Fountain Pens and Tips for Choosing One

If you are a handwriting afficianado, you absolutely need to buy a fountain pen. The fountain pen is a unique writing device that contains ink without using a cartridge, as a ballpoint pen does. Moreover, fountain pens are attractive, often handmade works that are often praised as works of art. Fountain pens serve two purposes- they are attractive and they write well.  Owning a quality fountain pen  has become a status symbol.

 The fountain pen has turn out to be quite highly developed since its introduction in the mid-19th Century and still serves as a helpful tool to all types of writers even in the modern PC age. Somef of the better-known manufacturers of fountain pens are Parker, Mont Blanc, Sheaffer and Namiki. Prices can range from only a few dollars to $50,000 or more limited-production collectors editions.  Parker fountain pens, for example, come in a wide range of prices to appeal to both average users as well as collectors.

 Even though fountain pens are quite costly in comparison with other kinds of pens , numerous writers still enjoy using these pens because of the distinctive advantages that these pens offer. As opposed to other pens, fountain pens don't need replacing. In fact, they improve with use. The more the pens are used, the better they become. Strokes become easier and more smooth over time. Since these pens come in various styles and makes, one can easily select the style of pen which his or her individual taste and writing style. Most of all, fountain pens reduce the tendency of writer's cramps because the ink easily flows out onto the paper, permitting longer writing to be done effortlessly.

 2. Weight - If a pen feels heavy whenever you pick it up and feel it, you might wish to consider a smaller pen if you're planning to write for an extended period of time. The additional weight could bring about strain and fatigue on your hand and could cause repetitive stress injury.

 3. Nib - This is the part of the pen that does the actual work. Depending on your personal preference, there are nibs for various writing styles and strokes. An oblique nib provides a fatter line on the downward stroke and is also great for left-handed writers. An italic or stub nib gives a slanted stroke and is usually used for calligraphy, instead of ordinary writing. You will not be able to write as quickly using an italic nib.

4. Ink Capacity - Some pens have an integrated piston enabling it to hold much more ink than pens utilizing a cartridge or converter. Cartridges are fantastic for convenience, but are known for other problems, for example skipping or sometimes not properly dispensing ink.

 5. Cost - Although there are numerous fountain pens in a variety of shapes, sizes, styles and colors to match your personality, a pen does not have to be expensive to be of good quality and to write well. If you find a cost that you are comfortable with and compare pens in that price range, you will probably find a great pen that will work well and last for decades.