Buying a Fountain Pen

For anyone, owning and using a fountain pen is one of the great delights of life. Once relegated to public school classrooms and the tweed jacket pockets of university professors, the fountain pen is now enjoying a renaissance among those who are looking for some relief from the joyless anonymity of the ballpoint pen and computer keyboard.

If you are shopping for a fountain pen for yourself, there are a number of issues to consider. First of all, think about what you want to pay. There are fountain pens to fit every budget, but the cheaper ones tend to have steel or gold-plated nibs. These are more rigid than 14ct or 18ct gold nibs, and dont last as long either. The price will also reflect the material used for the barrel, and any decorative embellishments.

You also need to match the size of the pen with the size your hand. Fountain pens come in a wide spectrum of lengths and thicknesses, so you should try a few different models to see how they feel in your hand. Thicker pens can be easier to hold, but it is a matter of personal preference. Remember that you will be using this pen frequently, so you need to pick one that feels comfortable.

It is also very important to pick a nib with the right point to suit your writing habits. There are different point widths that produce correspondingly varied scripts, depending also on how much pressure is exerted on them.

Naturally, you should select a pen that looks attractive too. Take the time to shop around and compare a number of models and finishes. Whether you prefer a restrained, classical style or a more exuberant, brightly-coloured design, you are bound to find one that catches your eye.

About The Author Pete Ashburton is an avid collector of fountain pens, specialising in Mont Blanc pens. For more information on these wonderful writing instruments, visit his site at www.mont-blanc-pens.net. Here you will find some great information, including caring for your fountain pen.