I have watched far too many reviews on fountain pens over the years. This is the most thorough and your balance of reason and crazy references keeps me watching. Many thanks
Have two Lamy 2000’s one B and one BB. These are amazing pens on many levels. The makralon feels great. The finish and build quality is second to none. The piston system is fantastic! Easy to repair; parts aplenty. 14k gold nibs. They’ve been around this long for a reason. Oh, I appreciated your review and just ordered a Jinhao 80 to try BTW.
I did order 2 Jinhao 80 … both black but one silver and one black clip.. EF nib… Oh. My. Gosh. Inked it up with Noodlers Turquoise (after rinsing it first😊) and I love it. Writes so smooth and consistently, and the bonus is the snap cap that posts if I get a hankering to do that, but usually don’t post. Snap caps rock my penworld 😍 It looks posh and slick, writes beautifully and I like it so stinking much 😂
Your video fell on me like rained from heaven. I was thinking about ordering a Jinhao 80. Now I have many more things clear. Thank you very much for your always instructive videos with which I learn every day.
I can't afford a Lamy 2000 so this is a great substitute for me. I'm also very sceptical to the "metal ears" on the 2000 and I have a feeling I would hate them. I will try a Jinhao 80 and see if I like it, then there will be other colours to choose from too. Very nice! 🤗❤️👏
I just got this pen due to your and others reviews and man I am blown away how much I like this pen. Even with the original nib. Will have to try putting a lamy nib on it.
My Jinhao 80 arrived today. It feels like plastic. I like that it now has a black Lamy nib but it still doesn't feel right. I know you don't like them but I prefer the Kaco edge for feel. It feels more like a L2000. For me with the Lamy nib it's a better Safari for around Safari money. Thanks for the review.
Thank you!!! I hated the nib on my 80s I was looking on amazon for replacement nibs for it while having 4 lamy safaris sitting in a pen case! That was until I found your video. Definitely subbed ❤
Goulet is generally more expensive than I'm willing to pay, even here in the United States, so I buy pens either direct from China or vintage on eBay, as even including shipping, those tend to be less. And I found a seller via eBay for the best price for modern Diamine inks (just over $5 USD including shipping for a 30 mL bottle, and around $13 USD for the 80 mL bottle), so I have yet to get anything from them. Interesting pen! I may have to look into it, as I really haven't gotten a Jinhao I didn't like. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this pen!
Thanks for this video. I bought one today after seeing your video but not others because they all kept saying how much Lamy is the best. Well, sure best ever if one has $200+ tax to play or placed on a credit card & pretending like money comes easily. 😅 lol. Seriously, I love my Lamy AlStar from 2014 but hated my Lamy EF nib on a Safari that I grind it & adjusted until it flowed juicy & wet with no skips. Hopefully, I get a good one of this Jinhao 80. Thank you. 😊 ❤ P.S. I like the idea of ordering two more for different nibs sizes for Lamy especially the 1.5 & 1.1 mm stubs that I love.
thank you so much for this review! i've been looking for a cheap pen that takes lamy nibs to justify ordering a bunch of custom ground z50 style nibs off taobao. your writing sample was also really helpful. keep up the good work!
I am glad I watched this episode because I own a Jinhao 80 that I used once or twice and I put it away. The nib was like writing with a needle. I bought a Lamy medium nib and I replaced the Jinhao nib. Now the pen writes really well. Thanks!
A nice review. I am awaiting the arrival of my Jinhao 80 in the next few days. I have had three kaco edges for over a year. All three are still perfect and I find their nibs super smooth. Maybe I have been lucky with them. :-)
Got myself one of these. Feels good. Writes great. For around $3 you can purchase a set of 3 Jinhao Lamy style 1.1 stubs from Ali Express. In my opinion these write as well as any Lamy nibs I have ever used. What a bargain. Thanks for your review.
I agree, for the $4 price point, it's incredibly a good deal. The nib that came with it for me was excellent on its own. The EF nib is good to write on cheaper paper. Though I'm buying a 1.1 / 1.5 as well for nib swaps. Just on the contrary that I love my lamy 2k... but still the jinhao 80 is definitely not a pen you should pass up on, especially again, considering the price.
Excellent review as always. I have two Aions, at least 4 Studios (2 with gold nibs), and two 2000s (fine and medium). I have no need for this Chinese knock-off but appreciate the effort. I grip my 2000 at the window, and the “sweet spot” happens to be where I write anyway. So it works great for me.
@@InkquiringMinds, I forgot to mention that the Lamy Calligraphy nib is not worth the trouble. The line variation is between fine vertical and fine/medium horizontal. Plus, it’s scratchy. Just get a regular black Lamy nib.
Another great video Doug. That is one impressive pen and then when you add the fact of it's $4 price tag and compatibility with Lamy nibs (non Lamy 2000) makes it a steal. And thank you for your honesty in saying that you weren't a fan of the Lamy 2000. That's the beauty of fountain pens; there are so many choices out there that part of the fun is finding what feels best for yourself. By the way, that Lamy Studio palladium you've got is a sharp looking pen. Does the oblique nib you have give you good line variation? Again, great video Doug! Have a great day! 👍👍
Yes, for the price it is a nice pen. My OBB nib on the Lamy 2000 gives some variation, but where it shines is with shading ink, as the ink amount varies a more than line width, and that works well for shading ink.
Nice review! I do prefer the L2K for the piston filler/ink window and incognito semi hooded nib. However this definitely has its advantages with the widely available nib options. Now I just wish Lamy would make a stealth 2K with a black clip and section.
@@InkquiringMinds I am pretty sure this already exists. 2019 special edition but still available at some sellers. All black hardware including nib plus black grip section.
Great video, Like you I loved this pen so much I ordered the silver version almost straight away! I was reluctant to put too much pressure when trying to swap the nib but seeing how easily you manged I'll give it another go and fit my black Lamy Medium nib to make it a totally stealth pen. I should say however, I did enjoy writing with the Jinhao nib a lot more than I unexpected to it has actually became my daily journal pen.
The magic of editing! It was not that easy to get the nib off the first time. I used a jeweler's flat blade screwdriver to move the nib away from the section a bit to get it started.
As I have said before, I love your video references. I don't know how you come up with such arcane references to video, but they are very entertaining. Thanks as always. BTW, do you have an online store where you sell your pens that you no longer want?
Thank you, MrCabimero! They just come out of my fevered brain. I don't currently do that. When I sell a pen, it is either through my local pen club or on the Facebook Marketplace. I know Stephen Brown sells his pens through his own website. I have a separate Facebook page called "Inkquiring Minds" which I haven't really used. Perhaps when I have a bunch of them, I'll advertise them there. Thanks for the thought.
I’ve been debating buying this pen for like two weeks. Once again you’ve convinced me to pull the trigger good sir. I also absolutely love my Lammy 1.1 stub I have in my all-star. I also really want to try that cursive nib I just haven’t been able to bring myself to buy it yet. When it comes will you make a video on how it writes?
Great vid -- will definitely buy one of these rather than save up for a L2K. Just a heads-up, the affiliate tag in the Goldspot link in video description appears to be broken (takes you to the website, but the "aff=8" bit is not highlighted). If this is an issue you've addressed earlier, sorry for the spam! Cheers
Lamy compatible parts? Sassy. I saw this pen available in F, XF and 0.2 XXF. I've never seen a nib that fine on a Chinese pen. Prepare to rejoice, fans of the tiny line (if it's consistent)! I'm glad the pen was to your liking. I'll be curious to see how this Lamy cursive nib writes.
Hello. Once again I have enjoyed an informative review on a pen I had just heard of. My one question is you said you bought it at the basket. What is the basket?
Hi Doug sir, will it take the Parker cartridge as well like cartridges used in Parker Vector or Frontier? I have spare Parker cartridges that I want to make use of....
Doug I can easily understand how Lamy nibs fit the Jinhao 80. But how can I figure out how other nibs may fit other beautiful and inexpensive pens? Is it just trial and error. I’m not as experienced as you and many others. Any advice as how to go about this?. Thank you for your help and reviews!
@@InkquiringMinds that's a shame! Would've considered buying a studio. I find so many Lamy pens are close to perfection but have major deal-breakers. The Safari grip and almost anything without it has a slippery metal grip instead. Such a shame as their steel nibs are some of the best! Their pens are often heavy and the lugs on the 2000 didn't look nice for me, as well as the fact that the nib is so wet and broad means you want a smaller nib which has a smaller sweet-spot!
Jinhao 80 is based upon a discontinued Lamy 80, that was itself based upon a different brands product. I don't think Jinhao is trying replace or clone a Lamy 2K
"It was everything the Lamy 2000 was not" Sir Doug Yeah, at least there are pen manufacturers out there that can do something right for the better. Thanks for the great review Sir Doug. Really helped on future financial planning for fountain pens
Hi Doug, ur videos are very informative and reliable, I need to know if i can use fine ,medium,and broad lamy nibs beside the 1.1mm as I have ordered 2 jinhao 80 and a lamy 1.1mm .warm regards Hitendra.
It's funny how color changes your perception of an object. I have 2 of these 80's in black and enjoy them very much. In fact I like them better than my Kaco GRAIL. Then I went and purchased 2 more; one on rage red and the other in snot green, both with polished brass clip and nib; and even though I paid nearly $4 each for these pens, they somehow seem cheap !
Oh hey Mr Doug, I know of a shop in the UK that sells Lamy spares, including the black plastic grip section from the brushed steel Studio if you would be interested in getting a replacement for your one. They also include a nib and cost £12 or so for a steel nib or about £86 with the gold nib. Don’t know how much shipping to Canada would be though.
Thanks so much! I have seen the black rubber grip sections for the Lamy Studio. I don't like the look. I am happy with my Lamy Studio. The nib is sublime!
The Lamy style nib from Jinhao without the chariot is an excellent nib. Smooth & wet. I think it came with the stainless 35. They are so different in quality.
@@MonkeyFarmFrankenstein The nib is smooth, just squeaky. I've had it for 3+ years. Keep changing inks....Still not a go to for me. Love the design though.
Hello Doug, thanks for the video (and all the others)! I was inspired by this video to to do the same as you - I ordered a Jinhao 80 and a 1.1 Lamy nib and successfully installed the latter on the pen. However, it is unbearably scratchy. I've tried everything, including Doug's 7 lines method: the nib became wetter, but there were no flow issues with it in the first place. But the scratching remains. I'm very tempted to return the Lamy nib but if you know a method of smoothing the scratchiness, I'd really appreciate your advice. Thanks.
Great video. Interesting looking pen. I had no intention of buying this because, like you, I'm not crazy about the Lamy 2000. But.... after watching your video, I ordered one 😅
Great review. Thanks. Great pen. Haven't tried this, but looking at the section it appears you could pull the nib and feed to replace with a nib and feed of choice not limited to Lamy nibs.
@@InkquiringMinds I used my leatherman. Covered the nib in clear tape, and also had taped covering the plier part of the leatherman without damaging the jinhao nib.
A bit late in the comments here and in the pen game but thank you sir, an “inquiring minds “ worthy thorough review! You’ve inspired me and will get this all black version too, I have a black lamy broad nib on a J 80 in grey with silver trim, funny how I enjoy it so much. I also don’t click with the safari or 2000. This, for me, might just be the perfect contemporary pen, if only it was made with better materials. I’m imagining one in a black ebonite or fiberglass, with more weight and precious hand feel..
@@InkquiringMinds I had a problem with the pen yesterday. I left it sitting capped on my desk for about 5 hours and had huge problems with skipping and hard starting. Left it sitting overnight and now the pen is fine. Amazon in the US has 2 pens for US$15.00 with overnight Prime shipping. So, $7.50 a pen for almost instant gratification.
Doug- I believe there is a site to buy a longknife or naginata nib for this but I can't remember where. Do you or any of your followers know where? I have looked but struck out. Thanks.
Jinhao has done well with their clones, homages, and inspired-by pens. I’d love to see them start doing their own original designs now. I can tell by your video clip inserts that you are a man of high culture. Much appreciated.
Thanks for the video. I don’t necessarily share your opinion on the Lamy 2000, Safari, etc., or that this is a L2K killer. I do agree that this is an interesting find. I like the idea that I can use Lamy steel nibs on a cheap pen. And I will give it a try. Thanks! The Lamy 2000 and Safari work great for me, and I use mine every day for work and personal writing. This gives me another way to use my Lamy B, I am 1.1, 1.5 and 1.9 nibs, while my other Lamys are nibbed for every day writing. I have a Lamy Studio in the Black Forest finish-I looked at the Palladium model and felt it was too slick in hand. I got mine at Anderson Pens for about $79 USD, and extra nibs are $16 US each. Thanks again for the video and food for thought.🍦
You should try the Jinhao 35, too. It is thinner and all metal, but has a lot of the same advantages as the 80 (round grip, Lamy nib compatibility, very low price). I have the matte black one with a Lamy black Broad nib on it, and I love it.
Finally, someone in the pen community reviewed this gem. I now have seven of these pens, two have their original nibs, the rest with Lamy swaps. They are a joy to use, they write well every time, look terrific and are nearly indestructible. This could compete with the x159 as the pen of the year. The only modifications I have made on my 80 fiber blacks are a light sanding on the edges of the clip which is a bit sharp to the touch out of the box. Keep up the great work!
The pen finally arrived. Sadly, like the L2000, the profile of the section really doesn't suit me. That's a pity because the pen itself is remarkably good value for money. Still, it will make a nice present for someone else. Thanks for introducing this model to me. Cheers from Oz.
I finally made an aliexpress account and ordered a couple of these pens, and a couple of the new x159s, and a majohn M800... and a wingsung 629 and a 601a... anyway, I started playing around with Lamy compatible Jinhaos with the 35 a few months ago. I tend to like the finer nibs myself, but I bought a 1.1, a 1.5, and a broad Lamy nib to try and I really enjoyed them. The 1.5 is a bit too big for daily writing for me but it's nice to bring out now and then for a bit of fun.
Excellent review. Like you I had a Lamy 2000 and sold it. This Jinhao 80 has certainly piqued my interest again. The Moonman T2 is also very interesting. Have to look at that too. Opinion on this pen?
What a great find. Taking your lead I've just ordered one. How can I go wrong? My opinion of the L2K mirrors yours precisely; the pen was such a disappointment--looks great, lovely material (apart from THAT greasy pole of a section) but not a Parker "51" Thanks for another fine show. Cheers from Oz.
A friend has one. It writes like a $5 pen. It's a bit stiff and has some odd rattle to it. Decent beginner pen, but since it's a Jinhao you can't expect it to last very long. None of mine survived a year.
I am a fountain pen "newb". I have 22 pens and a vast majority are (cheap) Jinhao's and I have never had one "go bad". The Jinhaos and Majohn's (Moonman's) are "clones" of the more expensive ones and are great alternatives. That being said my "baby", Monteverda Regatta in Blue/Black, is the most expensive at about $80.
My oldest Jinhao X750 is 13 yrs old, and still writes like a champ and has not fallen apart. There has been no flaking of the coating, scratches or any other discolorations. I do have a Goulet 1.1 stub on several of my X750s. My collection has many Jinhao, Picasso, Crocodile, Kaigelu and Duke fountain pens. My absolute favorite Chinese pens are the Picasso Avignon and the Jinhao 100 Centennial.
I like my Lamy 2000, but firehouse is a feature on on OBB nib. The sweet spot doesn't bother me, but I can see how it can be an issue, as you do have to put it to paper just so.
I don’t see that this is an L2K clone at all, aside from the exterior look there’s nothing else whatever in common. I’ve got a number of fairly OK Jin Hao pens around here…the usual suspects…but I sure won’t be adding this one any time soon. I have a healthy collection of Japanese pens but very few Germans outside of Lamy (a veritable pile of Safaris) and two L2K’s…a medium and a fine. They’re both excellent tools and are appropriately treasured. Thanx for the review.
Just found your site. Very easy to listen to with nice pop-culture input along the journey. One question….where do you source your pen stands? Very nicely done. Sub’d.
Welcome aboard! Thanks, Doug! The stands you see on my desk are 3D printed by my son. They are all designs taken from "Thingiverse" so they are not available for resale.
Ok I was sceptical but yes I have ordered 3 of these things. I can’t believe how a cheap Chinese pen can out perform some of my best pens. So good I am actually thinking of adding a Lamy gold nib onto the pure black. Not sure if I will be struck down by lightning!
This pen looks like the Lamy 2000 and the Lamy Aion had a baby. 😂 Lamy 2000 is one of my favorite pens so I have no need or want for this, but thank you for the video!
ERRATA: The Jinhao 80 does NOT accept Parker LONG cartridges as the barrel will not close. It will accept Lamy long cartridges or two Parker shorts.
In my experience nothing takes Parker longs haha
I thought Parker only made one size of cartridge.
@@ShaddySoldier some of my PenBBS pens do.
@@SidneyChism they make short and long.
can we put a pilot v pen nib in the jinhao 80??
I love how detailed your videos are, and I sincerely appreciate how fair you are to more budget friendly pens.
Thanks so much!
Agree 💯 👍 ❤
I have watched far too many reviews on fountain pens over the years. This is the most thorough and your balance of reason and crazy references keeps me watching. Many thanks
Wow, thank you!
Man, I had these in my cart and came over to check out what everyone was saying. Thank you for the Review.
Have two Lamy 2000’s one B and one BB. These are amazing pens on many levels. The makralon feels great. The finish and build quality is second to none. The piston system is fantastic! Easy to repair; parts aplenty. 14k gold nibs. They’ve been around this long for a reason.
Oh, I appreciated your review and just ordered a Jinhao 80 to try BTW.
How does it compare to the original thing ?
Wonderful review. Love the humour and directness. Thank you very much for your channel.
Thanks for watching!
I did order 2 Jinhao 80 … both black but one silver and one black clip.. EF nib… Oh. My. Gosh. Inked it up with Noodlers Turquoise (after rinsing it first😊) and I love it. Writes so smooth and consistently, and the bonus is the snap cap that posts if I get a hankering to do that, but usually don’t post. Snap caps rock my penworld 😍 It looks posh and slick, writes beautifully and I like it so stinking much 😂
Awesome!
What a great way to start my day. I love your sense of humor in between all of that useful information.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Your video fell on me like rained from heaven. I was thinking about ordering a Jinhao 80. Now I have many more things clear. Thank you very much for your always instructive videos with which I learn every day.
Glad I could help!
Perfectly timed! Follows on well from a Pen Venture video. This is how weekends should work.
Love the opening tune.
Yay!
That line " ...or is a prescription." was a great chuckle. Thank you for that. I needed it today.
LOL! Thanks for catching it!
I can't afford a Lamy 2000 so this is a great substitute for me. I'm also very sceptical to the "metal ears" on the 2000 and I have a feeling I would hate them. I will try a Jinhao 80 and see if I like it, then there will be other colours to choose from too. Very nice! 🤗❤️👏
I just got this pen due to your and others reviews and man I am blown away how much I like this pen. Even with the original nib. Will have to try putting a lamy nib on it.
Congrats, @JonathanRequillo, I hope you enjoy it!
My Jinhao 80 arrived today. It feels like plastic. I like that it now has a black Lamy nib but it still doesn't feel right. I know you don't like them but I prefer the Kaco edge for feel. It feels more like a L2000. For me with the Lamy nib it's a better Safari for around Safari money. Thanks for the review.
Thank you!!! I hated the nib on my 80s I was looking on amazon for replacement nibs for it while having 4 lamy safaris sitting in a pen case! That was until I found your video. Definitely subbed ❤
Great to hear!
Goulet is generally more expensive than I'm willing to pay, even here in the United States, so I buy pens either direct from China or vintage on eBay, as even including shipping, those tend to be less. And I found a seller via eBay for the best price for modern Diamine inks (just over $5 USD including shipping for a 30 mL bottle, and around $13 USD for the 80 mL bottle), so I have yet to get anything from them.
Interesting pen! I may have to look into it, as I really haven't gotten a Jinhao I didn't like. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this pen!
Thank you so much, Paul!
Have you tried Pen Boutique? I've ordered from them several times and been very happy. They are in the US and I am in Canada but they have good deals.
Thanks for this video. I bought one today after seeing your video but not others because they all kept saying how much Lamy is the best. Well, sure best ever if one has $200+ tax to play or placed on a credit card & pretending like money comes easily. 😅 lol. Seriously, I love my Lamy AlStar from 2014 but hated my Lamy EF nib on a Safari that I grind it & adjusted until it flowed juicy & wet with no skips.
Hopefully, I get a good one of this Jinhao 80. Thank you. 😊 ❤
P.S. I like the idea of ordering two more for different nibs sizes for Lamy especially the 1.5 & 1.1 mm stubs that I love.
Thanks for sharing!
7:13 Hi doug! I love this scene. You have doing continue to post fountain pen videos. I admire your continuous positive attitude.
thank you so much for this review! i've been looking for a cheap pen that takes lamy nibs to justify ordering a bunch of custom ground z50 style nibs off taobao. your writing sample was also really helpful. keep up the good work!
Glad I could help!
Interesting review, Doug. I may want to pick up one of these. Like you, I am a big fan of the Lamy 1.1 mm stub, which I use on my Studio.
Good choice!
I find your common sense approach most excellent.
I appreciate that!
I am glad I watched this episode because I own a Jinhao 80 that I used once or twice and I put it away. The nib was like writing with a needle. I bought a Lamy medium nib and I replaced the Jinhao nib. Now the pen writes really well. Thanks!
That's awesome! Thanks for watching!
A nice review. I am awaiting the arrival of my Jinhao 80 in the next few days. I have had three kaco edges for over a year. All three are still perfect and I find their nibs super smooth. Maybe I have been lucky with them. :-)
I am also a fan of the Jinhao 80! You made a good point about the lamy nib compatibility, that opens up all sorts of possibilities...
They've come out with five new colours, black, red, green, white and brown all with gold trim.
@@InkquiringMinds already ordered a blue one lol
@@shane6242 the Jinhao 80 is not available in blue. The X159 is.
@@neilpiper9889 I have one in blue and one in bright red.
@@HornedPolarBear I will check it out. Thanks
One more thing ; you took the words out of me regarding lamy 2000 ; I got one and inked it only one time,I didn't figure out yet what to do with it .
Was waiting on this one 😊 As always, appreciate the thoughts Doug!
My pleasure!
Got myself one of these. Feels good. Writes great. For around $3 you can purchase a set of 3 Jinhao Lamy style 1.1 stubs from Ali Express. In my opinion these write as well as any Lamy nibs I have ever used. What a bargain. Thanks for your review.
You're welcome! Enjoy!
I agree, for the $4 price point, it's incredibly a good deal.
The nib that came with it for me was excellent on its own. The EF nib is good to write on cheaper paper.
Though I'm buying a 1.1 / 1.5 as well for nib swaps.
Just on the contrary that I love my lamy 2k... but still the jinhao 80 is definitely not a pen you should pass up on, especially again, considering the price.
Excellent review as always. I have two Aions, at least 4 Studios (2 with gold nibs), and two 2000s (fine and medium). I have no need for this Chinese knock-off but appreciate the effort. I grip my 2000 at the window, and the “sweet spot” happens to be where I write anyway. So it works great for me.
Thanks for sharing! I'm glad that it works for you. The Lamy 2000 is a great pen there is no doubt of that! Just not for me.
@@InkquiringMinds, I forgot to mention that the Lamy Calligraphy nib is not worth the trouble. The line variation is between fine vertical and fine/medium horizontal. Plus, it’s scratchy. Just get a regular black Lamy nib.
Another great video Doug. That is one impressive pen and then when you add the fact of it's $4 price tag and compatibility with Lamy nibs (non Lamy 2000) makes it a steal. And thank you for your honesty in saying that you weren't a fan of the Lamy 2000. That's the beauty of fountain pens; there are so many choices out there that part of the fun is finding what feels best for yourself. By the way, that Lamy Studio palladium you've got is a sharp looking pen. Does the oblique nib you have give you good line variation? Again, great video Doug! Have a great day! 👍👍
It gives a subtle line variation. So smooth and wet!
Yes, for the price it is a nice pen. My OBB nib on the Lamy 2000 gives some variation, but where it shines is with shading ink, as the ink amount varies a more than line width, and that works well for shading ink.
Nice review! I do prefer the L2K for the piston filler/ink window and incognito semi hooded nib. However this definitely has its advantages with the widely available nib options. Now I just wish Lamy would make a stealth
2K with a black clip and section.
I would be interested in a Lamy Studio that was all stealth black without the slippery section.
@@InkquiringMinds I think the Studio clip is fugly. But a piston fill Studio would appeal.
@@InkquiringMinds I am pretty sure this already exists. 2019 special edition but still available at some sellers. All black hardware including nib plus black grip section.
I do love my Lamy 2000 mainly due to the iconic design as much as the writing experience. But I have ordered 3 of these as a filler for another order.
Great video, Like you I loved this pen so much I ordered the silver version almost straight away! I was reluctant to put too much pressure when trying to swap the nib but seeing how easily you manged I'll give it another go and fit my black Lamy Medium nib to make it a totally stealth pen. I should say however, I did enjoy writing with the Jinhao nib a lot more than I unexpected to it has actually became my daily journal pen.
The magic of editing! It was not that easy to get the nib off the first time. I used a jeweler's flat blade screwdriver to move the nib away from the section a bit to get it started.
Makrolon is not fiberglass nor does it have fiberglass in it!
Makrolon is the trade name for a type of polycarbonate resin made by Bayer.
Thanks for the correction!
@@InkquiringMinds ❤
I have a Jinhao 80 with a Lamy 1.1 nib as my daily writer. I love it.
I have bought several colours now and have a Lamy 1.5 in an all black Jinhao 80.
As I have said before, I love your video references. I don't know how you come up with such arcane references to video, but they are very entertaining. Thanks as always. BTW, do you have an online store where you sell your pens that you no longer want?
Thank you, MrCabimero! They just come out of my fevered brain. I don't currently do that. When I sell a pen, it is either through my local pen club or on the Facebook Marketplace. I know Stephen Brown sells his pens through his own website. I have a separate Facebook page called "Inkquiring Minds" which I haven't really used. Perhaps when I have a bunch of them, I'll advertise them there. Thanks for the thought.
That clip from Crocodile Dundee is a classic!
@@InkquiringMinds Thanks!
I’ve been debating buying this pen for like two weeks. Once again you’ve convinced me to pull the trigger good sir. I also absolutely love my Lammy 1.1 stub I have in my all-star. I also really want to try that cursive nib I just haven’t been able to bring myself to buy it yet. When it comes will you make a video on how it writes?
As soon as it arrives, you bet!
I've never been that excited by the looks of any Lamys I've seen; but, almost thou persuadest me, Doug. A super fabulous pen for a tinkerer! Hmmm.
Thanks Rob!
Great vid -- will definitely buy one of these rather than save up for a L2K. Just a heads-up, the affiliate tag in the Goldspot link in video description appears to be broken (takes you to the website, but the "aff=8" bit is not highlighted). If this is an issue you've addressed earlier, sorry for the spam! Cheers
The link works. It just looks like it doesn’t.
Lamy compatible parts? Sassy.
I saw this pen available in F, XF and 0.2 XXF. I've never seen a nib that fine on a Chinese pen. Prepare to rejoice, fans of the tiny line (if it's consistent)!
I'm glad the pen was to your liking. I'll be curious to see how this Lamy cursive nib writes.
Me too!
Hello. Once again I have enjoyed an informative review on a pen I had just heard of. My one question is you said you bought it at the basket. What is the basket?
Blesket is a Canadian online retailer. blesket.com/
Hi Doug sir, will it take the Parker cartridge as well like cartridges used in Parker Vector or Frontier? I have spare Parker cartridges that I want to make use of....
Yes, it will take the Parker long and short cartridges as well as Lamy long cartridges.
@@InkquiringMinds Thanks sir...I have ordered a Jinhao 80 in black finish..
Doug I can easily understand how Lamy nibs fit the Jinhao 80. But how can I figure out how other nibs may fit other beautiful and inexpensive pens? Is it just trial and error. I’m not as experienced as you and many others. Any advice as how to go about this?. Thank you for your help and reviews!
It is either trial and error or asking questions at the Fountain Pen Network. I prefer trial and error to attitude myself.
I love my cheapo Jinhao 80's, especially their extra fine nibs and textured bodies. Wish they made them in more colors.
It actually seems closer to a vintage Lamy Profil 80. Hence the name? I have one on the way. Thanks for being my pen enabler.
This is interesting! Is the section from the jinhao compatible with the Lamy Studio? I specifically avoided buying one because of the slippery grip!
The nibs are compatible but not the section.
@@InkquiringMinds that's a shame! Would've considered buying a studio. I find so many Lamy pens are close to perfection but have major deal-breakers. The Safari grip and almost anything without it has a slippery metal grip instead. Such a shame as their steel nibs are some of the best! Their pens are often heavy and the lugs on the 2000 didn't look nice for me, as well as the fact that the nib is so wet and broad means you want a smaller nib which has a smaller sweet-spot!
Jinhao 80 is based upon a discontinued Lamy 80, that was itself based upon a different brands product.
I don't think Jinhao is trying replace or clone a Lamy 2K
I agree!
@@InkquiringMinds there are whole fountain pen channels that don't know this history of the pen, so are getting butt hurt and feel a sense of outrage.
@@valeriegriffith5409 I just do a big eye-roll when folks are “offended”.
Doug. Where can I get the 1.1 stub to fit this pen? Goulet has the cursive but don’t see the stub. Thanks. 👍
I bought mine on Amazon. Look for nibs for the Lamy Joy.
Another fountain pen that I recommend that I love and use daily is the Monteverde Invincia stealth Black.
"It was everything the Lamy 2000 was not" Sir Doug
Yeah, at least there are pen manufacturers out there that can do something right for the better. Thanks for the great review Sir Doug. Really helped on future financial planning for fountain pens
Thank you so much, Adriel!
Hi Doug, ur videos are very informative and reliable, I need to know if i can use fine ,medium,and broad lamy nibs beside the 1.1mm as I have ordered 2 jinhao 80 and a lamy 1.1mm .warm regards Hitendra.
You should be able to. The fit is the same. Just be careful the first time you remove and replace the nibs as it can be tight and the plastic is soft.
It's funny how color changes your perception of an object. I have 2 of these 80's in black and enjoy them very much. In fact I like them better than my Kaco GRAIL. Then I went and purchased 2 more; one on rage red and the other in snot green, both with polished brass clip and nib; and even though I paid nearly $4 each for these pens, they somehow seem cheap !
Oh hey Mr Doug, I know of a shop in the UK that sells Lamy spares, including the black plastic grip section from the brushed steel Studio if you would be interested in getting a replacement for your one. They also include a nib and cost £12 or so for a steel nib or about £86 with the gold nib. Don’t know how much shipping to Canada would be though.
Thanks so much! I have seen the black rubber grip sections for the Lamy Studio. I don't like the look. I am happy with my Lamy Studio. The nib is sublime!
Thanks for the great review! Just found your channel. Love it when budget pens exceed expectations.
Welcome! Thank you, Bud!
Jinhao is now offering this in 6 different colors with gold trim 🤩
I've seen that! They must be selling!
@@InkquiringMinds I had to pick up the blue and red at only 4USD. The colors are enough to differentiate from the L2K IMO
Thanks for mentioning that 4$ is too cheap for this pen, now i had to pay 8$ on ebay! 😂
Oh no! (They send me the markup hehe j/k)
What’s that ink Sir, you used at your signature in the introductory part of the video…? I like the ink…
It is J Herbin Kyanite du Nepal. :)
The Lamy style nib from Jinhao without the chariot is an excellent nib. Smooth & wet. I think it came with the stainless 35. They are so different in quality.
P.S. I have a Lamy 2K medium. Squeaky nib and I find the section/grip slippery.
Never seen that!
@@stargazer1359 I thought the squeaky nib was just a Broad problem. Glad to know (I guess?) that I'm not the only person with that 2K problem.
@@MonkeyFarmFrankenstein The nib is smooth, just squeaky. I've had it for 3+ years. Keep changing inks....Still not a go to for me. Love the design though.
The Kaco edge is a great pen for the money; they fixed the cracking problem years ago, and the nibs are standard German Schmidt nibs.
Did they fix the clip?
@@InkquiringMinds Alas, no. It's really more of a roll-stop than a clip.
Hello Doug, thanks for the video (and all the others)! I was inspired by this video to to do the same as you - I ordered a Jinhao 80 and a 1.1 Lamy nib and successfully installed the latter on the pen. However, it is unbearably scratchy. I've tried everything, including Doug's 7 lines method: the nib became wetter, but there were no flow issues with it in the first place. But the scratching remains. I'm very tempted to return the Lamy nib but if you know a method of smoothing the scratchiness, I'd really appreciate your advice. Thanks.
Check that the tines are aligned.
If you bought the "Lamy" nib from China, chances are you may have bought a clone.
Great video. Interesting looking pen. I had no intention of buying this because, like you, I'm not crazy about the Lamy 2000. But.... after watching your video, I ordered one 😅
Right on
Great review. Thanks. Great pen. Haven't tried this, but looking at the section it appears you could pull the nib and feed to replace with a nib and feed of choice not limited to Lamy nibs.
It might but I can't get the feed out of the Jinhao 80!
@@InkquiringMinds it comes off with a little bit of effort.
@@stefanwood2182 I’m soaking it. I fought with it with a great deal of effort!
@@InkquiringMinds I used my leatherman. Covered the nib in clear tape, and also had taped covering the plier part of the leatherman without damaging the jinhao nib.
@@stefanwood2182 I'll try it!
Two of the Lamy Studios come with grippy rubber-coated sections. I prefer those.
I've seen those but don't like the look.
I've been eyeballing these on Aliexpress. Definite going to pick one up to try it and use your Lamy nib suggestion.
Hope you enjoy it!
@@InkquiringMinds Your suggestions haven't let me down yet
I just ordered 2..Thougt I love my 2000 and most Lamys, the swappable nibs pushed me over the top 🙃
Immitation is best form of flattery.body and clip are lamy 2000but nib section and nib is lamy studio I feel your views thanks
I keep debating this pen, I like slimmer pens. If you have handled a Noodlers Charlie or Nib Creeper those are what I like. But that design is nice.
A bit late in the comments here and in the pen game but thank you sir, an “inquiring minds “ worthy thorough review! You’ve inspired me and will get this all black version too, I have a black lamy broad nib on a J 80 in grey with silver trim, funny how I enjoy it so much. I also don’t click with the safari or 2000. This, for me, might just be the perfect contemporary pen, if only it was made with better materials. I’m imagining one in a black ebonite or fiberglass, with more weight and precious hand feel..
Thanks for sharing, @capraglass!
Are you getting hard starts with this pen and the stock nib?
I'm not using a stock nib. No issues with the Lamy nibs. I've found the Jinhao 80 doesn't have a great cap seal though.
@@InkquiringMinds I had a problem with the pen yesterday. I left it sitting capped on my desk for about 5 hours and had huge problems with skipping and hard starting. Left it sitting overnight and now the pen is fine. Amazon in the US has 2 pens for US$15.00 with overnight Prime shipping. So, $7.50 a pen for almost instant gratification.
Doug- I believe there is a site to buy a longknife or naginata nib for this but I can't remember where. Do you or any of your followers know where? I have looked but struck out. Thanks.
The long knife nibs are available from Kaigelu but I've not seen the Naginata style in a #6.. tinyurl.com/4r9jtjyt
@@InkquiringMinds Not in a number 6, but for the Jinhao 80. Is that what you meant? Thanks for the prompt reply.
@@MrCabimero Sorry I was tracking comments on today's video instead. Is this what you meant? tinyurl.com/mvkj62up
@@InkquiringMinds yes thanks! You are an Inkcyclopedia of information. I don’t know how you keep all the straight!
Jinhao has done well with their clones, homages, and inspired-by pens. I’d love to see them start doing their own original designs now.
I can tell by your video clip inserts that you are a man of high culture. Much appreciated.
Thank you Zathras. That is much appreciated!
Yes but we want more x159 first !
Thanks for the video. I don’t necessarily share your opinion on the Lamy 2000, Safari, etc., or that this is a L2K killer. I do agree that this is an interesting find. I like the idea that I can use Lamy steel nibs on a cheap pen. And I will give it a try. Thanks! The Lamy 2000 and Safari work great for me, and I use mine every day for work and personal writing. This gives me another way to use my Lamy B, I am 1.1, 1.5 and 1.9 nibs, while my other Lamys are nibbed for every day writing. I have a Lamy Studio in the Black Forest finish-I looked at the Palladium model and felt it was too slick in hand. I got mine at Anderson Pens for about $79 USD, and extra nibs are $16 US each. Thanks again for the video and food for thought.🍦
You should try the Jinhao 35, too. It is thinner and all metal, but has a lot of the same advantages as the 80 (round grip, Lamy nib compatibility, very low price). I have the matte black one with a Lamy black Broad nib on it, and I love it.
Thanks for this review. I will buy myself a couple of these pens.
Enjoy!
Good review Doug you’ve convinced me to invest all of £3 on this pen & it’s good to know Lamy style nibs I have a 1.1 stub on a horrible lamy joy 👍.
Glad to help
Finally, someone in the pen community reviewed this gem. I now have seven of these pens, two have their original nibs, the rest with Lamy swaps. They are a joy to use, they write well every time, look terrific and are nearly indestructible. This could compete with the x159 as the pen of the year. The only modifications I have made on my 80 fiber blacks are a light sanding on the edges of the clip which is a bit sharp to the touch out of the box. Keep up the great work!
Thanks for sharing, David!
Next Jinhao pen to review, the Jinhao 82! And it gotta be a comparison to a Sailor PGS.
I have a Jinhao 82 on the way, but I won’t be buying a Sailor PGS!
The pen finally arrived. Sadly, like the L2000, the profile of the section really doesn't suit me. That's a pity because the pen itself is remarkably good value for money. Still, it will make a nice present for someone else. Thanks for introducing this model to me. Cheers from Oz.
I finally made an aliexpress account and ordered a couple of these pens, and a couple of the new x159s, and a majohn M800... and a wingsung 629 and a 601a... anyway, I started playing around with Lamy compatible Jinhaos with the 35 a few months ago. I tend to like the finer nibs myself, but I bought a 1.1, a 1.5, and a broad Lamy nib to try and I really enjoyed them. The 1.5 is a bit too big for daily writing for me but it's nice to bring out now and then for a bit of fun.
That's a great collection already!
Excellent review. Like you I had a Lamy 2000 and sold it. This Jinhao 80 has certainly piqued my interest again.
The Moonman T2 is also very interesting. Have to look at that too. Opinion on this pen?
Indeed I do! ua-cam.com/video/jbpXA0Qmxgc/v-deo.html
What a great find. Taking your lead I've just ordered one. How can I go wrong? My opinion of the L2K mirrors yours precisely; the pen was such a disappointment--looks great, lovely material (apart from THAT greasy pole of a section) but not a Parker "51"
Thanks for another fine show.
Cheers from Oz.
A friend has one. It writes like a $5 pen. It's a bit stiff and has some odd rattle to it. Decent beginner pen, but since it's a Jinhao you can't expect it to last very long. None of mine survived a year.
I am a fountain pen "newb". I have 22 pens and a vast majority are (cheap) Jinhao's and I have never had one "go bad". The Jinhaos and Majohn's (Moonman's) are "clones" of the more expensive ones and are great alternatives. That being said my "baby", Monteverda Regatta in Blue/Black, is the most expensive at about $80.
My oldest Jinhao X750 is 13 yrs old, and still writes like a champ and has not fallen apart. There
has been no flaking of the coating, scratches or any other discolorations. I do have a Goulet 1.1
stub on several of my X750s. My collection has many Jinhao, Picasso, Crocodile, Kaigelu and
Duke fountain pens. My absolute favorite Chinese pens are the Picasso Avignon and the Jinhao 100
Centennial.
My Jinhaos are 2 & 3 years old and still write like a dream.
I’m glad it fits with the Lamy 1.1 stub!
I like my Lamy 2000, but firehouse is a feature on on OBB nib. The sweet spot doesn't bother me, but I can see how it can be an issue, as you do have to put it to paper just so.
8:53 You answered the question I was waiting for! I think this may find a place in my collection (with a Lamy nib 😉)
The Jinhao nib was surprisingly smooth and wet. A little too fine for me but a nice nib nonetheless!
@@InkquiringMinds Only after the magic seven strokes!
@@archivist17 This is true. But see how simple that was? Less than 30 seconds!
Ended up buying a couple great pens with a Lamy nib
Thanks for the video. Opens up a whole new world...rebel, rebel.
No doubt!
I don’t see that this is an L2K clone at all, aside from the exterior look there’s nothing else whatever in common. I’ve got a number of fairly OK Jin Hao pens around here…the usual suspects…but I sure won’t be adding this one any time soon. I have a healthy collection of Japanese pens but very few Germans outside of Lamy (a veritable pile of Safaris) and two L2K’s…a medium and a fine. They’re both excellent tools and are appropriately treasured. Thanx for the review.
Thank you, David !
Just found your site. Very easy to listen to with nice pop-culture input along the journey. One question….where do you source your pen stands? Very nicely done. Sub’d.
Welcome aboard! Thanks, Doug! The stands you see on my desk are 3D printed by my son. They are all designs taken from "Thingiverse" so they are not available for resale.
I’m curious what makes it a 1.1 stub if the vertical lines are only 0.8? Is this just variation from manufacturing/ paper and ink combo?
Unless it is very sharply cut like a cursive italic, the rounder edges will always make the line thinner than the width of the stub.
Great intro!!! I think you are going to like the lamy cursive nib
Can't wait!
Another great video, I will have to buy one.
AC/DC!
Reminds me of HS days, Trans AMs, girls with big hair lol!.
BTW: Thank you for the FP review
Could the Jinhao 80 be eyedropped?
I’d say no. Because the threads on the section and barrel are metal and the barrel has a plastic plug at the end.
Agreed about the Kaco.
I found a Lamy 14k nib for obscenely cheap and tricked out my Jinhao 80.
Nice!!
Where? I’d love to add a few more 80’s with gold nib swaps to the collection!
@@davidnygard1817 Goulet sells the 14k nibs.
@@davidnygard1817 I think the price may have been mistake, and they have since changed it, so I'm not going to say where.
Ok I was sceptical but yes I have ordered 3 of these things. I can’t believe how a cheap Chinese pen can out perform some of my best pens. So good I am actually thinking of adding a Lamy gold nib onto the pure black. Not sure if I will be struck down by lightning!
I just got four more yesterday.
This pen looks like the Lamy 2000 and the Lamy Aion had a baby. 😂 Lamy 2000 is one of my favorite pens so I have no need or want for this, but thank you for the video!
Thanks for sharing!!
No, no, no. I’ll stick with my Lamy 2000. But kudos for including Ren and Stimpy in your review.
LOL My pleasure!
Nice review, but I think of the Jinhao 80 more of an homage to the Lamy 80 rather the Lamy 2000. Nonetheless a good pen!
Hello. Now I own de red, blue and Green ones. Beautifull colors.
Very nice! I just got, tan, blue, red and black with gold trim in the mail yesterday.
@@InkquiringMinds Lástima que no haya el "GALAXY BLUE". Jajajajajajajaja