kaweco Nibs, so I personally think it’s my preference over the Lamy Two videos I’d like to see (Maybe missed them in the past) is beginners Ink video, with same good quality inks for a good price with recommendations for the basic blue and black currently trying to decide on a light blue. Second one is your recommendations for the next step of pens, like if someone wanted to just cross the $100 mark.
Noodler's makes the cheapest high quality inks, much less than most others. A good starting place is those with simple color names like Blue or Black. For a light blue, I like their Navaho Turquoise.
I got a narwhal as my first “real” pen. Was 55$ and it glides like butter- I love it. It’s made me really get into these things. One of these days I’m gonna get an expensive one- but I wanna get a few vintage ones first.
In my experience, less than one dollar pens are very reliable, because they are mass produced and for students office work, unlike fancy pens. And most importantly the pens that have rings on grip like preppy, they just work. They are best pens, pilot also makes rollerball pens like that with rings on grip, these are no hussle pens and one doesn't have to worry about these, also jinhao 80, it looks like lamy 2000, jinhao x159 is a great pen
Hi Hemingway! I have everyone of these pens and unlike your experience, I love the Metro, my first " luxury" pen. Of the five, Twsbi is the best! BLESSINGS
Totally agree with almost everything you say! I dislike the ergo grip on any pen, especially the Lamy Safari, and I also love love love stub nibs. The Lamy and the Pilot have proprietary cartridges though so it might be good to mention that...
That’s a very good point. That’s another strike against the Metro! I bought the converter with the Safari so I didn’t use the cartridge. On my second I did but then I use a syringe to fill. It. Great point and thanks for the comment
I would be unable to say it so well and convincingly, but I fully agree with you. For those who want to start in the world of fountain pens with even less money, there are also Chinese pens with excellent performance and unbeatable relation quality and price.
Just got a Sailor Compass. I got it just because it looked like a pen that I lost years ago. I like it so far, but I realised I don't draw anymore or really write. Time to start again!
My first pen was a pilot varsity it's an exelent choice for a beginner, a $3 pen is always good. My less favorite pen of all four is the Lamy safari and I have a kaweco sport in brass that is my every day fave.
Hello Hector, thanks for the excellent comment. The Varsity is a fine pen. The reason I didn’t mention them is my overall commitment to refillable pens. It is a fantastic pen though that writes amazingly well. I love the Kaweco Brass Sport. That is such a great and fun pen. I love how tarnished mine is getting. Take care and all the best.
@@HemingwayJones the thing I love about the varsity is the thread feed and nib. I have several much more expensive pens that are no where close to as smooth. That said they don’t really get any style points and while they can be refilled that definitely not a beginner endeavor. I’d also add the Platinum Plaisir at $17 and change it’s my favorite starter pen. I haven’t tried the eco because I prefer snap caps but I have a Go that’s great for writing but I wish it had a clip.
@@xslickrickx2103 All great choices. The snap cap is definitely an issue. It is a lot of work during the day screwing and unscrewing, so I completely get it. All the best.
2022-05-15, Sunday. Dear Mr. Hemingway, I trust you are well when you are reading this. I would like to thank you for an informative and very much interesting review. Please, do continue making content within this niche market, it is helpful for us that might feel overwhelmed, and I strongly believe that you bring something new to the table as a fountain pen reviewer. Based on this video alone, I have decided to purchase the TWSBI Eco. This will be my entry pen into the penmanship and the world of fountain pen. I would very much appreciate if you could guide me further into this new experience. Thus, if you may, a suggestion on excellent ink to start with as well as suitable writing paper to go along the TWSBI Eco. Sincerely, P.A.
Wonderful! Thank you for the kind words. I appreciate it very much. I like colorful inks in TWSBI because you can see it and they are easy to clean. Diamine Oxblood is great or j Herbin Saphire. As for paper, Goulet notebooks have very nice Tomeo River paper. You could try those.
@@HemingwayJones Great stuff, I will order the inks! Also, what nib sizes would you suggest, and why; on both the TWSBI Eco and Kaweco Sport? I was thinking to have my TWSBI Eco at home for more heavy journaling whereas the Kaweco Sport for outdoor journaling; i.e., academic-and work notes. To my understanding, bigger the nib size - the more ink gets onto the paper, meaning longer dry time? This could be an issue when taking quick notes i.e., in classroom when I need to flick pages rapidly in order to keep up with the lectures. If that´s the case, perhaps an ballpoint pen is the way to go when taking class notes? Sincerely, P.A.
Not to rain on the parade, but... Out of 4 pens you suggested, I would not recommend Twsbi to a beginner. Since you are talking about taking a pen apart, It would not be beginner friendly as the fins on TWSBI feeds are very brittle and can easily break off. As far as Lamy and Pilot - both use proprietary cartridges and converters and Pilot converters are horrible period. I also encountered another problem with Pilot pen that I had (and I am not the only one with that issue), it would not write with any inks you put in it, unless it is a pilot ink. I do love Pilot nibs, If you are a beginner and willing to spend about 100$ - Pilot E95s with a 14k gold nib is an amazing writer and a great beginner pen! Also, I would recommend some Chinese brands - Jinhao, HongDian are an excellent and inexpensive writers.
I welcome all opinions and especially contrary ones. I am happy to hear from you. The TWSBI is the perfect beginner pen looking for the full fountain pen experience and I have been recommending them with many happy people reporting back. Pilot, we’ll Pilot is Pilot. Not a fan of the Metro. Lamy is God Tier. The G Shock of pens. Pilot E95S is hardly a beginner pen at its price point. It is an entry level gold nib though and a great one at that. Jinhao have horrible QC issues. So inconsistent. HongDian, I have never tried. Thanks for the great comment and stay well.
Anecdotally, I tried to get my sister into fountain pens with an Eco and some ink, FP- friendly paper package. turned out to be optimistic in her case, she was overwhelmed by operating it filling it, etc. To be fair, she never expressed any interest in fountain pens and I surprised her with it. I think someone who wants to get into it will probably enjoy Getting into all the aspects of it.
Allow me to dissent. For people used to paying 19¢ for a BiC, or nothing at all for ballpoints at work, $20+ is a daunting cost for a pen. For new users, I would restrict the selection to pens under $5. My very first choice would be the Pilot Varsity ($3) disposable. See if you like the writing experience at all before dealing with filling issues. For those unwilling to go disposable, I suggest the Pilot Petit1 ($3.30). Of course there are other choices in this price range, such as Jinhao and Wing Sung. A friend GAVE me my first fountain pen ($0). This is by far the best introduction. That's why I have a handful of different giveawayables.
Excellent recommendations Hemmingway! I have all but the Lamy. Love all three. I use the Kaweco least of all. I didn't like it's compact size for carrying around with me and I learned I just don't like smaller, pocket pens. My nib had a lot of hard starts and I tuned it and it writes much better, but still has an occasional skip on Apica paper. I bought a Metropolitan years ago when they were around $12 and I use a regular plastic converter. That was always the thing, it wouldn't fit a larger CON-70 and I don't like CON-40 that much so I syringe the regular converter and I still use it. I'm using it right now as a matter of fact. My medium writes like a FM. I also have a TWSBI Eco with a stainless stub 1.1 (no gold) and those are still in the $35 range. I use it quite a bit for headers and I can't remember when I filled it last lol! The piston is half full at least, so I might only have to fill it every few years at this rate. Great pens for someone who want an entry-level piston filler. I need to try one of their fine nibs just to see what they're like. I would like to try a Lamy some day, I know they make a 1.9 stub, so that one sounds interesting.
False starts are so frustrating. Sorry about that. Thanks so much for watching. I appreciate it. Sounds like you have an excellent collection. Stop by again soon.
Calligraphy nib? Any nib can be a calligraphy nib. For those of us who write in italic script an italic nib is just a nib. Anyway, agreed on the Lamy Safari. They are everywhere and relatively cheap, and encourage a decent standard grip. Beyond that I would recommend quite a few Chinese pens as being a real good value, and with more options. Lots of current Chinese pens have comparable if not better build quality for the price than some of the pens in the video. By the way, there's no such thing as a 'beginner's pen' . If one's writing sucks then it won't matter how cheap or expensive your pen is, it will still suck. Better to invest time in learning skills than in pursuing ever more expensive pens.
Hi Davy, I think you need to try the Lamy Calligraphy nib. It is pretty wonderful. It’s basically a narrow stub and it’s square shoulders give nice line variation to your writing. By “beginners pen,” I mean one that gives one the fountain pen experience without a lot of upfront investment. No reasonable person equates the quality of anyone’s handwriting with anything. We all have our issues and challenges that no amount of practice will surmount. Nibs help with the quality of the line that we control to the extent of our abilities. Nice handwriting has always been far less important to me than interesting handwriting. The most important thing is that people write. It’s the gradual discovery of the hobby that makes it fun. I don’t recommend inexpensive Chinese pens because I have not had good experiences with them and find that these are better options.
@@HemingwayJones Agree and disagree. The Lamy 'calligraphy' nib is just a stub. I have lots of stubs and italics, as well as piles of dip pens. Calligraphy is a style not a tool. If by beginner's pen you mean a cheap experiment, I agree. However, in terms of writing experience the cost of pen does not equate. On practice I disagree. Focussed practice will always lead to improvement. People who claim their handwriting is just bad and that's the way it is are lazy in my opinion, and don't want to commit to improvement. Nibs don't help with the quality of the line. What you are actually talking about is that using certain nib shapes may hide poor technique. Chinese pens today are actually becoming quite respectable in quality while still being very good. I would suggest viewing vlogs of Inkquiring Minds for an overview.
@@davyj5216 Hi Davy, I agree with much of what you say but focused practice doesn’t always lead to improvement and you should be sensitive to those with physical limitations. Nibs clearly do help with the quality of the line or else identical writing with each would be the same, and it clearly isn’t. I handle quite a few Chinese pens and I find their QC, at the lower end, spotty. I still recommend some from time to time, depending on what someone is looking for. I have a Jinhao 450 that is OK. I’d reach for a Lamy or a TWSBI all day long. I absolutely agree that cost does not equal to writing experience. Many of my favorites are entry level, price wise. It’s fun to obsess. I tend to draw fewer absolutes than you do, My Friend. I don’t care what technique someone uses or how their handwriting is. I am happy to see them writing and enjoying this hobby at whatever level. It’s no fun being judgmental and much more fulfilling being encouraging and supportive. The best part of UA-cam is making connections with other people and bolstering them just a little bit as we make this journey through life.
@@HemingwayJones Physical limitations? Why introduce that? I've seen people produce wonderful calligraphy holding a pen in their feet or mouth! People can achieve great things with a little determination and application, no matter their lot in life. I am less interested in the techniques per se, but I am concerned that a great number of fountain pen enthusiasts talk about the ease of using these tools, often end up spending tons of money on high end pens, and never seek to improve their handwriting. That is a kind of poverty to me. Like you, I love to write, and I enjoy encouraging others to do so, but I believe people will have a richer experience if they take a little time to learn the basics. Pick a script and learn it. Not really that difficult, it's how we used to teach our children. (I guess I am considerably older than you and come from an era where these things were systematically taught)
@@davyj5216 I was taught Palmer back in the 70s so I get it. I honestly don’t care how people write. It’s none of my business. I just hope that they are happy and enjoying the process. Anyone can own anything for any reason. Whatever value they find there is their own and if it gives them joy, then I am here for them. I am here for the people who find joy in the same things, in the little pools of ink on the curves of letter, in the glint of light on a lovely nib, in the history or color of a pen, and the joy of discovery. I support all of this. No one need have any level of skill to start on this road. I mention physical limitations because I have numbness in my right arm from my shoulder to my hand that makes it increasingly difficult to write. One of life’s little ironies, but it makes the defiant act of writing that much more magical and wonderful for me. I hope the same for others.
At about $40, it might be a bit expensive for a first pen, but I like the Faber-Castell Hexo. It has a great, smooth nib, and the one I have has a deep blue body and black nib that look so nice. Also, it takes a standard international short cartridge, which makes things easier for beginners.
Great Video Hemmingway! Love all of them pens apart from one, Ive tried and tested the Lamy safari multiple times but just never enjoyed it. I would also like to know you're preferred paper to write on ?
Hello Caspar, thank you for the great comment. I usually write in journals but I love the smoothness of Rhodia, the texture of Ayush, and Claire Fontaine. All the best.
You really have got the hang of this camerawork/editing lark haven't you? Well done and congratulations on your taste in music, pens, watches etc.
Thanks so much! I am getting there. I really need a gamble for steadier motion shots. The quality is good. The 4K looks nice. I’ll keep improving. Thank you!
@@HemingwayJones for the motion shots you can try keeping the camera on a table on top of a towel and slide the towel..much smoother and easier to execute on your own
great work with the videos keep up the amazing work!
@@ShivamChhuneja Thanks for the tip! I appreciate it.
My first pen was a Platinum Preppy, because even if a Safari or Sport are cheap, I hate spending money on things I'm not sure I will use. I ended up loving it and now I have a few TWSBI ECOs and Kawecos, still trying to figure out what nibs and grips I like before delving into more expensive pens. If I were to add another pen to this list, it would be the TWSBI GO, it is so easy to fill and clean! Great for testing inks and surprisingly comfortable to write with.
Hello Anna, The Platinum Preppy is a great and sensible choice. A lot of people start with the Pilot Varsity in the same way. I think you have chosen wisely! TWSBI is one of my favorite makers and Kaweco too. I love my ECO with the stub. It is so fun to write with. My Kaweco Brass Sport too, which I swapped for their 1.1mm. TWSBI Go looks awesome, but I have never had one. You're inspiring me to try one. All the best.
The Preppy was my gateway fountain pen too. Same rationale. TWSBI 580 next, now I’m … a hopeless case 😆. There are worse things to spend your money on.
Subbed because this man sounds very friendly and kind.
Thank you very much! That’s very kind of you to say. Welcome to the channel. I hope that you enjoy it here. All the best.
Hemingway, You are smashing the content, I even hung around until the end and was rewarded with some fantastic classical music.
Thank you Frank! That means so much to me. Thank you. I wonder if anyone sees my “Moments of Zen.” I have been putting them at the end of each video. I shoot a lot of B Roll and I get to use it. Anyway, thank you. This was very encouraging.
I own all four and enjoy writing with each. My first was a gift - a Kaweco sport - the second the Lamy Safari - then the Metropolitan and finally the Twsbi Eco. For me all have reliable ink flow and nibs that provide predictable lines. Of course the Kaweco is a pocket pen and with the screw cap provides a mental safety factor for traveling. To some the lightness and need to post may be a negative. Both the Kaweco and Metropolitan’s ink capacity is a bit of a writing limitation - if lengthy writing periods are desired. The Lamy and Eco provide more capacity but are a little larger. To me the downside of the Eco is the challenge for nib switching…. Can be done , but at a risk. The other 3 pens can swap nibs within their product line - although only the Lamy and Kaweco have separate NIBS for sale, independent of buying another pen. Unless one needs a pocket pen or small pen - the Lamy’s flexibility on number of nibs along with larger ink capacity may for some be a better choice. As always trade offs are part of the pen process…. Could be like me and own all four of course… I could strongly recommend any of them for a beginner decision. Great writing, to me , the important recommendation is to start enjoying the fountain pen writing world.
Wonderful comment. You write with an interesting rhythm, almost in a poetic meter. Well done.
I agree with you about the Kaweco and the TWSBI! I’ve yet to try the Lamy or the Pilot. I’m crazy about the aluminum Kaweco! I love my stub nib on the TWSBI Eco but my favorite TWSBI is the Rainbow 700vac with the stub nib!
I love the TWSBI Vac 700R Iris. Top-tier pen! Mine has a cursive italic nib, I would love to try it with a stub. Thanks so much for watching!
Good solid recommendations. I personally use all 4 pens. A lot. I do love the Pilot cm nib on the metro. It's swappable to a few other pilot pens and gives really excellent, sharp, line variation.
Thank you so much! I need to revisit the Metro. We just don’t get along well and I need to make amends! All the best!
Great video. Love the watch references too!
Glad you enjoyed it. Thank you.
You’re great hemmingway, keep it up, these videos are so nice for beginners
Thank you, Fred! I appreciate it.
this video was awesome!!!!!!!!!!!! love seeing people passionate bout things they love. Good work!
Thank you very much! I am so glad that you enjoyed it. Stop by again soon. All the best.
I'd recommend pilot kakuno, cheap and it writes great.
I love the Kakuno! Great choice!
This was actually my first pen - which I bought a few months ago. I am HOOKED! I love the Iroshisuzu inks (which is honestly what attracted my to fountain pens). I loved how easy the cartridge system works and how easy the Kakuno is to use. I find the writing very consistent and it encouraged me to start researching down the UA-cam rabbit hole on all things fountain pen and writing (improving penmanship, not authoring a book or anything, lol). I was immersed in research for my next pen, and my husband saw me looking at some pens and got me a Waldmann Tango Black pen. I was really surprised - but he explained that he never really knows what to get me as I usually research something and buy it myself. So the pen is under the tree, and I just grabbed some “notions” for cleaning, re-inking, etc. in preparation of moving forward on my journey. I am very happy I “found” your channel (it showed up on my feed this am). Not only are you very transparent about your own takes on the pens you mention here, but you’ve mentioned pens that I’ve heard of many times as good introductory pens. Additionally, I loved so many of the books on your wall - Ayn Rand in particular, but there were several others. Thank you for your content. I’ve subscribed and will check out your other videos shortly.
I've never used a TWSBI Eco, but I agree with you on the rest of them as good, reliable pens. That said, I'm not a fan of the Pilot Metropolitan either: I find it uncomfortable to hold.
Thanks so much for your perspective. I am glad that we share a similar view on the Pilot Metropolitan. All the best.
I'm not a big fan of the Metropolitan either, but the Cocoon is something else. They look identical, but they don't write the same. Although they require a bit of hunting around since they are sold only in Japan. They are priced in the same bracket though (I got mine for $35). Though since I have tiny hands your milage of comfort may vary.
Edit: After seeing this video I'm gonna try out the TWSBI Eco, I might even purchase it as my second pen ever as a stepping stone to the Pilot 823.
We share that in common. I wish I could warm up to it. I need to try your pen. It sounds interesting. I have a Pilot E95S on the way. I am excited for it. All the best.
@@HemingwayJones Cool, I heard a lot about the E95S as well, I'm also looking to own it one day.
@@Hahejo I have very high hopes. We’ll see.
@@HemingwayJones Also, may I suggest you get the Con40 Pilot piston converter for any Pilot pens that came with a bladder that annoyed you or only came with a cartridge.
@@Hahejo Yes, thank you, great suggestion. I have that in my queue and need to pull the trigger on some. Thanks!
I am a software engineer, the fact that I still write at all seem to surprise people. My first fountain pen was actually a gift, a Parker IM. Very traditional and elegant pen, albeit a bit scratchy. But it sparked my interest in fountain pens and actually got myself a Lamy Safari and it's just such a fun pen to write with that I use it far more than the Parker. Also fits my personality more I guess haha.
But I am also really interested in the TWSBI Eco (or maybe the 580) as I love to try a transparant one as well so probably getting one of those! The Indigo Blue Bronze version is gorgeous!
Thanks for the great comment. TWSBIs are great and there are many excellent choices. I have done a lot of videos on them and have another one coming up. I know that you will prick an excellent one.
What's the Benchmade with the Kaweco Sport? Is that a Bailout?
Yes! Bailout with a Tanto M4. I love it so much, I bought 2.
in a few days, I'll have them all!
Wonderful. Enjoy.
I recently purchased the Waterman Carene fountain pen.
Great Choice, Andrew!
@@HemingwayJones thank you. I remembered you talking about your Waterman.
Nice! It’s a beautiful pen and a great design.
What do you think about the TWSBI diamond MINI? Is it really small or?…
I haven’t used one yet, so I’d hate to say. There is not bad TWSBI though and it looks like an improvement since the 580 is quite long, if you post your pen. Still, I like the Eco out of all. I hope to try one at the Commonwealth Pen Show in a few weeks.
First of all is that a working typewriter on the bookshelf? I own two of them. I gifted two friends a pilot prepppy they love them.
I have two Lamy’s a strawberry and cream one. They are nice.
My first fountain pen was a kweco iridescent pearl. So pretty.
Hello again, you have quite the nice collection. The iridescent pearl is lovely! As for my typewriters, yes, they all work. I have around 15 of them. Some rare and interesting. I have done some posts on them. Maybe I will again one day. I am tempted to get those Lamy pens as well. I like that the original colors are out again too. So fun.
What is your opinion on low end Parker fountain pen priced mostly like 10 dollars approximately. It happens to be that I need one for marking and taking a quick note. Is Parker good. Considering the price of a Pilot and Lamy, they will be like going overboard in some sort.
I’m afraid I haven’t tried those. I usually reach four Pilot or Jinhao when I want to keep it around or under $10. I am planning on picking up a bunch of lower end pens soon to do some content. All the best.
If I had a child wanting to learn fp's - say, in second grade like I did so many years ago - I'd probably buy him/her a Jinhao Shark or a Kakuno or a Preppy. Goulet Pens has the Shark for sale at $1.97 and having bought and tried one out of curiosity, it certainly writes as well and as easily as those long-ago Sheaffer's cartridge pens that I learned on. Then, if the beginner drops it, no cause for heartbreak. Plus, perhaps they wouldn't like it--again, no great loss. To me, going with a Safari or a Kultur is a step up, as their companies see it also.
I don’t have a Jinhao Shark. I need to get on that. They are so fun. Thanks very much and all the best.
@@HemingwayJones I resisted even trying Chinese pens for many years. Regardless of their dictatorship form of government, etc., they are amazing fp's for their price. Particularly good for beginners to get their feet wet without a financial risk of any size.
@@loveisall5520 They come in so many fun forms too, from the Dragon pens, sharks, porcelain. They are a lot of fun. I wish the QC was a bit more consistent, but what can you do?
@@HemingwayJones You got me. I've bought a couple of dozen to give away to newbies and everyone has loved them. You obviously weren't around in the fifties and sixties when all those $1 fp cartridge pens were so universal, and believe me, even with the Sheaffer and Wearever pens, sometimes you'd get a clinker! I've got a couple of those Moonman eyedropper pens and again I find the quality and ease of writing to be far, far above their modest price tags. Certainly worth more for their price than bougie jewelry-store pens hiding very pedestrian innards!
@@loveisall5520 I want to explore some more of these and to feature more affordable options on the channel. I don’t want Fountain Pens to seem like an elitist hobby. For me, it’s all about the writing,
I feel the Diplomat Magnum gets quite overlooked when talking about Beginners pens...
I have never used one. I should seek it out. I like Diplomat. There are a lot of beginners pens I haven’t used.
The waterman Graduate?
I haven’t tried it but I love Waterman. Maybe I’ll pick one up. Best!
I got a Metropolitan recently. I don't think this hobby is for me because I write just as well with the Pilot Precise roller balls or Uni Ball gel pens. I don't use cursive, though.
It’s all about whatever you enjoy. I would stick with it a bit. There is a period of adjustment. Maybe revisit it on occasion.
I'm wanting to get a fountain pen but I print all in capitals with a parker ball point.. I'm scared about the transition
You’ll be fine. It will be smoother.
you wont believe how much i love your content i am middle aged man who has a penchant for classic things, like typewriters and mechanical watches. By watching your videos i have been able to make a classic choice, a Pilot custom 823 what a delight to write with it. thank you so much.
Thank you, Adil! I am very lucky to have you here. I am so glad that you enjoy the channel! The 823 is an excellent choice! Well done! Keep in touch and drop by again soon.
Lamy Safari is always my recommendation for a first pen. Because of the reasons you mention, but also because I want the person to have a bar set, for functionality. They should know that if they get some pen that is a mess later, it's not that it's a fountain pen. It's the pen.
I'm not terribly keen on the other pens you mention, but okay, that's why the choices are so many.
It makes the hobby fun and gives us something to talk about. Wish you all the best.
Genuinely not sure why your channel/videos haven't more views. I've recently found your channel and, though I've watched the 'leading' fountain pen enthusiasts on UA-cam over the years, I think your relaxing approach and presentation style far exceeds their abilities. Great job!
I don’t get it either. They just never catch on. I try to make the best content I can and very few people see it. I am so glad that you like it though. Sometimes it’s very discouraging. Thanks again. I appreciate it.
Durability - Lamy
These are all solid choices. I love the Twsbi Eco as well, it's a fantastic pen; I have $100+ pens that don't write as well as the Eco. The Safari is also a good choice as is the Metropolitan and the Kaweko, but as someone who has all four, the Twsbi Eco is the way to go. And for anyone who is a beginner, for about $100 you could buy all four of these pens and if you want to spend $150 you could have 4 fountain pens with a few fantastic inks.
Thanks Dylan, I should have closed the video with “why not buy all four!” I am also a huge fan of the TWSBI. It’s my favorite in the bunch.
Love the Eco. I just started with fountain pens a few weeks ago and already have 7 pens, 3 of which are Ecos and also a diamond 580. Safe to say I love TWSBIs.
Jinhao X750, Jinhao 166, Jinhao X159 and Platinum Preppy. Everyone a winner.
Total cost for all 4 pens $40 and all with great free converters.
I think these are really solid beginner suggestions and love to see your videos improving Mr. Jones. Keep up the great work!
Thank you very much. I appreciate it.
I am starting this month into fountain pens and beginning with a Kaweco Brass Sport (awaiting on delivery), as I am limiting myself to metal fountain pens to minimise plastics in my life, mostly for autographs and business signings. Cheers! 👍
That sounds great. Wish you all the best! Thanks for the perspective.
...in the 50s i started with wearever pens.
Great video like always! I’ll never get tired of hearing at the beginning “our little corner of the internet “
Thanks so much, My Friend!
Can you give recommendations for more skinny fountain pens? It seems like all fountain pens are so fat and that is what is stopping me from using them because I like a more slender profile for my fingers.
Sure, I should do a video on this sometime. There are some sleeker beginner pens; Jinhao 82, Scriveiner are a bit more, but are lean. I may do a video on this.
Are you using the camera with a magnifying glass for some of the macro shots? I do that with my Swiss Army Knife explorer often
Hello and thank you for watching! No, I use my iPhone to record. That and occasionally the camera on my MacBook Pro. Thanks!
Best beginner FP for me is the Pilot Kaküno for less than $15.
I love that pen! You will be seeing more of it.
I own these three favorite pens. Love, love, love all three. Twisbi being my #1.
I think I am with you there. I love TWSBI!
"G-Shock"of pens is the Lamy. Nice. Great selection and recommendations for beginners. In the 50s, i started.with W
Thank you for picking up on that reference! I appreciate it. All the best!
Ok, fountain pens, watches, the odd folding knife sand Bach Cello Suites …
Sir, I’d you don’t mind me asking, are you me?
Or is it the almighty algorithm?
Thanks for this video!
"You have to forget everything you know about you and me..." -A Tyler Durden moment on UA-cam! I am just glad some of this resonates with you. Welcome to the Channel. Consider subscribing and check out some other videos. I think that we have similar taste. Thanks for the kind words.
And now quoting Tyler Durden. A confirmation. I thought I had already subscribed, but I guess I forgot.
"Things you own end up owning you": sometimes I think about this quote when I ponder buying yet one more of something I already have and trying to justify it by using the word "collector".
Subscribed!
@@HemingwayJones
Thanks very much! I appreciate your being here!
Very useful information. Tysm for taking the time to offer it up!
You are so welcome! Thanks for watching.
Honestly, i’ve bought g2 pens for a long time. I bought a box 20 colors a couple months ago and saw, just the other week, some video of people with their fountain pen ink haul. I feel like it’s a matter of time before i join them.
On another note with these fountain pens, is it possible to find nibs for them that are suited for black letter of gothic script? Particularly that eco one you like so much.
Sure, try a stub! They are great for Gothic. Thanks for watching.
@@HemingwayJones hey there we go, least i know the name it goes by now.
I must admit that you are the reason that i entered this community. I saw your Tiktok video about the twsbi Eco and was immediately captured by it. Here in Germany it is mandatory that you learn how to write with a fountain pen in elementary school, but i couldn't really befriend myself with it at that time since i preferred the simple and 'clean' pencil. I did however enjoy the aristocracy and beauty of a fountain pen.
Plus a fountain pen would very much match my Philosophy and History career path haha😄
Hello and thank you for the very kind comment. That is so good to hear. I am so happy that I was able to inspire you. TWSBI makes a great pen and I am glad that you enjoy it. Keep in touch and all the best.
I agree 100% about the Lamy section. Maybe they should take a leaf out of TWSBI's book. The Eco originally came with a round section, then they introduced the Eco T with the triangular grip. A Safari with a round section would go some way towards improving this pen. I have the Pilot Metro as well and find the 'step up' from the section to the barrel quite uncomfortable. I don't mind the rubber sac filling system because, unlike some Chinese pens, the Pilot system actually works. The Kaweco Sport Classic is one of my favourite pens. I have one with a Fine nib. Mine is the colour Bordeaux. It's always within reach when I'm in my Study. The only pen I haven't tried, from your list, is the TWSBI Eco. In fact (shock horror), I don't own any TWSBI fountain pens. Of course, you're right, viewers will give a few alternatives in the comments section but the four you chose are generally regarded as good beginner pens.
I would like the Safari more if it had a round grip, it feels weird in your hands. I love my Kaweco Sport, it right sooooo smooth and looks awesome. I agree with you on the Metropolitan, the included converter works well but the pen is kind of boring once you get more pens. I highly recommend you get a Twsbi, they are fantastic writers and I don't know how they can make a $30 pen write like a $100+ pen.
@@umpapamaomao Thank you for your response. You're right, I should get a TWSBI Eco. They are incredible value for money.
David, My Friend, thank you. I always look forward to your comments. Bordeaux sounds gorgeous. I love TWSBI. It’s a lot of pen for the price, but it does lack a bit of romance, if you will. Still, an amazing line up.
I wish I could get a round grip for the Safari.
notable miss Platinum Preppy
It’s a wonderful pen. It’s been n other lists. Thanks!
Pilot Kakuno!
Love that pen.
The pilot metro was my first pen (bright green body) but I think I want to try the Lamy with a calligraphy nib. My only issue with the T-ECO would be my dislike of clear style pens.
These are worth a look too...
Platinum Preppy
Platinum Plaisir
Platinum Prefounte
Platinum Cool
Cross Bailey Light
Pentel Tradio
Stabilo Flow
Pilot Kakuno
Kaco Retro
Parker Vector
Sheaffer VFM
Pelikan Jazz Elegance
Thanks very much
Mister Hemingway are you the writer of Old Man and the Sea. Thanks.
Take him up on his advice: stick around for the end ! I just recently watched another of Mr. Jones's podcasts & he had such lovely photography accompanied by one of my favorite pieces: Wagner's Ride of the Valkyries. Beautiful !
I was introduced to fountain pens when I was in grade school (in the Dark Ages). But it didn't go farther than that Schaeffer pen. Now, decades later, I'm fascinated by them & bought a pretty green Platinum Preppy & a beautiful turquoise (they call it aquamarine)Lamy Safari. In a few days, I'll be receiving 16 ink samples from Goulet Pens which I'm very excited to try !
Thank you Pat for the kind words. I’m glad you stuck around until the end of the video. I really enjoy making those montages and I often wonder how many people see them. Thanks for the feedback. You have an amazing collection already with those great choices.
Now that sounds like a great idea, ink samples, I am heading over to Goulet pens, Thank you for the heads up.
@@frankcavill2206 very welcome. If you tell them your birthday, you get a free gift...I got 8 free ink samples!
The Lamy grip section is great for how I hold the pen, and makes it easy for my family to notice how to hold it when I get them to try it out! The Kaweco size I really enjoyed, so had to try their smaller Liliput! Love the honesty about the Metro, it’s great to see your recommendations don’t skip pens others may like
I had the Metro on a list of pens I wanted, but I decided to save up and have my eye on a Conklin All American in Rainbow. I have been spoiled with great Kaweco Nibs, so I personally think it’s my preference over the Lamy
Two videos I’d like to see (Maybe missed them in the past) is beginners Ink video, with same good quality inks for a good price with recommendations for the basic blue and black currently trying to decide on a light blue. Second one is your recommendations for the next step of pens, like if someone wanted to just cross the $100 mark.
Thanks for the great comment. I am so glad you liked the video. I haven’t done anything on inks yet. That is a great suggestion. Thank you!
I like Conklin pens, by the way, but I think I like the Kaweco nibs better.
Noodler's makes the cheapest high quality inks, much less than most others. A good starting place is those with simple color names like Blue or Black. For a light blue, I like their Navaho Turquoise.
I got a narwhal as my first “real” pen. Was 55$ and it glides like butter- I love it. It’s made me really get into these things. One of these days I’m gonna get an expensive one- but I wanna get a few vintage ones first.
That is a very good strategy!
@@HemingwayJones do you have any videos about vintage pens with piston converters?
I think you missed the Jinhao x750 pens I love mine
In my experience, less than one dollar pens are very reliable, because they are mass produced and for students office work, unlike fancy pens. And most importantly the pens that have rings on grip like preppy, they just work. They are best pens, pilot also makes rollerball pens like that with rings on grip, these are no hussle pens and one doesn't have to worry about these, also jinhao 80, it looks like lamy 2000, jinhao x159 is a great pen
Wonderful! It’s great to connect with a pen you enjoy. Thanks for the comment.
Hi Hemingway! I have everyone of these pens and unlike your experience, I love the Metro, my first " luxury" pen. Of the five, Twsbi is the best! BLESSINGS
Thank you! I am definitely in the “Hot Take” crowd with my criticism of the Metro. I love the Kakuno though.
I saw a BM Bugout cameo. 😂 I am also a knife collector. 😁
It’s a Bail Out, but yes! Good spot and Tanto blade. Love it. They make appearances from time to time. Thanks!
Totally agree with almost everything you say! I dislike the ergo grip on any pen, especially the Lamy Safari, and I also love love love stub nibs. The Lamy and the Pilot have proprietary cartridges though so it might be good to mention that...
That’s a very good point. That’s another strike against the Metro! I bought the converter with the Safari so I didn’t use the cartridge. On my second I did but then I use a syringe to fill. It. Great point and thanks for the comment
Faber Castell Loom is on sale in UK at W Smith booksellers for $33 US, great nibs by JoWo customized for smooth writing.
You cannot go wrong with Jowo. Great suggestion!
I would be unable to say it so well and convincingly, but I fully agree with you. For those who want to start in the world of fountain pens with even less money, there are also Chinese pens with excellent performance and unbeatable relation quality and price.
Great suggestion! Thank you for the kind words!
Just got a Sailor Compass. I got it just because it looked like a pen that I lost years ago. I like it so far, but I realised I don't draw anymore or really write. Time to start again!
Wonderful! And that is a great pen to do both. All the best.
Thank you, pen Val Kilmer
Hi
I was just wondering what size is the calligraphy nib on the Lamy safari
Dg
Hello! It’s a 1.1mm. It feels very sharp sided in a very good way.
Found this guy on tiktok, and now I’m buying my first fountain pen. Going with a Twsbi 580.
Thanks so much! The 580 is a great pen.
Can’t wait for my Twsbi eco to come in!
I love that pen so much. I may make a video just on its virtues.
Parker, Sheaffer and Cross have some lovely pens for beginners.
Truly!
🙏🙏🙏
My first pen was a pilot varsity it's an exelent choice for a beginner, a $3 pen is always good.
My less favorite pen of all four is the Lamy safari and I have a kaweco sport in brass that is my every day fave.
Hello Hector, thanks for the excellent comment. The Varsity is a fine pen. The reason I didn’t mention them is my overall commitment to refillable pens. It is a fantastic pen though that writes amazingly well. I love the Kaweco Brass Sport. That is such a great and fun pen. I love how tarnished mine is getting. Take care and all the best.
@@HemingwayJones the thing I love about the varsity is the thread feed and nib. I have several much more expensive pens that are no where close to as smooth. That said they don’t really get any style points and while they can be refilled that definitely not a beginner endeavor. I’d also add the Platinum Plaisir at $17 and change it’s my favorite starter pen. I haven’t tried the eco because I prefer snap caps but I have a Go that’s great for writing but I wish it had a clip.
@@xslickrickx2103 All great choices. The snap cap is definitely an issue. It is a lot of work during the day screwing and unscrewing, so I completely get it. All the best.
apparently, I need to get a Metropolitan!
Sure, why not?
This was great thx
Thank you!
2022-05-15, Sunday.
Dear Mr. Hemingway,
I trust you are well when you are reading this. I would like to thank you for an informative and very much interesting review. Please, do continue making content within this niche market, it is helpful for us that might feel overwhelmed, and I strongly believe that you bring something new to the table as a fountain pen reviewer.
Based on this video alone, I have decided to purchase the TWSBI Eco. This will be my entry pen into the penmanship and the world of fountain pen. I would very much appreciate if you could guide me further into this new experience. Thus, if you may, a suggestion on excellent ink to start with as well as suitable writing paper to go along the TWSBI Eco.
Sincerely,
P.A.
Wonderful! Thank you for the kind words. I appreciate it very much. I like colorful inks in TWSBI because you can see it and they are easy to clean. Diamine Oxblood is great or j Herbin Saphire. As for paper, Goulet notebooks have very nice Tomeo River paper. You could try those.
@@HemingwayJones
Great stuff, I will order the inks!
Also, what nib sizes would you suggest, and why; on both the TWSBI Eco and Kaweco Sport?
I was thinking to have my TWSBI Eco at home for more heavy journaling whereas the Kaweco Sport for outdoor journaling; i.e., academic-and work notes.
To my understanding, bigger the nib size - the more ink gets onto the paper, meaning longer dry time? This could be an issue when taking quick notes i.e., in classroom when I need to flick pages rapidly in order to keep up with the lectures. If that´s the case, perhaps an ballpoint pen is the way to go when taking class notes?
Sincerely,
P.A.
Dear Mr. Hemingway
I would be grateful if you could reply to my comment above.
Many thanks,
P.A.
@@pierre.a.2982 Wonderful. Let me know your thoughts when they come. Sorry, I missed that one. I am trying to answer each comment. Thanks!
@@HemingwayJones Great! Looking forward hearing your thoughts about my question regarding the different nib sizes.
Best wishes,
P.A.
Not to rain on the parade, but... Out of 4 pens you suggested, I would not recommend Twsbi to a beginner. Since you are talking about taking a pen apart, It would not be beginner friendly as the fins on TWSBI feeds are very brittle and can easily break off. As far as Lamy and Pilot - both use proprietary cartridges and converters and Pilot converters are horrible period. I also encountered another problem with Pilot pen that I had (and I am not the only one with that issue), it would not write with any inks you put in it, unless it is a pilot ink. I do love Pilot nibs, If you are a beginner and willing to spend about 100$ - Pilot E95s with a 14k gold nib is an amazing writer and a great beginner pen! Also, I would recommend some Chinese brands - Jinhao, HongDian are an excellent and inexpensive writers.
I welcome all opinions and especially contrary ones. I am happy to hear from you. The TWSBI is the perfect beginner pen looking for the full fountain pen experience and I have been recommending them with many happy people reporting back. Pilot, we’ll Pilot is Pilot. Not a fan of the Metro. Lamy is God Tier. The G Shock of pens. Pilot E95S is hardly a beginner pen at its price point. It is an entry level gold nib though and a great one at that. Jinhao have horrible QC issues. So inconsistent. HongDian, I have never tried. Thanks for the great comment and stay well.
Anecdotally, I tried to get my sister into fountain pens with an Eco and some ink, FP- friendly paper package. turned out to be optimistic in her case, she was overwhelmed by operating it filling it, etc. To be fair, she never expressed any interest in fountain pens and I surprised her with it. I think someone who wants to get into it will probably enjoy Getting into all the aspects of it.
Allow me to dissent. For people used to paying 19¢ for a BiC, or nothing at all for ballpoints at work, $20+ is a daunting cost for a pen. For new users, I would restrict the selection to pens under $5. My very first choice would be the Pilot Varsity ($3) disposable. See if you like the writing experience at all before dealing with filling issues. For those unwilling to go disposable, I suggest the Pilot Petit1 ($3.30). Of course there are other choices in this price range, such as Jinhao and Wing Sung.
A friend GAVE me my first fountain pen ($0). This is by far the best introduction. That's why I have a handful of different giveawayables.
Thank you, My friend! I welcome dissent and appreciate your great perspective. Always a pleasure.
Excellent recommendations Hemmingway! I have all but the Lamy. Love all three. I use the Kaweco least of all. I didn't like it's compact size for carrying around with me and I learned I just don't like smaller, pocket pens. My nib had a lot of hard starts and I tuned it and it writes much better, but still has an occasional skip on Apica paper. I bought a Metropolitan years ago when they were around $12 and I use a regular plastic converter. That was always the thing, it wouldn't fit a larger CON-70 and I don't like CON-40 that much so I syringe the regular converter and I still use it. I'm using it right now as a matter of fact. My medium writes like a FM. I also have a TWSBI Eco with a stainless stub 1.1 (no gold) and those are still in the $35 range. I use it quite a bit for headers and I can't remember when I filled it last lol! The piston is half full at least, so I might only have to fill it every few years at this rate. Great pens for someone who want an entry-level piston filler. I need to try one of their fine nibs just to see what they're like. I would like to try a Lamy some day, I know they make a 1.9 stub, so that one sounds interesting.
False starts are so frustrating. Sorry about that. Thanks so much for watching. I appreciate it. Sounds like you have an excellent collection. Stop by again soon.
You are literally one of my favorite youtube/tiktokers
Thank you so so much!
Calligraphy nib? Any nib can be a calligraphy nib. For those of us who write in italic script an italic nib is just a nib. Anyway, agreed on the Lamy Safari. They are everywhere and relatively cheap, and encourage a decent standard grip. Beyond that I would recommend quite a few Chinese pens as being a real good value, and with more options. Lots of current Chinese pens have comparable if not better build quality for the price than some of the pens in the video. By the way, there's no such thing as a 'beginner's pen' . If one's writing sucks then it won't matter how cheap or expensive your pen is, it will still suck. Better to invest time in learning skills than in pursuing ever more expensive pens.
Hi Davy, I think you need to try the Lamy Calligraphy nib. It is pretty wonderful. It’s basically a narrow stub and it’s square shoulders give nice line variation to your writing. By “beginners pen,” I mean one that gives one the fountain pen experience without a lot of upfront investment. No reasonable person equates the quality of anyone’s handwriting with anything. We all have our issues and challenges that no amount of practice will surmount. Nibs help with the quality of the line that we control to the extent of our abilities. Nice handwriting has always been far less important to me than interesting handwriting. The most important thing is that people write. It’s the gradual discovery of the hobby that makes it fun. I don’t recommend inexpensive Chinese pens because I have not had good experiences with them and find that these are better options.
@@HemingwayJones Agree and disagree. The Lamy 'calligraphy' nib is just a stub. I have lots of stubs and italics, as well as piles of dip pens. Calligraphy is a style not a tool. If by beginner's pen you mean a cheap experiment, I agree. However, in terms of writing experience the cost of pen does not equate. On practice I disagree. Focussed practice will always lead to improvement. People who claim their handwriting is just bad and that's the way it is are lazy in my opinion, and don't want to commit to improvement. Nibs don't help with the quality of the line. What you are actually talking about is that using certain nib shapes may hide poor technique. Chinese pens today are actually becoming quite respectable in quality while still being very good. I would suggest viewing vlogs of Inkquiring Minds for an overview.
@@davyj5216 Hi Davy, I agree with much of what you say but focused practice doesn’t always lead to improvement and you should be sensitive to those with physical limitations. Nibs clearly do help with the quality of the line or else identical writing with each would be the same, and it clearly isn’t. I handle quite a few Chinese pens and I find their QC, at the lower end, spotty. I still recommend some from time to time, depending on what someone is looking for. I have a Jinhao 450 that is OK. I’d reach for a Lamy or a TWSBI all day long. I absolutely agree that cost does not equal to writing experience. Many of my favorites are entry level, price wise. It’s fun to obsess. I tend to draw fewer absolutes than you do, My Friend. I don’t care what technique someone uses or how their handwriting is. I am happy to see them writing and enjoying this hobby at whatever level. It’s no fun being judgmental and much more fulfilling being encouraging and supportive. The best part of UA-cam is making connections with other people and bolstering them just a little bit as we make this journey through life.
@@HemingwayJones Physical limitations? Why introduce that? I've seen people produce wonderful calligraphy holding a pen in their feet or mouth! People can achieve great things with a little determination and application, no matter their lot in life. I am less interested in the techniques per se, but I am concerned that a great number of fountain pen enthusiasts talk about the ease of using these tools, often end up spending tons of money on high end pens, and never seek to improve their handwriting. That is a kind of poverty to me. Like you, I love to write, and I enjoy encouraging others to do so, but I believe people will have a richer experience if they take a little time to learn the basics. Pick a script and learn it. Not really that difficult, it's how we used to teach our children. (I guess I am considerably older than you and come from an era where these things were systematically taught)
@@davyj5216 I was taught Palmer back in the 70s so I get it. I honestly don’t care how people write. It’s none of my business. I just hope that they are happy and enjoying the process. Anyone can own anything for any reason. Whatever value they find there is their own and if it gives them joy, then I am here for them. I am here for the people who find joy in the same things, in the little pools of ink on the curves of letter, in the glint of light on a lovely nib, in the history or color of a pen, and the joy of discovery. I support all of this. No one need have any level of skill to start on this road. I mention physical limitations because I have numbness in my right arm from my shoulder to my hand that makes it increasingly difficult to write. One of life’s little ironies, but it makes the defiant act of writing that much more magical and wonderful for me. I hope the same for others.
At about $40, it might be a bit expensive for a first pen, but I like the Faber-Castell Hexo. It has a great, smooth nib, and the one I have has a deep blue body and black nib that look so nice. Also, it takes a standard international short cartridge, which makes things easier for beginners.
Sounds like a great option. Thank you!
Great Video Hemmingway! Love all of them pens apart from one, Ive tried and tested the Lamy safari multiple times but just never enjoyed it. I would also like to know you're preferred paper to write on ?
Hello Caspar, thank you for the great comment. I usually write in journals but I love the smoothness of Rhodia, the texture of Ayush, and Claire Fontaine. All the best.
Great recommendations! All of them are on my wish list but I’m definitely enjoying my Pilot Metropolitan Retro Pop steel (F)
Roy
Auburn, WA.
An excellent choice, My Friend.
Pilot kakuno, its also there.
The Pilot Kakuno is definitely there and Adorable! I didn’t own one at the time I filmed this.