For you FP users, what type of nib do you prefer?

[D N Ravenna]

Lately, I have been acquiring flex nibs from Japanese makers such as Namiki and Platinum. I would add these are purchased on the pen as opposed to special order. But if I get a regular nib, I have it modified to add character to the writing. What do you do?

[jaytaylor]

For every day use I prefer a firm fine nib - offices duties etc.

For note taking I mix between a fine flex and a stub - just love the character these add, something no other modern pen has. (roller, ball point etc)

[seoulseeker]

I prefer using an italic or a stub nib over flex - I find it much easier to control the line variation. Flex nibs require a heck of a lot of patience to learn to write with properly, and a very steady hand - especially the vintage wet noodles. Modern flex aren't even in the same league as vintage. Usually I will buy a stock pen, and, if there is no italic or stub option available out of the box, I will send it off to a nibmeister to get the necessary changes done.

That said, my daily writer for notes, etc, is usually a stock XF or F to keep things clean. I just pull out the italics and stubs when I am writing for myself, signing something, or looking to add a little flavour.

I would also suggest that you take a look at the sailor specialty nibs - they are wonderful. I have a "Nagatina Cross Concord Emperor" on a 1911, and it is quite honestly the best line variation anyone could ask for it will write anything from an XF line in the normal upright position, to a very broad line when the nib is turned over. The line variation also changes based on the angle the pen is written with. Great fun.

Link to sailor specialty nibs here - Sailor Specialty Nibs

[NABodie]

I like an OB or a stub. A few of the ones I have flex so thats an extra bonus.

[xevious]

Although I appreciate what a flex nib can do, it requires a lot more control to make it do what you want. So generally, I prefer a fine small stub. I've had a few modified by nib meisters, but have also lucked out on getting some that performed great as-is.

[Gary123]

Fountain pens are my favorite writing instruments. I like a fine point, flexible.

[edulpj]

The best nib: Esterbrook #9668

[D N Ravenna]

The best nib: Esterbrook #9668

I'll bite.

Why?

I have several vintage pens, but no Esterbrook. If I decide to get one, please let me know why I should consider the #9668.

Thanks!

Dan

[Xspect]

My current type of nib is a left oblique italic stub. So much character it can provide.

[georges zaslavsky]

modern flex nib or vintage nib with flex