Fountain Pens and Tips for Shopping for One

Should you be a handwriting fan, you absolutely must buy a fountain pen. The fountain pen is a distinctive writing device that contains ink without the use of a cartridge, as a ballpoint pen does. Furthermore, fountain pens are beautiful, often handmade works that are often hailed as works of art. Fountain pens serve two purposes- they are attractive and they write well. Owning a high-end fountain pen has become a status symbol.

The fountain pen has become quite highly developed since its introduction in the middle of the 19th Century and still serves as a helpful tool to all kinds of writers even in today's PC age. Several of the better-known makers of fountain pens are Parker, Mont Blanc, Sheaffer and Namiki. Prices can vary from just 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 typical users and fountain pen collectors.

Even though fountain pens are very costly in comparison with other types of pens , many writers still prefer these pens because of the unique advantages that these pens offer. Unlike other pens, fountain pens do not need replacing. In fact, they improve with use. The more the pens are used, the better they become. Strokes turn out to be simpler and smoother over time. Since these pens come in various styles and makes, one can simply 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 since the ink easily flows out onto the paper, allowing additional writing to be done without difficulty.

Here are a few things to consider when buying a fountain pen:

1. Size - Pick up a pen and hold it in your hand to check for comfort and an simple grip. If your hand is small you may want to select a pen with a smaller barrel for additional comfort.

2. Weight - If a pen feels heavy when you pick it up and feel it, you may wish to consider a smaller pen if you're planning to write for an extended period of time. The extra weight could trigger strain and fatigue on your wrist and could cause carpal tunnel syndrome.

3. Nib - This is the point of the pen that does the actual work. Depending on personal preference, there are nibs for various composing styles and strokes. An oblique nib provides a thicker line on the downward stroke and is also good for left-handed writers. An italic or stub nib gives a slanted stroke and is usually utilized for calligraphy, instead of regular handwriting. You won't be able to write as rapidly with an italic nib.

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

5. Cost - Although you will find numerous fountain pens in a variety of shapes, sizes, designs and colors to match your personality, a pen doesn't have to be expensive to be of high quality and to write well. If you find a cost that you're comfortable with and compare pens in that price range, you will likely find a wonderful pen that will suit you and last for decades.

Anyone who enjoys "old school" writing will find writing with a fountain pen to be a different and rewarding experience. With some looking, you can find a wide assortment of pens in prices and styles to suit both the novice and the collector.